Chhattisgarh is more than a mere state; it is still one of the last frontiers for true adventurers looking for a travel gem. Its wild and stunning landscapes along with the thick jungle, tribal villages, ancient temples, picturesque waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries make this region a must on every traveler’s list. If you take long drives and love hidden routes, this is a drive you will cherish for years.
This article will provide you the comprehensive information required to safely travel and have fun in Chhattisgarh. From highways, scenic veiws, important stops to road conditions, vehicle requirements, necessary paperwork, fuel rosa stations, and safety recommendations, we’ve got you all covered.
What are the Road Trip Benefits to Chhattisgarh?
- Flexibility to shift your travel itinerary and visit unconventional locations populated tribal communities, distant shrines, as well as preserve parks.
- Reach places that are not serviced by trains or airlines like Kanger Valley, Chitrakote, or Bhoramdeo.
- Affordable and meets your schedule needs as there are no tight deadlines set.
- Capture waterfall and river views as well as deeply dotted plateaus for breathtaking nature photographs.
The Road Network of Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh has the following key connections:
- National Highways (NHs) – For inter-state travel and city-to-city drives.
- State Highways (SHs) – For deeper regional exploration.
- District and Forest Roads – To reach tribal and eco-tourism zones.
Key Highways:
- NH30 – Connects Raipur, Jagdalpur, Kanker and Andhra Pradesh.
- NH53 – From Maharashtra border to Bilaspur and Odisha.
- NH130 – Connects Raipur, Bilaspur and Ambikapur (north).
- NH43 – Beautiful forested drive to Bastar.
Scenic Road Trip Routes
Raipur to Chitrakote Falls (Jagdalpur)
- Distance: ~290 km
- Time: 6.5 – 7.5 hours
- Route: Raipur → Kanker → Kondagaon → Jagdalpur → Chitrakote
Best For:
Tribal markets, waterfalls, forests drives.
What You’ll See:
- Sal forests near Keshkal
- Tribal villages and weekly haat bazaars
- Kanger Valley National Park
- Chitrakote, aka the “Niagara of India”
Tips
- Start early to avoid driving through forested roads in the dark
- Bring snacks and water for the forest stretches
Bilaspur to Bhoramdeo via Kawardha
- Distance: ~135 km
- Time: 3 – 4 hours
- Route: Bilaspur → Mungeli → Kawardha → Bhoramdeo
Best For:
Temple heritage, rural roads, nature stays
What You’ll See:
- Bhoramdeo Temple (Mini Khajuraho)
- Maikal Hills and forest camps
- Peaceful countryside and tribal culture
Tips
Perfect for single or couple travelers who appreciate history and would like some quiet time.
Remember to book jungle resorts early
3. Raipur to Sirpur
Distance: ~85 km
Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
Route: Raipur → Abhanpur → Mahasamund → Sirpur
Best For:
Driving over the weekends, ancient Buddhist sites
What You’ll See:
Laxman Temple ruins
Countryside scattered with ponds, farming fields, buddhist monasteries and sculptures
Tips:
- Ideal for half-day trips from Raipur
- Early morning and winter months are the best times to visit
4. Durg to Ambikapur (Northern Forest Belt)
Distance: ~400 km
Time: 9–10 hours
Route: Durg → Bilaspur → Korba → Ambikapur
Best For:
Adventure and wildlife enthusiasts
What You’ll See:
- Tribal regions, Hills and forests
- Hasdeo–Arand forest corridor
- With access to Mainpat (Chhattisgarh’s hill station)
Ideal for a 2‒3 day trip.
Don’t forget to stock up on food and fuel in the remote areas of Durg
Coverage:
Driving Conditions: What to Expect
- Driving on NH (national highways) is very good as they are both toll based and smooth.
- State highways are moderate but look out for potholes during monsoon season.
- Rural and forest road conditions are a mix, while they may be scenic they are very narrow.
- Steep, curvy hill roads such as keshkal and Mainpat require an experienced driver.
- Fuel stations are available every 40-50 km on highways, however are limited in forest areas.
Permits and Documents
- Indian drivers license is sufficient
- RC book, a PUC certificate, alongside an insurance copy
- No special permits are required for most nomad zones.
- In wildlife regions, permits are required (available at the gates).
Vehicle Recommendations for Road Trips in Chhattisgarh
| Vehicle Type | Suitable For | Advantages |
| SUVs | Family/group/forest areas | Clearance and security |
| Sedans | City-to-city drives | Fuel-efficient and smooth |
| Bikes (200cc+) | Solo/adventure rides | Scenic and nimble |
| Caravans/Modified Vans | Long stays and group road trips | Comfortable and free |
Available Rentals:
- Zoomcar – Raipur, Bilaspur
- Royal Brothers – Bikes in Jagdalpur and Raipur
- Local travel agents – Outstation drivers
Essential Apps for Road Trips in Chhattisgarh
- Locus Chhattisgarh – Local Points of Interest
- Maps – Offline maps downloader
- Fuel@IOC or HP Pay – Nearby pumps tracker
- IRCTC or RedBus – Traveling backup plans
- Weather India / Accuweather – Alerts for hill or forest roads
- FASTag App – Toll recharges
Where to Book Stays During Road Trips
| Regions | Recommended Stay |
| Jagdalpur | Forest resorts, tribal homestays |
| Sirpur | Archaeology lodge guesthouse |
| Bhoramdeo | Jungle camps and tented stays |
| Ambikapur | Eco camps and budget hotels |
| Kawardha | Heritage stays and Maikal resort |
Always pre-book if traveling during weekends or holidays.
When to Schedule a Road Trip in Chhattisgarh
| About the dates | Condition | Route Suggested Options |
| Festival Dates | Crowded and Vibrant | Bastar Dussehra, tribal melas, etc. |
To ensure safety while driving during the monsoon season, it is advisable to avoid forest drives after 6 PM due to the risk of slippery roads and animal movement.
Driving and Family Safety Tips
- Always start early – avoid driving after sunset, especially in forested areas.
- Spare tyre, air pump, flashlight and other kerosene oil based torch.
- Be on the lookout for animals crossing roads beside wooded areas.
- Do not overtake on bends in hilly regions.
- Use of high-beam should be minimized. Locals might be riding bicycles or driving low-light tractors.
- Long rides require proper hydration and ORS.
- Basic medical supply kit and insect bite repellent.
Locations to Eat and Rest Along the Scenic Routes
| Route | Best Stopover | What to Try |
| Raipur–Jagdalpur | Kanker (Highway dhaba) | Local rice & sabzi |
| Bilaspur–Kawardha | Mungeli | Tea, samosa, puri-bhaji |
| Raipur–Sirpur | Mahasamund | Fresh fruits, local thali |
| Durg–Ambikapur | Korba bypass dhabas | Poha, dal-rice |
You can find clean washrooms and water facilities at most petrol pumps.
Unusual Road Trip Ideas
1. Kondagaon Tribal Loop
Drive:
Jagadalpur to Narayanpur to Kondagaon
See:
Tribal handicrafts, bell metal craftsmen, and bell metal artisans, and weekly haats
Stay:
Eco Lodges in Kondagaon
2. Mainpat Hill Drive
Route:
Ambikapur to Mainpat
See:
Tibetan colony, paragliding locations, and nearby waterfalls
Tip:
Hilly terrain; must have good brakes
3. Barnawapara Wildlife Drive
Route:
Raipur to Patewa to Barnawapara Sanctuary
Highlights:
Jeep safari, wildlife, forest cottages
Essential Packing Checklist for all road trips.
- Your driving license, registration certificate, and Insurance
- Maps and GPS device offline.
- Mobile phone charger and backup battery
- Snacks, electrolytes, and water bottles
- Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen
- Medical supplies for emergencies
- Bluetooth or FM speaker for music
- Contacts for emergency situations, both printed and digital
Drive into the heart of Chhattisgarh.
Driving in the state of Chhattisgarh is more than simply going from one location to another. You can lose yourself in pristine scenery, rural life, and ancient history. For instance, the roads here lead to waterfalls you’ve never seen, temples lost in time, and chatting with tribal artisans under banyan trees.
Plan properly, do not rush, drive safe, and don’t rush. Chhattisgarh tells rewarding stories that are waiting to be shared with gentle, mindful, slow travelers.
