A relatively young state, Chhattisgarh is a brimming with a cultural confluence with completely diverse bordering states. Surajpur is one of the northern most districts in the state. With geography that will entice your imagination, Surajpur is graced with hills and greenery that will not tire you in the least bit. Previously a part of Madhya Pradesh, it shares much of the culture and heritage from its parent state. Here is a list of places to visit in and around Surajpur:
1. Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary
Surrounded by rivers and hills, Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary is a one of the most picturesque sanctuaries in central India. Named after Tamor hill and Pingla Nalla, there is abundance in wildlife that is slowly depleting. Majestic elephants and regal Tigers are price sightings in the area along with beautiful birds that you cannot help but follow, even if it’s fleeting and short lived. There are a number of villages within the sanctuary, which are also a part of an elephant reserve. Lush with Bamboo forests, the Tamora Pingla is truly refreshing.
2. Rakasganda Falls
About an hour’s drive from Surajpur, the Rakasganda falls is beautiful in its thunderous descent. A famous tourist spot in Chhattisgarh, a drive to reach here is as satisfying as the destination. The Rihand River’s tumble in this location is worth a visit with family and friends alike, where you can spend the day sitting by the river while it plays a soothing music that most waterfalls seem to inspire, quality time like nowhere else.
3. Tattapani
One of the few flowing hot springs in India, Tattapani is an all year round tourist attraction. The waters are known to have healing qualities and a dip here is thoroughly therapeutic. A mere 2 hours away from Surajpur, lounge amidst nature’s best and prepare to be lulled into a sense of peace by the soothing waters. An apt location to lay down your stress and relax, there are a few water sports that you can partake in as well.
4. Mainpat
Part of the old Surguja district, Mainpat is 90km away from Surajpur. Popularly known as the Shimla of Chhattisgarh, this place is surrounded by dense forests, gushing rivers and quaint waterfalls. There are various caves and waterfalls in solitude; this is an independent traveller’s paradise. Vastly unexplored and thrilling, Mainpat deserves to be on your list, lush with fauna that is known to cure diseases. The rich Tibetan population instils a hue of peace along with the unique Tibetan Buddhist cultures that follow.
5. Jogimara And Sita Bengra Caves
An hour away from Surajpur, the Jogimara and Sita Bengra Caves are sights to behold. An ancient amphitheatre in itself, this cave makes you feel as though you have stepped into another world altogether. A tunnel known as “Hatipal” can even give passage to an elephant and hence aptly named. Among the various caves in India, these caves are one of the best, complete with ancient carvings and rich mythological importance since it is known to be a place of residence of Sita. The Jogimara caves also hosts one of the oldest known paintings said to be attempted as early as 1st CE. Historians and Hindus alike, find this location riveting.
Chattisgarh as a state offers picturesque beauty that very few places can rival. With beautiful rivers, mystical caves, lush forests, rich wildlife and quaint waterfalls, Surajpur has everything within its grasp and is not short of any getaways. Vastly unexplored and surprisingly not very popular, the northern districts of Chhattisgarh are a treat to a traveller and you are bound to be lead off the beaten path and find yourself loving everything that you are offered.
More Tourist Destinations In Chhattisgarh:
