Dhamtari is a major district in Chhattisgarh. Situated in the heart of the state, it is a beautiful district renowned for its lush greenery, wildlife, rivers, and cultural heritage. There are many Places to visit in Dhamtari where you can spend a wonderful time with your family and friends.
Often referred to as the “Gateway to Bastar,” Dhamtari offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and traditional heritage. The famous river of Dhamtari is the Mahanadi, which originates in the district. It was a famous site during the period of Lord Rama’s exile. This district was formed in the year 1998.
Surrounded by forests, hills, and water bodies, this district is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful getaway. From wildlife sanctuaries and dams to temples and tribal culture, Dhamtari has a variety of attractions to explore.
In this article, we will take you through the Top places to visit in Dhamtari and what makes each destination special.
Top Places to visit in Dhamtari Chhattisgarh
1. Gangrel Dam – The Lifeline of the Region
Gangrel Dam, Officially known as “Pandit Ravishankar Sagar“, is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Dhamtari. Built on the Mahanadi River, this dam is a major source of water supply and irrigation in the region. Situated about 17 kilometers from the main city of Dhamtari, this dam is easily accessible and offers every tourist a beautiful and serene atmosphere.
The vast water reservoir, surrounded by greenery, creates a breathtaking landscape. It is a perfect spot for picnics, boating, and photography. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful sunrise and sunset views here.
This place is also known as ‘Mini Goa,’ and a wide range of activities—such as water kayaking, jet skiing, and trekking are available here. There is also a resort on-site equipped with every kind of amenity.
You can thoroughly enjoy your visit here during the rainy season, as the area looks absolutely stunning during this time. You are sure to have a great time here. The calm atmosphere and scenic beauty make Gangrel Dam a must-visit destination in Dhamtari.
2. Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary – A Haven for Wildlife
Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most important natural attractions in Dhamtari. It is part of the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve and is known for its rich biodiversity. Its name is derived from the Sitamarhi River, which originates in this very region, flows through it, and creates beautiful scenery.
Established in 1974, the sanctuary covers an area of 559 square kilometers. The Sitamadhi Sanctuary is renowned for the ‘mouse dear’ one of the rarest species found on Earth.
The sanctuary is home to animals like leopards, deer, wild boars, and a variety of bird species. The dense forests, rivers, and hills create an ideal environment for wildlife.
Visitors can explore the sanctuary through guided tours and enjoy activities like birdwatching and nature walks.
3. Rudri Dam – A Peaceful Escape
Rudri Dam is another beautiful spot in Dhamtari, located on the Mahanadi River. It is a smaller dam compared to Gangrel but equally scenic. It is situated around 8 km away from the main city of Dhamtari. You can easily reach this location and enjoy its beautiful scenery.
There are several attractions near the Rudri Dam where you can spend your time most pleasantly. The site also features a garden known as ‘Rudri Garden.’ This beautiful garden, built along the dam, is an ideal spot for strolls, photography, and viewing the sunset. With its beach-like ambiance and open surroundings, it offers a delightful experience for both families and couples.
Another major attraction near the Rudri Dam is the ‘Rudraeshwar Temple.’ This temple is situated near Rudri Dam, right on the banks of the Mahanadi River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to have been constructed by King Rudradev of the Chandravanshi dynasty. It holds immense significance from both cultural and spiritual perspectives.
The area around the dam is peaceful and less crowded, making it ideal for relaxation. It is a great place for picnics and spending quality time with family.
4. Maa Vindhyavasini Temple – A Spiritual Retreat
The Maa Vindhyavasini Temple, also known as the Bilai Mata Temple, is a famous spiritual site in the Dhamtari district. Situated right in the heart of the city, the temple is easily accessible. Bilai Mata is a manifestation of Goddess Durga. The idol of Bhilai Mata is exquisitely beautiful and is adorned with ornaments and garments.
Visitors can easily visit this temple to find inner peace. During the festival of Navratri, a large number of devotees flock to the temple, which is beautifully decorated for the occasion. Idols of other deities are also enshrined within this temple.
The peaceful surroundings and spiritual atmosphere make it a perfect place for prayer and meditation. During festivals, the temple becomes vibrant with celebrations.
5. Kanker Road Forest Area – Nature at Its Best
The forest areas along Kanker Road near Dhamtari offer a refreshing experience for nature lovers. These forests are rich in greenery and provide a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty.
Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, photography, and peaceful walks in these areas. It is a great way to connect with nature.
6. Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary – A Rare Ecosystem
Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary, part of the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve, is another important attraction near Dhamtari. It is known for conserving the endangered wild buffalo, which is the state animal of Chhattisgarh. It spans an area of about 559 square kilometers. It is one of the state’s largest wildlife sanctuaries, as well as Chhattisgarh’s oldest wildlife sanctuary.
In 2019, this sanctuary was included under ‘Project Tiger.’ Throughout the entire expanse of this sanctuary, you can observe a diverse array of wildlife and enjoy the surrounding atmosphere.
The sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to explore rare wildlife and dense forests. It is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.
7. Karneshwar Mahadev Temple Complex, Dhamtari
Located in Dhamtari, the Karneshwar Mahadev Temple Complex is a famous ancient shrine situated in the village of Sihawa, about 140 kilometers south of Raipur. It comprises a cluster of five ancient temples. These temples were commissioned by the Somvanshi ruler (King of the Kanker State), Karan Raj or Karan Dev. It is for this reason that the complex is known as the ‘Karneshwar Mahadev Temple.’
The temple is exquisitely beautiful, offering visitors a serene environment in which to spend their time. During Mahashivratri and the Mondays of the holy month of Sawan, a multitude of devotees flock to the site to offer water to Lord Shiva.
The location is truly picturesque and the Mahanadi River flows alongside the temple, presenting a breathtakingly beautiful vista. The site also marks a confluence point of the Mahanadi River and other river.
From an archaeological perspective, this monument constructed in the 12th century holds immense significance. Adjacent to the temple lies a kund (sacred tank) fed by a perennial spring. The water in this tank is considered exceptionally sacred and pure, and is believed that after bathing in the water of the sacred tank, the leprosy was completely cured.
8. Angarmoti Mandir
Angarmoti Temple is a beautiful and spiritual site near the Dhamtari district. It is situated on the banks of the Gangrel Dam in Dhamtari and is easily accessible. This place is exquisitely beautiful and holds immense spiritual significance. A large number of people visit here to seek the blessings of Angoor Mata.
It is the shrine of a local deity, dedicated to the Goddess of the Forest (*Van Devi*). The beautiful temple here is dedicated to the presiding deity of the 52 villages that were submerged during the construction of the Gangrel Dam. Currently, the Goddess is worshipped at this site beneath a massive tree, under the open sky.
Devotees believe that Mother Angarmoti fulfills their wishes, particularly bestowing the blessing of progeny upon childless couples. During the festival of Navratri, the temple witnesses a massive influx of visitors. Large crowds flock to this sacred site to seek the darshan (holy sight) of Mother Angoor Mata and offer their prayers.
9. Shringi Rishi Ashram
Shringi Rishi Ashram is a religious site situated in the village of Sihawa, near the Dhamtari district. Perched atop a high hill, it is famous as the site of Shringi Rishi’s penance and as the source of the Mahanadi River. This location is exceptionally beautiful. Reaching it requires climbing a flight of 400 steps, and the surrounding scenery is truly magnificent.
The view of the rural area from this vantage point is also spectacular, offering a perfect spot to spend a few moments of peaceful tranquility. At the summit of the hill, a small water tank or kund is naturally carved into a rock.
This tank is a natural formation and remains perpetually filled with water. Even if visitors manually empty it, the tank miraculously refills with water itself on its own. The site becomes even more enchanting during the monsoon season.
Best Time to Visit Dhamtari
The best time to visit Dhamtari is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and excellent for exploring the surrounding scenery. The weather is quite cool during this time, allowing you to comfortably explore all of Dhamtari’s major attractions without feeling tired.
You can also choose the rainy season to visit Dhamtari, as the surrounding waterfalls and forests become lush and beautiful during this season. You can enjoy all the waterfalls around Dhamtari.
Summer can be quite hot in Dhamtari district, so if you plan to visit during the summer, you should exercise caution.
How to Reach Dhamtari
Dhamtari is well connected by road and is easily accessible from major cities.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Raipur
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available
Why You Should Visit Dhamtari
Dhamtari is perfect for travelers who want to:
- Explore wildlife and natural beauty
- Visit scenic dams and rivers
- Experience tribal culture and traditions
- Enjoy a peaceful and less crowded destination
Travel Tips
- Carry comfortable clothing and walking shoes
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Plan wildlife visits with guides
- Keep essentials like water and snacks
- Do not litter at tourist sites.
Conclusion
Dhamtari is a hidden gem in Chhattisgarh that offers a perfect mix of nature, wildlife, and culture. From the scenic Gangrel Dam to the rich biodiversity of Sitanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, every destination in this district has its own charm.
If you are looking for an offbeat travel destination that provides peace, adventure, and cultural experiences, Dhamtari is an excellent choice. It is a place where you can relax, explore, and reconnect with nature.
Plan your trip to Dhamtari and discover the untouched beauty of Chhattisgarh.