Kanker is situated in the southern region of the state Chhattisgarh. Previously Kanker was a part of old Bastar district. But in 1999 Kanker got it's identity as an independent district and an important tourist destination. Now it is surrounded by four districts of Chhattisgarh state, named Bastar, Dhamtari, Durg and Rajnandgaon. The beauty of the place is captivating with white colored rivers washing off its serene banks and lovely hills kissing its landscape.

Best For:

·        Rivers

·        Scenic Beauty

·        Water Falls

·        Mountains and Hills

The History of Kanker dates back to the Stone age era. In the Ramayana and Mahabharata it was mentioned that there was a dense forest area named Dandakaranya and the Kanker state belonged to Dandakaranya. According to myths, Kanker was the land of monks. A lot of Rishis (monks) named Kank, Lomesh, Shringi, Angira lived here. In the sixth century before Christ the region was affected by Buddhism. The ancient history of Kanker tells that it  always remained an independent state.

In 106 AD Kanker state was under the Satvahan dynasty and the king was Satkarni. This fact is also descripted by chinese visitor Whensaung. After Satvahans the state was under control of Nags, Vakataks and Gupt dynasties.

After the downfall of Nal kings the state was won by famous king Pulkeshin II of Chalukya dynasty, he also won the some part of Orrisa. During his kingdom a lot of temples were constructed in kanker state. After Pulkeshin, Vikramaditya, Vinayaditya, Vijayaditya, Vikramaditya II, Kirtiverman II were the other kings of Chalukyas They Ruled the state up to 788 AD after Chalukyas the state was ruled by different dynasties like Nals, Nags, Kalchuris etc up to 1100 AD.

Kanker has a pleasant weather. The hottest month is May and the coolest is December. The best time to visit it is anytime between October and February.

The Indian Rupee (INR) is the acceptable form of currency here.

A tourist visa applicable for the entire country (India) is sufficient.

It is recommended to take a flight till Nagpur and then hire a vehicle to explore the nearby areas in the state of Chattisgarh

Domestic Flights
Bilaspur is the closest airport.

International Flight:

Road Travel
Kanker is situated on the National Highway number 43. It lies between the two well developed cities of Chhattisgarh named Raipur (Capital of Chhattisgarh) and Jagdalpur. Kanker is 140 kilometers away from Raipur and 160 Kilometers from Jagadalpur. A lot of Roadways and Private buses as well as taxis are available on this national Highway.

Train Travel
Since this is a newly formed state, infrastructure is still being developed. There are no major railway stations here except for Raipur that is connected to the Delhi- Howrah Line.

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·        The Gadiya Mountain: This was first founded at the time of Kandra dynasty. When the Kandra king Dharma Dev won  Kanker, he declared his capital on Gadhiya Mountain which is a natural form of a fort. On the mountain there is a tank which never dries and filled with water throughout the year. One part of this tank is called as Sonai and the other part of this tank is called as Rupai. Actually Sonai and Rupai were the two daughters of Kandra king Dharma Dev. On the southern part of this tank there is a cave named Churi pagar. The entry of this cave is very much narrow. On the bottom of Gadhiya mountain the Doodh (Milk) or the Mahanadi River flows.

·        Malanjhkudum Water fall: Towards South direction and 15 kilometers away form Kanker, there is a small mountain. On this mountain there is a spot named Neele Gondi from where the doodh River takes its shape. The slope of this water fall is like a leader. The waves of this water fall is very attractive and challenging. This water fall is very popular with students, teachers, leaders and artists and officers. This is an ideal place for picnic.

·        Charre-Marre Water fall: This is another beautiful water fall situated in Kanker district. This water fall is situated 17 kilometers away from Antagarh a block of kanker district. There is a place named Charre-Marre on the way from Antagarh to Aamabera.

·        Shivani Temple: This temple is situated in Kanker city. This temple is called Shivani Maa temple. The statue of goddess is excellent. According to a myth this Goddess is a combination of two Goddess name Kali Maa and Durga Maa. The vertically half part of goddess Kali and the remaining half part is of goddess Durga. This type of statue can only be found in Kolkata.

 Shopping:
One can find lot of shops in the local areas and streets of Kanker. The best thing to look out for is hand made shawls and other handicrafts.

One can enjoy the Central Indian cuisine at various local stalls and restaurants. Lot of restaurants and food joints can be found all across the city.

Where To Stay:

One can stay in the state owned guesthouses, restaurants and local accommodations.

·       Raipur District: It is the capital city of the state of Chattisgarh, India. The district is rich in mineral resources. There are many     wild life sanctuaries and sight seeing places worth visiting.

        Durg: The district is home to two important religious sites. The principal Hindu temple, the Ganga Maiya, is at Jhalmala. The Jain shrine of Uwasaggaharam Parshwa Teerth at Nagpura attracts pilgrims from all over India.

Recommended Circuit:

Nagpur – Bilaspur – Raipur - Kanker

Kanker is a fascinating place. It is a delight for trekkers, historians and even sociologists. The simplicity of the people combined with natural grace and beauty, makes it a very peaceful holiday destination.