Raipur Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Raipur with our comprehensive travel guide including places to visit, activities, food and drink scene, accommodations, local culture, and more.


Raipur is the capital of the Indian state of Chhattisgarh, located in the eastern part of the country. The city boasts an intriguing mix of ancient history, rich culture, stunning natural beauty, exciting food scene, and a vibrant urban lifestyle. In this comprehensive travel guide to Raipur, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, and more.

Introduction to Raipur

Raipur is a bustling city with a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times. It was once a princely state ruled by the Rajputs and later by the Marathas. Today, it is a thriving metropolis with a modern outlook that still celebrates its heritage through the many historical monuments and museums scattered throughout the city.

List of Places to Visit in Raipur

Raipur has a diverse range of cultural and natural attractions that are worth visiting. The following list provides a taste of some of the top places to visit in and around the city.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum
  • Rajiv Smriti Van
  • Dudhadhari Math Temple
  • Mahamaya Temple
  • Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary

Natural Attractions of Raipur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Banjari Mata Mandir
  • Nandan Van
  • Dandak Caves
  • Bhoramdeo Temple
  • Champaran

Hiking/Biking Routes of Raipur

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the rugged terrain surrounding Raipur through a wide variety of trails and paths. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in and around the city:

  • Dongargarh to Bhilai Bike Trail
  • Sarowar Path
  • Kankaria Lake Loop
  • Jungle Safari in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Trekking in Malhar

Best Things to Do in Raipur: Activities and Tours

From cultural immersion to outdoor adventures, Raipur offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do and see in the city:

  • Visit the iconic Dudhadhari Math Temple
  • Explore the historical monuments at Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum
  • Take a wildlife safari at Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Take a walking tour of Nandan Van
  • Take a boat ride at Banjari Mata Mandir

Week-Long Itinerary for Raipur

A week is the minimum time needed to explore all the best that Raipur has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the city:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Visit Dudhadhari Math Temple, Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum
Day 2 Explore Nandan Van and spend the evening at Kankaria Lake
Day 3 Take a wildlife safari at Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Day 4 Trekking in Malhar
Day 5 Visit Bhoramdeo Temple and Champaran
Day 6 Take a boat ride at Banjari Mata Mandir
Day 7 Spend the day visiting Rajiv Smriti Van and relaxing at Dongargarh Lake

Food and Drink Scene of Raipur

Raipur is known for its rich and diverse food culture, with a number of mouth-watering dishes that are unique to the region. Here are some of the top local dishes that you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sabudana ki Khichdi
  • Muthiya
  • Poha Jalebi
  • Chila
  • Tarri Poha

Local Beverages

  • Lassi
  • Sugarcane juice
  • Oats and Dates shake
  • Kokum Sherbet

Where to Stay in Raipur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Raipur offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit every budget and taste, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Raipur:

  • Hyatt Raipur
  • Hotel Babylon International
  • Sayaji Hotel Raipur
  • Courtyard by Marriott
  • Hotel Babylon Inn

What to Buy in Raipur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Raipur is a shopper’s paradise with a plethora of local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Here are some of the best places to shop in Raipur:

  • City Centre Mall
  • Magneto Mall
  • Ravi Sariya Textiles
  • Gole Bazaar

Local Culture and Customs of Raipur

Raipur is a city steeped in culture and tradition with a rich history that has shaped its unique way of life. Here are some of the most fascinating customs and rituals that you might encounter:

  • As a gesture of respect, it is customary to remove shoes before entering temples and homes
  • Women cover their heads when visiting temples or holy places
  • Chhattisgarhi dance is a popular folk dance form that is performed on special occasions

Best Time to Visit Raipur

The best time to visit Raipur is between October and March as the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures soaring over 40°C, while monsoons bring heavy rainfall and can make travel difficult.

Do’s and Don’ts of Raipur

Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind while visiting Raipur:

Do:

  • Dress modestly while visiting temples and other holy places
  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Carry light cotton clothes and sun hats during summers

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water
  • Consume food from roadside vendors
  • Wear revealing clothes in public places

Safety and Health

The safety and health situation in Raipur is generally good. However, it is always a good idea to take precautions to prevent illnesses and injuries.

Safety in Raipur

  • Be careful with your valuables and safeguard them at all times
  • Women travelers should take extra care when wandering alone outside at night

Health in Raipur

  • Carry mosquito repellents and keep yourself covered to avoid mosquito bites
  • Drink only bottled or boiled water

Getting to Raipur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Raipur is well-connected by air, rail, and road.

Airports Near Raipur

  • Swami Vivekananda Airport (15.4 km)

Bus Stations Near Raipur

  • Raipur Bus Stand (2.7 km)

Other Options

  • Auto-rickshaws and taxis are the best modes of local transportation within Raipur city.

How to Get Around in Raipur

Auto-rickshaws are the most common and cost-effective mode of transportation in Raipur. Taxis and rental cars are also available. Buses and trains are other options for getting around the city and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Raipur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Raipur is surrounded by many exciting destinations that make great day trips.

  • Bhilai - Industrial town famous for its steel plant (30.8 km)
  • Rajnandgaon - Historical town with a rich cultural heritage (74.2 km)
  • Dongargarh - Holy town with a famous temple (35.5 km)
  • Kawardha - Beautiful town known for its wildlife sanctuary (122.5 km)

Conclusion

Raipur is a fascinating city with something for everyone. From the rich cultural heritage to the stunning natural beauty, the city offers a unique travel experience. Plan your trip to Raipur using this comprehensive travel guide and get ready to be amazed by everything this city has to offer.

A Hindu temple near Raipur station A Hindu temple near Raipur station Raipur and Naya Raipur BRTS buses Raipur and Naya Raipur BRTS buses Statue of Swami Vivekanada at Vivekanand Sarovar Statue of Swami Vivekanada at Vivekanand Sarovar Mahakaushal Art Gallery Mahakaushal Art Gallery