About Bastar, Chhattisgarh
Bastar is a district located in the southern part of the state of Chhattisgarh, India. This City has historical significance and houses several ancient temples and archaeological sites. The Danteshwari Temple in Dantewada stands as a renowned pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari.
Bastar district is known for its diverse topography and natural beauty. It is situated in the southern region of Chhattisgarh and is surrounded by the dense forests of the Bastar Plateau. The district is home to several rivers, waterfalls, hills and wildlife sanctuaries.
Bastar is blessed with stunning natural attractions. The district is home to waterfalls like Chitrakote Falls, Tirathgarh Falls, and Kanger Ghati Waterfalls, which attract tourists with their scenic beauty. The dense forests of the area offer opportunities for wildlife spotting and nature exploration. The Kanger Valley National Park, known for its biodiversity and limestone caves, is also a popular tourist attraction.
Bastar is famous for its vibrant tribal festivals that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. The district celebrates the Bastar Dussehra, a major festival that showcases elaborate rituals, processions, traditional music, dance, and performances by tribal communities.
Bastar is known for its traditional arts and crafts, including metalwork, woodwork, terracotta, and tribal handicrafts. The skilled artisans of the region create exquisite pieces that reflect the cultural heritage and artistic prowess of Bastar.
Bastar offers opportunities for ecotourism and adventure activities. Visitors can explore the dense forests, go trekking, indulge in birdwatching, and take part in eco-friendly initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable tourism.
Jagdalpur, serving as the administrative headquarters of Bastar, maintains well-connected road and rail networks linking it to major cities in Chhattisgarh. Regular bus services and trains connect Jagdalpur to Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh.
Bastar district is a destination that provides a unique blend of natural beauty, tribal culture, historical significance, and adventure. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural experiences, explore the stunning landscapes, and interact with the tribal communities to gain insights into their way of life.
Things To Do in Bastar
Bastar offers a range of activities and attractions that showcase its natural beauty, tribal culture, and historical significance. Here are some things to do :
Explore Chitrakote Falls : Visit Chitrakote Falls, often referred to as the “Niagara Falls of India.” Admire the majestic beauty of this horseshoe-shaped waterfall and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Boating is also available at certain times, allowing visitors to experience the falls up close.
Attend Bastar Dussehra : Immerse yourself in the vibrant Bastar Dussehra festival, celebrated with great enthusiasm in the region. Witness traditional rituals, cultural performances, tribal dances, and elaborate processions showcasing the local heritage.
Visit Danteshwari Temple : Explore the Danteshwari Temple in Dantewada, dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The temple is an important pilgrimage site and attracts devotees from different parts of the country.
Explore Kanger Valley National Park : Discover the biodiversity of Kanger Valley National Park, located near Jagdalpur. Take a safari or a guided nature walk to observe a variety of flora and fauna. The park is also known for its limestone caves, including the famous Kanger Ghati caves.
Experience Bastar’s Cuisine : Indulge in the local cuisine of Bastar, which includes traditional tribal dishes. Try specialties like Sabudana ki Khichdi, Chapura (a steamed savory dish), and traditional tribal delicacies made with locally available ingredients.
Trekking and Nature Walks : Explore the scenic beauty of Bastar through trekking and nature walks. Several trekking trails are available in the region, offering opportunities to witness stunning landscapes, forests, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Visit Anthropological Museum : Explore the Anthropological Museum in Jagdalpur, which exhibits artifacts, photographs, and displays related to the tribal culture and lifestyle of Bastar.
Shop for Handicrafts : Visit local markets and shops to buy traditional handicrafts, including metalwork, woodwork, terracotta, jewelry, and textiles. These handicrafts represent the intricate artistry and skilled craftsmanship of the tribal communities in Bastar.
Enjoy Wildlife Spotting : Bastar is home to diverse wildlife. Take a safari or birdwatching tour in the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of the region, such as Kanger Valley National Park and Indravati National Park, to spot various species of animals and birds.
As you explore Bastar, respect the local customs and traditions, follow the guidelines of the attractions you visit, and be mindful of the environment. Consider engaging local guides or joining guided tours to enhance your experience and gain a deeper understanding of Bastar’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
How to Reach Bastar
Reaching Bastar involves traveling to Jagdalpur, the main city and administrative headquarters of the Bastar district. Here are the common ways to reach :
By Air : The nearest airport Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh. From Raipur, you can take a domestic flight to reach the airport. After landing at the Jagdalpur airport, which is a small airstrip, you can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach your desired destination within Bastar.
By Train : The Jagdalpur railway station serves as the major railhead for Bastar. It is well-connected to various cities in Chhattisgarh and neighboring states. Regular trains operate from Raipur, Bilaspur, Visakhapatnam, and other major cities to Jagdalpur. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach different parts of Bastar.
By Road : Bastar is well-connected to major cities and towns in Chhattisgarh and neighboring states through a network of roads. National Highway 30 and State Highway 16 pass through the region, providing access to Jagdalpur. Regular bus services, both state-run and private, operate from cities like Raipur, Bilaspur, Visakhapatnam, and Hyderabad to Jagdalpur. You can also drive by private vehicle or hire a taxi.
Local Transportation : Within Bastar, you can travel around the district using various modes of local transportation. Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are readily available in Jagdalpur for local commuting. It is advisable to negotiate fares in advance or use metered autos or taxis. Additionally, some tourist attractions may require hiring a local guide or using local transportation services to access remote areas.
When planning your journey to Bastar, consider the mode of transportation that best suits your preferences and convenience. Check for the availability of flights or trains, and book your tickets in advance if required. We recommend checking the latest travel updates and planning your itinerary accordingly.
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