The Kanker District is situated in the southern region of the state Chhattisgarh. Previously Kanker was a part of old Bastar district. But in 1998 Kanker got its identity as an independent district. The History of Kanker dates back from Stone era. With reference of Ramayana and Mahabharata there was a dense forest area named Dandakaranya and the Kanker state belonged to Dandakaranya. The ancient history of Kanker tells that it remained always independent state. According to myths the Kanker was the land of monks. A brave person Singh raj won the Kanker state and kept the foundation of Som dynasty, He ruled the state from 1125 to 1140. Small hilly pockets are seen throughout the area. Five rivers run through it. Agriculture is the major occupation of the natives. Non-timber forest produce is another main source of income for the people. It is a land of unsurpassed natural beauty.
The Gadiya Mountain came into light at the time of Kandra dynasty. When the Kandra king Dharma Dev won the Kanker. Gadiya Mountain is known by the name of Kila Dongri which is the highest mountain in Kanker. Gadiya Mountain was declared as its capital by Dharma Dev, which is a natural form of a fort. On the mountain there is a tank which never dries and fulfill by water throughout the year. It is one of the superb places to visit.
A famous picnic spot in the region Kanker, Malanjhkudum Falls is located on the Doodh River. The river produces three water falls, 10 meter, 15 meter and 9 meters are the height of these waterfalls. The slope of this water fall is like a leader. The waves of this water fall are very attractive and challenging. The spot is very popular among tourists.
This place is very renowned for its royal palace including the tribal villages and the deep forests. Built in the first quarter of the last century, and rebuilt and set in a garden in 1937, Kanker Palace was earlier known as Radhanivas Bagicha. The residence of the British Agent during the Raj, the possession of the palace is now with the esteemed royal family that belonged to the 12th century. Kanker Palace is located mid-way between Raipur and Jagdalpur. Now some section of the palace is being converted into a hotel. With its Colonial style architecture, the Palace is stately, elegant, and has an old world charm and ambience.
Population: 31385
Average Climate:
| Summer: | 28° C – 45° C |
| Winter: | 15° C – 28° C |
Best time to visit: October to March