Mainpat is a quaint hill station in Chhattisgarh that is located in the Surguja district. Often referred to as Shimla of Chhattisgarh or even Mini Tibet, this small village has been inhabited by a large number of Tibetan refugees. Adding to the cultural diversity, travelers here get a chance to experience a unique blend along with the virgin beauty of the landscape that has remained undisturbed and unspoilt due to less tourist influx. Offering a breathtaking view of gorgeous valleys, enchanting waterfalls and gurgling rivulets, Mainpat is a must visit place for people who need a heavy dose of nature’s bliss.
Best Time to Visit Mainpat
The monsoon and winter months are the best time to visit Mainpat as the temperature remains comfortable. So, you can plan your Mainpat Trip any time between July to August and October to December which are considered as the best months to discover this less explored region of Chhattisgarh.
History & Culture of Mainpat
In the years 1962 to 1963, about 1400 Tibetans migrated to India and 3000 acres of land in Mainpat hill was allotted to these refugees by the Government of India. Since then, this erstwhile home to Yadavs and tribal communities such as Manjhi, Manjhwar, Kanwar, Pahadi Korwa became an abode for these immigrants. Today Mainpat boasts a large population of Buddhists and features many significant monasteries that are visited by a large number of Buddhists from all over the world.
Places to Visit in Mainpat
Beautiful waterfalls, panoramic views, and lush meadows, all this sums up Mainpat as an adventurous place and one of the best places to visit in Chhattisgarh. Here's the list of the best tourist places to visit in Mainpat.
1. Dhakpo Shedupling Monastery
Owing to a large Buddhist population, Mainpat has some of the famous monasteries and Dhakpo Shedupling is on the top of the list. This picturesque monastery is where many Tibetans take a vow and also interact with the Lamas as they are approachable here.
2. Bisar Pani
Also known as Ulta Pani, Bisar Paan is the must visit place that is 5 kilometers away from Mainpur. It is a gravity defying hill where water seems to flow uphill due to the optical illusion. Many travelers visit this popular tourist spot of Mainpur to watch this upstream water flow.
2. Tiger Point Waterfall
This cascading waterfall can be sited at the center of Mahadev Muda River and is bordered with lush green vegetation. Falling from a height of 60 m, one can enjoy the magnificent view of this waterfall from the decks built by the government. It is believed that tigers resided in this region many years ago and therefore, it is known as the Tiger Point.
3. Jaljali
Located at a distance of 10 km from the village, Jaljali is one of the unique places to visit in Mainpat as it has an unusual land surface that has a bounciness like trampoline. Often referred to as bouncing land, this place is totally worth visiting if you wish to experience the wonders of nature.
4. Machali (Fish) Point
Situated in the deep hilly range, this place which is about 17 kms away from mainpat offers a scenic view alongside a river called Machali Nadi. This point is also known as the Fish Point owing to the number of fish species present in the river that falls from the height of 80 m.
5. Parpatiya Sunset Point
As the name suggests, it’s a spot where travelers can catch the most stunning view of sunset. This tourist spot is about 30 km away from the main village where nature is at its best. From gorgeous sunsets to panoramic views of hills, it's a perfect place for nature photography.
6. Daroga Jharna
Located at a distance of 6 km from Mainpat bus stand, Daroga Jharna is yet another fascinating tourist spot that is totally worth discovering. It is yet another beautiful waterfall but has a unique charm making it the perfect setting for a day picnic.
Located in Surguja district, Mainpat is a popular hill station in Chhattisgarh that has good connectivity via road. However, other modes of transport such as flights and railways are not available directly. Check out the ways of quickly reaching Mainpur without much hassle.
- Nearest Major City. Raipur
- Nearest Airbase. Swami Vivekananda International Airport, Raipur
- Nearest Railhead. Ambikapur Railway Station
- Distance from Raipur. 380 km
By Air
There is no regular flight for Mainpat from any other major cities of India. Swami Vivekananda International Airport, aka Raipur Airport is the main airport at Ramchandi in Atal Nagar, Chattisgarh which is well-connected to major cities of India. The airport enjoys regular flights from renowned airline services such as Air India, Vistara, Jet Airways, IndiGo. From Raipur airport, you can opt for a bus or taxi to reach Mainpat.
Also, there are several other airports that are close to Mainpat. Some of these are mentioned below that can also be considered if you wish to fly anywhere close to Mainpat.
- Distance from Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi. 132km
- Distance from Gaya Airport. 167 km
- Distance from Sonari Airport, Jamshedpur. 182
- Distance from Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, Uttar Pradesh. 373 km
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available to Ranchi
By Rail
Being at high altitude, there is no railway station in Mainpur. However, Ambikapur Railway Station and Bishrampur Railway Station, both serve Ambikapur city in Surguja District of Chhattisgarh. If you want to travel from any other cities in India, then, you have to deboard at Raipur Railway station. It is connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru of India.
- Distance from Ambikapur Railway Station. 56 km
- Distance from Bishrampur Railway Station. 78 km
By Road
The Mainpat village is well-connected within the region of Chhattisgarh. There are many government and private bus services available in the region.
- Distance from Ambikapur. 68.4 km via Mainpat Rd and NH43
- Distance from Raigarh. 164.9 km via Ambikapur
- Distance from Raipur. 361.7 km via NH130
- Distance from Kolkata. 715.4 km via NH19
- Distance from Delhi. 1,133.9 km via NH19
- Distance from Mumbai. 1,527.9 km via NH 03
- Distance from Bengaluru. 2,268.4 km via NH 44
By Rail
The closest railway stations are Ambikapur Railway Station and Bishrampur Railway Station to Mainpat. Both railway stations serve Ambikapur city in Surguja District of Chhattisgarh. If you want to travel from any other cities in India, then, you have to deboard at Raipur Railway station. It is connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru of India.
- Distance from Ambikapur Railway Station. 58km
- Distance from Bishrampur Railway Station. 77.8 km
FAQs Related to Mainpat
Q. Why is Mainpat famous?
Mainpat is famous for its virgin beauty, waterfalls and vibrant Tibetan culture.
Q. Why is Mianpat called Shimla of Chhattisgarh?
Mainpat is known as the 'Shimla' of Chhattisgarh because of its natural beauty and hilly essence that is similar to Shimla.
Q. What are the best things to do in Mainpat?
1. Parasailing
Mainpat is also known for thrilling activities like parasailing. There are Parasailing activities as well that are performed with the experts for beginners as well as experienced people.
2. Trekking
Trekking on the hills is very interesting while exploring beautiful landscapes, waterfalls, hills, etc.
3. Cultural Exchange with Tibetan Refugees
You can interact with Tibetan refugees here and enjoy their beautiful culture, festivals and cuisines.
Travel Tip. There are no sign boards deployed for tourist spots in Mainpat and also the internet connectivity is bleak due to high altitude which is why it is advisable to ask locals for directions.
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