Home to the “Niagara Falls of India”, white tigers and magnificent birds, Chhattisgarh has the third-largest forest cover in the country. The state is blessed with wonderful waterfalls, wildlife, ancient temples and caves, making it a must-visit destination to reconnect with nature and ancient history. There are endless places to visit in Chhattisgarh with comfortable accommodations and modern amenities. From Kanger Valley National Park, Chitraakote Waterfall and Tirathgarh Waterfall to Amarkanatak, Maa Danteswari Temple and Bharomdeo Temple, the state is perfect for your next trip.
So, let’s explore this magical land offering the utmost comfort of nature, spirituality and culture and know about various tourist places in Chhattisgarh to add to your list while creating an itinerary and booking hotels in Chhattisgarh.
Places to Visit in Chhattisgarh to Reconnect with Nature and Ancient History
1. Chitrakote Falls
While looking for places to visit in Chhattisgarh, you will come across various breathtaking waterfalls including Chitrakote Falls in Bastar. It is one of the widest waterfalls in India, with 29 metres in height and 300 metres in width.
Taking a horseshoe shape in the monsoon season with the water flow at its peak, it is popularly known as the “Niagara Falls of India”. Moreover, the forest cover, a small Shiva temple, and naturally created grottoes called “ Parvati caves” surrounding the waterfall add additional beauty to the landscape.
2. Tirathgarh Waterfalls
Another magnificent fall, you can never skip in Bastar is Tirathgarh Waterfall. With a height gourd 91 metres, it splits into multiple falls creating a mesmerising landscape. As one of the popular tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh, the waterfall attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year.
Another interesting fact about the waterfall which makes it to the list of one of the places to visit in Chhattisgarh is that thousands of years ago, the cliff was struck down by a lunar crater with an earthquake creating staircase impressions, known as Numa Valley, believed to be the origin of this magnificent waterfall.
3. Kanger Valley National Park
Carved out from the Kanger, Darbha and Machkote ranges of the Central Bastar Forest Division, the Kanger Valley National Park is one of the most scenic and dense national parks promoting ecotourism in India.
The rich biodiversity includes Bastar Hill Manya, the state bird, majestic waterfalls and famous subterranean geomorphologic limestone caves making it one of the popular places to visit in Chhattisgarh for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
4. Bastar Palace
The state is not just known for its rich biodiversity but holds a royal heritage which you can witness in the Bastar Palace. With impressive art and architecture including exquisite carvings and engravings on the ceiling and walls, the palace showcases the grandeur of the royal lifestyle and their residences in the past.
It was built by the rulers of Bastar as a symbol of their gallantry and heroism, making it one of the famous tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh. So, witness the charm of elegance and timeless royalty in the Bastar Palace, one of the significant places to visit in Chhattisgarh.
5. Bhoramdeo Temple
Known as the “ Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh”, Bhoramdeo Temple is a thousand years old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the Kabirdham district, the temple is built on five feet high dive with three entrances.
The 60-foot-high and 40-foot-wide temple pavilion offers an impression of Khajuraho temples, making it a unique site among the places to visit in Chhattisgarh.
6. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Looking to explore the enchanting wilderness of nature, then add Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary to your list of places to visit in Chhattisgarh. The sanctuary creates a perfect ecosystem with dense forest covers, wildlife and Birds.
Cheetal, Sambhar, Nilgai, Sloth Bears, Wild Dogs, Porcupines, Jungle Cat, Fox, Striped Hyena and Barking Deer can easily be seen in the sanctuary. Additionally, with over 150 bird species including Peafowl, Jungle Fowl and Crow Pheasant, the sanctuary is one of the famous tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh for birdwatchers.
7. Maa Danteshwari Temple
One of the 51 Shakti Peeth, Maa Danteshwari Temple is one of the pilgrimage places to visit in Chhattisgarh attracting devotees across the country. The temple built in the 14th century is dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari and is located in Dantewada.
According to the legends, it is believed that it is the spot where the tooth of Goddess Sati fell. You can experience the traditional festivities during Navratris (March-April and September-October), making it one of the amazing places to go for Navratri. Make sure to book hotels in Chhattisgarh near the temple in advance during the festivals.
8. Rajim (Rajim Sun Temple)
A temple town known as Prayag of Chhattisgarh, Rajim, is one of the popular places to visit in Chhattisgarh among devotees. The town is home to the famous Rajim Lochan Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Rajim Sun Temple dedicated to Sun God.
The temples here are dated back to the 7th-8th century adding an historic importance to the area. The annual Rajim Kumbh Mela held here annually in February and March for 15 days is one of the major tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh.
9. Kailash and Kutumsar Caves
Adding adventure to the things to do while looking for places to visit in Chhattisgarh, a gypsy safari in Kailasha and Kutumsar Caves is perfect. These limestone caves are located in the Kanger Valley National Park and hold individual significance.
The Kailash cave attained its name due to the spellbound formation of limestone structures in the form of Shivling and stalactites and stalagmites making it a replica of the Kailash. On the other hand, Kutumsar cave was formally known as the Gopan cave but due to its location near the Kutumsar village, it is popularly known as the Kutumsar cave. It is one of the most explored caves in the country and one of the famous tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh for environmentalists.
10. Sirpur (Laxman Temple)
For art and archaeological enthusiasts out there, Sirpur has to be one of the places to visit in Chhattisgarh. It is a small town located in Mahasamund district on the banks of the Mahanadi River. You can explore the ancient archaeological sites including the ruins of various Shiva and Vishnu temples, Buddhist and Jain monasteries, King’s Palace, granaries and houses.
One of the best structures to explore around the town is Laxman Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The carvings on the exterior of the temple include Lord Vishnu, Krishna Leela, Vaishnava Dwarpal and other images resembling the ones in the Khajuraho Temple.
11. Mahamaya Temple (Bilaspur)
Another Shakti Peeth you can visit in the state is Mahamaya Temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. The temple is located in Bilaspur, one of the cleanest cities in India.
The temple was earlier famously known for its 400-year-old tradition of animal sacrifice, especially on the occasion of new large-scale construction. As one of the divine places to visit in Chhattisgarh, the temple attracts thousands of devotees yearly, especially during the Navratris.
12. Dongargarh (Bamleshwari Temple)
If you want to witness the secular mini India, visit Dongargarh while exploring the places to visit in Chhattisgarh. The town is known for its religious harmony among various communities including Hindus, Buddhists, Sikhs, Christians and Jains.
The town is also famous for Maa Bamleshwari Temple, situated on 1,600 feet 1,600-foot-high hilltop. The temple is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh.
13. Amarkantak
Looking for a place that is blessed with spirituality and an abundance of natural beauty, then Amarkantak is the place for you. It is popularly known as the “Tirathraj” (the “King of Pilgrimages”) as it is home to various significant groups of temples known as Narmada Mandir. These temples include Mai Ka Bagiya, Sonmuda, Bhrigumandal, Kabir Chabutra, Jwaleshwar Mahadev, Kapildhara, Dudhdhara, Shambhudhara and Durgadhara and Sarvodya Jain Temple.
Apart from being a spiritual place, the town is also known for its rich vegetation, pleasant weather and scenic beauty, making it one of the ideal tourist attractions in Chhattisgarh.
14. Maitri Bagh Zoo
Home to the White Tigers and Bengal Tigers, Maitri Bagh Zoo is one of the famous places to visit in Chhattisgarh with friends and family. This zoo cum children’s park is also known as the “Friendship Garden” as it was established as a symbol of friendship between India and the Soviet Union in 1972.
You can witness the exotic animals, and different bird species, and enjoy a toy train or boat ride in the lake. The flower show held on the first Sunday of every February is another attraction in Maitri Bagh.
15. Madku Dweep
Known as the Kedar Tirth and Harihar Kshetra Kedar Dweep, the Madku Dweep has a shape that is similar to a frog. This 24-hectare island is filled with lush greenery and ancient temples which mesmerise the visitors.
Archaeologists have discovered various prehistoric stone tools, epigraphs, coins and stone inscriptions along with various idols of various gods and goddesses here, making it one of the significant places to visit in Chhattisgarh for archaeology enthusiasts. Moreover, during Mahashivratri (February-March), Hanuman Jayanti (April) and the 7-day Paosh Purnima Fair (February) there is high footfall on the island.
16. Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary
For a perfect getaway in nature’s realm, Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary has to be one of the places to visit in Chhattisgarh. Covering over 914 square kilometres of area, the sanctuary is a part of the Achanakmar Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, a significant conservation area in Central India.
From majestic Bengal tiger to leopards, bison, chital, sambar and various bird species, you can admire these marvellous creatures in their natural habitat on guided jungle safaris. The dense forests, hills, valleys and rivers create breathtaking landscapes, making it one of the best tourist places in Chhattisgarh for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers.
17. Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve
Another place to witness wildlife and bird species is the Udanti-Sitandi Tiger Reserve. You can enjoy watching animals like tigers, leopards, flying squirrels, four-horned antelopes, chinkara, black buck, cobra and pythons with over 175 bird species.
The reserve also has a breeding and rescue centre to preserve the pure-breed buffaloes. The rich wildlife and dense forest, make it one of the significant places to visit in Chhattisgarh.
18. Dalpat Sagar Lake
Imagine yourself sun-soaking amidst vibrant flora and fauna on an island created in the middle of the lake, sounds relaxing right? While looking for a perfect picnic spot, Dalpat Sagar Lake is the ideal choice among places to visit in Chhattisgarh to enjoy a relaxing day with friends and families.
This 400-year-old artificial lake was built by the Raja Dalpat Deo Kakatiya for the conservation of rainwater for irrigation, washing and drinking. And now it has become a perfect spot for fishing and tourism.
19. Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary
For all the wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is one the best wildlife tourist places in Chhattisgarh.
Established in 1974 under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 it is located in Dhamtari district. The rich and diverse fauna and vibrant and colourful fauna cover over 556 square kilometres of area, making it a heaven for nature lovers.
These places to visit in Chhattisgarh cover the rich wildlife, pilgrimages and heritage sites. The state is deeply rooted in traditions and spirituality and showcases a close connection with nature. So, explore the land of white tigers, waterfalls, rivers and hills while easily finding comfortable stays in hotels in Chhattisgarh.
