Caves In Chhattisgarh: An Excursion Through Hidden Wonders

Get to explore some astonishing caverns in the heavily forested state in central India.

Chhattisgarh, a state in central India renowned for its forests and ancient temples, also boasts a few of the most fascinating caves in the country. Some of these caves in Chhattisgarh are thousands of years old, offering you a chance to dig into the past of this region. From stalactite and stalagmite formations to rock-cut caves, visitors can experience the unique beauty of nature and man-made wonders here. The caverns, cut into the natural topography, let you witness the multiple layers of history, geology, and culture.

5 Caves In Chhattisgarh

Exploring the caves in Chhattisgarh is all about taking a journey into the past as it transports you to an old world.

1. Kailash Caves

Kailash Caves in Chhattisgarh are located in the sprawling Kanger Valley National Park.

Photo: VishuN / Wikimedia Commons

Kailash Caves, situated in the middle of Kanger Valley National Park, is a natural wonder discovered in 1993. The place has developed amazing stalactite and stalagmite structures due to the natural chemical and organic process that took place over thousands of years. This cave offers a unique experience, with the atmosphere inside the cave area being something out of this world. The acoustics of the cave are impressive, and the presence of different formations, including one that has been assumed to be a form of Lord Shiva, makes it a spiritual experience for Hindu travellers. These are one of the historical caves in Chhattisgarh that every spiritual soul must visit.

Best Time To Visit: November to March
How To Reach: Local taxis and buses are available for transport from Jagdalpur
Nearby Railway Station: Jagdalpur Railway Station
Nearby Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport Raipur

2. Kotumsar Caves

Get to explore one of the longest natural caverns located near Jagdalpur in the state.

Photo: Biospeleologist / Wikimedia Commons

One of the longest natural caves in India, the Kotumsar Caves measures more than 1,300 metres in length. Housed inside Kanger Valley National Park, these limestone caves are an ecological wonder. As you move deeper into the quiet, dark passages of the caves, you will notice an underground world of wonder, with new formations to mesmerise you at every turn. It is a haven for species adapted to living in the dark, such as blind fish. With such as vast offering, it is one of the best caves in Chhattisgarh for exploration.

Best Time To Visit: October to February
How To Reach: Local taxis and buses are available for transport from Jagdalpur
Nearby Railway Station: Jagdalpur Railway Station
Nearby Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport Raipur

3. Dandak Caves

Nestled in Kanger Valley National Park, these are among the best caves in Chhattisgarh.

Photo: Hari Mahidhar / Shutterstock

Another treasure in Kanger Valley National Park is Dandak Caves, a network of multi-chambered limestone caves. It offers a quieter and more intimate encounter with Chhattisgarh’s natural beauty. Often less visited than the larger Kotumsar Caves, Dandak is an isolated cave system that offers nature lovers an unpolluted, unhindered, and exhilarating escape underground. The labyrinthine rock formations within Dandak are truly a wonder of nature. If you are fond of less crowded places, these are the must-visit Chhattisgarh caves in the region.

Best Time To Visit: November to March
How To Reach: Local taxis and buses are available for transport from Jagdalpur
Nearby Railway Station: Jagdalpur Railway Station
Nearby Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport Raipur

4. Sita Bengra Cave

The majestic Sita Bengra attraction is located at Ramgarh Hills in the Puta Village.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons

One of India’s oldest amphitheatres, Sita Bengra Cave in the Ramgarh Hills, is historically important. It is believed that the cave is the oldest performance theatre on the Indian subcontinent. There is a legend that links the cave to Lord Rama, who allegedly spent time in the cave during his exile. This mythical tale gives the site a spiritual touch. Believed to be several thousand years old, the cave’s paintings take visitors to prehistoric life. The cave’s myths, coupled with its pictographs, make this one of the most popular caves in Chhattisgarh among history buffs and spiritual seekers.

Best Time To Visit: October to February
How To Reach: Local taxis and buses are available for transport from Ambikapur
Nearby Railway Station: Ambikapur Railway Station
Nearby Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport Raipur

5. Jogimara Cave

Jogimara, located in Puta Village, is one of the famous caves in Chhattisgarh state.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons

Situated close to Sita Bengra Cave to its south in Surguja district, Jogimara is known for its ancient rock inscriptions, as well as murals engraved on its walls. It is believed to be dating back to a period ranging from the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century BCE. The non-religious inscriptions in Brahmi and Magadhi on the walls of the cave showcase some of the oldest examples of Indian art. This is one of the famous caves in Chhattisgarh region. Moreover, the carvings add to the historical context of Ramgarh Hills and shed light on the life and beliefs of early civilisations here.

Best Time To Visit: October to February
How To Reach: Local taxis and buses are available for transport from Ambikapur
Nearby Railway Station: Ambikapur Railway Station
Nearby Airport: Swami Vivekananda Airport Raipur

Besides the natural beauty, caves in Chhattisgarh offer an experience of exploring the history, culture, and spirituality of the region. Whether it is a discovery of millions of years of natural formation or entering the stories of ancient civilization, these caves offer an experience that no traveller has ever experienced before. If you are planning to visit these remarkable caves, TripXL’s customised travel services can make this journey memorable in every way possible.

Cover Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit caves would be between October and March when it would be cool and pleasant there and suitable for exploration.
Yes, there are guided tours for most caves, especially in the Kanger Valley National Park, which offers all kinds of geological, historical, and otherwise useful insight about visiting.
While caves like Kotumsar and Kailash are accessible to fairly reasonable guided tours, others, such as the Dandak Caves, require more agility in negotiating narrow passages and multi-chambered structures.
Rules vary from cave to cave. Generally, local authorities at each cave should be consulted regarding any prohibition on photography.
Swami Vivekananda Airport Raipur is the nearest airport. You can also get to Jagdalpur and Ambikapur by road or train to visit these caves.
Yes, for many caves are located near some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Chhattisgarh, like Chitrakote Falls, Tirathgarh Waterfalls, and Kanger Valley National Park.

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