A Paradise Undiscovered: Chhattisgarh
Often hailed as the “Paradise on Earth,” Kashmir rightfully earns its title. Yet, there’s another Indian state, equally deserving of this epithet, brimming with natural beauty and cultural richness: Chhattisgarh. This tribal state shrouded in dense forests, majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and serene caves, offers an idyllic escape.
Chhattisgarh is a treasure trove of experiences. From the awe-inspiring Chitrakote Falls, often compared to Niagara, to the ancient caves adorned with intricate paintings, there’s something for every traveller. Soak yourself in the vibrant tribal culture, exploring their villages and witnessing their unique traditions. For history enthusiasts, the archaeological site of Sirpur, with its Buddhist relics, offers a glimpse into the past.
With such a diverse range of attractions, we couldn’t resist the allure of Chhattisgarh. Our journey into this natural paradise and cultural tapestry was an unforgettable experience
A Tribal Adventure: Exploring Chhattisgarh
The year was 2011 and the month, was the festival season of October. One fine day we, a group of five friends took a train from Delhi and reached Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh. We spent the night there enjoying the hospitality of a friend. With his help, we hired a vehicle in Raipur for the entire duration of the six-day adventure. Luckily for us, the driver was from Bastar and knew the region very well. Besides driving the SUV, he acted as our guide and we set off on exploring the state’s rich heritage and stunning natural beauty.
The Enchanting Bastar Dussehra
Our timing was impeccable. We arrived just in time to witness the grandeur of Bastar Dussehra, a festival celebrated with great fervour. The streets came alive with colourful processions, traditional dances, and soulful music.
Historical Sites and Natural Wonders
Over the next few days, we delved into history, visiting the ancient sites of Barsur and Sirpur. We marvelled at the architectural wonders and the remnants of bygone eras. Nature’s splendour unfolded before our eyes as we explored the awe-inspiring Kotumsar Caves, the cascading Tirathgarh Falls, and the majestic Chitrakoot Falls, often dubbed the “Niagara Falls of India.”
A Spiritual Retreat
However, the most unforgettable experience was our visit to the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram in Narainpur. The warm hospitality of the ashram’s management left an enduring impression. It was a serene retreat, a peaceful oasis amidst our adventurous journey
A Serene Retreat in Narayanpur
Our journey led us to Narayanpur, a district steeped in tribal culture. A highlight of our visit was the bustling weekly haat, a vibrant marketplace showcasing the region’s unique handicrafts and produce. We also witnessed a local cockfight, a glimpse into the traditional pastimes of the people.
While our initial plan was to stay at the Rest House, concerns about the Naxalite threat prompted a change of plans. Fortunately, the Incharge of the Rest House connected us with the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, at Narainpur where we were warmly welcomed.
A Transformative Experience at the Ashram
Our two-day stay at the Ashram was a truly transformative experience. We were awe-inspired by the selfless work of the monks and staff, dedicated to uplifting the lives of the marginalized tribal communities. The Ashram’s self-sufficiency was remarkable, with its own farms producing a variety of crops, including rice, wheat, vegetables, fruits, and even fish.
We had the privilege of visiting their schools and vocational training institutes, interacting with the students and witnessing firsthand the positive impact of the Ashram’s initiatives. The serene atmosphere, the spiritual practices, and the simple joys of life at the Ashram left an indelible mark on our souls
The Ramakrishna Mission: A Beacon of Hope
Established by Swami Vivekananda in honour of his spiritual guru, Sri Ramakrishna, the Ramakrishna Mission is a non-political organization dedicated to spiritual and humanitarian service. The Mission’s core philosophy, rooted in the ancient wisdom of the Vedas and Upanishads, emphasizes the service of humanity as a path to divine service. Through its extensive network of over more than 100 centres, the Mission has been tirelessly working to uplift communities across India and abroad, operating schools, colleges, hospitals, and orphanages.
Transforming Lives in Chhattisgarh
In 1985, the Ramakrishna Mission extended its reach to the remote Abujhmarh region of Chhattisgarh. This region, spanning 4,000 square kilometres, is home to approximately 34,000 marginalized Hill Maria tribals. The Mission has been a catalyst for positive change, empowering these underserved communities through various initiatives.
The Ashram at Narainpur has been instrumental in providing education, healthcare, agricultural support, and employment opportunities. By serving the needs of these tribal communities, without discrimination, the Mission embodies the spirit of selfless service. The Ashram’s remarkable contributions have been recognized with numerous national and international awards
The Best Time to Visit Chhattisgarh
So if you are also planning a trip to Chhattisgarh, then the ideal time to visit depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the best seasons to experience this beautiful state:
Winter (October to March):
Pleasant Weather: Enjoy mild temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Festive Cheer: Immerse yourself in the vibrant tribal festivals and cultural events that take place during this time.
Wildlife Spotting: Embark on wildlife safaris and bird-watching expeditions in the lush national parks and sanctuaries.
Monsoon (July to September):
Lush Landscapes: Witness the breathtaking beauty of Chhattisgarh’s landscapes rejuvenated by monsoon rains.
Photography Paradise: Capture stunning shots of waterfalls, rivers, and forests adorned with greenery.
Summer (April to June):
High Temperatures: While the summer months can be quite hot, it’s a good time to explore historical sites and temples.
Off-Peak Season: Enjoy relatively fewer crowds and potentially lower prices on accommodations and tours.
Consider your interests and preferences to choose the best time for your Chhattisgarh adventure
Getting to Chhattisgarh
By Air
Chhattisgarh is accessible by air through three major airports:
Swami Vivekananda International Airport, Raipur: This airport serves domestic and international flights.
Bilaspur Airport: Primarily serves domestic flights.
Raigarh Airport: Mainly caters to domestic flights.
By Rail
Chhattisgarh’s extensive rail network, centred around Bilaspur, connects it to major cities across India. The Bilaspur Junction and Raipur Junction are the primary railway stations.
By Road
Chhattisgarh’s well-maintained road network, including 11 national highways, ensures easy connectivity by road. Government buses operated by the Chhattisgarh State Road Transport Corporation (CSRTC) provide reliable transportation within the state. Additionally, private bus operators offer comfortable luxury bus services from neighbouring states
To Sum Up
When planning your trip to Chhattisgarh from Delhi, consider your travel preferences and desired destinations. Train journeys offer a budget-friendly option, while flights provide a faster way to reach the state. For maximum flexibility, renting a car is ideal, especially for exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
Popular destinations include the capital city of Raipur, the stunning Chitrakote Falls, the historical site of Sirpur, the culturally rich Bastar region, and the diverse Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary. To make the most of your trip, research the best time to visit, which is typically between October and March. For detailed information and to plan your itinerary, refer to the Chhattisgarh Tourism website.
With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, you’re all set to embark on an unforgettable journey through Chhattisgarh’s natural beauty, rich culture, and historical heritage. Planning a trip to Chhattisgarh from Delhi involves deciding how you’ll travel and where you want to go. Trains offer a budget-friendly option, while flights save time. Renting a car allows for flexibility, especially for exploring lesser-known destinations. We rented an SUV for the 6-day tour as already discussed above.
Popular destinations include Raipur (the capital city), Chitrakote Falls (nicknamed India’s Niagara Falls), Sirpur (an archaeological site), Bastar (known for tribal culture), and Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary. Choose your travel style, pick your destinations, and research the best time to visit (generally October to March). You can visit the Chhatisgarh Tourism Website for detailed information if planning to visit this beautiful green state.
