MileHacker Logo
Raipur Travel Resources

Raipur Travel Resources

Raipur Chhattisgarh, India Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for Raipur

  • Google Maps:

    For navigation, attraction locations, and public transport understanding.

  • Ola / Uber:

    For city ride-sharing services.

  • Google Translate:

    Download Hindi/English packs for offline language assistance.

  • Booking Apps:

    MakeMyTrip, Booking.com, or Agoda for accommodation bookings.

  • UPI apps:

    PhonePe, Google Pay, PayTM for local payments if you have an Indian bank account.

Useful Websites for Planning

  • Chhattisgarh Tourism Board:

    Tourism.cg.gov.in for local information.

  • Ministry of Tourism, India:

    Incredibleindia.org for broader India travel information.

  • Indian Railways (IRCTC):

    Irctc.co.in for train information and bookings.

  • Travel Blogs & Forums:

    Seek recommendations for India and Chhattisgarh for personal tips.

  • VPN Services:

    For secure browsing while traveling, consider NordVPN.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Lp India or A Popular series of travel guidebooks India offer comprehensive coverage, with sections on Chhattisgarh.

Books on the Destination

"Chhattisgarh: A History" for historical context, or "The Bastar Heritage" for tribal culture insights.

Local Publications

Local Hindi newspapers (Dainik Bhaskar, Nai Dunia) share current events and festival listings.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 100
  • Ambulance: 102
  • Fire: 101
  • Tourist Helpline (India): 1800 11 1363 (toll-free) or 1363.

Medical Facilities

  • AIIMS Raipur (All India Institute of Medical Sciences)
  • Ramakrishna Care Hospital
  • Balaji Hospital
  • MGM Eye Institute

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Seek documentaries on Chhattisgarh's tribal society or wildlife.
  • General India travel documentaries could include regional features.
  • These present a visual context before your arrival.

Music & Art

  • Listen to Chhattisgarhi folk music like Pandavani or Raut Nacha.
  • Explore Dokra art for regional craftsmanship appreciation.
  • Kosa silk production showcases local textile traditions.

Online Communities

  • Join The tripadvisor forums for India-specific travel advice.
  • Reddit communities (r/india, r/travel, r/Chhattisgarh) share peer insights.
  • Facebook groups for travelers in India provide current information.

Essential Pre-Trip Checks

Travel Advisory

Visa & Passport

  • Verify passport validity for six months beyond your stay.
  • Secure your visa (e-Visa application closer to travel).
  • Keep digital and physical copies separate.

Health & Safety

  • Consult a doctor for vaccinations.
  • Pack necessary prescription medications.
  • Purchase Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Financial Preparedness

  • Notify your bank about your trip.
  • Arrange for currency exchange or ATM withdrawals.
  • Carry some local currency for immediate needs.

Packing Essentials

General Items

  • Climate-appropriate clothing.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Power adapters for electronics.

Health & Hygiene

  • Personal first-aid kit.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent.

Arrival Logistics

Airport Procedures

  • Complete immigration and customs.
  • Collect your luggage.
  • Purchase a local SIM card.

First Steps in City

  • Exchange currency or withdraw from an ATM.
  • Arrange transport to your accommodation.
  • Familiarize yourself with nearby amenities.

Departure & Beyond

Lost Document Procedures

  1. Report a lost passport immediately to the nearest the local police office for a FIR.
  2. Contact your embassy or consulate for replacement assistance.
  3. For other lost documents, report to the police if stolen.
  4. Inform relevant authorities for lost items like airline tickets.
  5. Keep copies of all essential documents stored separately.

Natural Disaster Protocols

  1. During heatwaves, stay hydrated and seek shade; avoid midday sun.
  2. During monsoon flooding, follow local advisories and avoid flooded areas.
  3. If an earthquake occurs (less common), "drop, cover, and hang on."
  4. Stay updated with local news and weather forecasts.
  5. Always have an emergency plan.

Cultural niceties

Right Hand Etiquette

Use your right hand for all transactions and giving/receiving items.

Shoe Removal

Remove footwear before entering places of worship and homes.

Greetings

A "Namaste" shows respect and creates positive interactions.

Security Alert

Stay aware of your surroundings and belongings, specifically in crowded areas.

Your Raipur Journey

Experiences

Cultural Immersion

  • Temple Visits:

    Tour ancient and revered temples like Dudhadhari Math.

  • Local Interaction:

    Engage with residents to understand daily life.

  • Art & Crafts:

    Explore regional artistry in markets.

Historical Exploration

  • Sirpur Ruins:

    Explore the rich history of ancient Sirpur.

  • Museum Visits:

    Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum offers local history.

  • Heritage Sites:

    Identify other significant historical areas for a look.

Local Attractions

Vivekananda Sarovar

A tranquil lake offering peaceful strolls and scenic views.

Urja Park

A solar-powered park combining education with recreation.

Nandan Van Zoo & Safari

A wildlife park for animal encounters and safari drives.

Nature & Wildlife

Wildlife Experiences

  • Explore Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Safari opportunities for birdwatching and animal spotting.
  • Book safari slots in advance for limited capacity.
  • Witness varied flora and fauna.

Outdoor Recreation

  • Take leisurely walks in city parks.
  • Cycling paths are available in some areas.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty surrounding lakes.
  • Consider day trips to nearby natural sites.

Culinary Delights

Local Cuisine

  • Taste traditional Chhattisgarhi dishes.
  • Sample local specialties like Chila, Fara, and Muthia.
  • Many dishes use rice and local vegetables.
  • Look for fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Dining Experiences

  • Explore local eateries for authentic meals.
  • Mid-range plus premium restaurants offer varied menus.
  • Cafes present options for lighter meals and snacks.
  • Seek out highly-rated establishments.

Reflections

Each moment in Raipur has unique discoveries and cultural experiences.