Chandrapur, Maharashtra City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city.
Chandrapur, Maharashtra – The Black Gold City
Chandrapur is a historically rich and industrially significant city in the eastern part of Maharashtra, India. It is known for its coal mines, temples, and wildlife, earning the nickname “Black Gold City” due to its vast coal reserves.
🏛 Historical & Cultural Significance
- Chandrapur was the capital of the Gond Kingdom in the medieval period.
- The city’s name is derived from Chanda, another name for the Moon.
- The region has a mix of Gond tribal culture and Maratha influence.
🌆 Tourist Attractions in Chandrapur
- Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve – One of India’s most famous tiger reserves, a paradise for wildlife lovers. 🐅
- Mahakali Temple – A revered Hindu temple attracting thousands of devotees.
- Anchaleshwar Temple – An ancient Shiva temple located on the banks of the Zarpat River.
- Bhamragarh Wildlife Sanctuary – A scenic sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna.
- Junona Lakes & Nature Parks – Ideal for nature walks and birdwatching.
- Chandrapur Fort – A historical fort built by the Gond rulers.
- Erai Dam – A scenic dam providing water to the city and a great picnic spot.
🌍 Economy & Industries
- Chandrapur is known for coal mining, with Western Coalfields Limited (WCL) operating major mines.
- The city has a strong presence in cement industries, with plants like UltraTech Cement & ACC Cement.
- It is a major hub for thermal power plants, supplying electricity to Maharashtra.
🍛 Cuisine & Specialties
- Zunka Bhakri – A traditional Maharashtrian dish.
- Varhadi Chicken – A spicy local-style chicken curry.
- Puran Poli – A sweet flatbread filled with jaggery and lentils.
- Saoji Cuisine – A fiery and flavorful dish famous in the Vidarbha region.
🚆 Transport & Connectivity
- Rail: Chandrapur Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Nagpur, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
- Road: NH-44 and NH-930 pass through Chandrapur, ensuring smooth road connectivity.
- Air: The nearest airport is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur (about 150 km away).
🎓 Education & Development
- Chandrapur has top institutions like Gondwana University, offering higher education in various fields.
- Growth in IT and small-scale industries is boosting the local economy.