Chandrapur: District Which Is Mountainous And Covered With Forests

Chandrapur

A VAST PORTION OF CHANDRAPUR DISTRICT IS MOUNTAINOUS AND COVERED WITH FORESTS. RICH IN WILDLIFE AND MINERAL WEALTH, THE DISTRICT IS PARTICULARLY FAMOUS FOR ITS TEAK WOOD. CHANDRAPUR TOWN. THE DISTRICT HEADQUARTERS' IS LOCATED ON THE BANKS OF THE IRAI RIVER.

PLACES OF INTEREST:

ANCIENT CAVES:

There are nine ancient caves dating back to the eighth century in Chandrapur. It is believed that the Caves were first carved out somewhere during the 8^th century. Buddhist monks later used these caves. A large number of Buddhist sculptures can be seen engraved in these caves.

EXCURSIONS:

BHADRAVATI (26 KM):

Also known as Bhandak, besides being a historical place, this village is famous as a religious place for the Jains. The temples located here are well maintained and have paved marble flooring. Shri Bhaclravati Teerth, a protected memorial, a two storied temple situated in a beautiful garden iS the main attraction of this place. The main feature of this temple is the four- mouth idol, which reflects the idols of Bhagvan Prabha Parshwanath, Prabhu Chandraprabh and Prabhu Adinath.

BHAMRAGARH WILDLIFE SANCTUARY (120 KM SOUTH-WEST):

The sanctuary covers about 105 sq. km Of M621 and vegetation consists of moist deciduous mix forests. Sanctuary is home to a variety of wild animals such as leopard, jungle fowl, wild boar and sloth bear besides barkiiig deer, blue bull, peacock and flying squirrel. Himalkasa Lok Biradari Project is in the sanctuary area. The best time to visit this sanctuary is from February to May.

BALLARPUR (16 KM):

Stuated on the chandrapur-Chennai railway route, Ballalpur now known for its coal mines and paper mills was the capital of the king Khandakya Ballalshah during 1437-62 AD. The land fort that he built here on the eastern bank of the Wardha River is square in shape with walls and bastions. There are still two intact gates set at right angle to each other. There is also a small postern gate on the riverside. The tort walls are still intact, but all the old buildings are in total ruin.

MUL:

Mul is the largest village in Chandrapur Tclisil, which is picturesquely situated near Mul hills and on the banks of Zi River called Huma, which flows on a shallow bod, a mile or two to the east of the village site.

NANGARGOTA:

This cave is located at Nagbhid; it is a picnic spot better known for its carved cave. Carved out of a mountain, the cave does not have any other carving or picture. It is hence puzzling as to why the cave at 350 ft. high would have been carved.

MANIKGARH (35 KM SOUTH-WEST):

Built by tribal Naga kings in the 9^th century, the Manigarh hill fort stands at a height of 507 m above sea level. It was strongly fortified with walls and bastions. There were several tanks and buildings inside the fort. Today, the fort is in complete ruins and has become a sanctuary for wild animals. A pukka road through a dense forest leads very close to the gateway of the fort. An old temple of Vishnu is situated nearby.

TADOBA-ANDHARI TIGER RESERVE (45 KM):

Being the second tiger reserve in the state, it is well known for its clean and unique eco-system, and natural heritage. This reserve was created in 1995, spanning over an area of about 625 sq. km. The Tadoba National Park (formed in 1955), and Andhari Wildlife Sanctuary (created in 1986), together form the reserve. A variety of wildlife are spotted here. Education and awareness pro- grammes are often held here for children from nearby villages and towns. The best time to visit this reserve is from February to May.