Sirpur is an interesting site. 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. 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.
Sirpur has a rich background of traditional cultural heritage and architecture. The archaeological remains are still a pride for this region. The Buddha Viharas in Sirpur are older than Nalanda. The town of sirpur has been mentioned in ancient epigraphic records, dating back to the 5th to the 8th centuries A.D. Drained by the pristine waters of the Mahanadi and facing the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary on the Northeast, Sirpur is a small town, 84 kms from the capital, Raipur. Moving along from Raipur, one reaches Arang, from where one goes to Tumgaon. A road from here leads northwards, to Sirpur. It is an enriching experience to see how life goes on in these quiet villages, without getting affected by the hustle – bustle of the outside world.
Rajim is famous for its rich cultural heritage and the beautiful ancient temples. The holy confluence of three rivers Mahanadi (Chitrotpala), Pairi and Sondur, called Triveni Sangam is at Rajim. Rajim is also known as the “Prayag” of the Chhattisgarh. Every year sages from all across the country reach the Kumbh mela which begins from Maagh poornima and lasts till Mahashivratri. Located 45kms from Raipur.
Rajim is famous for its rich cultural heritage and the beautiful ancient temples. The holy confluence of three rivers Mahanadi (Chitrotpala), Pairi and Sondur, called Triveni Sangam is at Rajim. Rajim is also known as the “Prayag” of the Chhattisgarh. Every year sages from all across the country reach the Kumbh mela which begins from Maagh poornima and lasts till Mahashivratri. Located 45kms from Raipur.
The modern temple complex uses marble in its interiors to exude the feeling of peace and serenity. A long Corridor with multi coloured arches and pillars takes you to the inner courtyard where a series of marble statues depicts the saint in various phases of his life.
Champaranya (earlier known as Champajhar) is a small but famous village as it’s the birthplace of the saint Vallabhacharya, the reformer and founder of the Vallabh Sect. A beautiful temple has been constructed in honor of this great saint, which has enhanced the religious holiness of the place. The temple of Champakeshwara Mahadeva is another attraction at Champaranya, worth visiting on your Champaranya Tour. It is now generally regarded as a Vaishnava peeth (pilgrim site). The temple complex is also referred to as Sudamapuri. The shrine attracts large number of pilgrims, mostly Gujaratis during the Hindu month of Shravan. Located 60kms from Raipur.
Barnawapara Wildlife sanctuary, is named after Bar and nawapara forest villages, which are in the heart of the sanctuary. It is a land mass of undulating terrain dotted with numerous low and high hillocks well forested area of North- eastern corner of Raipur district. The Tributaries of Mahanadi are the source of water. River Balam Delhi forms the western boundary and Jonk River forms the north-eastern boundary of the Sanctuary. The well-stocked forests of the Sanctuary Classified as Teas sal and mixed forests. This sanctuary is famous for the frequent sighting of the Indian bison (Gaur) Cheetal, Sambhar, Neelgai, Wild boar are commonly seen. Bar-Nawapara boosts of over 150 species Birds. Located 85kms from Raipur.
It is said that herds of deer once inhabited the verdant surroundings of Chitrakote, earning it its name (‘chitar is the name for a deer in the Halbi dialect’). Chitrakote waterfall is an incredible manifestation of natural beauty which is surrounded by the majestic grandeur of Vindhya ranges. This waterfall on Indravati River cascades down 100 ft drop amidst.
Chitrakote waterfalls, also called as the mini Niagara Fall of India, bear the proud distinction of being the broadest waterfall in India. The majestic beauty is located 285 kms from Raipur on the river Indrāvati. The water of the river flows through the dense vegetation and cascades from a height of about 95 feet. A horse-shoe shaped waterfall, best seen during and after the monsoon, between July and October. This paints a very beautiful sight.