Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Raipur is perfectly located for day trips to explore ancient temples, tribal heritage, nature reserves, waterfalls, and archaeological wonders. Whether you're into history, wildlife, spirituality, or just a peaceful picnic spot, here are the top nearby destinations and day trip ideas from Raipur that you can easily cover in a day or weekend.

 1. Sirpur – Ancient Buddhist & Hindu Heritage

 80 km | ~2 hrs

• A UNESCO-recognized archaeological site known for its ruins of Buddhist monasteries, temples, and sculptures.
• Key attractions:
  ✅ Laxman Temple (7th century)
  ✅ Buddha Vihar ruins
  ✅ Gandheshwar Mahadev Temple

 Tip: Hire a local guide to get deeper insight into this once-flourishing spiritual town.

 2. Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary

 100 km | ~2.5 hrs

• A lush and scenic sanctuary famous for leopards, sloth bears, bison, deer, and exotic birds.
• Ideal for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and eco-tourists.
• Open from Nov to June; closed during monsoon.

 Tip: Visit in the morning and combine with a stop at Jungle Safari Eco Resort nearby.

 3. Jatmai & Ghatarani Waterfalls

 Jatmai: 85 km, Ghatarani: 95 km

• Popular monsoon picnic spots surrounded by forest and rocky trails.
• Jatmai Mata Temple is nestled near the waterfall.
• Ghatarani is bigger and more dramatic, ideal for group trips.

 Tip: Wear trekking shoes and carry a change of clothes during rainy season.

 4. Champaran (Champajhar)

 65 km | ~1.5 hrs

• Birthplace of Saint Vallabhacharya, founder of the Pushtimarg sect.
• Home to a beautiful temple complex dedicated to Lord Krishna (Vallabha Sampradaya).
• Peaceful and spiritually rich.

 Tip: Visit during annual Mahaprabhu Jayanti for devotional music and vibrant gatherings.

 5. Turturiya Springs & Sita Kund (Balodabazar)

 110 km | ~3 hrs

• A natural hot water spring believed to be associated with Sita from the Ramayana.
• Serene, lesser-known, and ideal for quiet nature walks or spiritual retreat.

 6. Rajim – The Prayag of Chhattisgarh

 45 km | ~1 hr

• A holy town at the confluence of Mahanadi, Pairi, and Sondur rivers.
• Known for the Rajiv Lochan Temple, built in 8th century.
• Hosts the Rajim Kumbh Mela every February, attracting pilgrims and sadhus.

 Day Trip Summary from Raipur

✅ Day Trip Tips from Raipur

✔️ Start early (7–8 AM) to cover more without rushing
✔️ Pack water, snacks, power bank, and comfortable shoes
✔️ Hire a private cab or self-drive for flexibility
✔️ Most destinations have limited restaurants, so plan your meals accordingly
✔️ Avoid remote areas after dark, especially in forests during monsoon