Chhattisgarh has positioned itself as a destination full of surprises with some of the amazing some of the amazing locales which could certainly lead to the growth of tourism in the future. Presently, it is creating a niche for itself on the tourist map of India. The state is covered with nearly fortyfive per cent of the forests and thirty-two per cent of the tribal population, therefore; it offers immense opportunities for Eco-Ethnic, Adventure and Cultural tourism. makes a note of some of the top destinations and experiences in Chhattisgarh for readers to explore. 
Chhattisgarh was the region known as Dakshin Koshala, which finds mention in both the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The joy of Chhattisgarh is that tourism is still in its infancy here. The state remains refreshingly under-visited, ensuring that those who do come to explore its ancient tribal customs, wildlife sanctuaries and renowned temple complexes find a genuinely warm reception. The landscapes, the unique culture, the serene atmosphere, all remain virtually untouched. Heavily forested and full of wildlife, with a pristine environment and especially rich tribal heritage, travellers are likely to find Chhattisgarh a pleasant surprise. Read on for more about some of the exciting and remarkable destinations.
Bastar : a well-kept secret of Chhattisgarh Often overlooked by travellers, Chhattisgarh’s Bastar is a myriad of wonders. A goldmine of fascinating tribal culture in India, it thrives on the cultural magnitudes, age-old traditions and rituals that are yet to be explored. Whether it is the exclusive handicrafts, wild rivers, quaint villages, ancestral temples, rich tribal cultures, ancient monuments, historical cities, unique festivals, the saga of the royal
palace, the wilderness of the natural parks, or forgotten tales of dense forests, Bastar is a land full of surprises and many possibilities. Located at a distance of 264 km from Raipur, Bastar is one of the most significant eco-friendly destinations of the country. It has plenty to offer to its visitors with its valuable tribal art and culture that lie in and around the lush green city of Jagdalpur. The people of Bastar district are rich in rare artwork, liberal culture and innate nature. Also, the taste of Mahua toddy and wild red ant chutney are some local delicacies that travellers are on the lookout for. Bastar Mahal, Bastar Dussehra festival, Dalpat Sagar, Chitrakote waterfall, Tirathgarh waterfalls, Kutumasar and Kailash caves are the main centres and attractions of tourism. One can choose from national parks, waterfalls, natural caves, palaces, museums and places of religious significance. Bastar Dassehra is a unique traditional festival held in the Bastar region. The Bastar Dassehra festival is directly related to Mahishasur Mardini Maa Durga and not the Ramayana. This festival continues for 75 days non-stop.
Chitrakote Waterfalls: the mini–Niagara Fall of India 
Chitrakote Waterfalls bears the proud distinction of being the broadest waterfall in India and thus called the Niagara Falls of India. The majesticbeauty is located 38 km from Jagdalpur in Bastar on the river Indrāvati and is surrounded by the majestic Vindhya ranges. The water of the river flows through the dense vegetation and cascades from a height of about ninety-five feet. The horseshoe-shaped waterfall is best seen during and after the monsoon, between July and October. The specialty of this waterfall is that during the rainy days, this water is reddishbrown, but it looks absolutely white during the summer moonlight night. However, in the rainy season, it is much more exciting as the roar ofhuge falls from the height gives you the thrills and shudders. If you are lucky, you will catch a rainbow or two hanging above the water, emerging from its misty depth. One can hire a local fisherman’s boat to take you as close as possible to the falls. You can also swim in the river downstream or try water rafting. A popular picnic spot, most tourists prefer making a day trip to the falls from Jagdalpur. Travellers can also explore the surrounding region for a glimpse of the local tribal culture.
Kanger Valley National Park: best weekend destinations in Bastar 
Established in 1982, the Kanger Valley National Park in Bastar is bounded by numerous villages on all of its sides. Deriving its name from the Kanger River, this National Park is declared as one of the Asian Biosphere Reserve. Situated on river Kolab, this 34 Km long park is 27 km away from Jagdalpur. The highlight of this park is its location and is surrounded by the rich biodiversity of fauna like chinkara, barking deer, chital, jackal, hyena, wild boar, blackbuck, and some rare mouse deer. Apart from this, the rich flora like fungi, algae, bryophytes and pteridophytes add beauty to the park. Last but not the least, the trip is only complete by taking a safari ride. If there is any spot that will provide you with a combination of fun, entertainment, picnic and adventure, it is Tirathgarh Falls near the Kanger Valley National Park. This is one of the best-known picnic spots in Jagdalpur as well. The limelight of this waterfall is that the falls over here split into multiple falls as it flows down and gives a stunning view for the spectators.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve: where tigers do roar
Chhattisgarh has two national parks, three tiger reserves, eight sanctuaries, and one biosphere reserve. The Achanakmar Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh is a tropical moist deciduous forest and is part of the tiger corridorformed with Kanha Wildlife Sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh. The Tiger Reserve is situated in the Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh. A visit to the reserve assures it to be a very mesmerising experience of the Maikal range. It is amazing to discover the dense, lush green Sal and Bamboo forests and the pleasure of wildlife viewing. The reserve is also a part of the much larger
Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve.
Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1975, Achanakmar was declareda tiger reserve in 2009 and is said to house as many as about 20 tigers now. Sal, Bija, Saja, Haldu, Teak, Tinsa, Dhavara, Lendia, Khamar and Bamboo flourish here, along with over 600 species of medicinal plants. The winding Maniyari river that flows right through the heart of the reserve is its lifeline. Wild fauna found here include the tiger, leopard, bison, flying squirrel, Indian giant squirrel, chinkara, wild dog, hyena, sambar, chital and over 150 species of birds. The most favourable time to visit the Tiger Reserve is from the month of November to the month of June for the safari and stay experience though summers could be very hot.
Bhoramdeo Temple: the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh”
Bhoramdeo Temple is a complex of Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Bhoramdeo in the Kabirdham district. The Bhoramdeo temple bears a striking resemblance to the Sun Temple of Konark and is believed to have been constructed during the 7th to 12th centuries. It is popularly known as the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh, as it also resembles
the Khajuraho Temple of Madhya Pradesh. It is the main temple among the bunch of four ancient temples in this region – Madwa Mahal, Istaliq Temple, Cherki Mahal and Bhoramdeo temple – and stands as strong as ever in the Kabirdham district. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The outstanding Nagar style of architecture and the intricately carved images are spectacular works of art. The Bhoramdeo Temple flaunts admirably sculpted images of the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, in addition to the images of Lord Shiva and Lord Ganesha. Pilgrims often stay back to savour the outstanding views that the temple has to offer,
after seeking their blessings.
