Throughout India's history, Raipur has served as a premier political and commercial powerhouse for several kingdoms. Today, this newly-established capital of Chattisgarh state features an eclectic mix of ancient and modern architecture that might tempt visitors to stay longer before heading out to the more popular Bastar settlement.
Raipur's answer to London's Big Ben is the Nagar Ghadi, a clock tower that hourly plays local folk music.
Among the city's fine lakes, the biggest is the Budha Talab, which is nearby the Dudhadari Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Ram. Those who want a more serene alternative can head to the Budhapara Lake, an artificial lake built through the orders of the 15th century Kalchuri emperor, Brahmdeo.