3 Days in Dhamtari for a Tasty Food Trip

Dhamtari might be small, but its food scene packs a punch. I've spent years tasting my way through its streets and homes, and this itinerary covers the best bites—from spicy street snacks to hearty home-style meals. You'll leave with a happy stomach and a deeper love for Chhattisgarh's underrated flavors.

Chhattisgarh, chhattisgarh
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Trying the famous 'chousela' (rice pancakes) at a local breakfast stall
A home-cooked tribal meal with fresh bamboo shoot curry
Evening snacks by the river with crispy 'fara' and sweet 'dehrori'
The smoky taste of 'angithi' grilled chicken at a roadside dhaba

Best Time to Visit

OctoberFebruary

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Day 1

Day 1 in Dhamtari

Kick off your food and culture journey in Dhamtari with its most popular attractions and must-try local flavors.

Activities

Morning at Ganga Maiya Temple

Start your day with a visit to the revered Ganga Maiya Temple, a spiritual hub where locals gather for morning prayers. The temple's serene atmosphere and intricate architecture make it a peaceful spot to soak in the local culture. Don’t miss the small stalls outside selling fresh flowers and prasad.

Ganga Maiya Temple, near Dhamtari Bus Stand6:30 AM - 8:00 AM (best to visit early to avoid crowds)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
  • Try the warm jalebi from the nearby stalls for a sweet morning treat
Breakfast at Local Chai Stall

Head to a bustling chai stall near the temple for an authentic Dhamtari breakfast. Sip on kadak chai (strong tea) paired with poha or samosa. The chatter of locals and the aroma of freshly fried snacks make this a lively experience.

Any busy chai stall near Ganga Maiya Temple8:00 AM - 8:45 AM₹20-₹50 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for 'special chai' if you like it extra spicy
  • Try the local favorite, 'bhajia', if available
Explore Dhamtari Market
Explore Dhamtari Market

Wander through the vibrant Dhamtari Market, where you’ll find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The market is a great place to pick up local spices like 'lal mirch' (red chili) or 'haldi' (turmeric), which are staples in Chhattisgarhi cuisine. Keep an eye out for street food vendors selling crispy pakoras and tangy chaat.

Dhamtari Main Market, near City Center10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (markets are liveliest in the morning)₹100-₹300 (depending on shopping)
Tips:
  • Bargaining is common here, so don’t hesitate to negotiate
  • Try the 'bafauri' (steamed lentil dumplings) from street vendors

Must Try Foods

Poha with jalebi
Bafauri
Chana Samosa

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Dhamtari Railway Station (2 km, 10-minute cab ride)
Nearest Bus Stop
Dhamtari Bus Stand (central location, buses every 15-20 minutes)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws and shared cabs are easily available; Ola/Uber may have limited service

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Dhamtari

A mix of nature, spirituality, and local flavors, diving deeper into Dhamtari's charm with its serene spots and authentic food experiences.

Activities

Morning at Dudhadhari Math
Morning at Dudhadhari Math

Start your day with peace at Dudhadhari Math, a serene ashram known for its spiritual vibe and beautiful architecture. The math is dedicated to Lord Rama and is a great place to soak in some quiet moments. The surrounding gardens add to the tranquility.

Dudhadhari Math, near Dhamtari town center6:30 AM - 9:00 AM (best in the early morning for the peaceful atmosphere)Free (donations welcome)
Tips:
  • Dress modestly as it's a religious site
  • Carry a water bottle as it can get warm later in the day
Breakfast at Ram Laddoo Stall

Head to a popular local stall for Ram Laddoo, a must-try street food in Dhamtari. These spicy, fried lentil balls served with tangy chutneys and fresh onions are a breakfast favorite. The stall is tiny but always buzzing with locals, which is a good sign!

Near Dudhadhari Math, opposite the main road8:30 AM - 10:00 AM (before they run out!)₹20-₹50 per plate
Tips:
  • Try it with extra green chutney for a kick
  • Pair it with a cup of masala chai from the neighboring stall
Explore Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary

Spend the afternoon at Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, about an hour’s drive from Dhamtari. This lesser-known gem is home to leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of birds. The jeep safari is a thrilling way to experience the forest, and the guides share fascinating local insights about the flora and fauna.

Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary, approx. 45 km from Dhamtari2:00 PM - 6:00 PM (safari timings are best in the afternoon)₹500-₹1000 per person (includes jeep safari)
Tips:
  • Wear earthy colors to blend in
  • Carry binoculars if you’re into birdwatching
  • Book the safari in advance during peak season

Must Try Foods

Ram Laddoo
Chana Samosa (local twist with chickpeas)
Petha (sweet pumpkin dessert)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Dhamtari Railway Station (within town, 10-15 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Dhamtari Bus Stand (frequent buses to Barnawapara, 1-hour ride)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs are available but not always on-demand; pre-booking via local operators is recommended for Barnawapara

Day 3

Day 3 in Dhamtari

A relaxed day exploring hidden gems and local flavors, wrapping up your Dhamtari experience with cultural touches and authentic eats.

Activities

Morning at Kharun River

Start your day by the serene Kharun River, a peaceful spot loved by locals for morning walks and quiet moments. The riverbank is dotted with small shrines and offers a glimpse into daily life as villagers come to bathe and wash clothes. Bring a cup of chai from a nearby stall and watch the sunrise over the water.

Kharun River banks near Dhamtari town6:30 AM - 8:00 AMFree (chai costs ₹10-15)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven paths
  • Respect local customs - avoid photography of bathing areas
Breakfast at Bhola Bhajiya

Head to this legendary 40-year-old stall that locals swear by for the crispiest besan bhajiyas in town. Their special green chutney made with coriander and local spices pairs perfectly with the bhajiyas. Try their unique 'dabba chai' - tea served in small aluminum containers that keeps it piping hot.

Near Gandhi Chowk, opposite old post office8:30 AM - 9:15 AM₹50-80 per person
Tips:
  • Go early - they often sell out by 10 AM
  • Ask for 'thoda mirchi wala' if you like spicy chutney
Visit to Tribal Craft Village

Explore a lesser-known Gond tribal village about 15 minutes from town where artisans create beautiful wood carvings and bell metal crafts. You can watch craftsmen at work and buy directly from them. Look for the distinctive Dhokra metal figurines - each piece takes days to make using ancient lost-wax techniques.

Kumharpara village, 6km from Dhamtari10:30 AM - 12:30 PMFree to visit (crafts vary from ₹200-2000)
Tips:
  • Carry small change - many artisans don't have digital payment
  • Ask before photographing artisans at work

Must Try Foods

Petha (sweet pumpkin dessert)
Chousela (rice flour pancakes)
Bafauri (steamed lentil dumplings)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Dhamtari Railway Station (3km, 10 minutes by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Dhamtari Bus Stand (frequent buses to Kumharpara village every 30 minutes)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Auto-rickshaws easily available; Ola/Uber not operational - ask your hotel to arrange cabs

Travel Tips

Start early—many special dishes sell out by mid-morning
Ask for 'less spicy' if you can't handle heat—locals love their chillies
Carry cash; most small eateries don't accept cards
Try eating with your hands—it's how locals enjoy the food best

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