Destinations Chhattisgarh

White Tiger Cubs in Zoo

2011-06-23T00:18:00.000-07:00

Good news for wildlife lovers, that our Maitri Bagh zoo has four new guests, a rare white tigress has given birth to three cubs recently while a Royal Bengal tigress has borne a cub, Maitri Bagh zoo in Chhattisgarhs steel city Bhilai.With birth of the three white tiger cubs, the number of white tigers in the zoo has gone up to 10 while the number of Royal Bengal tigers has risen to eight.

Waterfalls in Chhattisgarh

2011-05-02T01:04:00.000-07:00

Akuri Nala

This is a small waterfall in Koriya district about 65 km from Baikunthpur, near Bansipur village, in an area surrounded by rocks and forests. Even in summer, the area is cold, giving it the sobriquet of "the natural air conditioner of Koriya". From Baikunthpur, take a bus or taxi to Aklasari on the Sonhat road. From there it's about 12 km to the fall.

Amrit Dhara Waterfall

This beautiful natural waterfall in Koriya district on the Hasdo River is about seven km from Nagpur on the Manendragarh-Baikunthpur Road. About 80-90 feet high and 10-15 feet wide, it creates a beautiful misty ambience. There is a Shiva Temple here too. In 1936, Ramanuj Pratap Singh Judeo, the King of Koriya State, started a mela (fair) here on Mahashivratri, and the practice is followed till today. The nearest railway station is Manendragarh. From here one can take a bus or taxi to Nagpur, and hire a taxi to the fall. Alternately, from Baikunthpur, one can take a bus or taxi to Nagpur, and hire a taxi to the fall.

Chitrakot Waterfalls

The gorgeous Chitrakot waterfall is on the river Indravati, situated at a distance of 38 Km. in the west of Jagdalpur in Bastar district. Height of this waterfall is approximately 100ft. The Chitrakot waterfalls can be called as the smaller form of the world famous Niagara waterfalls. The formation of rainbow colors of the waterfall attracts tourists at the first sight itself. This is the prime attraction for all tourists and worth seeing in rainy season, between July and October. These waterfalls are in a horse-shoe shape and often compared to the great Niagara waterfalls. A government rest house is available here.

Gavar Ghat Waterfall

This beautiful natural waterfall in Koriya district on the Hasdo River is about 40 km from Baikunthpur and 5 km from Tarra village. About 50-60 feet high and 10 feet wide, it is in an area full of forests and rocks. From Baikunthpur, take a bus or taxi to Katgodi, 15 km along on the Sonhat road. 20 km further down is Tarra village, and from there it's another 5 km to the fall.

Mainpat

Mainpat is a hill station and is known for its Tiger Point waterfall and woolen fabric. Mainpat is about 45 km by road from Ambikapur in Sarguja district. It takes about one and a half hours to reach due to poor road conditions in the last 30 km - more so in monsoon

Ramdaha Waterfall

'Ramdaha Waterfall is a natural waterfall in Koriya district on the river Banas, near Bhavarkhoh village, is about 160 km from Baikunthpur. About 100-120 feet high and 20-25 feet wide, it is surrounded by forests and rocks. The nearest railway station is Manendragarh. From here one can take a bus or taxi to Bhavarkhoh village via Kelhari and Chutki Village (Jankpur Road), and walk 2 km to the fall.

Tiratgarh waterfalls

Tiratgarh waterfalls are situated in Bastar district at a distance of 35 Km. from Jagdalpur in south west direction and can be approached through the state highway of Jagdalpur to Sukma. The waterfall is actually situated in Kanger Valley National Park and the height is approximately 300 ft. This place is a favorite picnic resort, especially for large groups looking for a day-long picnic in a forest. The good season for visiting these waterfalls is from October to February. A Government rest house is also available.

Amarkantak (The One with the Voice of GOD)

2011-04-19T00:27:00.000-07:00

Amarkantak (अमरकंटक- The one with the voice of God) is a pilgrim town and a nagar panchayat in Anuppur District in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. Also called "Teerthraj" (the king of pilgrimages), Amarkantak region is a unique natural heritage area and is the meeting point of the Vindhyas and the Satpuras, with the Maikal Hills being the fulcrum. This is where the Narmada River, the Sone River and Johila River emerge.

Amarkantak is situated in Madhya Pradesh in India. Amarkantak is located at 22°40′N 81°45′E / 22.67°N 81.75°E / 22.67; 81.75. It has an average elevation of 1048 metres (3438 ft). Roads running through Rewa, Shahdol, Anuppur, Jabalpur, Katni and Pendra connect it. The nearest railway stations are Anuppur and Pendra Road (43 km)via keonchi and only 28 k.m. via Jwaleshwar. The nearest Airport is Dumna Jabalpur (Jabalpur Airport in the city of Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (240 km).delhi and mumbai daily flght service

Amarkantak situated on the western edge of ancient Kingdom of Kalinga is a place of worship for all the three worlds. Gods and Gandharvas (Celestial beings), Asuras (demons), Saints and Sages have all achieved great spiritual powers here. It is believed that who ever dies at Amarkantak is assured of a place in heaven. Also if a lady makes offerings of fruits and flowers will gain the respect of her husband, and no doubt she will also achieve a place in heaven.

When Lord Shiva destroyed Tripura (The three cities) by fire, the ashes of one fell upon mount Kailash, the ashes of another fell upon Amarkantak, and the ashes of the third were saved by Lord Shiva and kept in heaven. The ashes that fell upon Amarkantak turned into crores of Shivalingas. Only one is visible at Jwaleshwar in Amarkantak.

Amarkantak is a Sanskrit word the literal meaning of which is immortal (amar) obstruction (kantak). The place was abode of Gods but was disturbed by the hindrances of Rudraganas and hence called Amarkantak. The poet Kalidas has mentioned it as Amrakoot. Myth is that the dense forests of this region were full of mango (amra) trees. So Kalidas named it as Amrakoot, which later became Amarkantak.

Amarkantak and rivers originating from it do not find mention in Vedic literature, but these have been mentioned in Puranas, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Vashishtha samhita and “Shatapatha Brahmana”. After Mahabharata the history of a period of about 3000 years is in dark. Professor Arjun Chaube Kashyap concludes that the Puranic name of Amarkantak was Riksh parvat. About 6000 years back the SuryavanshiRiksh parvat and named it Mandhata. The queen of samrat Purukutsa, who was son of Mandhata, gave the title of Narmada to the river. Due to occupation of this area by Mandhata the descendants of Yayati moved from this area to west of Madhya Pradesh and settled on the banks of Narmada River. samrat Mandhata founded a town in the valley

According to tradition, this Vindhyachal area was included in the Kingdom of Ayodhya, Kapila Muni, BhriguMarkandeya Rishi had ashrams here. It is also said that Pandavas stayed here and gained spiritual benefits during their exile. Rishi and

After about 3000 years of Mahabharata the Adi Shankarachrya was born in 788 AD and consecrated on the banks of Narmada River. He founded Pataleshwar Mahadev in Amarkantak at the origin of Narmada from the bamboo clumps. This place is known as Surajkund today. There is no bamboo clumps here now.

In more recent history, this area was given in dowry to the Kalachuri King by the Chedi King (10th to 11th century AD). The Kalchuri Maharaja Karnadeva (1042-1072 AD) had constructed temples at Surajkund. In 1808 Amarkantak was ruled by the King of Nagpur and later came under foreign rule. More recently, amarkantak selected by the UPA government as the place for India's first tribal university.

Maa Bamaleshwari Tirth

2011-04-05T22:46:00.000-07:00

Dongargarh is the main tourist as well as piligrimage of the district. The famous temple of MAA BAMBLESHWARI, is on a hilltop of 1600 feet in the town of Dongargarh. This temple is referred as BADI BAMBLESHWARI. Another temple at ground level is situated about 1/2 k.m. from the main temple complex. This temple is reffered as CHOTTI BAMBLESHWARI. Lakhs of people from in and around Chattisgarh flock the shrine during the navratris of Kavar (during Dashera) and Chaitra (during Ramnavmi). Popular of the landmarks is Maa Bamleshwari Devi Temple on a hilltop which is 1,600 ft high. It is of great spiritual importance and a legend is associated with this shrine. Another prominent shrine in the vicinity is Chhoti Bamleshwari Temple. The devotees flock these temples during Navratri. Shivji Temple and the temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman are also located here. The ropeway is an added attraction and is the only passenger ropeway in Chhattisgarh.

Holi The festival of Joys

2011-03-19T00:27:00.000-07:00

Holi, or Holli (Hindi: होली), is a spring religious festival celebrated by Hindus. It is primarily observed in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and countries with large Indic diaspora populations, such as Suriname, Malaysia, Guyana, South Africa, Trinidad, United Kingdom, United States, Mauritius, and Fiji. In West Bengal and Orissa of India it is known as Dolyatra (Doul Jatra) or Basanta-Utsav ("spring festival"). The most celebrated Holi is that of the Braj region, in locations connected to the god Krishna: Mathura, Vrindavan, Nandagaon, and Barsana. These places have become tourist destinations during the festive season of Holi, which lasts here to up to sixteen days.

The main day, Holi, also known as Dhuli Vandana in Sanskrit, also Dhulheti, Dhulandi or Dhulendi, is celebrated by people throwing coloured powder and coloured water at each other. Bonfires are lit the day before, also known as Holika Dahan (burning of Holika) or Chhoti Holi (little Holi). The bonfires are lit in memory of the miraculous escape that young Prahlad accomplished when Demoness Holika, sister of Hiranyakashipu, carried him into the fire. Holika was burnt but Prahlad, a staunch devotee of god Vishnu, escaped without any injuries due to his unshakable devotion. Holika Dahan is referred to as Kama DahanamSouth India. in

Holi is celebrated at the end of the winter season on the last full moon day of the lunar month Phalguna Purnima), which usually falls in the later part of February or March.
(February/March), (Phalgun Rangapanchami occurs a few days later on a Panchami (fifth day of the full moon), marking the end of festivities involving colours.

Nepal: In Nepal, Holi is regarded as one of the greatest festivals, as important as Dashain (also known as Dussehra in India) and Tihar or Dipawali (also known asDiwali in India). Since more than 80% of people in Nepal are Hindus, Holi, along with many other Hindu festivals, is celebrated in Nepal as a national festival and almost everyone celebrates it regardless of their religion, e.g., even Muslims celebrate it. Christians may also join in, although since Holi falls during Lent, many would not join in the festivities. The day of Holi is also a national holiday in Nepal. People walk down their neighborhoods to celebrate Holi by exchanging colours and spraying coloured water on one another. A popular activity is the throwing of water balloons at one another, sometimes called lola (meaning water balloon). Also a lot of people mix bhang in their drinks and food, as also done during Shivaratri. It is believed that the combination of different colours played at this festival take all the sorrow away and make life itself more colourful.

The spring season, during which the weather changes, is believed to cause viral fever and cold. The playful throwing of natural coloured powders has a medicinal significance: the colours are traditionally made of Neem, Kumkum, Haldi, Bilva, and other medicinal herbs prescribed by Āyurvedic doctors.

A special drink called thandai is prepared (commonly made of almonds, pistachios, rose petals, etc.), sometimes containing bhang (Cannabis indica). For wet colours, traditional flowers of Palash are boiled and soaked in water over night to produced yellow coloured water, which also had medicinal properties. Unfortunately the commercial aspect of celebration has led to an increase in the use of synthetic colours which, in some cases, may be toxic.

Something to think:

Synthetic colors: As the spring-blossoming trees that once supplied the colors used to celebrate Holi have become more rare, chemically produced industrial dyes have been used to take their place in almost all of urban India. In 2001, a fact sheet was published by the groups Toxics link and Vatavaran based in Delhi on the chemical dyes used in the festival. They found safety issues with all three forms in which the Holi colors are produced: pastes, dry colors and water colors.

Their investigation found some toxic chemicals with some potentially severe health impacts. The black powders were found to contain lead oxide which can result in renal failure. Two colors were found to be carcinogenic: silver, with aluminium bromide, and red, with mercury sulphide. The prussian blue used in the blue powder has been associated with contact dermatitis, while the copper sulphate in the green has been documented to cause eye allergiese, puffiness of the eyes, or temporary blindness.

The colorant used in the dry colors, also called gulals, was found to be toxic, with heavy metals causing asthma, skin diseases and temporary blindness. Both of the commonly used bases—asbestos or silica—are associated with health issues. The report galvanized a number of groups into promoting more natural celebrations of Holi. Development Alternatives, Delhi and Kalpavriksh, Pune, The CLEAN India campaign and Society for Child Development, through its Avacayam Cooperative Campaign have both launched campaigns to help children learn to make their own colours for Holi from safer, natural ingredients. Meanwhile, some commercial companies such as the National Botanical Research Institute have begun to market "herbal" dyes, though these are substantially more expensive than the dangerous alternatives. However, it may be noted that many parts of rural India have always resorted to natural colours (and other parts of festivities more than colours) due to availability reasons.

An alleged environmental issue related to the celebration of Holi is the traditional Holika Dahan bonfire, which is believed to contribute to deforestation. A local tabloid had a view published that 30,000 bonfires each burning approximately 100 kg of wood are lit in one season. Several methods of preventing this consumption of wood have been proposed, including the replacement of wood with waste material or lighting of a single fire per community, rather than multiple smaller fires. However, the idea of lighting waste material antagonizes large sections of a certain community who take it as a Western attack to their cultures and traditions citing several examples of similar festivities elsewhere. There is also concern about the large scale wastage of water and water-pollution due to synthetic colors during Holi celebration.

In the music video for their song "The Catalyst.", American rock band Linkin Park incorporated scenes of band members throwing powdered color at one another. The videos director, band turntablist Joe Hahn, identifies Holi as a direct influence on the visual style of the video. Hahn states that "The irony of making the video was that the inspiration for the colors came from the Color Festival in India called Holi." Mr Hahn further elaborates on the religious significance of the colors, "People collect these pigments throughout the year to release them in this festival as a celebration of life and tribute to Vishnu."

The holi festival was featured as a RoadBlock challenge in the popular CBS reality television show The Amazing Race 13, episode 7.

The Ke$ha music video for the song "Take It Off" features powdered colored dyes similar to those used to celebrate Holi.

On May 31, 2007, the independent film, Outsourced, premiered at the Seattle International Film Festival. The plot of the film details the story of Todd Anderson, an American call center novelty products salesman (Josh Hamilton) as he heads to India to train his replacement after his entire department is outsourced to a new, much cheaper call center in Gharapuri, India. Todd soon discovers that in order to successfully train his new charges, he must first learn about the culture of the workers. Among the many customs and traditions Todd encounters in his education of India is the celebration of Holi. The film beautifully captures the spirit of joy and playfulness that surrounds this colorful celebration of life and the onset of Spring.

Happy Women's Day

2011-03-08T05:12:00.000-08:00

THEME: So while many people may think there is one global theme each year, this is not always correct. It is completely up to each country and group as to what appropriate theme they select.

Below are some of the global United Nation themes used for International Women's Day to date:

- 2011: Equal access to education, training and science and technology: Pathway to decent work for women
- 2010: Equal rights, equal opportunities: Progress for all
- 2009: Women and men united to end violence against women and girls
- 2008: Investing in Women and Girls
- 2007: Ending Impunity for Violence against Women and Girls
- 2006: Women in decision-making
- 2005: Gender Equality Beyond 2005: Building a More Secure Future
- 2004: Women and HIV/AIDS
- 2003: Gender Equality and the Millennium Development Goals
- 2002: Afghan Women Today: Realities and Opportunities
- 2001: Women and Peace: Women Managing Conflicts
- 2000: Women Uniting for Peace
- 1999: World Free of Violence against Women
- 1998: Women and Human Rights
- 1997: Women at the Peace Table
- 1996: Celebrating the Past, Planning for the Future
- 1975: First IWD celebrated by the United Nations

Various IWD themes around the world:

- Global, United Nations: Women and men united to end violence against women and girls
- Canada, Status of Women (Federal Gov): Strong Leadership. Strong Women. Strong World: Equality
- Australia, UNIFEM: Unite to End Violence Against Women
- Australia, Queensland Government Office for Women: Our Women, Our State
- Australia, WA Department for Communities: Sharing the Caring for the Future
- UK, Doncaster Council: Women's Voices and Influence
- UK, Welsh Assembly Government: Bridging the Generational Gap
- UK, Accenture: Stretch Yourself: Achieving 50:50 in the boardroom by 2020
- USA, IBM: Women@IBM: Success in the Globally Integrated Enterprise

guiding star showing path

2011-03-07T04:09:00.000-08:00

State Animal and State Bird of Chhattisgarh

2011-02-17T04:05:00.000-08:00

The wild buffalo is the state animal of chhatisgarh. The average wild buffalo weighs weight 800-1200 kg. It is a powerful animal, with the widest horn span of any bovid-more than 2 m. Its preferred habitats are lowlying alluvial grasslands and their surroundings. It Survives mainly on grass and leafy aquatic vegetation. In india, wild buffalos are now largely restricted to Assam and Chhatisgarh, althoug most, if not all, are belived to have interbred with domestic and/or feral buffalo.

Chhatisgarh's state bird, the hill mynah (gracula religiosa) is found mainly in the indian subcontinent.It sports an overall green-glossed black plumage, purple-tinged on the head and neck. There are large white wing patches which are obvious in flight. At 29 cm in lenght, it is somewhat larger than the common mynha. The bill and legs are bright yellow, and there are yellow wattles on the nape and under the eye.

Rajim Scenes

2011-01-28T06:34:00.000-08:00

The Scorpio

2011-01-22T05:18:00.000-08:00

S is for endless support given by you

C is for countless times you have stood up for what and whom you believe in

O is for open communication between people that you so often promote

R can only be for the really beautiful friend that you are

P is for the protective nature that you offer to make sure that all is fair

I am so honored and blessed to have come to know you

Of all the things you are to us, thank-you,

Glimpses of Chhattisgarh

2011-01-16T02:59:00.000-08:00


Harmony of Elephant

Bastar Beauty

An Ethical Approach to Environmental Protection

2011-01-14T05:48:00.000-08:00

An Ethical Approach to Environmental Protection

Peace and the survival of life on earth as we know it are threaten by human activities which lack a commitment to humanitarian values. Destruction of nature and nature resources results from ignorance, greed and lack of respect for the earth's living things.

This lack of respect extends even to earth's human descendants, the future generations who will inherit a vastly degraded planet if world peace does not become a reality, and destruction of the natural environment continues at the present rate.

Our ancestors viewed the' earth as rich and bountiful, which it is. Many people in the past also saw nature as inexhaustibly sustainable, which we now know is the case only if we care for it.
It is not difficult to forgive destruction in the past, which resulted from ignorance. Today, however, we have access to more information, and it is essential that we re-examine ethically what we have inherited, what we are responsible for, and what we will pass on to coming generations. Clearly this is a pivotal generation. Global communication is possible, yet confrontations take place more often than meaningful dialogues for peace.
Our marvels of science and technology are matched if not out-weighed by many current tragedies, including human starvation in some parts of the world, and extinction of other life forms.
Exploration of outer space takes place at the same time as the earth's own oceans, seas, and freshwater areas grow increasingly polluted, and their life forms are largely unknown or misunderstood.
Many of the earth's habitats, animals, plants, insects, and even microorganisms that we know of as rare or endangered, may not be known at all by future generations. We have the capacity, and the responsibility. We must act before it is too late.

This message, dated June 5, 1986, marks World Environment Day, and that year's theme, Peace and the Environment. Reprinted from Tree of Life: Buddhism and Protection of Nature, 1987

Creation for celebration

2011-01-08T00:27:00.000-08:00

Oh creator! try to hear or tell me what should I do so that I can make you hear inner voice about what I need. I hear voices and can make them hear my voice. But some of these unwanted voices destruct concentration. There are many people who can demystify these sounds & rumors due to which (possibly) tranquility may convert into turmoil.

When something is done with pure object then it will surely be magnified for the rest of the world.

Put yourself in a state of mind where you say to yourself, "Here is an opportunity for you to celebrate like never before, my own power, my own ability to get myself to do whatever is necessary.

I am going to reveal the fact about causes that put me in dilemma, above all only my believe on some greedy peoples. When a feeling of deception arose in my mind about what will happen if these guys let me down. Because, I got the smell that something is being cooked for me so I became alert.

Even after applying all safeguards, still I am dubious about the safety of my co-ordinate which is in my place in other side of horizon.

Icon of Duty with Determination

2010-12-29T22:55:00.000-08:00

The Krishnarjun Rath,

The Niagara Falls of India "Chitrakoot Fall"

2010-12-21T00:36:00.000-08:00

The Chitrakoot Falls (Hindi: चित्रकोट जलप्रपात) is a waterfall located near Jagdalpur, in Bastar district in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh on the Indravati River. The height of the falls is about 29 metres (95 ft).The breadth of the waterfall varies, as the water level in the river goes down drastically during summer. However during a monsoon the river touches both the banks and is filled with silt. In contrast, during summer the water carries no silt and looks different.

Chitrakoot Falls is also called The Niagara Falls of India

IN MONSOON

Chitrakut Fall

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Views on Falls in State CG

2010-12-16T22:40:00.000-08:00

Destinations of Sarguja of Chhattisgarh State

2010-12-07T23:52:00.000-08:00

Sarguja (Ambikapur) : Temple carvings and archaic ruins date the history of this place to the era before Christ (BC). According to the holy books Lord Rama had visited Surguja during his fourteen years of exile and a number of places here are named after him, his brother Laxmana and wife Sita, including Ramgarh, Sita-Bhengra cave and Laxmangarh. Most of the local population is made up of the Pando and Korwa tribes, who regard themselves as descendants of the Pandavas and Kauravas (the warring clans of the epic Mahabharata) respectively.

The average altitude of the area is 600 meters.

Mahamaya Temple

This simple temple is to the east of Ambikapur town.

Thinthini Patthar

This 200 quintal rock is cylindrical in shape. When struck, you get a metallic echo, popularly believed to be divine.

Kudargarh

This place of worship, dedicated to Goddess Kudargarhi is on a hill. People come here seeking fulfillment of their wishes.

Ramgarh and Sita Bengra

Lord Rama, central character of the epic Ramayana, and his wife Sita, are believed to have stayed in these caves during their 14 years of exile. The locals know many stories about the caves, handed down through generations.

Tata Pani

This hot spring, 95 km from Surguja, flows continuously through the year. It is reputed to have medicinal properties.

Neutral Point

A place where water flows in reverse direction (i.e. from down to up) in normal speed, and near this the vehicles moves up in very slow speed even in neutral gear. It is situated in Gajadharpur 8km from Kusmi-Samri to reach Bus n Taxi facility from Dist. HQ Ambikapur availabel.

Pawai Waterfall

This natural waterfall flows through the year and is a popular picnic spot.

Kendai Waterfall

This natural waterfall is on the Bilaspur road.

Deepadih

The Shankar Temple here is surrounded by 4 gods - Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya, Lord Vishnu with his all avtars (forms) and Goddess MahaDurga - who are there to guard and serve Lord Shiva. Deepadih is about 70 km from Ambikapur.

Mainpat

This hill station is known for its Tiger Point waterfall and woolen fabric made by Tibbatians.

Saila Dance

Only males participate in this group dance, performed during public functions, national festivals, and political rallies, and in January after cutting the crop. All the dancers hold two hard bamboo sticks and strike the sticks of their neighbour in unison.

Suwa Dance

This is a dance by which a young girl lets a young boy know she is interested in him. When a marriageable young boy listens this song and sees the girl dancing, he sends a marriage proposal to her parents. It is also danced to please the goddess of wealth.

Karma Dance

"Karam" is a tree worshipped by the locals. According to legend, in an ancient war, only a young couple that hid in the hollow trunk of this tree was left alive, and ever since then this tree has been regarded as sacred. The karma dance is peformed according to caste, but holds the same significance across all castes.

Male and female dancers are chained together to form a circle. A branch of the karam tree is passed among the dancers as they sing and dance in praise of the karam tree. This branch should not touch the earth. At the end of the dance, it is washed with milk and rice beer and later it is planted in the middle of the dancing arena.

Destinations in Rajnandgaon of State CG

2010-12-07T23:37:00.000-08:00

Rajnandgaon is home to the Gond, Kanwar, Halba and Baiga tribes, who make up one fourth of the area's population. They live in dense forestsin far-flung areas and their main source of livelihood is tendu leaf collection and cultivation of minor forest products. Rajnandgaon has Asia 's only music university, in the town of Khairagarh.

Dongargarh

This pilgrimage place, 40 km from Rajnandgaon, has the temples of Badi Bambleshwari (on a 1600 ft hilltop) and Choti Bambleshwari (at ground level). Thousands of pilgrims visit it during the navarathris of Kavar (during Dassera) and Chaitra (during Ramnavmi), to worship and enjoy the dya-and-night melas (fairs) organized in the temple premises. Dongargarh also has Chhattisgarh's only passenger ropeway

Destination of Raigarh of CG

2010-12-06T21:51:00.000-08:00

Raigarh

is known for 2 things:

Dhokra - the craft metalware created by hot wax casting
Silk - which is of two types, tassar and mulberry, and is of high (export) quality

Ram Jharna

Lord Ram is believed to have drunk from this natural spring, about 18 km from Raigarh. Ram Jharna is a popular picnic spot.

Gomarda Reserve Forest

This 278 sq km forest, about 60 km from Raigarh, in Sarangarh, is home to tigers and bears.

Chakradhar Samaroh

This music festival, is organised by the Ustad Allaudin Khan Sangeet Academy and the Chakradhar Lalit Kala Kendra, to commemorate the memory of Maharaja Chakradhar Singh. This former ruler, a great tabla player and dancer, wrote many books on music and

Destination of Raipur of CG

2010-12-06T21:32:00.000-08:00

Raipur

The state capital was originally established by the Kalchuri King, Ram Chandra, in the last quarter of the 14th century AD. For a long time it was the capital of the Haihaya kings.

It is the biggest city in the region, fast developing into an important industrial center for large and middle scale industries. The region is in the south east part of the Mahanadi River valley, with Bilaspur to its north, Bastar to its south, Durg on the west and Raigarh on the east. It is rich in mineral resources and has 2 major physical divisions: the Chhattisgarh plains and the hilly areas. The main crop is paddy. Raj Kumar College, one of Central India's prime schools, is in Raipur.

The region has its distinctive culture. Raut Nacha, Dewar Nacha, Panthi and Soowa, Padki and Pandwani are some of musical styles and dance dramas. There is a typical style of singing the epic Mahabharata, called Pandwani. Women wear the sari in a style called kachhora . Jewellry worn includes baandha (a necklace made of coins) and suta (a silver necklace) around the neck; phuli in the nose; bali and khunti in the ears; ainthi (made of silver), patta and choora (bangles) on the forearm; kardhani (a belt-like ornament made of silver) on the waist; bichhiya on the toes. Men wear a koundhi (necklace of beads) and kadhah (bangle) for ceremonial occasions, like dances. .

Champaran

This village (formerly known as Champajhar) has religious significance, as the birthplace of Saint Vallabhacharya, the reformer and the founder of the Vallabh Sect. It has a temple constructed in his honour. Near this is a temple of Champakeshwara Mahadeva.

Turturiya

This village, on the banks of the Turturiya spring (also called Sursuri Ganga), is surrounded by forests. It has many Buddhist ruins from the 8th century AD, as well as Brahmanical ruins of a later period. You can see many exquisitely sculptured pillars, remains of a brick stupa, traces of bathing ghats, lingams, figures of four armed Vishnu, and Ganesha idols.

Laxman Temple and Gandheswar Temple, Sirpur

Sirpur is an interesting site, one hour east of Raipur. Sited on the banks of the holy Mahanadi river, and known as 'Shripur' in ancient times, it was the capital of South Kosala.

The Laxman Temple here, believed to have been built in the 7 th century, is one of the finest brick temples in India, in good condition, and characterized by exquisite carvings and precise construction. Sheshnaag serves as an umbrella to Load Shiva on the top of the entrance, while incarnations of Load Vishnu, Krishna Leela ornamental symbols, and erotic carvings adorn the sides. The religious segments of a temple - Vatayan , Chitya Gawaksha , Bharwahakgana , Aja , Kirtimukh and Karna Amalak - are engraved in the pillars of this Panchrath type temple. The inside has the Mandap (shelter), Antraal (passage) and Garbha Grih (the main house). The Archaeological Survey of India has established a museum in the temple premises, which houses a collection of rare statues and other relics significant to the Shaiva, Vaishnava, Buddhist and Jain faiths.

Down the road is the Gandheshwar Temple, situated on the banks of the Mahanadi river. This Shiva temple was built using the architectural remains of ancient temples and vihars . The effect is quite artistic. Various pictures of 'Shiva-Leela' adorn the top of the entrance. Inside there is a statue of Buddha touching the earth, as well as statues of Natraj, Shiva, Varah, Garud Narayan, and Mahisasur Mardini.

Rajim

30 minutes from Raipur, on the banks of the Mahanadi river, this was once an important urban centre. It has a fine group of temples, of which the main one (Rajivalochana Temple) is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Hareli Festival

Farmers celebrate this festival in the month of Shravan, by worshipping farm equipment and cows. They place branches and leaves of the Bhelwa tree in the fields and pray for a good crop, and also hang small Neem branches at the main entrance of their homes to prevent seasonal diseases. For the next 15 days, Baigas (the traditional medical practitioners) teachi their disciples - this goes on till panchami (the day following Ganesh Chaturthi). On panchami , they examine their disciples, and if satisfied with their performance, grant them the license to practice medicine. Children play gedi (walking on bamboo) and take part in a gedi race.

Pola Festival
Pola follows Hareli. It is celebrated by worshipping bullocks. Children play with idols of Nandi bull (the vehicle of Lord Shiva) made of clay and fitted with clay wheels. A bull race is a major event of the festival.

Teeja Festival

This festival is celebrated by married women - they pray for the welfare of their husbands. The custom is to perform this prayer at ther parents' home.

Destinations of Mahasamund of CG

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Mahasamund has plentiful granite, limestone, dolerite and quartz resources, which means it has the potential of becoming a major mining center.

Sirpur

Sited on the banks of the holy Mahanadi river, Sirpur, known as 'Shripur' in ancient times, was the capital of South Kosala. It is historically significant from the angles of art, science, religion and spirituality. Sirpur is known for its Buddhist Vihars .

Laxman Temple

One of the finest brick temples in India, this is characterized by exquisite carvings and precise construction. Sheshnaag serves as an umbrella to Load Shiva on the top of the entrance, while incarnations of Load Vishnu, Krishna Leela ornamental symbols, and erotic carvings adorn the sides. The religious segments of a temple - Vatayan , Chitya Gawaksha , Bharwahakgana , Aja , Kirtimukh and Karna Amalak - are engraved in the pillars of this Panchrath type temple. The inside has the Mandap (shelter), Antraal (passage) and Garbha Grih (the main house). The Archaeological Survey of India has established a museum in the temple premises, which houses a collection of rare statues and other relics significant to the Shaiva, Vaishnava, Buddhist and Jain faiths.

Anand Prabhu Kudi Vihar

This 14 room Buddhist vihar , constructed by Bhikshu Anand Prabhu, a follower of Buddha, during the period of Mahashivgupt Balarjun, is the most famous of Sirpur's Buddhist vihars . The main entrance is adorned by a dwarpaal (doorkeeper) carved in stone pillars on either side. A six feet tall statue of Buddha touching the earth is installed inside the vihar .

Swastik Vihar

This Buddhist vihar , recently excavated, is believed to have been used by Buddhist monks for meditation and study.

Gandheswar Temple

Situated on the banks of the Mahanadi river, this Shiva temple was built using the architectural remains of ancient temples and vihars . The effect is quite artistic. Various pictures of 'Shiva-Leela' adorn the top of the entrance. Inside there is a statue of Buddha touching the earth, as well as statues of Natraj, Shiva, Varah, Garud Narayan, and Mahisasur Mardini.

Destination of Koriya of CG

2010-11-28T00:23:00.000-08:00

Koriya, formerly a princely state, is endowed with mountains, valleys, plains and rivers. It is rich in mineral resources, especially coal, and has abundant wildlife too. The climate is pleasant, with mild summers and cool winters.
Amrit Dhara Waterfall
This beautiful natural waterfall on the Hasdo River is about seven km from Nagpur on the Manendragarh-Baikunthpur Road. About 80-90 feet high and 10-15 feet wide, it creates a beautiful misty ambience. There is a Shiva Temple here too.
In 1936, Ramanuj Pratap Singh Judeo, the King of Koriya State, started a mela (fair) here on Mahashivratri, and the practice is followed till today.
Getting There: The nearest railway station is Manendragarh. From here, take a bus or taxi to Nagpur, and hire a taxi to the fall.
Alternately, from Baikunthpur, take a bus or taxi to Nagpur, and hire a taxi to the fall.
Ramdaha Waterfall
This natural waterfall on the Banas river, near Bhavarkhoh village, is about 160 km from Baikunthpur. About 100-120 feet high and 20-25 feet wide, it is surrounded by forests and rocks.
Getting There: The nearest railway station is Manendragarh. From here, take a bus or taxi to Bhavarkhoh village via Kelhari and Chutki Village (Jankpur Road), and walk 2 km to the fall.
Gavar Ghat Waterfall
This beautiful natural waterfall on the Hasdo River is about 40 km from Baikunthpur and 5 km from Tarra village. About 50-60 feet high and 10 feet wide, it is in an area full of forests and rocks.
Getting There: From Baikunthpur, take a bus or taxi to Katgodi, 15 km along on the Sonhat road. 20 km further down is Tarra village, and from there it's another 5 km to the fall.
Akuri Nala
This is a small waterfall about 65 km from Baikunthpur, near Bansipur village, in an area surrounded by rocks and forests. Even in summer, the area is cold, giving it the sobriquet of "the natural air conditioner of Koriya".
Getting There: From Baikunthpur, take a bus or taxi to Aklasari on the Sonhat road.

Destinations of Kanker of State CG

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Located on National Highway 43, Kanker is between Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh (140 km away) and Jagdalpur (160 km away). It finds mention in the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as part of the dense forest area named Dandakaranya. In the 6th century BC the region was a center for Buddhism. From 106 AD onwards to 1100 AD, it was ruled by the Satvahanas, Nags, Vakataks, Gupt, Nal and Chalukya dynasties. At one point, the kingdom extended to the area that forms the modern-day states of Orissa and Maharashtra. Kanker is full of small hilly pockets. 5 rivers run through it - Doodh, Mahanadi, Hatkul, Sindur and Turu.

Gadiya Mountain
A natural form of a fort, this mountain has a tank that never dries. The tank is named Sonai-Rupai after the daughters of the Kandra king, Dharma Dev, who established his capital on the mountain. To the south of the tank is a cave, Churi Pagar, which provided safe refuge to the King, his family and 500 people in case of attack. Towards the southeast part of the mountain is a 50 meter long cave, Jogi Cave, where monks used to meditate. A small pond in this cave flows over the rocks like a waterfall. The Doodh river flows at the bottom of the mountain. Thousands of devotees celebrate Mahashivratri by climbing this mountain.

Malanjhkudum Waterfalls
These 3 falls, 10, 15 and 9 meters in height, 15 km from Kanker, on the Doodh river, make for a superb picnic spot. There is a road to the falls.

Charre-Marre Waterfall
A 16 meter high, zig zag waterfall on the Jogi river, 17 km from Antagarh, on the way to Aamabera.

Shivani Temple
This temple has one of just 2 statues in the world that is half Goddess Kali and half Goddess Durga. The other one is in Kolkata. The Navarathri festival is celebrated enthusiastically in this temple.

Madai Festival
This tribal festival is celebrated by the tribes of Kanker and Bastar regions, to worship the local God(dess). It travels through the Kanker, Bastar and Dantewada regions from December to March each year.
In December, celebrations start in Bastar to honour the goddess Kesharpal Kesharpalin Devi. In January, the people of Kanker, Charama and Kurna celebrate the festival. In February the festival goes back to Bastar and Cheri-Chher-Kin is honoured this time. Towards the end of February, the festival goes to Antagarh, Narayanpur and Bhanupratappur. In March it goes to Kondagaon, Keshkal and Bhopalpattanam.
It is held in a big ground, so that thousands of people can attend the ceremony, which starts with a procession of the local God(dess), followed by worhip of the same, culminating in cultural programs, dancing and lots of good food.

Handicrafts

Kanker's tribes are known for their handicrafts

wooden items made from the finest teak and white wood, including furniture, carvings, idols, wall panels
bell-metal items
terracota items
bamboo items, including wall hangings, table lamps, table mats

Destinations of Janjgir-Champa of State CG

2010-11-20T22:57:00.000-08:00

Janjgir is the city of Maharaja Jajawalya Dev of the Kulchury dynasty, and the Vishnu Mandir here reflects its golden past. The Hasdeobango irrigation project seeks to cover three fourths of the state.

Vishnu Mandir

The kings of the Hayhay dynasty began construction of this temple, in 2 parts, in the 12 th century, but did not complete it, and the still incomplete temple can be seen near Bhima Talab.

Pithampur Shiv Mandir

Also known as Kaleshwarnath Mandir, this is on the banks of the river Hasdeo. A 10 day fair is organized here during Mahashivratri. Every year, on Rang Panchami, Naga saints participate in the enactment of the marriage procession of Lord Shiva.

Madanpurgarh Devi Mandir

This temple is also on the banks of the Hasdeo river. The festival of Navratri is celebrated here every year.

Ghatadai (Paharia) Tripur Sundar Devi

This temple, dedicated to Tripur Sundar Devi, is surrounded by forests and mountains.

Kanhara

A beautiful picnic spot situated on the banks of the Lilagar river.

Shivarinarayan Laxminarayan Temple

This 11 th century Vaishnava temple was built by the kings of the Hayhay dynasty on the banks of the Mahanadi river, at Shivarinarayan Nagar. It is believed that Shabri Ashram, mentioned in the epic Ramayana, was located here. During Magh Purnima a fair is organized here.

Kharud Nagar Laxmaneshwar Temple

The locals believe this temple was built by and named after laxman, the younger brother of Lord Rama, the central character of the epic Ramayana.

Dewarghata

The confluence of the Mahanadi, Lilagar and Shivnath rivers, this is a popular picnic spot.

Turridham Shiva Temple

A 3 day mela (fair) is organized at this temple every year on Mahashivratri.

Damudhara (Rishabtirth)

This has has natural waterfalls, caves, the Ram-Janki Temple, Radha-Krishan Temple and Rishavdev Temple.

Adbhar Ashtbhuji Temple

This is an ancient temple of Goddess Devi with eight hands. The Jyoti Kalash are lit here on Navaratri.

Chandrahasini Devi Temple

Situated on the banks of the Mahanadi river, this is popular as both a pilgrimage place as well as a tourist spot. A big mela (fair) is organized here every year on the eve of Navaratri.

Destination of Jashpur of State CG

2010-11-15T01:36:00.000-08:00

Jashpur is home to the Oraon tribe, many of whom have converted to Christianity.
Kotebira Eb river
A very pleasant river with attractive scenery, a rocky spot and the end point of a range of hills. According to a local legend, God came here and liked it so much he decided to build a dam to add to the beauty. He was unable to complete the work and left it halfway, and that is why the rock looks like the wall of a dam. Every year a mela (fair) is organised here.

Rajpuri Waterfall

An attractive waterfall and popular picnic spot.

Kailash Gupha

Springs and fountains add to the beauty of this rock cut cave. Nearby is the Samarbar Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya, just the second Sanskrit school in India.

Danpuri Waterfall

This picturesque waterfall is in the middle of the forest.

Rani Dah Waterfall

A popular picnic spot, situated amidst hilly forests.

Kunkuri Cathedral

About 40 km from Jashpur, this is Asia's second largest Catholic church. It was 15 years in the making, and when completed (in 1968), it was Asia's largest church, with a seating capacity of 5,000. The church is embellished with seven arcades in the shape of arch and seven sacraments symbols made of angle iron. A beautiful shrine, dedicated to Mother Mary, can be seen in front of the cathedral building.