In December 2012, three of my closest friends and I took a much-needed break from law school for a road trip through the heart of Chhattisgarh. Starting from Bhilai, where one of us hosted the group at his home, we embarked on an adventure to explore some of the state’s most remarkable natural wonders. Our journey took us to the breathtaking Chitrakoot and Tirathgarh Waterfalls, the mysterious Kotumsar Caves, and the serene Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary.
This trip wasn’t just about ticking off destinations—it was about the camaraderie, shared experiences, and the thrill of discovering places that blended tranquility with raw beauty. In this blog, I’ll take you through our unforgettable journey and the places that made it truly special.
Chitrakote & Tirathgarh Waterfall
272 KM FROM BHILAI
Chitrakote Waterfall
Chitrakote Falls, plunging from a height of 90 feet, is a sight that truly takes your breath away. Spread wide across the Indravati River, it’s no wonder people call it the Niagara Falls of India—it’s majestic, powerful, and incredibly humbling to witness. Standing before it, I felt a mix of awe and gratitude for nature’s sheer magnificence.
Our stay at Dandami Resort made the experience all the more unforgettable. The large windows in our room offered a front-row view of the falls, and the constant sound of cascading water was like nature’s own symphony, soothing and mesmerizing. I remember sitting by the window late into the night, the rhythmic roar of the falls filling the silence, making me feel at once small and connected to something vast and eternal.
But the true magic happened during the evening boat ride. As the sun dipped low, painting the sky with hues of gold and orange, we rowed close to the falls. The cool mist kissed our faces, refreshing and invigorating, as we marveled at the grandeur from below. It wasn’t just a ride; it was an experience that touched the soul—a perfect blend of tranquility and thrill.
Tirathgarh Waterfall
Tirathgarh Waterfall, cascading from a staggering height of 300 feet, is nature’s masterpiece on the Munga Bahar River. Standing at the base, gazing up at the water tumbling down the stilted hillside, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder. It’s incredible to think that thousands of years ago, this breathtaking panorama was shaped by a lunar crater’s impact and the shifting of the earth—a dramatic collision that gave us this serene beauty today.
As I stood there, the sound of the rushing water and the cool spray against my skin felt like nature’s way of welcoming us. The layered cliffs and the staircase-like formations of the Numa Valley added a surreal, almost otherworldly charm to the place. It was a moment that made me pause, reflect, and appreciate the immense power and artistry of nature.
Close by, the mysteries of Kutumsar Caves and Kailash Gufa awaited exploration. These weren’t just nearby attractions—they were gateways to a world of ancient secrets and awe-inspiring natural formations. Together, they made the visit to Tirathgarh a truly unforgettable experience, one that left us with stories to share and memories to cherish.
The Achanakmar Tiger Reserve felt like a hidden sanctuary, alive with wildlife. I was amazed to know it’s home to Bengal tigers, leopards, bisons, and even the rare flying squirrel. Hearing the calls of wild dogs or spotting a chinkara in the distance reminded me of how rich and vibrant nature is here. With over 150 species of birds adding to the atmosphere, every moment felt like a special connection to the wild.
Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary
215 KM FROM BHILAI
The 215 km road trip from Bhilai to Achanakmar Tiger Reserve was a journey in itself—long and tiring, but full of surprises. As we entered the heart of the Maikal Range, we found ourselves in a vast open space that felt both freeing and humbling. The resort we stayed at was nestled in this serene expanse, offering views that seemed straight out of a painting.
While we weren’t lucky enough to spot any tigers on this trip, the location of the resort more than made up for it. One side offered a stunning view of a large lake, its calm waters framed by distant mountains, while the other side was lush with greenery, inviting the peace of nature to surround us. The setting was tranquil and breathtaking, a perfect reminder that sometimes the journey and the place itself are far more enriching than the elusive tiger we were hoping to find.
Bhoramdeo Temple
On our way back, we made a brief stop at the Bhoramdeo Temple, and it turned out to be a beautiful detour. Built between the 7th and 11th centuries by King Ramchandra of the Naga Dynasty, the temple was a striking sight, perched on rocky stones in the Nagar style. As I stood there, taking in the intricate carvings and the sense of ancient history, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to the past. The temple’s architecture, with its delicate details, also reminded me of the famous Khajuraho temples. No wonder it’s often called the Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh. It was a peaceful and humbling experience, a perfect way to end our journey.
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