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Often ignored in favour of its better-known neighbours, the state of Chattisgarh in East India is an unexplored delight. Diverse, culturally rich, and scenic, Chattisgarh as a destination has it all. And no matter what kind of traveller you are, the state has something for you.
It is also a travel destination worth adding to your bucket list if you want to experience India beyond the regular tourist traps. May it be visiting the UNESCO heritage site of Bhoramdeo temple, experiencing a 75-day Dussehra festival at Ma Danteshwari temple, or understanding the intricacies of tribal art in Bastar, you're bound to fall in love with Chhattisgarh.
If you're more drawn to nature, the state will delight you with thoughtfully and sustainably developed eco camps in stunning places like Kurdar, Dhankul, Baiga, and experiences such as an eco-luxury resort right in front of the stunning Chitrakote waterfalls, or you could go tea leaves picking at the lush tea gardens in Jashpur.
But if you have never been to the state before and would like a bit of all that it offers, here are 7 places to visit in Chhattisgarh that absolutely should make it to your itineraries
1. Chitrakote Waterfalls
Also known as the Niagra Falls of India, the Chitrakote Falls is surely a sight to behold. It is the largest waterfall in the country, with a width of 300 metres. One of the most powerful waterfalls, the Chitrakote Falls is also surrounded by a splendid view and thick forested area. With birds sitting at the corner of the waterfall, and the gushing sound of water, Chitrakote Falls is definitely a noteworthy attraction in Chhattisgarh.
Location: Tiratha, Chattisgarh
Timings: 6:30 am - 6:30 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee
2. Purkhauti Muktangan
Purkhauti Muktangan is a cultural garden in Chhattisgarh, which was inaugurated by Hon’ble A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in November 2006. It is a museum cum park which represents the cultures and traditions of Chhattisgarh. Spread over an area of 18 hectares, the Purkhauti Muktangan displays artefacts, folk dances, foods and habits of the tribals in the state. A part of the VISION 2020, this garden provides a wonderful perspective on the heritage of Chhattisgarh. Easily accessible, the Purkhauti Muktangan is ideal for spending a day out with family.
Location: Raipur, Chhattisgarh
Timings: 8 am- 6 pm
Entry fee: Rs 5 per person
3. Kanger Valley National Park
The Kanger Valley National Park, established in 1982 is a delightful place to visit for all nature lovers. This national park is a relatively unexplored tourist attraction and hence does not attract a lot of crowds. Named after the Kanger river, and filled with valleys, steep slopes, and gentle streams, the Kanger Valley National Park lies amidst lush greenery. A major spot for biodiversity in India, it is a serene and quiet spot to visit.
Location: Bastar, Chhattisgarh
Timings: 6 am - 5:30 pm
Entry fee: Rs 25 per person
4. Bhoramdeo Temple
Strikingly similar to the Sun Temple at Konark, the Bhoramdeo Temple is popularly known as the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. This temple was built between the 7th to 12th centuries and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Nagar-style architecture of the temple is to behold, with its intricate and beautiful carvings. The Bhoramdeo Temple is a work of art in itself. The temple also portrays sculpted images of the ten avatars of Vishnu, along with those of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. A significant place of pilgrimage, devotees visit this temple to seek blessings.
Location: Kabirdham district, Chattisgarh
Timings: 5 am - 12 pm, 4 pm - 9 pm
Entry fee: No entry fee
5. Maha Girja Ghar
The Maha Girja Ghar is a catholic church situated in Kunkuri, at a distance of 43 kilometres from Jashpur district. It is the second-largest church in Asia. Visited by tourists all over the world, belonging to different religions, this church has the capacity to accommodate 10,000 people The church is in the shape of a semicircle and has seven roofs and seven doors with various sacred symbols. Built on granite, this church rests on a single pillar, which is considered its unique feature. Also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary, the Kunkuri Church is among the major attractions of Chattisgarh. People from all over the world visit this church to celebrate the occasion of Christmas.
Location: Kunkuri, Chhattisgarh
Entry fee: No entry fee
6. Mahakoshal Art Gallery
Locally known as the Mahakoshal Kala Vatika, this art gallery exhibits different forms of art of the local people. It is a rare historic property situated near the Mahant Ghasidas Museum and is an octagonal hall which also hosts a number of art exhibitions. Situated at the heart of Raipur, the Mahakoshal Art Gallery is an important sight for tourist attractions, and for all lovers of art and culture.
Location: Civil Lines, Raipur, Chhattisgarh
Timings: Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am - 8 pm
Entry fee: Rs 1 per person
7. Kailash and Kotumsar Cave
Kailash and Kotumsar Cave is a limestone cave located in Jagdalpur and is the second-longest cave in the world. Initially named Gopansar Cave, this cave is a popular tourist attraction for people interested in ecotourism. Lying at an altitude of 560 metres above sea level, this cave has several lateral and downward passages. Situated within the Kanger National Forest, the Kailash and Kotumsar Cave is surrounded by lush greenery. An interesting trivia about the cave is that it cannot be accessed after a point because of the lack of oxygen flow. An interesting place to explore, the Kailash and Kotumsar cave is among our top suggestions.
Location: Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh
Timings: 8 am - 4 pm
Entry fee: Rs 25 per person
Photo: Creative Commons