The monuments of Chhattisgarh are the major attraction for thousands of tourists. People from all over the world throng the state's streets to get a glimpse of these beautiful monuments. The major monuments of Chhattisgarh are the historical ones comparing to that of the religious monuments and reflect ancient architectural style to all of its nook and corner. The most famous monuments of Chhattisgarh are Ratanpur Fort, Kawardha Palace, Shiva Bhoramdeo Temple and Khadia Dam to name a few.
The monuments of Chhattisgarh can be found in cities like Bilaspur, Durg, Dantewada, Bastar, the capital of the state- Raipur, Raigarh, Kawardha etc. Bilaspur is a historically important city that consists of major monuments and is the first artificially planed hill station of India. Some of the most attractive and oft visited ancient buildings are Malhar Fort, Ratanpur fort, ancient Mahadev temple, Ajmergarh Fort, Kashigarh Fort, Kotagrh Fort, Kotmi Fort. These monuments are famous for their historical significance and impressive architecture. Most of these monuments are built with bricks along with Pali inscription on slab of Jasper.
Another city of Chhattisgarh named Baster is famous for its exquisite historical monuments and is, hence, worth visiting. Among several monuments the Bastar Palace, Kutumsar Caves and Kailash Gufa are the major attractions of the city. The wonderful Bastar Palace was constructed by Bastar dynasty when they shifted their capital to Jagdalpur from Bursur. The dazzling white colour and amazing architecture represent the glorious period and the chivalry and heroism of the bygone era of the ruling dynasties of the state and the city. The cave monuments appear appealing with the formations of stalactites and stalagmites.
Apart from Bilaspur and Bastar cities, Raipur is another city famous for its great archeological monuments. Buddhism entered to the interior portions of this city that leaves every traveler mesmerized. The remains of ancient stupas, sculptured pillars and ghats can be seen there. Sirpur and Dongargarh are the other famous Buddhist monumental destinations.
There are lots of religious monuments present to the cities and villages of Chhattisgarh. The major ancient religious monuments are the beautiful Mahamaya temple of Ambikapur, Vishnu temple, Bhoramdeo temple of Raipur, Laxman temple, Shankar temple and many others. These are beautifully designed. These are basically brick construction of ancient India and consist of a mandapa, grabagriha and antarala with exquisitely carved doorframe. However, most of the mandapas that were upheld by stone pillars have disappeared. Different temples of the earlier period are devoted to different God or Goddess such as Vishnu, Shiva or Durga.
Numerous historical and religious monuments are considered as heritage monuments, present in the cities like Rajim, Bhoramdeo, Tala, Sirpur, Sheorinarayan and Malhar and are the major tourist attraction sites. These monuments are endowed with rich historical ancestry and are well maintained. Some of the famous monuments of Chhattisgarh have been converted into guesthouses, medical college and other few offer royal warmth and an opportunity to live like a king.
