Endowed with a rich cultural heritage and blessed by nature's bounty and scenic diversity, Chhattisgarh is one of the most promising tourist destinations in India. It has incredible natural charm blended with rich ancient prosperity and the oldest tribes India dwell here, some of them for almost 10,000 years. The state is believed to be the place where Lord Rama spends some part of his exile.
A tribal-dominated state, Chhattisgarh is crisscrossed by two mighty rivers, Mahanadi and Indravati. The ancient underground caves and gurgling waterfalls dot the breathtaking landscape. Chattisgarh is one of those off-the-beaten-track tourist spots of the country that are slowly gaining popularity through word-of-mouth. Although, Chhattisgarh also does not lag behind in urbanity, and a visit to the city of Raipur amply demonstrates that.
HISTORY
During the ancient period, Chhattisgarh was known as 'Dakshin Kosala'. The mythological history of the region can be traced back to the days of 'Mahabharata' and the 'Ramayana'. The Haihaya dynasty ruled the state for six centuries during the 14th century. During the middle ages, the Chalukya dynasty entered in the power and Annmdev was the first Chalukya ruler. He founded the dynasty in Bastar in 1320.
In 1741, the Marathas seized the kingdom from the Haihaya dynasty. During 1745 AD, they conquered both kingdoms and finally in 1758, Marathas established their power in Chhattisgarh, and Bimbaji Bhonsle was appointed as the ruler. After the demise of Bimbaji, the Suba system was followed by the Marathas. This was an era of unrest and misrule.
During the early Nineteenth Century, Pindaris attacked the kingdom. In 1818, British rule was imposed on Chhattisgarh. The Tribals of Bastar were against the British rule that resulted in the Halba rebellion; it continued for about five years from 1774-1779. Vir Narian Singh was the first martyr from this region in the struggle of independence.
After India got independence, the first administrative initiation of the Creation of Chattisgarh was taken the then government of MP. On March 18th, 1994, a resolution was to pass with the demand of a separate state of Chhattisgarh.
Finally, in 1998, the union government drafted a bill with the same proposal and sent it to the Madhya Pradesh Assembly. It was approved but due to some reasons in the year 2000, the Indian President gave his consent to the Madhya Pradesh Reorganization Act on 25th August. And, on 1st November 2000, the state of Madhya Pradesh was bifurcated to create the Chhattisgarh.
CULTURAL BEAUTY AND CUISINE
The culture of Chhattisgarh is a perfect mixture of literature, arts and crafts. Most of their design patterns are used in their artwork; they are also involved in other traditional crafts like painting, woodcarving, bell metal craft, etc. In costumes, women in tribal groups are very particular about their saris that are supposed to be knee length and men wear dhotis and headgears like cotton turbans.
Known as the 'Rice Bowl of India' Chhattisgarh has carved a niche for itxself. There are various dishes like Muthia; it is made with rice batter and usually enjoyed in the breakfast. Aamat is a delectable delicacy of the state prepared with mixed vegetables. Bhajia is a famous street food of Chhattisgarh and don't forget about Sabudana ki Khichdi, one of the healthiest and most delicious cuisine of the state.
The fairs and festivals in this colourful state give travellers the unique opportunity to have the first-hand experience; Dussehra is celebrated with the greatest ostentation and ceremony. Rajim Lochan Mahotsav is fair that also for 15 days. There are several other festivals celebrated here with great joy. The tribal people mainly speak two languages, Hindi and Chhattisgarhi.
MUST VISIT TOURIST PLACES IN CHHATTISGARH
Raipur City
The capital city, Raipur is filled with various historical sites and tourist attractions like Mahant Ghasidas Museum, Shabari Handicrafts Emporium, and Chhattisgarh Haat, Purkhauti Muktangan Museum, Vivekananda Sarova, etc. The infrastructure of the city is well maintained and with more than hundreds of steel mills and six steel plants, Raipur is also one of the largest industrial centers in India.
Bhilai
Widely known for Bhilai Steel Plant, one of the largest steel plants in India, Bhilai is a fascinating fusion of people of different religions and languages. Dotted with multiple tourist attractions and pleasant weather during winters, this amazing city is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Dantewada
Dantewada is situated in the Bastar district and came into being after the formation of Chattisgarh. The city offers a panoramic landscape view of gushing rivers, sparkling waterfalls, hill peaks, and lush green meadows. The region presents all-natural elements from hills mountains to rivers and creates complete scenery. Bodhghat Sath Dhar, Barsur and Bailadila Mountains are some famous places to visit here.
Jagdalpur
The beautiful and naturally bountiful city, Jagdalpur is situated in Bastar district. It has a rich history of political activism and has developed a very rich culture over time. Because of fits rich flora and fauna, Jagdalpur is a perfect hotspot to test your guts for bungee jumping experience.
Mainpat
An underrated hill station, Mainpat has untouched green pastures, deep valleys, breathtaking waterfalls, dense forests, magnificent hills, and untouched rivulets. The city is also known as Shimla of Chhattisgarh. The confluence of cultures and diverse traditions add to the picturesque village's charm.
Some other places to visit in Chhattisgarh include Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, Shri Rajiv Lochan Mandir, Chitrakot Waterfalls, Rajeev Smriti Van, Mahakoshal Art Gallery, Purkhauti Muktangan, Bhoramdeo Temple, Tirathgarh Falls, and Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum, etc.
Every state has got something unique to offer for its tourists, Chhattisgarh is one such state in India where you get to cover all these aspects from monuments to spectacular landscapes, waterfalls, caves and heritage temples.
To reach Chhattisgarh, you can easily get regular flights to Raipur from other major cities; the rail network is cantered around Bilaspur, the other mainly railway junction is Raipur; Chhattisgarh also has an excellent road network, connecting from all the major cities in India. Plan your Chhattisgarh tour from October to March as the climate during these months is quite salubrious and pleasant.
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