Chitrakot Waterfall
Chitrakot Waterfall Chhattisgarh. Chitrakot
Waterfall is supposed to be the Niagara Falls of India. It is the broadest
water fall in India. During Mansoon one can see its might. The River Indravati
falls from a height of 29 m (96 ft) to form this waterfall. It is located 48 km
(30 mi) from Jagdalpur and is accessible by road only. There is a helipad but
it is used by Government only. A few small hotels and restaurants are located
near the falls.
The Chitrakoot Falls is located on theIndravati River. The river originates in the kalahandi region of Orissa, in the
Vindhya Range of hills, flows westward and then forms a fall at Chitrakoot,
enters Andhra Pradesh and finally flows into the Godavari River, after
traversing 240 miles (390 km) in the state, at Bhadrakali. The free drop of the
falls is a sheer height of about 30 metres (98 ft). It is located at a distance
of 38 kilometres (24 mi) to the west of Jagadlpur. Because of its horseshoe
shape, it is compared with the Niagara Falls and is given the sobriquet ‘the
Small Niagara Falls’. During the rainy season, from July and October, rainbows
are created with sun rays reflecting on mist from the waterfall.
On the left bank of the Chitakoot Falls, a
small Hindu shrine dedicated to the god Shiva and several naturally created
grottos named “Parvati caves” (named after Shiva’s wife Parvati) are located.
The weather in the area is generally pleasant except in the summer season when
it is hot due to absence of vegetation in the area. The river flows sluggishly
on the upstream side of the falls due to its meandering nature as it drains
through the plains of Jagadalpur. This reach of the river valley has very
little forest cover. Below the falls the river traverses the Bodhghat forested
area and the river regime undergoes drastic change in its flow conditions.
Aeration process and the forest in the downstream area filters the silt in the
river.
Kawardha Palace
The location of Kawardha Palace itself is
amazing. It is located at 941 meters altitude above sea level on Maikal Ranges.
It palace is in a massive 11 acre-land and you will be spellbound by the lovely
garden. Italian marbles and stones were used in constructing the palace, which
dates back to the 1930s. The palace is a glorious example of the culture of the
place. The palace is declared as a heritage hotel and you will love to find
yourself accommodated here. The lush gardens make you feel close to nature.
Maitri Bagh
The entrance of Maitri Bagh is marked by two
artificial giraffes, colliding their heads with each other. The Maitri Bagh Zoo
in Bhilai is the largest of its kind in the state of Chhattisgarh. Spread over
an area of about 167 acres, the zoo is home to a large species of flora as well
as fauna. The zoo has about 39 exotic species of animals, birds and reptiles,
including many endangered species. White tigers are a special favourite, among
the tourists, especially among the children. An artificial lake flows through
the zoo, where you can go for boating and enjoy the scenic splendour.
A toy train called the Maitri Express is operated in the zoo from 3.00 pm to
6.00 pm. The price of a ticket is Rs.5, however, it is free for children below
three. There is a musical fountain on an island in the artificial lake. It is
the biggest of its kind in south East Asia. The Fountain consists of many
fountains of water dancing on instrumental music on some retro and contemporary
songs. The jets of water shoot out in the air, twist and sway in the air,
appearing as if dancing to the tune of the music. Each of these movements is
lit up by shimmering and bright colours, providing a visual treat to the
viewers. The programme lasts for about 20 minutes, and 2 shows are organised in
the evenings, on alternate days. This dynamic spectacle attracts people of all
ages, from far and wide, leaving them wanting more.
The fresh and unpolluted air, lush green surroundings, filled with blooming
flowers make the garden an ideal spot for taking strolls and jogging in the
evening. It also has a playground equipped with swings, giant wheel and other
fun activities for the children. There is a tall watchtower in the garden,
called Pragati Minar, from whose top you can get a breathtaking view of theMaitri Bagh and the adjoining Bhilai Steel Plant.
Another special feature of the Maitri Bagh is its annual Flower Show. Every
year a Flower show is organised in the Bagh, in a grand manner, with active
participation from the locals as well as the tourists. Many kinds of huge
flowers and vegetables are displayed that are brought from various part of the
district.
Maitri Bagh thus has a variety of activities to keep you engaged for an entire
day. You could spend the morning, lazing around the garden, and indulge in fun
activities like the swing and the giant wheel. Afternoon can be spent in the
zoo, watching the exotic avian and animal species. In the evening, you could go
for boating amidst the serene splendour of the lake. You can conclude your day
by watching the spectacular musical fountain and return home with fond
memories.
Bastar Palace
Bastar Palace is an ancient construction
built when the kings of Bastar shifted their capital to Jagdalpur. The palace
is rich in architecture and it tells tales of bravery of the rulers who ruled
the land. The unique carvings on the walls of the palace are stunning. The
monument constructed by the government inside the grounds of the palace offers
artifacts and portraits of the rulers of the past. Do not miss the opportunity
to ride on horse carriage when you are in the city.
Kanker Palace
Known earlier as Radhanivas Bagicha, KankerPalace was built in the 20th century and rebuilt in the year 1937. The elegant
palace reveals the influence of colonial architecture. The magnificent
construction is located in the scenic landscape and the lush gardens
surrounding the palace is awe inspiring. The place and the palace offer great
views and you will find various activities to get involved in right from boatsafaris, jeep safaris and many more.
Gadiya Mountain
Once in Chhattisgarh, you would not want to
miss the highest mountain in Kanker and that is Gadiya Mountain. Gadiya
Mountain served as capital to King Dharma Dev of Kandra dynasty after his
victory here. The cave found here was the hideout for the royal family during
war. The southern part of the great mountain houses another cave, which is
known as Jogi Gufa. This cave was used by sages to meditate. The water tank
here is famous as it is said that it never dries.
Bhoramdeo Temple
The ancient temple will necessitate a visit
if you love the feeling of being amongst the glorious past. Constructed
somewhere between the 7th and 11th centuries, the temple is called the
Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. Located amidst the picturesque setting of Maikal
mountains, Bhoramdeo Temple offers spectacular views. It is considered as the
most beautifully decorated temple. It has religious sculptures as well as
erotic sculptures.
Achanakumar Wildlife Sanctuary
Achanakumar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated at
a distance of 60 km from Bilaspur. It was established in the year 1975. The
dense forest is home to various wild animals, which include tiger, bison,
leopard, bear, sambar, hyena and so on. Watchtowers are the best way to view
wild animals in action as the density of the forest and its topography make it
difficult to view wildlife.
0 comments:
Post a Comment