Raipur is a city in the Raipur district of the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. It is the capital city of the state of Chhattisgarh and is the administrative headquarters of Raipur district. It is also the largest city in Chhattisgarh. It was formerly a part of Madhya Pradesh before the state of Chhattisgarh was formed on 1 November 2000. Naya Raipur is the upcoming business hub in Chhattisgarh promoted by the state government.Raipur has been in existence since the 9th century; the old site and ruins of the fort can be seen in the southern part of the city. Raipur district is important historically and as a point of interest archaeologically. It is believed that King Ramachandra established the city of Raipur and subsequently made it the capital of his kingdom.
Another story about Raipur is that King Ramachandra's son Brahmdeo Rai had established Raipur. His capital was Khalwatika (now Khallari). This region had become the domain of Bhosle kings after Amarsingh Deo's death. With the death of Raghuji III, the territory was assumed by the British government from Bhonsla'a of Nagpur and Chhattisgarh was declared a separate division, the Chhattisgarh Division of the Central Provinces, with its headquarters at Raipur in 1852. At the time of the independence of India Raipur district was included in the Central Provinces and Berar.
This museum is located near the D K Hospital in Raipur and was established by Raja Mahant Ghasidas of Rajnandgaon in the year1875. The museum has two floors featuring five galleries and features different sections including archaeology, anthropology and natural history. Besides, it also displays crafts, jewelry, paintings and terracotta belonging to tribal culture. The museum also has an interesting library.
The temple located in the southern region of Raipur. An ancient river called Maharajbandh flows by this landmark. This ancient temple was built by King Jaitsingh in mid-17th century and dedicated to Lord Rama. The temple feature stunning murals. There is also a monastery that was named after Swami Balbhadra Das who survived only on 'Doodh' (milk) as his food. You can also find the memorials of the ex- Mahants (ministers) here.
Located in the old fort area of Raipur on the banks of the river Khaaroon, this temple is a must visit for the pilgrims. It is dedicated to Mahamaya - a revered Hindu goddess believed to be a blend of the powers of Vishnu and Shiva. Durga and Mahishasura Mardini or Jagdambe are the other names by which this popular deity is known as.
It is a magnificent lake and is also one of the prime tourist attractions in Raipur. The lake was built by the Kalchuri emperor King Brahmadeo around 1402 AD.
It is an important place of tourist interest for those who seek spiritual enlightenment and is a branch of the mission inaugurated by Swami Vivekananda in the year 1897. The organization works on the principles of ideologies that are based on renunciation and self-emancipation and attempts to achieve the overall well being of the world.
It is a remarkably conceptualized structure designed by the architect Prasanna Kothari that should not be missed out on a tour to Raipur. It is a memorial dedicated to the Indian freedom fighters that consists of a massive auditorium, library, museum and an art gallery.