Best Places to Visit in Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur – Waterfalls, Hill Stations & Heritage Sites

1.Amritdhara Waterfall

Amidst the peace and splendor of Chhattisgarh, visitors find the Amritdhara Waterfall, a stunning nature spot with a relaxing atmosphere. This waterfall can be found 26 kilometers away from the village of Mannendragarh, situated on the Hasdeo River that flows through much of the region.

At Amritdhara, the Hasdeo River falls 90 feet and forms a beautiful waterfall. After the water plummets, it appears milky white which is where it gets its name Amritdhara (meaning “nectar stream”). The mist from the waterfall makes the air magical, fresh and cool for everyone visiting.

The monsoon season brings out the best in the waterfall, as the river swells and the falls become much lively and impressive. In the months of winter, the hazy spray and loud water create an environment full of energy and peace.

Nearby the falls is a Shiva Temple that is revered by both locals and pilgrims. During Mahashivratri, the place comes to life with a huge fair. Those who come to Haidara Lake join in prayer and take part in the festive activities.

• The best months to visit are July to February and they are even better after the monsoon ends.

2.Ramdaha Waterfall

Ramdaha Waterfall is located in Janakpur, a development block of Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur (MCB) district and it is one of the least popular but most lovely waterfalls in Chhattisgarh. Now famous for being the district’s second biggest waterfall, Ramdaha is drawing more attention from people interested in nature, family trips and travelers who seek excitement on weekends and holidays.

Travelers need to take a scenic route along Kathoutia–Chutki Bhanwarkhoh, covering almost 80 km from the main city. The view while driving is beautiful, showing green hills, rugged rocks and quiet villagers leading up to the place you’re headed.

Ramdaha Fall is the most impressive feature, with the Banas River dropping from above 70 feet and hitting dark rocks beneath. Combining wildness and calm, nature here is perfect for photography, meditation or experiencing the views around you.

When the water drops, a mist is formed around the rocks that makes everything even more enchanting. The sight and sounds of running water, lively birds and moving leaves come together for a comforting experience.

• Janakpur Block, located in MCB District, is the address.

• The perfect time to go is from October through February, as that is when the weather is best for picnics.

3.National Marine Gondwana Fossils Park

About 2 kilometers from the headquarters in Manendragarh, National Marine Gondwana Fossils Park is considered a rare geological site in India. Here, on the banks of the Hasdeo River, there is evidence from the oldest eras of Earth’s existence, going back over 280 million years.

According to experts, the area of the Hasdeo River was originally covered by glaciers around 280 million years ago. Over the years, it adopted the character of a marine pathway called ‘Tathis’ through which marine animals could migrate locally into land.

Over time, the ancient creatures living in the sea became extinct, yet their fossils can still be found here. The well-preserved fossils mean that this park tells an easy-to-see history of life on Earth.

Scientific Significance

In 1954, geologist S.K. Ghosh discovered and studied the marine fossils that made the park valued. Thanks to his findings, scientists could pursue more research, discovering many new things over the years.

In 2015, scientists from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow, examined the area and confirmed the presence of fossils from the ancient seas that had earlier formed part of Gondwana.

Why Visit?

Discover the secrets of nature in a completely new way.

Examine and study actual fossils from many millions of years ago.

Suitable for trips with students, eco-tours and spending time with family

A unique opportunity to set foot on land from ancient times

• The best months to visit are October to March because the weather is pleasant and skies are clear.

• Location: Manendragarh District Headquarters is just 2 km from this village.

4.Siddh Baba Mountain

Four kilometers from the headquarters of Manendragarh (MCB) lies Siddh Baba Mountain which stands as a mark of grace and beauty in the area. Elevated to 80 meters on the National Highway 43, the hillock is often called the “Crown of MCB” for its obvious role in this region.

Just a mile from NH-43, the majestic and peaceful Siddh Baba Mountain is easy to spot. Apart from the beautiful scenes you see here, Mount Kailash is considered a sacred site for Lord Shiva’s followers.

The place also shines because a grand Shiva temple, similar to the Kedarnath Temple, is being built now. Due to the efforts of the Siddha Baba Samiti and the help of local people, this outstanding project contributed to the spiritual and cultural value of the mountain.

After being completed, the temple is expected to draw many people who wish to visit as pilgrims or simply to pay respects. At present, the place gives you a chance to feel peaceful and have a sense of deep reverence just by being in it.

What Are the Reasons to Visit Siddh Baba Mountain?

Walking Up the Short Route: The one-hour walk out of the town is wonderful for people who find nature appealing.

Meditation and prayer are easy at the temple, thanks to its calm atmosphere.

Wonder of Architecture: A temple from the high Himalayas can be marveled at in Chhattisgarh.

Remarkable Views: You’ll enjoy the scenery from the top of the hill.

• Manendragarh District Headquarters is located 4 km from this place.

• The perfect time for a visit is from October to March, since it is much cooler and the sky is often clearer.

5.Chang Devi

The shrine of Chang Devi lies about 120 kilometers from Manendragarh and can be reached via Kathoutia–Kelhari–Janakpur. This place which looks unassuming, is full of age-old traditions and strong faith.

Chang Devi is cherished throughout Janakpur for being both a local deity and the Kuldevi of its past Changbhakhar and Korea princes. Being an ancient route, it is meaningful and prominent in the region’s culture and history for both royals and locals.

Why Should Tourists Go to Chang Devi?

Religious Importance: An honored god linked to the history and legacy of a nation, its people or its kings and queens.

One-of-a-Kind Worship Style: Instead of idols, people worship using a sacred stone.

Off-the-Grid Experience: This is for people looking for spirituality away from famous commercial temples.

Introduces visitors to local customs, background and what shapes them.

• It is situated about 120 km away from Manendragarh.

• Between November and February is the best time to enjoy nice weather and witness the festivals.

6.Rock Painting (Shail Chitra)

Upon traveling roughly 110 kilometers from the district headquarters in MCB, visitors can explore the Rock Paintings or Shail Chitra of Janakpur tehsil which give valuable insight into our ancient ancestors’ lives. The etched and painted pictures found in stone are not simply old objects; they also tell us stories from earlier times.

These rock paintings can be found in Bhanwankhoh (Kohbaur) and Tilauli village of Chutki. They act as outdoor museums, describing events from human life, religion and daily living from long ago.

Why Should You Go to the Shail Chitra Sites?

Ancient Art shows art as it was created in the earliest times.

Cultural Heritages: Shows us what life was like in tribal and early agricultural periods.

Set in the peaceful and soothing beauty of the surroundings.

For historians, students and archaeology enthusiasts, Istanbul is a fantastic source of information.

• The best time to visit is during winter (October to February) since the weather is nice.

• About 110 km separates Manendragarh from the place.

7.Sitamarhi (Janakpur)

At a distance of 110 kilometers from the district headquarters, Sitamarhi Harchauka in Bharatpur development block of the Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur (MCB) district is known for its rich mythology, spirituality and history. According to local tradition and folklore, this peaceful site is where Lord Rama began his banishment and for this reason, it is very important to believers.

This village is found around 25 km away from Janakpur and is set along the Mawai River. The spot is significant as it appears in the Ramayana Indian epic.

Sitamarhi is fascinating partly due to its ancient cave that contains 17 chambers. Of all the chambers, Shivlings are present in 12, reported to have been brought by Lord Ram and Lakshman. They are considered holy places and at the same time, they remind us of the prayers, reflection and touch of God from long ago.

Historical Recognition
Sitamarhi Harchauka is an important archaeological site according to many scholars and historians. Notably, historian Karmingham has stated that this area was once called Chitrakoot.

Why Do Pilgrims Head to Sitamarhi in Bihar?

Sanctuary for Souls: Features designed for those searching for a spiritual journey.

Follow Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman where they walked in ancient times.

The Natural fp1 stuff: Fertile greenery and soothing riverbanks make for tranquil places to visit.

Cultural Discovery: Some aspects of Chhattisgarh’s spiritual culture are being recovered and saved.

• Manendragarh district HQ is 110 km away and Janakpur is about 25 km from the town.

• The town is found in the Bharatpur development block and close to the Mawai River.

8.Ancient temple of Ghaghra

Ghaghra is a famous ancient stone temple located about 140 km from the district headquarters of Manendragarh. At the quiet village of Ghaghra which is easy to reach from Kathoutia Tiraha and Janakpur, this temple fascinates many as an important historical site.

Built only from stone, it is thought that the temple at Ghaghra was constructed in the 10th century. The simple yet sturdy design, the fine details in the stones and signs of age share stories from Ancient Greece. Most of the Hindu and Buddhist temples of this time contained a worshiped idol, yet this temple is unique because it does not.

With its simple design, heightened sanctuary and peaceful atmosphere, the temple could be linked to the time of Buddhism. Several scholars and local officials say that the temple might have belonged to Buddhists long ago, as it once may have housed a statue of Gautam Buddha.

• It is around 140 kilometers away from the main town in Manendragarh.

• For Pleasant Travels: Visit From October to February

9.Jatashankar Cave

Sitting near Manendragarh, 50 km away in the Ghanghor area, is Jatashankar Cave, a mystical place known to those who live nearby. Those who want to enjoy the quiet of nature and feel closer to God are drawn to this holy hot spring.

About 12 km from Bairagi (a village governed by the Biharpur Panchayat and within the Manendragarh development block) is the cave. The journey is peaceful as you pass through huge forests and make your way up and down hilly roads.

The peak can be considered an exciting journey on its own. It takes crawling for about 50 feet along knees and elbows to reach the center of the cave. Anciently, this site was known for its Shivling which was named Jatashankar.

Because a special shape on the Shivling hints at the hairdo (jata) of Lord Shiva, the name was given to the cave as Jatayupara. It is believed in the region that natural water falls onto the Shivling which is regarded as a remarkable and special event by believers.

10.Mahamaya Temple (Chanwaridand, Khargawan)

Situated in the tranquil surroundings of Chanwaridand, Khargawan, the Mahamaya Temple shares a strong faith in its local culture. The temple is found about 50 kilometers away from Manendragarh and during Navratri draws a large number of pilgrims.

The History and Culture That Shaped Hollywood

Many generations ago, families who were landlords in this region traveled to Ratanpur in Bilaspur to worship Maa Mahamaya, a goddess of Hindu mythology. Yet, Raghav Pratap Singh, the landlord at that time in Khargawan, liked to worship there, so he setup a replica idol of the goddess in Chanwaridand. Because of this, the region was set on the path to becoming one of its biggest spiritual centers.

People Gather to Worship During Navratri

During Navratri, the Mahamaya Temple attracts many pilgrims and feelings of spirituality. The bright atmosphere inside the temple includes devotions, music, prayers and various culturally significant events, attracting nearby villagers and district locals.

Because of the involvement of the local community, the area’s leaders and the public, the temple is growing and being made more beautiful now which will allow future generations to remain faithful to this tradition.

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