On 1 November 2000, India gave birth to a new state called Chhattisgarh which was carved out of Madhya Pradesh. The area of 135,191 square kilometres acquired by Chhattisgarh accounts for only 30 percent of the total area of Madhya Pradesh.
The demand for the new state can be traced to a meeting of the Raipur district Congress in 1924 when the idea of a separate entity of Chhattisgarh was mooted. The leaders who took part in that meeting were of the view that the region of Chhattisgarh was culturally and historically distinct from the rest of Madhya Pradesh.
The state has its capital at Raipur and the High Court at Bilaspur.
The history of Chhattisgarh, which was called as South Kosala goes back to the 4th century AD. The mythological history of the state can be traced back to the days of Mahabharata and the Ramayana. The Haihaya dynasty ruled Chhattisgarh for six centuries during the 14th century. During the middle ages, Chalukya dynasty established its rule in Bastar. Annmdev was the first Chalukya ruler, who founded the dynasty in Bastar in 1320. In 1741, the kingdom was seized by the Marathas from the Haihaya dynasty. After conquering the kingdom during 1745 AD, Raghunathsinghji, the last descendant of the Ratanpur house, was forced to leave the area. So, finally in the year 1758, Chhattisgarh was conquered by Marathas and Bimbaji Bhonsle was appointed as the ruler. After the demise of Bimbaji Bhonsle, suba system was followed by the Marathas. It was an era of unrest and misrule. Maratha army was involved in large-scale loot and ransack.
| Languages | : | Hindi , Urdu, Marathi |
| When to Visit | : | Octobet to May |
| Climate | : | Summer -48c to 22c Winter -23c to 4c Monsoon : June to September |
| Festivals | : | Dassera (September/ October), Diwali (October/ November) |
Achanakumar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at a distance of 60 km from Bilaspur. It was established in the year 1975. The dense forest is home to various wild animals, which include tiger, bison, leopard, bear, sambar, hyena and so on. Watchtowers are the best way to view wild animals in action as the density of the forest and its topography make it difficult to view wildlife.
Bastar Palace is an ancient construction built when the kings of Bastar shifted their capital to Jagdalpur. The palace is rich in architecture and it tells tales of bravery of the rulers who ruled the land. The unique carvings on the walls of the palace are stunning. The monument constructed by the government inside the grounds of the palace offers artifacts and portraits of the rulers of the past. Do not miss the opportunity to ride on horse carriage when you are in the city.
The ancient temple will necessitate a visit if you love the feeling of being amongst the glorious past. Constructed somewhere between the 7th and 11th centuries, the temple is called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. Located amidst the picturesque setting of Maikal mountains,Bhoramdeo Temple offers spectacular views. It is considered as the most beautifully decorated temple. It has religious sculptures as well as erotic sculptures.
Famously known as Niagara Falls of India,Chitrakot Waterfalls is located 38 km away from Jagdalpur. The falls is the broadest in India, it falls from a height of 96 ft, and during the season, the width is above 1000 feet. The shape of the waterfalls resembles horseshoe. The forest area around the waterfalls offers spectacular views.
Once in Chhattisgarh, you would not want to miss the highest mountain in Kanker and that is Gadiya Mountain. Gadiya Mountain served as capital to King Dharma Dev of Kandra dynasty after his victory here. The cave found here was the hideout for the royal family during war. The southern part of the great mountain houses another cave, which is known as Jogi Gufa. This cave was used by sages to meditate. The water tank here is famous as it is said that it never dries.
Kailash and Kotumsar Caves are located near Tiratgarh Waterfalls amidst the dense forests located at a distance of 40 kilometer from Jagdalpur. Ranked second in the list of longest natural caves all over the world, Kutumsar Caves are not accessible beyond a certain limit. The restriction of movement is owing to non-availability of oxygen inside the two-kilometer deep caves. Kailash Cave was discovered in the year 1993. Situated on a small hill, the important feature of the cave is the musical sounds created on striking of hand in the hollow walls.
Known earlier as Radhanivas Bagicha, Kanker Palacewas built in the 20th century and rebuilt in the year 1937. The elegant palace reveals the influence of colonial architecture. The magnificent construction is located in the scenic landscape and the lush gardens surrounding the palace is awe inspiring. The place and the palace offer great views and you will find various activities to get involved in right from boat safaris, jeep safaris and many more.
The location of Kawardha Palace itself is amazing. It is located at 941 meters altitude above sea level on Maikal Ranges. It palace is in a massive 11 acre-land and you will be spellbound by the lovely garden. Italian marbles and stones were used in constructing the palace, which dates back to the 1930s. The palace is a glorious example of the culture of the place. The palace is declared as a heritage hotel and you will love to find yourself accommodated here. The lush gardens make you feel close to nature.
The name Maitri Baghmeans Garden of Friendship. This is a result of cooperation between Indian and Russian governments. Maitri Bagh was established by Bhilai Steel Plant. The zoo cum park offers various attractions and it is one of the famous picnic spots in the state. There are beautiful lakes and gardens and the musical fountains in the garden is a feast to eyes. It is the biggest zoo in Chhattisgarh.
Rajpuri Waterfall is located near Bagicha, which is 90km from the headquarters. The natural beauty of the place attracts tourists from all around. The entire place is enchanting with tribal villages around it. The ancient touch associated with the rocks in the area and the rich natural beauty makes this place one among the important tourist destinations.
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