About Bastar
Bastar is a picturesque and culturally rich district located in the state of Chhattisgarh in India, famous for its vast forest tracts, splendid waterfalls and picturesque landscapes; besides the district is home to the aboriginal tribes of India-known as the ‘Adivasis’.
Established in the Chhattisgarh’s southern region, Bastar is one of the few destinations that must not be missed during the tour since it will leave a memorable impression on the tourists as to the natural and historical attractions and adrenaline boosters. The region is a colorful mix of wildlife sanctuaries, religious shrines including temples, and marvelous caves that makes it one of the areas that are fast gaining popularity as a tourist attraction in India.
Bastar is one of the districts of Chhattisgarh state of India, it’s district head quarter is at Jagdalpur. The area has a vibrant cultural background that is majorly contributed by the Gond and the Maria which are tribes that enjoy dwelling in the forests. Bastar can be characterized as the legendary place known for its ancient traditions and the indigenous tribal people that live there, and combining history and nature as travelers’ attractions.
Though Bastar is comparatively famous for Dussehra festival that lasts 75 days, the art and craft of Bastar have their own distinct identity in the form of Dhokra craft, wooden toys and handicrafts, hand woven cloth. What makes Bastar different is the fact that it is not like any other tourist destination which has been inundated with commercial tourism. They come into a reality where there are cultural practices, ancient programs, and overwhelming forest lands.
Tourist Places to Visit
- Chitrakote Waterfalls
With a width of 302 feet the Chitrakote Waterfalls is considered the largest in India, and is situated in the Bastar area on the Indravati River. The geographical orientation of the formation is like a horseshoe and therefore makes it a wonder of nature especially when the river is in flood during the monsoon period. The surrounding environment consists of dense forests which make the place more attractive for nature lovers, photographers, and different kind of athletes.
For instance, boat riding is also available primarily at the feet of the waterfall to enable one get an actual feel of the exquisiteness of the waterfall.
2. Tirathgarh Waterfalls
Tirathgarh Waterfalls is a waterfall on a multiple tier and has a height of approximately 300 feet and is also situated in Kanger Valley National Park. Where as Chitrakote is a forceful waterfall, Tirathgarh is gentle, slow moving with cascading effect. It falling from a high altitude forms streams in its natural path where tourist can be able to swim and enjoy natural water from.
It is also full of forests and wildlife, therefore the area is endowed with natural and diverse resources. Also, the Shiv-Parvati Temple which is located near the falls makes it a beautiful place for the tourism lovers as well as for the devotees.
3. Kanger Valley National Park
Kanger Valley National Park is one of India’s finest national parks covering a geographic area of 200 square kilometer. A number of endangered species can also be found here such as Bastar hill myna, tigers, leopards and the wild boars. The park is decorated with sal and teak trees, which makes it perfect for Nature Walk and Tree plantation, bird watching as it is a home to over 267 bird species and Wildlife Tours.
Besides an impressive selection of the wildlife, the park offers a few natural landmarks such a Kutumsar Caves, Dandak Caves, and the most breathtaking Tirathgarh Waterfalls, so the park can be of interest for the fans of the adventurous and the inclinations of nature.
4. Kutumsar Cave
Located in Kanger Valley National Park, Kutumsar Cave is one among the biggest natural limestone caves found in India. The popular cave well renowned for its hanging and pillar like formations covers a large area of underground land mass. Visiting the cave is an interesting and rather creepy stay because the tourists have to walk through a rather small rocky tunnel to see fantastic shapes carved in the stone.
The cave is kept dim all the time, and only the lights illuminating various peculiarities are turned on, so the place attracts the daring and mysterious guests. Because of the interdependence of the ecosystem here only a section of the cave is accessible for tourists so that they do not disturb other parts of the cave.
5. Bastar Palace
Photo By: mytourplans.com
The Bastar Palace is another marvelous and royal building found in Jagdalpur Chhattisgarh which represent the pride of the region. It ‘s a palace built by the Kakatiya dynasty and it has tribal and contemporary architectural structure which explains the Bastar kingdom history. There are various items in the palace including artefacts, traditional weapons and other relics which can avail the history of the area.
On the interiors one can find more pictures of kings and queens as well as royal ornamentations. Sometimes, especially during the festal seasons, one can find several troupes performing on the stadium; these troupes are a fusion of the royal and tribal Bastar.
6. Danteshwari Temple
Danteshwari Temple is one of the oldest religious sites in the area which is located in Dantewada and is devoted to Goddess Danteshwari, also known as Mataji – the Goddess of Bastar. The temple is more than 600 years old and is one of the most important worshipped pilgrimage centres of Shakti Peeths of India. Especially, the statue gains relevance during the celebration of Bastar Dussehra when ritualistic programs are organized. Temple architecture is impressive with nice carvings and the general environment is very serene. Talking to spiritual seekers and history lovers, the visit to Danteshwari Temple offers nice feelings.
7. Anthropological Museum
The Anthropological Museum is situated in Jagdalpur; the museum display reflects the culture and lifestyle of the tribal population of Bastar. The museum displays many tribal pieces of clothing, jewelries, farming implements, weapons and paraphernalia and ceremonial objects. Thus, by going through its artistic exhibits, a visitor can learn about the ethnical background of Bastar and its multiple tribes. It can also be used by those who wish to learn more about tribal culture and its art before witnessing the villages and troupes and festivals of Manipur.
8. Barsur
Barsur is a small town at present, but it had its golden period during the rule of the Gangavanshi dynasty when it was a capital. Mama Bhanja Temple and Battisa Temple which has 32 stone carved pillars are the main points of interest in this historic town. Temple and sculptures much of the Barsur area evidence Barsur history and archeological findings. There is no better place to visit than a town that looks as if it shuffled aside from the modern age and socially just waiting to be discovered as the epitome of Indian history!
Things to Do
1.Trekking and Hiking
The geography of Bastar is a trekker’s delight with the green forests, hilly terrain and waterfalls all located here. There are a number of trekking paths around the region which includes Tirathgarh Waterfalls and Kanger Valley National Park. This means that these trails will lead you through the thickets and through the bamboo region as well as wildlife regions which is an excitement for those who like the natural world.
2. Explore Tribal Culture
Some of the interesting things that one is bound to witness in Bastar are the colors of the tribal culture found in the region. Several tribal villages are however, accessible for tourism purposes; there are cultural interactions that include music, dancing and handcrafting that the tourists engage with the tribes in. The Bastar Dussehra festival is the most appropriate time for observing the tribal practices and festivities because Bastar Dussehra is the two-month long festival conducted in accordance to the tribal traditions.
3. Wildlife Safari
A wildlife safari through Kanger Valley National Park should be a thrill of the lifetime for the lovers of wildlife. Jeep safaris are available for the tourists to move around the park and look at big cats such as tigers and leopards, wild boar and some types of birds. The Crocodile Lake in the park is also a natural habitat to endangered crocodile species, and thus it is recommended that one stops over this area during the tour.
4. Cave Exploration
What makes Bastar so interesting is its rich limestone caves some of which are highly remarkable throughout India. Visiting the Kutumsar Cave and the Dandak Cave it is possible to observe the peculiarities of the Formations of Stalactites and Stalagmites. The caves are even more appealing for the tourists who like daring and extreme even if they has not touched a rope.
5. Shopping Art and Handicrafts
Bastar is famous for its tribal handicrafts, including Dhokra metal art, wooden carvings, and terracotta items. The local markets, especially in Jagdalpur, are great places to shop for these handcrafted items, which reflect the unique artistic traditions of the region. These make for excellent souvenirs to take home.
Best Time to Visit Bastar
- Summer (March to June): Summers in Bastar can be quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. This is not the ideal time to visit, as the heat can be intense, especially for outdoor activities.
- Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Bastar, turning the region into a lush green paradise. The waterfalls are at their most majestic during this time, making it a great time to visit if you’re looking to experience Bastar’s natural beauty. However, the rains can make traveling within the region difficult due to muddy roads.
- Winter (October to February): Winter is the best time to visit Bastar, with cool and pleasant weather. Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring the region’s cultural attractions. This is also when the Bastar Dussehra festival takes place, offering a unique cultural experience.
How to Reach Bastar
By Air:
The nearest airport to Bastar is Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh. The airport is approximately 300 kilometers from Jagdalpur. From Raipur, tourists can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bastar. Another option is Jagdalpur Airport, which has limited flights but can be convenient for direct access to the region.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Bastar is in Jagdalpur, which is connected by trains to major cities like Vishakhapatnam, Raipur, and Hyderabad. Another nearby station is Dantewada, which is also well-connected by rail to various parts of the country.
By Road:
Bastar is well-connected by road to major cities in Chhattisgarh and neighboring states. Regular buses and taxis operate from Raipur, Jagdalpur, and other nearby towns to Bastar. The road network is decent, though some remote areas may have rougher roads, especially during the monsoon season.
More About Bastar
Bastar is a region that offers something for every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or natural beauty. In addition to the major attractions mentioned, the region is dotted with hidden gems, such as remote waterfalls, ancient caves, and lesser-known tribal villages, each offering a unique experience.
To delve deeper into the local culture, tourists can read more about Bastar’s tribal festivals, handicrafts, and eco-tourism initiatives that are helping to preserve the region’s natural and cultural heritage. Bastar’s rich history, wildlife, and welcoming local communities make it a destination worth exploring.
Bastar is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those who seek adventure, nature, and cultural richness. Whether it’s the majestic waterfalls, the deep caves, or the vibrant tribal traditions, every corner of Bastar has a story to tell. So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of India’s most unexplored regions.
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