Ramgarh Hill
A Hill of History, Legend, and Archaeology: Ramgarh Hill, often referred to as Ramgiri in ancient texts, is a crucial historical and spiritual site near Ambikapur. The hill complex houses the famous Jogimara and Sita Bengra Caves, which are of immense archaeological value, with inscriptions dating b ack to the Mauryan period. Legend strongly links the hill to the epic Ramayana, as it is believed that Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman rested here during their Vanavas (exile). The entire area is steeped in mythology, and the cave names themselves are derived from these legends. Furthermore, the hill is famously associated with the great Sanskrit poet Mahakavi Kalidas, who is believed to have composed his masterpiece, the Meghadutam (Cloud Messenger), here. The hill's natural beauty, with its distinctive 'cap-like' shape, complements its rich heritage, making it a site of pilgrimage, trekking, and historical study. The State Tourism Department actively promotes the site, especially during the annual Ramgarh Mahotsav, celebrating its profound cultural legacy.:
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
3-4 Hours:Place Type:
Historical Site, Pilgrimage, Trekking:Entry Fees:
Nominal Entry Fee: A small entry fee (e. g. , Rs.10 to Rs.25) is collected by the State Archaeology Department or ASI for the entire hill complex, which is necessary for the maintenance and protection of the ancient caves.
Camera/Video Charges: ...Nominal Entry Fee: A small entry fee (e. g. , Rs.10 to Rs.25) is collected by the State Archaeology Department or ASI for the entire hill complex, which is necessary for the maintenance and protection of the ancient caves.
Camera/Video Charges: There may be minor fees for professional cameras or video equipment (e. g. , Rs.50 to Rs.100).
No Fee for Pilgrims: Pilgrims often enter for free or for a reduced fee. The fee is primarily a conservation charge for tourists. :Timing:
Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:
00 PM Daily: Access is strictly controlled to daylight hours for safety on the trekking path and for site preservation.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM) is h...Regular Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:
00 PM Daily: Access is strictly controlled to daylight hours for safety on the trekking path and for site preservation.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning (8:00 AM to 11:00 AM) is highly recommended for trekking comfort and to avoid the midday sun, ensuring enough time to explore both major caves. :Special Events:
Ramgarh Mahotsav: The premier event is the annual Ramgarh Mahotsav in February/March, a state-sponsored cultural festival celebrating the hill's heritage, with performances, art exhibitions, and traditional folk dances.
Maha Shivaratri Fair:...Ramgarh Mahotsav: The premier event is the annual Ramgarh Mahotsav in February/March, a state-sponsored cultural festival celebrating the hill's heritage, with performances, art exhibitions, and traditional folk dances.
Maha Shivaratri Fair: The local Shiv Temple on the hill attracts a major religious gathering during Maha Shivaratri (February/March), with a lively fair at the base. :Best Photo Spots:
The Hat-Shaped Profile: The best photo is a wide shot of the entire hill taken from the distance on the Ambikapur-Bilaspur road, capturing its unique 'cap' or 'hat' shape.
Entrance Steps: The long, winding steps leading up to the caves offer...The Hat-Shaped Profile: The best photo is a wide shot of the entire hill taken from the distance on the Ambikapur-Bilaspur road, capturing its unique 'cap' or 'hat' shape.
Entrance Steps: The long, winding steps leading up to the caves offer an excellent symmetrical and atmospheric shot of the ascent.
Forest Backdrop: Capture the caves framed by the dense, natural forest, highlighting their secluded, ancient setting. :Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Historical Trekking: The climb up the hill is a rewarding, moderate trek through a forested area.
Cave Exploration: Explore the Jogimara and Sita Bengra Caves, focusing on the ancient inscriptions and architectural details.
Pilgrimage to Hanuman Temple: Offer prayers at the small, modern temple located near the cave complex.
Photography of Sita Kund: Capture the natural rock-cut water cistern and its perpetually clear water.
Panoramic Views: Take photos of the extensive views of the Surguja plains and forest cover from the various viewpoints along the hill.
Bird Watching: The forested hill is a good spot for spotting local birdlife.
Guided Learning: Hire a guide ...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Kalidas Association: The hill is globally famous as the location, Ramgiri, where Mahakavi Kalidas wrote his Meghadutam. This literary connection elevates its status far beyond a local attraction.
Ramayana Legend and Ancient History: It is f...Kalidas Association: The hill is globally famous as the location, Ramgiri, where Mahakavi Kalidas wrote his Meghadutam. This literary connection elevates its status far beyond a local attraction.
Ramayana Legend and Ancient History: It is famous as the legendary resting place of Lord Ram and for housing the oldest theatre (Sita Bengra) and ancient art (Jogimara) in India, a unique confluence of mythology and archaeology. : -
Architecture:
Natural Caves and Early Rock-Cut Structures: The primary architecture of the Ramgarh Hill complex is the natural rock-cut caves, which were minimally modified by early inhabitants. This includes the famous Sita Bengra Cave (the ancient theatre) and Jogimara Caves (famous fo...Natural Caves and Early Rock-Cut Structures: The primary architecture of the Ramgarh Hill complex is the natural rock-cut caves, which were minimally modified by early inhabitants. This includes the famous Sita Bengra Cave (the ancient theatre) and Jogimara Caves (famous for Mauryan frescoes).
Dimension and Overall Complex: The hill itself covers a large area, with a gradual ascent to the main cave complex, which is located at a significant altitude (approx. 300 meters from the base). The architecture emphasizes functionality and legend, utilizing the existing rock formations. Key structures include a small modern Hanuman Temple and a series of steps and pathways constructed for visitor access. The hill is a natural geological marvel, shaped like a 'hat' or chhatri. The layout is designed to allow pilgrimage and historical exploration, connecting the main caves and the Sita Kund (water tank) via a paved path. : -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Maa Mahamaya Airport, Ambikapur (approx. 70 KMs). A pre-booked cab is the most reliable way to complete the approximately 2-hour journey to the base of the hill.
By Train: Nearest railway station is Ambikapur Rai... -
Near Tourist Places:
Jogimara Caves (0 KMs) Sita Bengra Cave (0 KMs) Sita Kund (0 KMs) Hanuman Temple (on hill, 1 KM) Sitapur Town (15 KMs) Thinthini Patthar (15 KMs) Ambikapur City (50 KMs) Luchki Ghat Sona View Point (30 KMs) Kudargarh Devi Temple (80 KMs) Mainpat (90 KMs)
Tourism Tips
-
Health & Safety: Wear appropriate trekking gear and carry at least 2 liters of water per person for the climb. Stick to the designated paths.
Packing: Bring a torch (flashlight) for the dark interiors of the caves and a good camera for the ...
Reviews
Information about New and Updated Locations(484+) of Chhattisgarh Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Tamda Ghumar WaterfallTeerathgarh TempleTirathgarh WaterfallRaikera BoatingRajimSamoda DamShivrinarayanSirpur Forest RangeSwastik ViharaJharalava Waterfall JhirkaKirandul Iron Ore MinesKripar WaterfallMama-Bhanja TempleArang Dhuskund WaterfallKodar IslandPurkhauti MuktanganMandwa WaterfallMore PlacesNote:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Deogarh
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Dipadih
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Ghunghutta Dam
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jail Talab
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jalpari Waterfall
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jogimara and Sitabengra Caves
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jogimara Caves
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kailash Caves
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Khokhaniya Picnic Spot
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kudargarh
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities