A Serene Sojourn to Golden Island Buka Korba, Chhattisgarh

As the morning sun cast its gentle light across the horizon, our journey from Ambikapur to Raipur commenced on 27 September 2023, unfolding an unexpected adventure at the roadside, without any additional expenditure,  towards the Golden Island Buka Korba - a hidden gem nestled within Chhattisgarh.

Positioned as a fragment of the Bango Dam, Buka Jalvihar Korba (or simply Buka Water Park) envelops itself within the tranquil arms of the Chorani River. It’s an evergreen lake, not only offering a peaceful retreat but also beckoning visitors from afar to plunge into its water activities and bask in its picturesque vistas.

Intending a brief 15-minute stopover, my companion, Prof. Bashir Ahmad from Kashmir, our faculty guide Mr. Divyaditya Sinha, and I found ourselves entrapped in the enchanting embrace of the locale. The sun raising beneath the serene waters cast a golden hue across the landscape, prompting us to linger and absorb the mesmerizing sunset.

Buka is not merely a nature spot but also a bustling hub of activities. Visitors frequently navigate towards it for camping, horse riding, and boating, enveloped by the tranquillity and untouched beauty of the small islands scattered across the area. Thus, it has affectionately earned the name 'Buka Island.' Gradually making a mark as a burgeoning picnic spot, this is where nature and fun converge, offering an escape from the routine.

The charm doesn’t end with natural beauty alone. Remarkably affordable, Buka Lake welcomes visitors to partake in boating, horse riding, and other water tours without burning a hole in their pockets. Adjacent to these adventures, a meticulously cultivated garden beckons, offering a visual feast of florals and greenery, thereby amplifying its appeal as a must-visit destination during festive occasions like New Year and leisurely holiday periods.

Despite its budding popularity, the journey towards Buka remains as serene as the destination itself. Our departure point, Ambikapur, stands 100 km away from Buka Lake, whilst our ultimate destination, Raipur, awaits at a distance of 230 km. The peaceful roads, interspersed with lush greenery, offer a therapeutic drive, making the journey not just about the destination, but an experience.

The bucolic beauty and vibrant activities make Buka Jalvihar a burgeoning destination, not just for the local populace but also for explorers seeking a blend of peace and adventure. An effortless amalgamation of nature and festivity, Buka offers more than just a break during a journey; it presents an experience that lingers in your memories, softly beckoning for another visit.

And so, as we resumed our journey towards Raipur, our hearts lingered back in Buka, silently promising a return to its serene embrace. Our brief visit was not merely a pause but became a cherished chapter in our travel tales, binding us in its gentle, yet enchanting allure.