 Bastar in Chattisgarh, India is primarily a tribal region and is known for its dense forests and rich mineral resources. The tribes that inhabit this part of Bastar, Chattisgarh, India are the Gonds, Murias and Marias and while you are on tribal tours to one of the most attractive tribal destinations located in Chattisgarh.
Bastar, the heart of Chhattisgarh, is blessed with exceptional scenic beauty and a unique fascinating cultural heritage. Bastar can also be an anthropologist and naturalist's delight as the region is known for its unique tribal population including Gonds who are world-famous for their 'Ghotul' system of marriages. Each tribe has its own distinct dress, culture and way of life and they can easily be differentiated by their specific costumes, jewellery, headdresses, baskets and tools. The main tribes in Bastar are Gond, Abhujmaria, Bison-horn Maria, Muria, Halbaa, Bhatra, Parja and Dhurvaa. Visit and explore the breathtaking natural surroundings and unique tribal life of Bastar on your visit to Chhattisgarh.
Bastar is famous for its lush green forests, exotic mountains and valleys, young and lively rivers, enchanting waterfalls, natural caves and a rich and diverse wildlife. Apart from scenic beauty, the fascinating culture and ancient architectural monuments including many beautiful temples of Bastar never fails to mesmerize its visitors. With so much to offer, Bastar can truly be referred as the 'Little Green Paradise of India'. Visit and explore this little paradise called Bastar and get rewarded with a unique and unforgettable holiday experience.
Location
Located in the southern parts of the state of Chhattisgarh, Bastar is surrounded by the district of Dantewra in the south and Kanker in the North. It shares its borders with the states of Maharashtra in the west and Orissa in the east. It is situated on 2000 feet plateau and the district headquarters of Jagdalpur is placed around 300 kms from the state capital of Raipur.
How to Get There
Jagdalpur is in Chattisgarh state and is 303 Km South of the state capital Raipur and 313 Km north-west of the urban city of Vishakhapatnam. The nearest airports and railheads are Raipur and Vishakhapatnam. Hyderabad is 565 Km from Jagdalpur. The best time to visit is between the months of November to June. During the monsoons the caves are closed for visitors as water fills in them.
Since the area is full of dense forests, an experienced guide is essential. It is also dangerous to roam freely in the forest away from your parked vehicle. Feeding animals is prohibited, as it will disturb the ecosystem. Going around in the caves too requires help from a guide, or you may lose your way. Enjoy the waterfalls but do not attempt to climb the slippery rocks, as it can prove dangerous. The National Park and adjoining areas are polythene free zones. Be a responsible traveller and do not leave a trail of packets, wrappers and other wastes behind you. Visitors are required to take permit slips before entering the premises. Vehicles are available on hire and personal vehicles need permission to enter. For Rs 125/-, you can avail buses that ply from Jagdalpur to Kanger Valley National Park every Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Attractions
Kanger Valley National Park: Kanger Valley was declared a National Park in 1982. It has breathtaking wilderness and abundant fauna. Located on the banks of Kholaba River, 27 Km from Jagdalpur, it is the ideal place for nature lovers and wild life enthusiasts. Wildlife here includes panther, tiger, bear, snakes and many species of deers.
Indravati National Park: This park derives its name from Indravati river which flows through it. Lush green forests, streams, and creeks give the place a serene charm. Wildlife is abundant and it is a haven for those who seek tranquility, away from the urban chaos. Animals found here include tigers, wild buffalo, nilgai, flying squirrel and barking deer among others.
Bairamgarh Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary abounds in Chital, considered the most beautiful of the deer species. They are found roaming in open grasslands as well as dense forests. Apart from its wildlife, the park has beautiful landscapes.
Bhainsa Darha: Kanger River flows into this lake, which is spread over nearly four hectares in the thick bamboo forests. Famous residents of this place are Crocodiles and tortoises. It is 63 Km from Jagdalpur.
Chitrakoot Waterfalls: 50 Km from Jagdalpur is the crescent moon shaped Chitrakoot waterfalls. It is often compared with the Niagra falls of the US for its shape, although it is smaller. River Indravati plummets down from the Vindhya mountain ranges and forms these waterfalls. The waterfalls and surrounding areas are spectacular in their beauty and extreme challenge for adventurers.
Tirathgarh Waterfalls: Tirathgarh, 32 Km from Jagdalpur is famous for this waterfall that drops into Mugabahar river. On descending down the steps you can get a grand view of the falling sheets of water that falls from a height of 50 metres. There is also an old Shiv-Parvati temple at the site. You can go up the watchtower to enjoy the panoramic view of the waterfalls and surrounding forests.b Waterfalls abound and range from zig-zag trickles to roaring falls. Smaller waterfalls include Kanger Dhara near Kutumsar, Mandra, Chitradhara, Tamada and Dhoomar. Although smaller, each one surrounded with greenery is a treat to the eyes.
Kutumsar Cave: This underground cave is 330 metres in length and is known to be the second longest natural cave in the world. It is about 32 Km from Jagdalpur and was discovered in the year 1900. There are stairs at the entrance and once inside, you can see stalactite formations. No sunlight reaches the cave and in little puddles of water there live blind fish and frogs. The cave has many connecting compartments. At the end of the cave is a stalagmite Shiv-linga, which is revered by tribal and visitors alike.
Kailash Cave: 40 metres above the ground level and 200 metres in length, this cave derives its name from the natural carving of the idol of Lord Shiva. It is located on a small hill in the Kanger Valley National Park. It was discovered in 1993 and the salt deposits here, called the music point, sound musical when tapped with a stone. Presently solar energy is used to light this cave. The Stalagmite and Stalactite formations inside the cave are beautiful.
Dandak Cave: This underground cave was discovered in 1995. It is 200 metres in length and divided into two compartments. To go from the first compartment to the second, you need to go on your knees. White stalactite formations here look resplendent. Solar lamps are used to light the cave.
The whole area of Bastar has many smaller caves such as Kanger, Karpan and Devgiri among others. All the caves are a geologist delight as their rocks are said to be millions of years old.
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