The first time I stepped foot in Chhattisgarh, I never realized I’d fall in love with this off-the-beaten-path Indian state so hard that I’d return just for the sake of replaying every morsel, every anecdote, and every jaw-dropping vista. Situated deep within central I ore popular neighbors — but trust me, that’s an error you won’t want to make.

Let me guide you through the journey that I undertook — untamed, heartfelt, and uncommonly gorgeous.

✧ My Arrival & The Beginning of Something Unpredictable

I reached Raipur, the capital city, on a March morning that was warm but not hot. My initial reaction was how different it seemed from the overcrowded metros. The air wasn’t cleaner just in terms of pollution — it was lighter. Raipur hums, yes, but not in madness. It greets you like an old friend you had no idea you were missing.

Being a single traveler on a budget, comfort and budget-friendliness were very important to me. And that’s where CheQin helped.

✧ Uncovering the Historical & Spiritual Richness of Sirpur

Sirpur was my first significant stop on my journey — a historical town only 84 kilometers from Raipur. What attracted me to it was the fact that it is archeologically important. During the 5th to the 8th century, Sirpur was a thriving hub of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.

✧ Jungles, Waterfalls & Tribes — A Wild Detour into Bastar

The second leg of my adventure brought me into Bastar district — a hilly, wooded area that left me wondering if I had strayed off the map and entered another world.

Photo by THLT LCX on Unsplash

I saw Chitrakote Falls, commonly referred to as the ‘Niagara of India.’ The horseshoe-shaped cascade of white water cascading over a 100-foot cliff is humbling and stunning. I sat on the banks for more than an hour, simply listening to the roar of the falls and letting nature wash over me.

In Jagdalpur, I had an opportunity to visit the weekly haat (local market), where the local tribal communities gather to exchange from spices to professionally crafted bamboo products. I also had a unique opportunity to see a tribal dance known as ‘Dandami Maria.’ Their coordination with the dancers, vibrant clothing, and energetic vibe made me forget all else. I was just present.

✧ The Flavors of Chhattisgarh — A Culinary Awakening

Now let’s talk about the food, because my tastebuds still miss Chhattisgarh.

I tried the local thali in a dhaba near Sirpur — rice, chana dal, kosra roti (made from rice flour), and sabudana khichdi. Everything was cooked with minimal oil and packed full of earthy flavor. One local dish that stole my heart was ‘Faraa’ — steamed rice flour dumplings served with spicy chutney.

Photo by Abhishek Sanwa Limbu on Unsplash

If you go, don’t leave without having Chana Samosa from a street vendor in Raipur’s Gol Bazar or traditional ‘Dubki Kadhi’ in Bilaspur. And treat yourself — eat it by hand. It is worth it.

✧ Hidden Treasures: Places Off the Radar

Tirathgarh Waterfall — Just short of Chitrakote, this is a relatively unknown but no less beautiful waterfall in greenery. Ideal for a picnic or simply silent reflection.

Kanger Valley National Park — Uncharted biodiversity hub with rare wildlife, caves, and natural splendor. I went on a safari and caught sight of a wild bison, deer, and a multitude of birds.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary — Located closer to Raipur, this sanctuary is perfect for those who can’t travel deep into Bastar but still want a wildlife experience. Though I didn’t spot a leopard (they’re said to be there), the early morning jeep ride through the misty forest was unforgettable.

Dhamtari — It is a town that looks like a lethargic painting. I spent one night in this place just to decelerate. The Sitanadi River flows peacefully, and the locals are among the friendliest I encountered.

✧ Travel Tips & Tricks for Visiting Chhattisgarh

Language: Hindi is spoken by most people, and in tribal communities, Gondi or Chhattisgarhi. English is not very prevalent, so have a translation app on hand.

Transport: Buses link major towns, but in tribal regions, you’ll have to rent local jeeps or autos. Avoid using last-minute transport.

Safety: I always felt extremely safe during my trip, even in isolated regions. The locals were kind and courteous. Just stay away from traveling alone through dense woods without a guide.

Packing: Cotton clothes, trekking shoes, mosquito spray, and a refillable bottle of water are must-haves.

Respect Traditions: If you’re visiting tribal villages or attending rituals, ask before taking photographs. Their privacy and culture should be honored.

✧ How CheQin Made My Journey Comfortable

While Chhattisgarh was rough around the edges in some ways, CheQin was my constant companion when it came to accommodations. The app helped me book clean, well-rated, budget-friendly hotels not only in Raipur but also in Jagdalpur and Bilaspur.

All postings featured actual photos and included honest ratings. One hotel actually upgraded me to a superior room since I booked in advance. Booking was a breeze — I just selected the location, sorted by price and rating, and booked within minutes.

No calls. No going. No confusion. Only CheQin made this segment seamless — and as a solo traveler, that’s invaluable. I’ve never had to worry about where I’m going to stay even in the more non-touristy places.

✧ My Final Thoughts — Why I’ll Be Returning

Chhattisgarh is not a place. It’s a sensation — one of simplicity, depth of roots, and untamed beauty. It made me remember that travel isn’t always glamorous vistas or Instagram-worthy moments. Sometimes, it’s just sitting beside a waterfall alone, discussing the monsoon with a tribal elder, or breaking spicy chutney with a stranger who only communicates with smiles.

I left Chhattisgarh with more than a memory. I left with a sense of grounding. And food pangs, many of them.

Would I return? Absolutely. And the next time, I shall spend a few weeks working with a tribal NGO, and yes, hitting my favorite restaurants.

Until then, I carry the spirit of Chhattisgarh with me — its flavors, tales, landscapes, and above all, its people.

And to fellow travelers wanting to explore the inner core of India — just take the plunge. Carry a light bag, and let your curiosity be heavy, and let CheQin arrange for your stay. The rest, Chhattisgarh will handle.

Why You Should Visit Chhattisgarh: India’s Secret Paradise