Chitrakote Falls!
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Population
Very small
Best Time
July to March
Time Needed
1-2 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
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Chitrakote Falls is a majestic waterfall located near Jagdalpur in Chhattisgarh, often called the "Niagara Falls of India" due to its wide horseshoe shape and powerful cascade. The falls are formed by the Indravati River plunging from a height of about 95 feet. It's a popular tourist destination, especially during and after the monsoon season when the river is in full flow.
Visiting Chitrakote Falls offers breathtaking natural beauty and a chance to experience the raw power of nature. The falls are most spectacular during the monsoon season, but accessibility can be challenging due to heavy rainfall. The remote location also means limited infrastructure and fewer accommodation options compared to more popular tourist destinations.
A trip to Chitrakote Falls typically requires at least one full day, including travel time from Jagdalpur. Consider staying overnight in a nearby village or Jagdalpur to fully appreciate the falls and surrounding area. Hiring a taxi or private car is the most convenient way to reach the falls.
July to March
20-35 degrees C
The weather is pleasant, with clear skies from October to March. July to September sees heavy monsoon rains, making the falls even more spectacular.
Why Visit:
The post-monsoon season (October to March) offers the best combination of pleasant weather and impressive waterfall volume. The lush greenery surrounding the falls is also at its peak during this time. You can enjoy boat rides and other activities with ease.
Tip: October to March is peak season, so expect larger crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
April to June
30-45 degrees C
The weather is hot and dry, with temperatures soaring during the day.
Why Visit:
The waterfall volume is significantly reduced during these months, but the surrounding landscape is still scenic. You might find fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the peak season, but the heat can be uncomfortable.
Tip: Carry plenty of water and sun protection if visiting during this time. Outdoor activities may be limited due to the heat.
June to September
25-30 degrees C
Heavy monsoon rains lash the region, leading to high humidity and potential flooding.
Why Avoid:
While the falls are at their fullest and most dramatic during the monsoon, accessibility can be a major issue. Roads may be washed out, and boat rides are often suspended for safety reasons.
Note: Unless you are specifically seeking the monsoon experience and are prepared for potential disruptions, it's best to avoid visiting during this period.
Chitrakote Falls Viewpoint
The main viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Chitrakote Falls as they plunge into the pool below. The horseshoe shape of the falls is most apparent from this vantage point.
You can spend time admiring the cascading water, taking photos, and simply soaking in the natural beauty. The roar of the falls is quite impressive, especially during the monsoon season.
The area around the viewpoint is well-maintained, with seating areas and snack stalls. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Best Time: Any time of day, but sunrise and sunset offer stunning views.
Getting There: Accessible by road; taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available from Jagdalpur.
Honest Take: Worth visiting for the spectacular views, even if it's crowded.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit during the golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the best lighting and photo opportunities.
Boat Ride to the Base of the Falls
A boat ride takes you closer to the base of the falls, allowing you to experience the power of the cascading water up close. It's a thrilling and refreshing experience.
You'll get sprayed by the mist from the falls, so be prepared to get wet. The boat ride offers unique perspectives of the falls and the surrounding cliffs.
Boat rides are often suspended during the monsoon season due to safety concerns. Check availability before heading down.
Hours: 9:00-17:00 daily (subject to weather conditions)
Best Time: During the day when the weather is clear.
Getting There: Boats depart from the base of the falls, accessible via steps from the viewpoint.
Honest Take: Worth it for the close-up experience of the falls, but be prepared to get wet.
💡 Insider Tip:
Bring a waterproof bag to protect your phone and camera.
Tirathgarh Falls
Tirathgarh Falls is another beautiful waterfall near Jagdalpur, known for its cascading tiers and serene surroundings. It is located inside the Kanger Valley National Park.
The falls are formed by the Mugbahar River, which plunges down a series of rocky steps. You can climb down to the base of the falls for a closer look.
The journey to Tirathgarh Falls is scenic, passing through lush forests and tribal villages. The area is relatively less crowded than Chitrakote Falls.
Hours: 8:00-18:00
Best Time: Post-monsoon season
Getting There: Located about 35 km from Jagdalpur. Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Honest Take: A good alternative to Chitrakote, especially if you want a quieter experience.
💡 Insider Tip:
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing down to the base of the falls.
Danteshwari Temple
Danteshwari Temple is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, the family deity of the Bastar kings. It is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas.
The temple is known for its unique tribal architecture and religious significance. It attracts devotees from all over India, especially during the Dussehra festival.
Photography is generally not allowed inside the main temple complex. Dress modestly when visiting the temple.
Hours: 6:00-12:00, 15:00-21:00
Best Time: Morning or evening
Getting There: Located in Dantewada, about 75 km from Jagdalpur. Hire a taxi or take a bus.
Honest Take: Worth visiting for its religious and cultural significance, especially if you're interested in local traditions.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit during the Aarti ceremony for a more immersive experience.
Anthropological Museum, Jagdalpur
The Anthropological Museum showcases the rich tribal culture and heritage of the Bastar region. It features exhibits on tribal art, crafts, costumes, and traditions.
You can learn about the various tribes of Bastar, their unique customs, and their way of life. The museum provides valuable insights into the region's cultural diversity.
The museum is a good place to start your exploration of Bastar, providing context for the region's history and culture.
Hours: 10:00-17:00
Closed: Sundays and Public Holidays
Best Time: Any time of day
Getting There: Located in Jagdalpur city center.
Honest Take: A must-visit for anyone interested in the tribal culture of Bastar.
💡 Insider Tip:
Allow ample time to explore the exhibits and read the informative displays.
Kanger Valley National Park
Kanger Valley National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, deer, and various bird species. It is known for its limestone caves and dense forests.
You can explore the park through jeep safaris, trekking, and cave explorations. The park offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of Bastar.
Carry insect repellent and wear appropriate clothing for trekking. Hiring a local guide is recommended for a more informative experience.
Hours: 8:00-17:00
Best Time: October to March
Getting There: Located about 27 km from Jagdalpur. Hire a taxi or jeep.
Honest Take: Worth visiting for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
💡 Insider Tip:
Visit the Kailash and Kutumsar caves inside the park.
Kotumsar Cave
Kotumsar Cave is a fascinating limestone cave known for its unique stalactite and stalagmite formations. It is one of the longest caves in India.
Exploring the cave requires crawling and maneuvering through narrow passages. The cave is home to blind fish and other cave-dwelling creatures.
Entry to the cave is restricted, and a permit from the park authorities is required. A local guide is mandatory for safety reasons.
Hours: 9:00-16:00 (limited entry slots)
Closed: Monsoon season (June-September)
Best Time: October to May
Getting There: Located within Kanger Valley National Park; requires a permit and guide.
Honest Take: An adventurous experience for those interested in geology and cave exploration.
💡 Insider Tip:
Wear old clothes and comfortable shoes as you will be crawling through muddy passages.
Capture the stunning beauty of Chitrakote Falls from various angles and perspectives. Experiment with different lighting conditions and compositions.
Photograph the cascading water, the surrounding landscape, and the local wildlife. Capture the essence of this natural wonder.
Best for: Photography enthusiasts, nature lovers
Good to know: Bring a tripod for stable shots and a waterproof bag to protect your equipment.
Visit a nearby tribal village to experience the authentic culture and traditions of the Bastar region. Interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.
Participate in their daily activities, learn about their crafts, and enjoy their traditional music and dance.
Best for: Cultural travelers, those interested in tribal life
Good to know: Respect the local customs and traditions. Ask for permission before taking photos.
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Kanger Valley National Park through a guided trek. Discover hidden waterfalls, caves, and viewpoints.
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the forest and spot various wildlife species. Experience the tranquility of nature.
Best for: Adventure seekers, nature lovers
Good to know: Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Carry plenty of water and snacks. Be aware of leeches and other insects.
Participate in a local festival to witness the vibrant culture and traditions of Bastar. Experience the colorful processions, music, dance, and rituals.
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and interact with the local community. Gain a deeper understanding of the region's cultural heritage.
Best for: Cultural enthusiasts, those seeking authentic experiences
Good to know: Dussera in Bastar is world famous. Plan well in advance as accommodation gets booked early.
75 days (main events during the last 10 days) | Free | Jagdalpur and surrounding villages
Bastar Dussehra is a unique and elaborate festival celebrated in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. It is distinct from the Dussehra celebrations in other parts of India, focusing on the worship of local deities.
The festival involves the participation of various tribal communities and features elaborate processions, chariot pulling, and traditional rituals. The atmosphere is vibrant and festive, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage.
Tip: Plan your visit well in advance, as accommodation gets booked quickly. Be prepared for large crowds and potential disruptions.
2-3 hours | Free (donations appreciated) | Muria tribal villages
A Ghotul is a traditional youth dormitory found in Muria tribal villages. It serves as a center for social and cultural education for young people.
Visiting a Ghotul provides insights into the unique customs and traditions of the Muria tribe. You can learn about their social structure, their art, and their way of life.
Tip: Obtain permission from the village elders before visiting a Ghotul. Respect the local customs and traditions.
1-2 hours | ₹500-1000 per performance (for a group) | Arranged through local tour operators or hotels
Witness a traditional tribal dance performance showcasing the vibrant culture and artistry of the Bastar region. Different tribes have their own unique dance forms and costumes.
The dances often depict stories from mythology or aspects of daily life. The performances are accompanied by traditional music and instruments.
Tip: Book the performance in advance to ensure availability. Negotiate the price with the performers.
2-3 hours | Free (cost of purchases) | Weekly markets in different villages
Visit a local market to experience the bustling atmosphere and authentic culture of the Bastar region. You can find a variety of local produce, handicrafts, and tribal artifacts.
Interact with the local vendors and learn about their products. Bargaining is common in these markets.
Tip: Be prepared for crowds and limited facilities. Carry small denominations of cash.
3-4 hours | ₹1000-2000 (including materials) | Dhokra art workshops in Kondagaon or Jagdalpur
Dhokra art is a traditional metal casting technique practiced in the Bastar region. It involves creating intricate figurines and artifacts using the lost-wax casting method.
Participate in a Dhokra art workshop and learn the basics of this ancient craft. Create your own souvenir to take home.
Tip: Book the workshop in advance to ensure availability. Wear old clothes as the process can be messy.
3-4 hours | Free (excluding purchases) | Villages near Jagdalpur known for bell metal craft
Bastar is known for its bell metal craft, where artisans create beautiful objects using a combination of metals. This craft has been passed down through generations.
You can visit a village specializing in this craft, observe the artisans at work, and purchase unique souvenirs directly from them, supporting the local economy.
Tip: Bargaining is acceptable but be respectful of the artisan's skill and effort. Be prepared to travel on bumpy roads to reach the villages.
Chapda
Red ant chutney (try at local tribal markets)
Bastar Chicken
Chicken cooked with local herbs and spices (try at local restaurants)
Mahua Ladoo
Sweet made from Mahua flowers (try at local sweet shops)
Petha
A type of pumpkin candy (try at local sweet shops)
Indian
📍 Jagdalpur
A popular restaurant serving delicious Indian cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly. A good place to try local specialties.
₹400-600 for two
Indian and Chinese
📍 Jagdalpur
Serves both Indian and Chinese dishes. It is known for its good service and reasonable prices. Offers a variety of options for different tastes.
₹300-500 for two
South Indian
📍 Jagdalpur
A simple restaurant serving South Indian delicacies. It is a good option for a quick and affordable meal. Known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.
₹200-300 for two
Local Tribal Cuisine
📍 Local markets
Experience authentic Bastar cuisine at a local food stall. Try the unique flavors and ingredients of the region. A must-try for adventurous foodies.
₹100-200 per person
💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person
⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene. Choose stalls with high turnover. Try local snacks like 'bhajia' and 'samosa'.
Staying in the city center offers easy access to restaurants, shops, and transportation. It's a convenient base for exploring the region but can be noisy.
Best For: First-time visitors, those seeking convenience
Staying near the falls allows you to wake up to stunning views. It's a more tranquil setting but offers fewer amenities.
Best For: Nature lovers, those seeking tranquility
₹800-1200/night
📍 Jagdalpur
A basic hotel offering clean rooms and essential amenities. Good for budget travelers seeking a comfortable stay.
₹800-1200/night
📍 Near Jagdalpur Bus Stand
A simple guesthouse with decent rooms. Conveniently located near the bus stand for easy access to transportation.
₹700-1000/night
₹2000-3000/night
📍 Jagdalpur
A comfortable hotel with well-appointed rooms and modern amenities. Offers a restaurant and other facilities for a pleasant stay.
₹2000-3000/night
📍 Near Chitrakote Falls
Offers comfortable rooms and good service. Located closer to the falls, providing easy access to the attraction.
₹1800-2500/night
₹4000+/night
📍 Jagdalpur
A luxury resort offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and other upscale amenities. Provides a comfortable and relaxing stay.
₹4000+/night
📍 Near Kanger Valley National Park
Located close to nature, it offers well-equipped rooms and a serene environment. Ideal for those looking to explore the national park.
₹3500+/night
Airport: Jagdalpur Airport (JGB), 40km from falls
Jagdalpur (JDB)
Connects to Visakhapatnam and Kirandul. It is located in the heart of the city.
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
Note: Trains more comfortable for long distances.
💰 ₹20-30 per km
Best for: Sightseeing, reaching remote areas
Negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Hire a taxi for the entire day for convenience.
💰 ₹10-20 per trip
Best for: Budget travelers, short distances
Buses can be crowded. Check the route and schedule beforehand.
Wear comfortable and breathable clothing. Carry light layers for cooler evenings. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are available in Jagdalpur, but availability may be limited in remote areas.
Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred in local markets and smaller establishments. Cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and for auto-rickshaw fares.
Water: Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid drinking tap water.
Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and food stalls. Avoid eating raw or undercooked food.
Common Issues: Carry insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites. Be prepared for heat and humidity.
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good network coverage. Purchase a local SIM card at the airport or in Jagdalpur.
WiFi: Wi-Fi is available in some hotels and restaurants, but connectivity may be limited.
Language: Hindi and Chhattisgarhi are the main languages spoken. English proficiency is limited. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases will be helpful.
Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100
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