Tourist Destinations, Historical & Archaeological Sites and Religious Places including UNESCO World Heritage Sites & Must Visit Sites in India (State Wise Information)

Tag: archaeological site

  • Top Tourist attractions and Pilgrimage sites in Chhattisgarh state of India

    Chhattisgarh state offers a unique blend of eco-tourism, wildlife tourism, heritage tourism. The capital is Raipur, while Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur is the state’s principal airport.

    District Wise Tourist and Pilgrimage sites in Chhattisgarh

    Tourist attractions in Raipur District:

    Capital district known for modern development, temples and cultural attractions. (HQ: Raipur). Major Attractions:

    • Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum: Largest museum in the state.
    • Nandan Van Zoo & Safari: Wildlife and recreation destination.
    • Vivekananda Sarovar (Budha Talab): Popular urban attraction.

    Tourist & Pilgrimage sites in Dantewada District:

    Known for tribal heritage and one of the state’s most sacred temples. (HQ: Dantewada). Major Attractions:

    • Danteshwari Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari (a form of Goddess Maa Sati) and one of 51 Shakti Peeths, attracting devotees from across India.
    • Bailadila Hills: Scenic hills known for iron ore deposits and beautiful landscapes.

    Pilgrimage sites in Gariaband District:

    Known for forests, waterfalls and religious tourism. (HQ: Gariaband). Major Attractions:

    • Rajim Town: Famous pilgrimage town known as the “Prayagraj of Chhattisgarh.” Located at 45 kms from Raipur city that draw thousands of pilgrims annually, key pilgrimage attractions in Rajim are:
      • Triveni Sangam: This side is the holy confluence of three rivers (Mahanadi, Pairi and Sondur), a major religious gathering on Magh Purnima is held here annually to take holy deep known as ‘Rajim Kumbh Mela’ often called the “Kumbh of Chhattisgarh”.
      • Rajiv Lochan Temple, Rajim: Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its beautiful sculpture.
      • Kuleshwar Mahadev Mandir: A unique Shiva Temple on an island at meeting point of Mahanadi & Pairi rivers.
      • Champaran: This village located at 15 Kms from Rajim is a Vaishnava pilgrimage site and birthplace of Saint Vallabhacharya.
      • Ramachandra Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
    • Jatmai Temple and Waterfall: Popular religious and picnic destination.

    Tourist attractions in Kabirdham (Kawardha) District:

    Known for heritage monuments and temples. (HQ: Kawardha). Major Attractions:

    • Bhoramdeo Temple:  Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh” for its intricate carvings.
    • Kawardha Palace: Historic royal palace, now a heritage hotel run by royal family.

    Tourist & Pilgrimage sites in Jashpur District:

    Known for hills, waterfalls and Christian pilgrimage centers. (HQ: Jashpur Nagar). Major Attractions:

    • Rani Dah Waterfall: Beautiful waterfall amidst forests.
    • Madheshwar Mountain: Scenic hill destination with religious significance associated with a local myth.

    Tourist & Pilgrimage sites in Mahasamund District:

    Known for temples and historical heritage. (HQ: Mahasamund). Major Attractions:

    • Sirpur: Ancient Buddhist, Hindu and Jain archaeological site, located on the banks of Mahanadi River.
    • Lakshman Temple, Sirpur: One of India’s finest brick temples.

    Pilgrimage site in Sakti District:

    Known for agriculture and religious heritage. (HQ: Sakti). Major Attractions:

    • Chandrahasini Temple: An ancient and highly revered temple dedicated to Goddess Chandrahasini.

    Tourist & Pilgrimage sites in Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi District:

    Known for forests, hills and proximity to the Amarkantak region. (HQ: Gaurela). Major Attractions:

    • Marwahi Forest Region: Rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.
    • Amarkantak (nearby in M.P.): Origin of the Narmada River, located in Madhya Pardesh (see details in blog for that state).

    Tourist & Pilgrimage sites in Sarguja District:

    Known for forests, waterfalls and tribal culture. (HQ: Ambikapur). Major Attractions:

    • Mainpat:  Popular hill station known as the “Shimla of Chhattisgarh”, key attractions are:
    • Ukta Pani: A unique gravity-defying phenomena as here water appears to flow uphill.
    • Tiger Point Waterfall: Scenic waterfall in Mainpat.
    • Buddhist Monastery: Established by Tibetan exiles.
    • Jaljali: Bouncing natural grass land.
    • Mahamaya Temple, Ambikapur: Ancient pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Durga located on hill of Ambikapur.

    Tourist & Pilgrimage sites in Surguja District (Ambikapur Region):

    A prominent tourism region famous for natural beauty, temples and tribal heritage. (HQ: Ambikapur). Major Attractions:

    • Jogimara Caves: Ancient cave site with historical significance.
    • Mahamaya Temple: Major religious destination.

    Tourist attractions in Balod District:

    Known for agriculture, reservoirs and scenic rural landscapes. (HQ: Balod) Major Attractions:

    • Tandula Dam: Historic irrigation dam and popular picnic spot.
    • Siyadevi Temple: Revered temple located amidst scenic surroundings.

    Tourist attractions in Baloda Bazar-Bhatapara District:

    Known for cement industries and religious sites. (HQ: Baloda Bazar). Major Attractions:

    • Giroudpuri Dham: Major pilgrimage place associated with Guru Ghasidas.
    • Damakheda: Important spiritual site of the Kabir Panth.

    Tourist attractions in Balrampur District:

    Known for forests, hills and tribal culture near the Chhattisgarh-Jharkhand border. (HQ: Balrampur). Major Attractions:

    • Tatapani Hot Springs: Natural hot water springs with medicinal significance.
    • Semarsot Wildlife Sanctuary: Rich wildlife and forest ecosystem.

    Tourist attractions in Bastar District:

    Known as the cultural heart of tribal Chhattisgarh and famous for waterfalls, caves and handicrafts. (HQ: Jagdalpur). Major Attractions:

    • Chitrakote Falls: India’s widest waterfall, often called the “Niagara of India.”
    • Bastar Palace: Historic royal residence reflecting Bastar heritage.
    • Danteshwari Temple: Important Shakti Peeth in Jagdalpur.

    Tourist attractions in Bemetara District:

    Known for agriculture and traditional rural culture. (HQ: Bemetara). Major Attractions:

    • Maa Bagheshwari Temple: Popular local pilgrimage center.
    • Shivnath Riverbanks: Scenic riverside locations.

    Tourist attractions in Bijapur District:

    Known for dense forests and tribal communities. (HQ: Bijapur). Major Attractions:

    • Bhairamgarh Wildlife Sanctuary:Rich biodiversity and wildlife habitat.
    • Kutru Forest Area: Scenic forest landscapes.

    Tourist attractions in Bilaspur District:

    Known for historical heritage, temples and educational institutions. (HQ: Bilaspur). Major Attractions:

    • Ratanpur Mahamaya Temple: One of the most revered temples in Chhattisgarh.
    • Kanan Pendari Zoo: Popular wildlife attraction.
    • Achanakmar Tiger Reserve (nearby): Important tiger habitat.

    Tourist attractions in Dhamtari District:

    Known for reservoirs, forests and eco-tourism opportunities. (HQ: Dhamtari). Major Attractions:

    • Gangrel Dam (Ravishankar Sagar):  Major reservoir and boating destination.
    • Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary: Rich wildlife and birdwatching destination.

    Tourist attractions in Durg District:

    Known for industrial development and historical significance. (HQ: Durg). Major Attractions:

    • Maitri Bagh: Zoo and recreational park developed by Bhilai Steel Plant.
    • Deobaloda Temple: Ancient Shiva temple.

    Tourist attractions in Janjgir-Champa District:

    Known for temples, industries and agricultural prosperity. (HQ: Janjgir). Major Attractions:

    • Vishnu Temple, Janjgir: Historic temple showcasing ancient architecture.
    • Hasdeo River Region: Scenic landscapes and river views.

    Tourist attractions in Kanker District:

    Known for forests, tribal culture and natural beauty. (HQ: Kanker). Major Attractions:

    • Kanker Palace:  Heritage palace converted into a tourist attraction and now run as heritage hotel.
    • Malanjkudum Waterfall:  Scenic waterfall in a forest setting.

    Tourist attractions in Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai District:

    Known for art, culture and education. (HQ: Khaiagarh). Major Attractions:

    • Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya: India’s first music and fine arts university.
    • Khairagarh Palace: Historic palace and cultural landmark.

    Tourist attractions in Kondagaon District:

    Known for tribal handicrafts and traditional bell-metal art. (HQ: Kondagaon). Major Attractions:

    • Kondagaon Craft Villages: Famous for tribal handicrafts.
    • Charre-Marre Waterfalls: Scenic natural attraction.

    Tourist attractions in Korba District:

    Known as the power capital of Chhattisgarh due to its thermal power plants. (HQ: Korba). Major Attractions:

    • Satrenga Eco Tourism Site: Popular lakeside recreation area.
    • Kendai Waterfall: Scenic waterfall surrounded by forests.

    Tourist attractions in Koriya District:

    Known for forests, hills and natural beauty. (HQ: Baikunthpur). Major Attractions :

    • Amritdhara Waterfall:  Beautiful waterfall on the Hasdeo River.
    • Ramdaha Waterfall:  Popular picnic destination.

    Tourist attractions in Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur District:

    Known for coal mines, forests and scenic landscapes. (HQ: Manendragarh). Major Attractions:

    • Chirmiri Hills: Popular hill tourism destination.
    • Amritdhara Waterfall (nearby): Scenic waterfall.

    Tourist attractions in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki District:

    Known for forests and tribal culture. (HQ: Mohla). Major Attractions:

    • Forest Eco-Tourism Areas:  Rich biodiversity and nature trails.

    Tourist attractions in Mungeli District:

    Known for agriculture and proximity to major wildlife destinations. (HQ: Mungell). Major Attractions:

    • Achanakmar Tiger Reserve: One of India’s important tiger reserves.
    • Madanpur Hills:  Scenic natural attraction.

    Tourist attractions in Narayanpur District:

    Known for tribal culture and forests. (HQ: Narayanpur). Major Attractions:

    • Abujhmad Region: Famous for untouched forests and tribal traditions.
    • Handicraft Villages: Known for traditional tribal crafts.

    Tourist attractions in Raigarh District:

    Known for culture, industries and classical music heritage. (HQ: Raigarh). Major Attractions:

    • Ram Jharna: Scenic nature spot and picnic destination.
    • Singhanpur Caves: Prehistoric rock paintings.

    Tourist attractions in Rajnandgaon District:

    Known for historical monuments and cultural heritage. (HQ: Rajnandgaon). Major Attractions:

    • Dongargarh: Famous pilgrimage center.
    • Maa Bambleshwari Temple: Temple situated atop a hill attracting thousands of devotees.

    Tourist attractions in Sarangarh-Bilaigarh District:

    Known for temples, forests and traditional culture. (HQ: Sarangarh). Major Attractions:

    • Sarangarh Palace: Historic royal residence.
    • Local Temples and Reservoirs: Popular regional attractions.

    Tourist attractions in Sukma District:

    Known for forests, rivers and tribal communities. (Sukma). Major Attractions:

    • Sabari River Region: Scenic river landscapes and natural beauty.

    Tourist attractions in Surajpur District:

    Known for forests and eco-tourism. (HQ: Surajpur). Major Attractions:

    • Rakasganda Waterfall: Beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense forests.
    • Forest Tourism Areas: Popular among nature lovers.

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  • Tourist Destinations and Religious Places in Manipur state of India

    Manipur is a scenic state of India known for its beautiful valleys, floating lakes, rich tribal culture, classical Manipuri dance, handloom and handicrafts and natural beauty.

    District-wise Best Tourist Attractions in Manipur:

    Tourist attractions in Imphal west district:

    Imphal West district (HQ: Lamphelpat) includes Imphal city, the cultural heart of Manipur and main tourism and pilgrimage center of the state, Key attractions are:

    • Imphal City: Imphal is vibrant city and capital of Manipur state, known for historical sites, temples, museums, and local markets.
    • Kangla Fort: Historic fort complex in the heart of Imphal city was the capital of Manipur’s ancient kings. This archaeological site features historical relics, traditional temples and sacred shrines. 
    • Manipur State Museum: Showcasing rich anthropological and tribal heritage of Manipur state.
    • Shree Govindajee Temple: A golden domed important Vaishnavite temple in Imphal city dedicated to Lord Krishna.
    • ISKCON Temple Imphal: A peaceful & modern Krishna temple in Imphal city, known for devotional activities and spiritual atmosphere.
    • Sanamahi Temple: An oldest important temple of the traditional Meitei religion and culture, near Kangla palace in Imphal city.
    • Imphal War Cemetery: A World War II memorial located in Imphal city and dedicated to soldiers who died in the Battle of Imphal.
    • Ima Keithel Market: A 500-year-old market in Imphal known as ‘Mother’s Market’ where everything from fresh produce to handwoven textiles are sold by women.

    Tourist attractions in Imphal East district:

    Imphal East headquartered in Porompat town is famous for Andro village, historic war cemeteries, ancient temples, nature beauty and cultural heritage. Key attractions in Imphal east are:

    • Andro village: A traditional village near Imphal city, famous for pottery, folk culture and heritage museums.
    • Sadu Chiru Waterfall: A scenic waterfall in forests, popular among nature lovers near Imphal city.
    • Sanamahi Kiyong Temple: An important pilgrimage site on Nongmaijing Hills dedicated to ancient Meitei deity, Lainingthou Sanamahi.
    • Sekta Archaeological Museum: An ancient archaeological site providing deep information of regional history.
    • Mahabali Temple: A famous Hanuman temple on the banks of Imphal river visited by devotees throughout the year, located near Kangla Palace.

    Tourist attractions in Bishnupur district:

    Bishnupur district headquartered in Bishnupur town is a major cultural and natural hub in Manipur state, key attractions are:

    • Loktak Lake: The large freshwater lake famous for floating islands called phumdis near Moirang town.
    • Keibul Lamjao National Park: World’s only floating national park and home to the rare Sangai deer, located near Moirang as part of Loktak Lake.
    • INA Memorial Complex: A memorial of first unfurled of INA flag on Indian soil located in Moirang town and dedicated to the Indian National Army and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

    Tourist attractions in Ukhrul district:

    Ukhrul district headquartered in Ukhrul town known for Shirui Hills & the rare Shirui Lily flower, trekking & nature tourism, Key attractions are:

    • Ukhrul Town:  A scenic hill town known for Shirui Lily flowers and Tangkhul tribal culture.
    • Shirui Kashong Peak: Famous for the rare Shirui Lily flower and panoramic hill views near Ukhrul town.
    • Other Attractions: Khangkhui Caves (ancient limestone caves of stone age), Khayang waterfall, Kachouphung Lake (scenic lake in Achuwa Magi Hills), Nillai Tea Estate (Organic green tea production, in Talui), Hundung Mangva Cave.

    Tourist attraction in Chandel district:

    Chandel district (HQ: Chande) is border district near Myanmar, known for scenic hills, forests, and cultural diversity. Key attraction is the Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary located near Moreh town, known for rich biodiversity, forests, medicinal plants and rare wildlife species.

    Tourist attractions in Tengnoupal district:

    Tengnoupal district (HQ: Tengnoupal) is known for mountain landscapes and the border town of Moreh. Key attractions in Tengnoupal district are:

    • Moreh town:  An Indo-Myanmar border town offering vibrant international markets, cross boarder shopping and nearby scenic hills.
    • Other Attractions: Tengnoupal Viewpoint, Indo-Myanamar Friendship gate, Langol Peak Garden.

    Tourist attractions in Senapati district:

    Senapati district (HQ: Senapati) is popular for Mao hills, Dzükou Valley and pleasant climate, key attractions are:

    • Dzükou Valley: A stunning valley near Mao town, known for seasonal flowers, endemic Dzukp Lily, trekking, and green hills.
    • Liyai Khullen : A scenic village at the origin of Barak River and home to historical monoliths and ancient stone pools.
    • Sadhu Chiru Waterfalls: A scenic cascading waterfall.
    • Yangkhullen: A Zemei Naga village atop a steep hill offering glimpse of traditional social life.

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