Chhattisgarh Government’s Appeal: Participate in the “Dekho Apna Desh” Campaign and Make the State’s Tourist Destinations the Pride of the Nation
Tourism is a significant medium for enhancing and showcasing the economic and cultural heritage of any state. It not only boosts the local economy but also presents the state’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural heritage to the nation and the world. Keeping this objective in mind, the Chhattisgarh government has appealed to promote the state’s tourist destinations under the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign. The main aim of this campaign is to encourage citizens to explore and learn about various tourist destinations across the country.
Objective of the “Dekho Apna Desh” Campaign
The primary objective of the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign is to promote tourist destinations located in different parts of the country. This campaign inspires people to travel to various parts of the country and experience its cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Through this campaign, the Chhattisgarh government is inviting tourists to come and experience the beautiful and unique tourist destinations of the state.
Chhattisgarh is renowned for its natural beauty, historical heritage, and cultural diversity. The state’s dense forests, beautiful waterfalls, historical temples, and tribal culture make it distinct and unique from other states. Through the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign, the Chhattisgarh government is inviting tourists from different parts of the country to experience these unique features of the state.
Major Tourist Destinations in Chhattisgarh
There are several tourist destinations in Chhattisgarh that attract both domestic and international tourists. The natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural heritage of these places captivate the visitors. Here, we will explore some of the major tourist destinations in Chhattisgarh that can serve as attractions for tourists under the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign:
1. Bastar: A Priceless Treasure of Natural Beauty and Cultural Heritage
Bastar is a prominent tourist destination in Chhattisgarh, known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The dense forests, high mountains, and beautiful waterfalls of Bastar attract tourists. Bastar’s culture is unique, showcasing the tribal lifestyle and traditions. Major tourist attractions in Bastar include the Chitrakote Waterfall, Tirathgarh Waterfall, Kanger Valley National Park, and Kutumsar Caves.
The Chitrakote Waterfall, also known as the “Niagara of India,” is the pride of Bastar. This waterfall is famous for its unique beauty, which becomes even more mesmerizing during the monsoon season. In Kanger Valley National Park, tourists can enjoy wildlife along with the amazing natural formations of Kutumsar Caves.
2. Raipur: The Capital of Chhattisgarh and a Symbol of Modernity
Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, is a significant tourist destination in the state. The city has developed as the economic, cultural, and educational center of the state. Important tourist spots in Raipur include the Mahant Ghasidas Museum, Nandanvan Garden, and Vivekananda Sarovar. Additionally, the Chhattisgarh Science Center and Energy Park located in the city are also major attractions for tourists.
Near Raipur, the Jungle Safari and Purkhauti Muktangan Museum in the Naya Raipur area also attract tourists. These places showcase the state’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. The markets in Raipur are also major shopping centers for tourists, where they can buy local handicrafts and artworks.
3. Sirpur: A Center of Historical and Religious Heritage
Sirpur, located about 78 kilometers from Raipur, is an ancient city known for its historical and religious heritage. This place is famous for its religious sites related to Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism. The prominent attractions in Sirpur include the Laxman Temple and Buddha Vihar. The Laxman Temple is known for its excellent architecture and is considered one of the oldest brick temples in India.
The Buddha Vihar in Sirpur was an important center for the spread of Buddhism in the Indian subcontinent. Several important Buddhist relics have been found here during excavations, which highlight the historical significance of this place. The history and religious heritage of Sirpur inspire tourists to visit.
4. Kanker: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Tribal Culture
Kanker, situated in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, is a beautiful tourist destination known for its natural beauty and tribal culture. The forests, hills, and rivers of Kanker attract tourists. The main attraction here is the Kanker Palace, known for its unique architecture and royal history.
Various types of wildlife, including leopards, tigers, and deer, can be found in the forests of Kanker. Additionally, tourists can experience the local culture, traditions, and handicrafts in the tribal villages of Kanker. The markets of Kanker offer local handicrafts such as bamboo products, wooden sculptures, and metal jewelry for tourists to buy.
5. Amarkantak: A Confluence of Pilgrimage and Nature
Amarkantak, located on the border of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, is a major pilgrimage site and the origin of the Narmada and Sone rivers. It is also known as the “Birthplace of Narmada.” Amarkantak is famous for its natural beauty, greenery, and serene environment. Major religious sites here include Narmada Kund, Sonmuda, and Dugdhdhara Waterfall.
The environment of Amarkantak provides mental and physical peace to tourists. Walking through the lush valleys and peaceful waterfalls here is a wonderful experience for visitors. There are also many ashrams and religious institutions in the surrounding areas of Amarkantak where tourists can practice spirituality and yoga.
6. Kawardha: A Place of Natural Beauty and Historical Significance
Kawardha is a beautiful tourist destination in Chhattisgarh, known for its natural beauty and historical heritage. This place is famous for its lush valleys, high mountains, and clear rivers. The main attraction of Kawardha is the Bhoramdeo Temple, also known as the “Khajuraho of Chhattisgarh.” The architecture and carvings of this temple attract tourists.
Apart from the Bhoramdeo Temple, many wildlife species can be found in the forests around Kawardha. Exploring the forests and observing the wildlife is an exciting experience for tourists. In the tribal villages of Kawardha, tourists can experience the local culture and traditions.
Opportunities for Chhattisgarh Under the “Dekho Apna Desh” Campaign
The “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign is a significant initiative to bring national and international recognition to Chhattisgarh’s tourist destinations. Under this campaign, the Chhattisgarh government is organizing various activities and programs to provide information about the state’s tourist spots to tourists.
1. Use of Digital Media and Social Media
Under the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign, the Chhattisgarh government is utilizing digital media and social media. Information and photographs of Chhattisgarh’s tourist destinations are being shared on social media platforms. Additionally, the government has launched a special website where tourists can find information about the state’s major tourist spots.
The Chhattisgarh government has appealed to the citizens of the state to actively participate in the “Dekho Apna Desh” campaign run by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Under this campaign, citizens across the country have the opportunity to vote for their state’s best tourist destinations. This presents a golden opportunity to showcase Chhattisgarh’s unique and beautiful destinations on a national platform.
Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai said, “This is an important step to bring recognition to Chhattisgarh’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical sites across the country. We request everyone to vote for the state’s destinations and contribute to the success of this campaign.”
How to Vote
To vote, citizens need to use the website https://forms.gle/ANvrFcQqxg55EkSw7. Through this form, people can vote for those places in Chhattisgarh that they consider to be the pride of the state and the country. The state government has also urged everyone to share this link on their social media platforms so that more and more people can participate in the campaign.
Last Date
The last date to vote in this campaign is September 15, 2024. After this, the selected destinations will be promoted nationally and internationally, boosting tourism in the state and creating new opportunities for economic development. Chhattisgarh has immense potential for tourism, and this opportunity allows us to spread our heritage, culture, and natural beauty across the country. Shri Sai has urged all citizens to actively participate in this campaign and help make Chhattisgarh the pride of India.
