Bastar, Chhattisgarh
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Bastar
Where an unforgettable rendezvous with nature, and its very own people, awaits you…
Bastar is land richly woven by its vibrant people and decorated by the beautiful blossoms of Mother Nature. A treasure trove of many mysteries, the doors of this land have opened to many dynasties, invaders, traders and travelers. Hidden in the deep sal, teak and bamboo forests are many secrets of nature's wealth. Even, today the regions of Kanker, Dantewada, Bijapur and Narayanpur have many destinations that are extremely enchanting yet unexplored.
It is believed that the Bastar region is actually the Dandakaranya of Valmiki's Ramayana. The old Shabari that Rama met was an ancient Gond inhabitant of these forests. You will be surprised to know that Monkey King Sugreeva's kingdom too was based here. It is also believed that the Pandavas had journeyed through these dense forests when they were in hiding.
Bastar is like a rare, sparkling jewel on the royal crown of Chhattisgarh, sharing borders with Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Orissa. Bastar is a giant chest full of myriad wonders and undiscovered surprises like the Kanger Valley National Park, unique species of flora and fauna, mystical caves, mesmerizing waterfalls, vibrant festivals coupled with equally warm and interesting tribal folks. Adventurers, explorers, archeologists and tribal culture experts are allured by the endless treasures of Bastar.
Far away from the chaos of the city, Bastar is a beautiful escape into nature's pristine arms. The Tribals here are content in nature's wealth and every moment of life is a celebration!
Main Attractions
Rich Tribal Culture: It is small joys in life that make the big difference, but to believe so, you must witness the rich tribal culture of this land. The major tribes of the Bastar region are the Gond, Abhuj Maria, and Bhatra. Bhatra are divided into Sub Casts like San Bhatra, Pit Bhatra, and Amnit Bhatra. Other castes also include Halbaa, Dhurvaa, Muria and Bison Horn Maria. The Gonds of Bastar are one of the most famous tribes in India, known for their unique Ghotul system of marriages.
Bastar Dussehra
The October sun pales in comparison to the vibrantly dressed Tribals, and beautifully adorned temples. Your will be amazed to know that the Bastar Dussehra goes on for 75 days and has nothing to do with the return of Lord Rama. Festivals in Bastar are a reflection of purity and sanctity, with which they revere their Gods and Mother Nature. Thus, Bastar Dussehra is celebrated in honour of the local deity “Shri Danteshwari Mai”. It is an exuberant showcase of extraordinary tribal rituals on different days like little girls swinging on thorn beds and yogis buried shoulder-deep. Pata Jatra ceremony is carried out for wood worship before the Ratha Yatra as sacrosanct wood is cut.
The biggest delight of the festival is the Rath Yatra, wherein 8 wheel and 4 wheel chariots are decked with flowers and a pompous procession of the Goddess is carried out. Deities from far flung places are brought to the Temple of Devi Danteshwari Mai. Fascinating and internationally acclaimed handicrafts like the 'Dokra Bell Metal Art' add to the festive sparkle.
Kanger Valley National Park
Fresh air, picturesque waterfalls and rich wildlife present an exhilarating escape to those who seek to find peace in the lap of nature. Away from the noisy clutter of city life, the Kanger Valley National Park is a heaven for environmentalists, nature lovers and adventurers. Just 27kms away from Jagdalpur, this rare, virgin land of lush greens is spread over an area of 200 sq kms. Rich in flora and fauna, a huge variety of wildlife is sighted here. This includes the barking deer, sambar, cheetal, langur, rhesus, macaque monkey, leopard, and sloth bear. The Bhainsa Darha, a crocodile park and a scenic picnic spot, is also a favourite attraction for many tourists. Varied species of birds can be found in the Kanger Valley National Park that is home to the rarest bird ever – The Bastar Myna. This hill mynah can be spotted in the park and is an excellent artist at mimicking the human voice!
Chitrakote Waterfall
As the poetry of the seasons unfolds, this mesmerizing waterfall continues to enchant the senses. Known as the Niagara Falls of India, it is truly the largest and the most magnificent waterfall. Situated in Jagdalpur, this spectacular waterfall changes its colour from season to season. It is calm, white in the summers as it changes to brown in the monsoons. The scenic beauty is so magnetic, painters and artists try to capture it in their art! Falling from a height of 100ft. the Tirathgarh Waterfall is a perfect spot for family picnics. Some of the other invigorating waterfalls worth a visit are the Kanger Dhara, Chitra Dhara, Mahadev Ghumar, Gupteshwar and many more.
Dandak, Kutumsar & Kailash Caves
The hilly terrains and dense forests of the Kanger Valley National Park have many mystical caves. The Kailash Gufa is an underground cave close to the Tirathgarh waterfall, about 40km from Jagdalpur. 6,000 years of nature's mastery has left scientists speechless. The wonderful stalagmite and stalactite formation or limestone pillars are a reflection of devotion and faith. The inscriptions on them are an indication that they were worshiped long ago as Shivlingas.
The mystery continues as you take the 40ft descending spiral staircase from the Tirathgarh waterfall to reach the Kutumsar Caves. Nature's beautiful sculptures, artistic looking stalagmite and stalactite formations, will leave you dumbfound. The Dandak Caves too flaunt stalagmite and stalactite formations that appear to be symmetrically carved by a very skilled artist. They are extraordinary rock formations that will take your breath away!
Temples
Folks come from afar, seeking solitude and peace of mind to the Danteshwari Devi's Temple at Dantewada. The local deity is believed to shower blessings on her devotees generously. Bastar is home to many beautifully crafted and equally sacrosanct temples, including the Ganesh Temple at Barsur, the Vishnu Temple at Narayanpur, and the Bhadrakali Temple.
Kanker Palace
A land of unsurpassed natural beauty, Kanker stands testimony to the delicate rhythms of life created by Tribals in the harmony of nature. Kanker Palace, the residence of the erstwhile ruling family of the Princely State of Kanker has always been a royal retreat for international tourists. The Kanker Palace was earlier known as Radhanivas Bagicha. The earthy flavour still remains intact as the palace breathes life into history. With colonial style architecture, and elegant staircases, this place exudes an old world charm. Five suites in the right wing of the palace have been developed to host guests. These have modern facilities, including western style baths and toilets.
Bastar Palace
Feel a wondrous touch of witnessing something beautiful and sacrosanct as you walk right into this 70 year old palace. The palace is historically famous and thousands of tourists visit Jagdalpur to have a look at this momentous architectural splendour. Once inside the palace, tourists can enjoy seeing various artifacts and the portraits of bygone kings. The beautiful gardens that encircle the palace are a sight to behold. The erstwhile family still resides here and the other part is used as a medical college. During the Bastar Dusshera, the palace lights up with beautiful sparkles of joy making it the best time for a visit.
Anthropological Museum
Open your mind to the most extraordinary tribal artifacts as the museum located at Dharampura gives you a window-view of the tribal lifestyle in Bastar. You can enjoy glimpses of the rich Adivasi culture at Bastar as you get inspired to visit various other tourist attractions here.
Shilpgram
Artistry and talent run in the veins of the Tribals in Chhattisgarh. The area around Jagdalpur is famous for its tradition of handicrafts. You can watch the artists here weave magic with their fingers as they breathe life into metal with the 'Dokra Bell Metal Art' and other sculptures at
Shilpgram
Just 15kms away from Jagdalpur, Shilpgram is run by the state government to promote tribal arts and crafts. Craftsmen here provide invaluable skills to the inmates of the Central Jail in Jagdalpur so that they may make a difference to society through their art. Other Places to Visit:
Narayanpur
Very rich in its own history and culture, Narayanpur enchants tourists with its many attractions like the Narayanpur Mela at Abhuj Mad entrance door on the National Highway-9. This fair is an excellent reflection of the vibrant Abhuj Mad culture and definitely an experience for a lifetime. Other attractions include the Ramakrishna Mission Ashram, Flute Making Centre, Raoghat, Khurshail Valley, and the Khurshail Stream.
Kondagaon
Known for its trademark bell metal craft, called Dokra, Kondagaon is located 71kms northwest of Jagdalpur. The Bhelwapadar colony here has been practicing this art for generations now. Witness tribal artistry at is best as you visit Kumharpara or the potters' village. An NGO called Saathi retails in exquisite terracotta art made here. Initially started by ceramic professionals called Bhupesh, Bhupendra and Harilal with just 30 potters, Saathi has revived tribal art successfully. It is a source of income generation for the artisans and has extended its boundaries beyond terracotta arts into metal, iron, wood, bamboo and textiles in 114 villages. Today, it is an organization that has caught the interest of 1400 artisans!
Accommodation
The Tourism Department, Water Department and Forest Department provide comfortable shelters and hotels for travelers on the go.
How to reach
By Air
Raipur is the nearest (295kms) airport well connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Kolkata, Ranchi, Vishakhapatnam and Chennai.
By Rail
Raipur is the nearest railway station conveniently linked with Delhi and Nagpur. Bus services are available from Raipur for all places of tourist interest in the circuit.
By Road
Road is the easiest way to get to Jagdalpur - district headquarters of Bastar. A convenient way to travel in Bastar is by arranging your own vehicles or hiring a taxi.
