Chandrapur

Chandrapur District of Maharashtra is located between the Wainganga and Wardha river basins. Situated on the banks of the Irai River, Chandrapur is also known as the ‘City of Black Gold’ because of its numerous coal mines. It draws a fair number of tourists from all over the country due to its proximity to the wildlife park and its many ancient temples.

The history of the city extends to the mythological age of Dwapar Yuga during which a king called Raja Chandrahasa named it Indupur. Later the name of the town was changed to Chandrapur or the \'City of the Moon\'.  

The name of a Gond king, Khandkya Shah, is attributed to the development of the city in the later medieval ages. During the Bristish rule, the name of the town was changed to Chanda and it remained so until its name was changed to Chandrapur in the 1960s. However, the name Chanda is still used to refer to the city in the local language.  

After the last descendant of the royal family died without an heir in the mid-19th century, the kingdom was considered to have lapsed to the British Crown. Since then, the extent and boundaries of the district have undergone several changes. Today Chandrapur has witnessed marked growth.

The half dozen rivers flowing through the town have been the mainstay of its economy. More than ten dams have been constructed in and around Chandrapur in the last few decades to meet its irrigation and power needs.

Dances such as the Adivasi, Gusadi, Gondal, Tamasha and Keertam are all popular forms of folk arts in Chandrapur. The town has seen rapid industrialisation and commercial development in recent times.

The temples and forts are the main tourist attractions of Chandrapur. The town is also an important camping ground for those interested in wildlife excursions in the adjacent Tiger Park.

Chandrapur is well connected by road and rail. The best time to visit Chandrapur is from August to January, after which the weather becomes hot and dry. The monsoon begins from June.