Ready to take a trip to the steel city of India? Yes, we are talking about Bhilai, a city in the Durg district of Chhattisgarh. Most famous for Bhilai Steel Plant (SAIL), the city is now a planned city and has many attractions and things to do. Although Bhilai is mostly known for its massive production of steel, the city also has a lot more other things to offer. From picturesque waterfalls and sanctuaries, temples and churches to several gardens and art galleries, the city of Bhilai has a lot that you can see. Tourism in Bhilai is famous during winters due to the cool climate the place has to offer. You can easily reach the city by bus, train or a flight and can move around via local transportation. There are a lot of things to do and places to visit in the city; our travel guide to Bhilai will give you an idea of the places you must see.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Bhilai is Swami Vivekananda International Airport in Raipur. This airport is located at a distance of 48.9 km from main city, which is 1.5 hours away. Flights fly to major domestic as well as international destinations at a high frequency making it easily the most convenient way to reach Bhilai

By Road:

Since Bhilai is the largest manufacturer of steel in the country, it goes without saying that there are countless roadways leading up to the city. These roads and highways are well maintained also because they are quite close to the capital of the state, Raipur. You can choose to drive up there or you can take state run or luxury buses to reach Bhilai.

By Rail:

The main railhead in the city of Bhilai is the Bhilai Nagar Railway Station located at a distance of 3.2 km from the main part of the city. This is the best way to travel to the city due to the railway station being so close. Several trains that come here directly or even pass by, take passengers to major cities around India.

Getting Around:

Bhilai has great local transportation as it is a very busy city. Tourists can take auto rickshaws or even state run buses to commute around the place. Other than this you can take a cab to have a customized and a more comfortable trip. Hire a car and drive it around yourself to get a better feel of the city.

Summer (April-June):

Summers in Bhilai is the most brutal season in the city with temperatures ranging from 42°C in the daytime to 30°C in the nighttime, making it a tad cooler. This is not the best time to visit Bhilai but if you have to, make sure you carry light cotton clothes for your trip.

Monsoon (July- October):

Monsoons bring in some respite for the Bhilai region with its cold showers. Temperatures in the city during this season range from 32°C in the daytime to 26°C in the night, accompanied by cool showers and lovely winds. This is a great time to visit Bhilai and see several waterfalls in and around the city.

Winter (November-March):

The winter season in Bhilai that stretches from November to March is the best time to visit the city. Temperatures during this time range from 25°C in the daytime to 14°C in the night which is so much colder than the summers. This is a great time to visit and see the attractions in Bhilai and also go sightseeing around the city due to pleasant weather.

Visit Bhilai Steel Plant:

The city of Bhilai is most famous for Bhilai Steel Plant, also known as SAIL. This plant is responsible for manufacturing tons and tons of steel for the entire country and is considered quite important. The plant manufactures steel for the use of Indian Railways and other industries that need steel to construct structures for the use of people.

Take a Stroll at Maitri Bagh:

One of the most famous zoos as well as park in the city is the Maitri Bagh. This beautiful park was established in the olden days as peace treaty between India and Russia. It is now a lovely place to rejuvenate and hang out with family. The park also has a toy train that will take you around.

Buy Souvenirs at Civic Center:

If you are visiting Bhilai, you must visit Civic Center in the city; this place is a shopping spot that is always bustling with people and vehicles due to the variety of products sold. Visit Civic Center to buy some of the most exquisite items made by the tribals of the area nd other steel products that you may not find anywhere but there.

Feel Peaceful and Damdha:

Once you are done touring all the attractions in the city, visit Damdha, a peaceful and serene place where you can rejuvenate your senses. Soak in the beauty of nature while you sit back and relax looking at a magnificent waterfall settle at a water body below. Take a dip or simply have a picnic at this spot to have a unique experience.

Jayanti Stadium:

Suddenly feel the urge to play a game of cricket or hockey? Head over to Jayanti Stadium in the city and round up your family to play a quick game of cricket. The stadium is huge and locals as well as tourists are allowed to play in there and use to ground for athletic purposes. You can also go for morning jogs or walks.

Wherever it is that we take a trip to, food is an important element that has to be taken care of. Every state and city in India has its own taste in food and so does Bhilai. Visit Hari Raj Restaurant in Civic Center to eat some delicious north Indian and Chinese food, they also make fast food like Dosa, Medu wada, snacks and other things. You can also visit the famous Utkal Misthan Bhandar, located in the zonal market to eat some of your favourite Indian deserts like Gulab Jamun, Rabdi and Jalebi. If you are looking for something a little more hip, head over to Ten Downing Street in Treasure Island Mall to taste lovely continental and Chinese cuisine. Other than these places you can visit famous places like Minar Restaurant, Apicure and Vrindavan Restaurant amongst many others. You can also try some of the street food in Civic Center.

Bhilai being the main steel manufacturer in the country has several shops selling a lot of steel goods; starting from steel utensils to stainless steel medical equipment and many more. Other than steel items you can find shops that sell ceramics, local handicrafts made by the tribal community, electronic gadgets and souvenirs from local shops. The most visited place for shopping is Civic Center in Bhilai that has a wide variety of products being sold for tourists you can find the best prices over there. Gangotri and Akash Ganga are the main areas where you can shop for some goods and souvenirs to take back home as a memory. Don’t forget to go to the numerous sweet shops that sell delicious Indian sweets.