Chhattisgarh is one of India’s underrated gems, filled with dense forests, stunning waterfalls, ancient temples, tribal culture, and wildlife. Here’s a curated list of must visit Places to Visit in Chhattisgarh.

Chitrakote Waterfalls (Bastar) – Often called the Niagara Falls of India, Chitrakote is the widest waterfall in India, with water plunging down from about 100 feet in a semicircular arc. During monsoons, it becomes a roaring beast, but even in the dry season, it’s serene and stunning. A great spot for nature lovers and photographers.

1. Tirathgarh Waterfalls (Kanger Valley National Park) – Tirathgarh is a tiered, milky-white waterfall nestled in dense forest. Unlike Chitrakote’s sheer power, Tirathgarh is all about graceful cascades. It’s easily accessible and has a temple nearby, making it a blend of nature and spirituality.

• Kanger Valley National Park (Jagdalpur) – One of India’s most biodiverse national parks, Kanger Valley is a lush wonderland. Apart from wildlife like tigers and leopards, it’s known for its limestone caves like Kutumsar, which is pitch dark and filled with natural rock formations. Nature trails, tribal villages, and deep forests make this park a true escape.

• Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary – A lesser-known but beautiful sanctuary, ideal for a quiet jungle safari. Home to wild buffaloes, leopards, sloth bears, and a rich variety of birds. It’s perfect if you want to experience the wild without crowds.

• Guru Ghasidas National Park – Located in the northern part of the state, this park is a hidden treasure, especially for nature lovers. It’s remote and less commercialized, but that means more pristine forest and rare wildlife like antelopes, wolves, and even elephants.

• Sirpur (Mahasamund) – This ancient town was once a major Buddhist center. It’s dotted with ruins of Buddhist viharas, Hindu temples, and Jain monasteries. The highlight is the Laxman Temple, a beautiful brick structure from the 7th century. It’s also been visited by the Dalai Lama, and has a spiritual, quiet charm.

• Dongargarh – Famous for the Maa Bamleshwari Temple, perched atop a hill. You can reach the temple by climbing over 1000 steps or taking a ropeway. It’s especially lively during festivals like Navratri. The panoramic view from the top is worth the climb!

• Bhoramdeo Temple (Kawardha) – Dubbed the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh” due to its intricate erotic carvings, Bhoramdeo is a hidden architectural gem from the 11th century. Set against a backdrop of hills and forests, it’s peaceful, artistic, and deeply historical.

• Ratanpur – An ancient town with roots going back to the Kalachuri dynasty. It’s home to the Mahamaya Temple, a revered Shakti shrine. The town is dotted with temples and crumbling palace ruins, giving it an old-world, mystical aura.

• Jagdalpur (Bastar) – A cultural heartland where you can experience tribal Chhattisgarh. Visit the Bastar Palace, shop for Dokra metal art and bell metal handicrafts, and if you’re lucky, witness the spectacular Bastar Dussehra, a festival unlike any other in India celebrated over 75 days with tribal rituals and traditions.

1. Mainpat – Often called the “Mini Tibet” of Chhattisgarh, Mainpat is a cool hill station with Tibetan settlements. Think green meadows, rolling hills, and quaint monasteries. Highlights include Tiger Point Falls, Fish Point, and a quirky gravity hill where vehicles seem to roll uphill.

1. Dhamtari & Gangrel Dam – A calm and scenic spot ideal for a relaxing getaway. Gangrel Dam is the largest dam in Chhattisgarh and offers boating, lakeside picnics, and lovely sunsets. It’s also near the Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary.

1. Rajim – Known as the “Prayag of Chhattisgarh”, Rajim is a pilgrimage town at the confluence of three rivers Mahanadi, Pairi, and Sondur. The Rajiv Lochan Temple is an exquisite piece of architecture, and the town hosts a grand Rajim Kumbh Mela every year.