Raipur is the capital city of Chhattisgarh. According historical mythology it is believed that Lord Rama established this city. This is one of the biggest commercial centres in India. Here more than 6 steel plants, 200 steel rolling mills are located. In India it is the largest steel market. Till 2000 it was the part of Madhya Pradesh. After than it became the capital of Chhattisgarh state.
Raipur is known as Rice Bowl of Chhattisgarh. More than 800 rice mills are situated here. This is the major centre for Bio-technology, IT and Manufacturing industry. Pola is the main festival in Raipur. During the festival season children will be offered many entertaining events and clay bull idols. For the shopping lover’s furniture items, metal jewellery, Zardosi work, Zari work textile products are available.
What to see in Raipur:
Budhapara Lake: For the Raipur people this place is the most important picnic spot. In 1402 AD this was built by Kalchuri Emperor.
Vivekananda Ashram: Persons who are interested to seek spiritual enlightenment are always visiting this place. In 1897 this was inaugurated by Swami Vivekananda.
Doodhadhari Monastery and Temple: This is very ancient temple famous for its attractive murals. In the name of Swami Balbhadra Das a monastery was established here. Temple was built by Jaitsingh in 17th century. Lord Rama is worshipped here.
Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum: Museum consists of 3 different sections. They are Natural history, anthropology, archaeology. In 1875 this was built by Maharaja Mahant Ghasidas. Best collection of books can be seen here.
What to see around Raipur:
Champaran: This is the birth place of Ballabhacharya Guru. Temple of his was built in 20th century by his followers. It is located 58 Kms away from Raipur.
Rajim: In this place three rivers are combined. They are Sondur, Pairi and Mahanadi. This place is located 48 Kms away from Raipur. Tourists can find most ancient temple of Lord Kuleswar. This was built in 14th century.
Arang: Ancient temples such as Mahamaya Temples, Baghdeval Temples, Bhandadevel temples can be seen here. Place is located 36 Kms away from Raipur.
Fingeshwar: This place is one of the 5 holy places of Mahadeva temples. It is located 65 Kms away from Raipur.
Udanti Sanctuary: From the river Udanti this name was derived. It was built in 1983 with the intension to protect wild Buffaloes which are endangered. Large varieties of birds and animals such as Cobras, Hyenas, Bison, Foxes, Jackals, Bucks, and Tiger can be seen here. It is locate 169 Kms away from Raipur.
Getting to Raipur: This place is well connected with Road, Railway and Airport. From all the major cities like Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Kolkata, Nagpur, Mumbai bus facility, train facility and air facility is available.
Getting around Raipur: Private Busses, Taxi’s, autos are available to reach different places around Raipur.
Best time to visit Raipur: Between November to March tourists feel comfortable to see this place.
Where to stay in Raipur: Several hotels are available in this place. As per the requirement tourists can opt for the hotels. During the winter season rush will be more so it is advisable to book the hotels in advance. Best Hotels in Raipur are Hotel Grand Arjun, Hotel Celebrations, Hotel Grand International, and Hotel Piccadily.
Where to eat in Raipur: Several fast food centres are situated here. All the restaurants provide Italian, American, Chinese, Indian cuisines to the tourists. Best restaurants in Raipur are Madrasi Restaurant, MFC, Madrasi Durbar.