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Dongargarh!

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Population

20,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Chhattisgarh map Central India πŸ•‰οΈ Spiritual ⛰️ Mountains πŸ”οΈ Hill Stations Temples and Pilgrimage Dongargarh Chhattisgarh Temple Maa Bamleshwari Pilgrimage Hill station

Dongargarh is a town in Chhattisgarh, India, known for the hilltop temple of Maa Bamleshwari. It's a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from across the region. The town offers scenic views and a spiritual atmosphere.

Dongargarh provides a serene escape and a chance to experience local religious traditions. However, be prepared for crowds, especially during festivals. The town's infrastructure is still developing, and options for accommodation and dining are limited.

A visit to Dongargarh typically requires 1-2 days to explore the main temple and surrounding areas. The nearest airport is in Raipur, and the town is accessible by train and road. Plan your trip between October and March for pleasant weather.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

15-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather makes it ideal for temple visits and exploring the hilltop. Clear skies offer great views.

Why Visit:

The weather is perfect for climbing the steps to the temple and enjoying the scenic beauty. This is also the peak season for festivals, offering a vibrant cultural experience. The ropeway operates smoothly during these months. Avoid the monsoon rains and summer heat.

Tip: Expect larger crowds, especially during weekends and festivals. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

25-35 degrees C

Monsoon season with heavy rainfall. The area becomes lush green, but accessibility can be affected.

Why Visit:

The landscape is at its greenest, and the waterfalls are in full flow. The crowds are significantly smaller. However, heavy rain can disrupt travel plans and make climbing the steps difficult.

Tip: Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling. Some smaller roads may be closed due to flooding.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extremely hot and humid weather. Climbing the steps to the temple can be very challenging.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during this period due to the intense heat. The high temperatures make it uncomfortable to explore the area. The risk of heatstroke is high.

Note: If you must visit, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Maa Bamleshwari Temple (Upper)

⏱ 3-4 hours Free

The main temple dedicated to Maa Bamleshwari is located atop a 1600-foot high hill. It's a significant Hindu pilgrimage site and one of the most rever...

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Maa Bamleshwari Temple (Lower)

⏱ 1 hour Free

The lower temple is located at the base of the hill. It is a smaller replica of the main temple on the hilltop....

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Ropeway

⏱ 30 minutes (round trip) β‚Ή110 per person (round trip)

The ropeway is a convenient way to reach the hilltop temple. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape during the ascent....

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Pragya Giri

⏱ 2 hours Free

Pragya Giri is a Buddhist monument featuring a large statue of Lord Buddha. It is a place of peace and reflection, offering a different perspective fr...

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Indira Kala Sangeet University

⏱ 1-2 hours β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή300 (foreigners)

Asia's first music and arts university, located in Khairagarh near Dongargarh. It showcases various forms of Indian classical music and dance....

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Shivaji Park

⏱ 1 hour Free

A small park in the heart of Dongargarh, offering a place for relaxation. It's a popular spot for locals to unwind and socialize....

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Things To Do

attractions

Trekking to the Temple

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° Free

Climb the 1100 steps to the Maa Bamleshwari Temple. Experience the spiritual journey while enjoying scenic views....

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attractions

Photography

⏱ Flexible πŸ’° Free

Capture the scenic beauty of Dongargarh and the surrounding hills. Photograph the temple, the ropeway, and the local lif...

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attractions

Shopping for Souvenirs

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή100-500 per item

Browse the shops near the temple for religious items, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Purchase mementos of your visit....

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attractions

Attend Local Festivals

⏱ Varies πŸ’° Free

Experience the vibrant culture of Dongargarh by attending local festivals. Witness traditional dances, music, and ritual...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Temple Rituals

1-2 hours | Free

Observe the daily rituals performed at the Maa Bamleshwari Temple. Witness the prayers, aartis, and ...

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celebration

Local Cuisine Tasting

1 hour | β‚Ή100-300

Sample the local cuisine of Chhattisgarh. Try dishes like chila, fara, and bore baasi....

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celebration

Interact with Local Artisans

1-2 hours | Free (unless you purchase something)

Meet local artisans and learn about their crafts. Discover the traditional art forms of Chhattisgarh...

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celebration

Visit a Local Village

3-4 hours | β‚Ή500-1000 (transportation and guide)

Visit a local village to experience rural life in Chhattisgarh. Learn about the customs, traditions,...

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celebration

Attend a Local Wedding (if possible)

Varies | N/A (but gifts are appreciated)

If you have the opportunity, attend a local wedding to experience the vibrant celebrations. Witness ...

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celebration

Learn Basic Chhattisgarhi Phrases

Ongoing | Free

Learn a few basic phrases in Chhattisgarhi to interact with the locals. It shows respect and enhance...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Chila
Chila

A savory pancake made from rice flour and spices (try at local street stalls)

Fara
Fara

Steamed rice dumplings filled with lentils (try at local restaurants)

Bore Baasi
Bore Baasi

Cooked rice soaked in water, served with curd and pickles (try at local dhabas)

Mahua Ladoo
Mahua Ladoo

Sweet balls made from Mahua flowers (available at local markets)

Where to Eat

Annapurna Bhojnalaya

Annapurna Bhojnalaya

β‚Ή/β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian

πŸ“ Main Market Area

A simple and affordable restaurant serving traditional Indian dishes. Good for a quick and satisfying meal. It offers a homely atmosphere.

Thali

β‚Ή200-400 for two

Hotel Celebration Restaurant

Hotel Celebration Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή/β‚Ήβ‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian, Chinese

πŸ“ Near Bamleshwari Temple

A more upscale restaurant offering a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. A decent ambiance and good service. It is popular among tourists.

Butter Chicken

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Street Food Spots

Main Market Area

Main Market Area

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Choose vendors with clean stalls and fresh ingredients. Be cautious about drinking water from street vendors.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Dongargarh

More restaurants & dishes from Dongargarh

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Near Bamleshwari Temple

Ideal for pilgrims and those who want to be close to the main attraction. Expect crowds and noise, especially during peak season.

Best For: Pilgrims, Temple Visitors

Civil Lines Area

A quieter area with better amenities and more upscale hotels. Suitable for families and business travelers.

Best For: Families, Business Travelers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Shivshakti Palace

πŸ“ Near Railway Station

Basic but clean rooms. Conveniently located near the railway station.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Grand Niwas

πŸ“ Main Market Area

Simple accommodation in the heart of the town. Walking distance to local shops and restaurants.

β‚Ή900-1300/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

Hotel Celebration

πŸ“ Near Bamleshwari Temple

Comfortable rooms with decent amenities. Close to the Maa Bamleshwari Temple.

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

Hotel Ashoka

πŸ“ Civil Lines Area

Well-maintained rooms with modern facilities. Offers a restaurant and room service.

β‚Ή1800-2800/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή4000+/night

Mayfair Lake Resort, Raipur (Nearby)

πŸ“ Raipur (132km)

Luxurious resort with lake views and excellent amenities. Ideal for a relaxing stay.

β‚Ή4000+/night

Sayaji Raipur (Nearby)

πŸ“ Raipur (132km)

Upscale hotel with spacious rooms and multiple dining options. Offers a comfortable and convenient stay.

β‚Ή3500+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Raipur Airport (RPR), 132km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Dongargarh (DGG)

Main railway station serving Dongargarh. Many express and passenger trains stop here. Located in the heart of the town.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 20-24 hours (β‚Ή800-2000)
  • From Mumbai: 18-22 hours (β‚Ή700-1800)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Dongargarh Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Raipur: 4-5 hours (β‚Ή300-500)

Note: Trains are generally more comfortable and convenient for long distances.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-150 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances within the town

Bargain for the fare before starting your journey. Agree on the price beforehand.

local_taxi

Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή800-1200 per day

Best for: Day trips and visiting nearby attractions

Book a taxi through your hotel or a reputable travel agency. Negotiate the price beforehand.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover your shoulders and knees. Light and comfortable clothing is recommended during the summer months.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή800, Mid: β‚Ή2000, Luxury: β‚Ή4000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in the main town area.

Cash vs Card: Cash is widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and when hiring auto-rickshaws.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water. Avoid drinking tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls. Be cautious about spicy food if you are not used to it.

Common Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, and stomach infections are common. Carry ORS and basic medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good network coverage. SIM cards are available at the airport and in town.

WiFi: WiFi is available at some hotels and restaurants.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi and Chhattisgarhi are the main languages. English proficiency is limited.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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