- From Gangrel’s ‘Mini Goa’ to record water levels, Dhamtari has become Chhattisgarh’s most prominent tourism hub.
- Vishnu Prasad Verma, Assistant Director
Chhattisgarh’s Dhamtari district has carved a unique and indelible mark on the state’s tourism map. Dhamtari district offers immense tourism potential. The Ravishankar Sagar reservoir, the Gangrel Dam, Madamsilli, Asia’s only siphon system, Sihawa’s Shringrishi Mountain, Karneshwar Mahadev, Saptarishi, Narhara Falls, Jabarra Hills, and the forest-covered Nagari development block all attract visitors.
- Kayaking, boating and other adventure activities have become a special attraction for the youth and adventure sports lovers.
During this pleasant monsoon season and the upcoming festival season, major tourist destinations like the Gangrel Reservoir, Rudri Dam, Madamsilli, and Narhara are witnessing a huge influx of tourists. The serene waters, picturesque hills covered in greenery, and the captivating enchanting atmosphere of gurgling waterfalls invite tourists from across the country and the state to experience unforgettable moments of relaxation. Kayaking, boating, and other adventure water sports activities, particularly those introduced at the Gangrel and Rudri Dams, have attracted young people and adventure sports enthusiasts. Dhamtari is no longer just a stopover but has emerged as a major tourism hub in the state, where the unique beauty of nature and exciting water sports offer visitors a memorable experience.
- Major attractions and natural diversity
Dhamtari district has become a major hub for nature, adventure, and water tourism in Chhattisgarh. Surrounded by dense forests, hills, and vast reservoirs, it attracts numerous tourists. Among the district’s major tourist destinations, the Gangrel Reservoir, known as “Mini Goa,” remains a popular choice for tourists with its vast water bodies, spectacular sunsets, water boating, and adventure sports. Nearby, Rudri Dam, a serene, safe, and picturesque destination for water sports, kayaking, and family picnics, is bustling with tourists on weekends. Additionally, Madamsilli Dam, known as Asia’s first siphon dam, offers a wonderful experience with its unique architecture and serene natural environment. Narhara Falls, nestled amidst dense forests, hills, and gurgling waters, proves to be an ideal and relaxing destination for nature lovers and trekkers.
- Dhamtari district has rich water resources
This unprecedented surge in tourism is due to the abundant and adequate water storage in the reservoirs this year. The Ravishankar Sagar (Gangrel) reservoir is at 90.72% full, with the current water level recorded at 347.95 meters (1141.62 feet) and an inflow of 3548 cusecs. Similarly, the Murumsilli reservoir is close to its full capacity, at 98.82% full, with a water level of 376.22 meters (1234.37 feet). The Dudhawa reservoir is at 82.37% full (423.88 meters), and the Sondhur reservoir is at 68.90% full (468.52 meters), reflecting the region’s rich water resources.
- The natural environment and tourism are also very picturesque.
All these major dams under the Dhamtari and Mahanadi Reservoir Project are rich in sufficient water resources, which has not only ensured irrigation and drinking water supply in the area, but has also made the surrounding natural environment and tourism very picturesque.
- New doors of self-employment and livelihood opened for local youth in the fields of guide, boating operation, catering and handicrafts.
Keeping in mind the ever-increasing number of tourists and their safety, the district administration has made elaborate arrangements at all tourist destinations. Wearing life jackets and the presence of trained guides have been made mandatory for tourists during water sports, ensuring complete safety. Additionally, adequate infrastructure has been developed for tourist convenience, including well-organized parking, beautiful gardens, rest areas, clean drinking water, and regular cleaning. The continued expansion of these tourism activities has opened new avenues for self-employment and livelihood opportunities for local youth in the fields of guiding, boating, catering, and handicrafts, providing a boost to the rural economy.
- A unique combination of nature’s unparalleled splendor, adventurous water sports and public amenities.
Recognizing the immense tourism potential of Dhamtari district, tourists are being provided with a safe, clean, and memorable experience, complemented by natural beauty. These efforts are also strengthening the local economy. Dhamtari is no longer just a common stopover or destination on the Chhattisgarh tourism map, but has established itself as a prominent and vibrant tourism hub, where the unique combination of natural beauty, adventurous water sports, and public amenities attracts tourists again and again.