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Chitrakote Falls!

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Population

Very small

schedule

Best Time

July to March

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Time Needed

1-2 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Chhattisgarh map Central India 🦁 Wildlife Waterfalls Chitrakote Falls Chhattisgarh Waterfall Bastar Nature India's Niagara

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.

When To Visit

Best Time

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.

Shoulder Season

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.

Avoid

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.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Chitrakote Falls Viewpoint

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

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 apparen...

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Boat Ride to the Base of the Falls

⏱ 30-45 minutes ₹100 per person

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 refr...

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Tirathgarh Falls

⏱ 2-3 hours (including travel) ₹25 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Tirathgarh Falls is another beautiful waterfall near Jagdalpur, known for its cascading tiers and serene surroundings. It is located inside the Kanger...

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Danteshwari Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

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 Pe...

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Anthropological Museum, Jagdalpur

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹10 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners)

The Anthropological Museum showcases the rich tribal culture and heritage of the Bastar region. It features exhibits on tribal art, crafts, costumes, ...

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Kanger Valley National Park

⏱ Full day ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Kanger Valley National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, deer, and various bird specie...

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Kotumsar Cave

⏱ 2-3 hours (including travel within Kanger Valley National Park) ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Kotumsar Cave is a fascinating limestone cave known for its unique stalactite and stalagmite formations. It is one of the longest caves in India....

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Things To Do

attractions

Photography at Chitrakote Falls

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 Free (excluding transport)

Capture the stunning beauty of Chitrakote Falls from various angles and perspectives. Experiment with different lighting...

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attractions

Tribal Village Visit

⏱ 4-6 hours 💰 ₹500-1000 per person (including transport and guide)

Visit a nearby tribal village to experience the authentic culture and traditions of the Bastar region. Interact with the...

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attractions

Trekking in Kanger Valley National Park

⏱ Full day 💰 ₹1000-2000 per person (including park entry, guide, and transport)

Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Kanger Valley National Park through a guided trek. Discover hidden waterfalls, ca...

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attractions

Attend a Local Festival

⏱ Varies depending on the festival 💰 Free (excluding transport and accommodation)

Participate in a local festival to witness the vibrant culture and traditions of Bastar. Experience the colorful process...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Bastar Dussehra Festival

75 days (main events during the last 10 days) | Free

Bastar Dussehra is a unique and elaborate festival celebrated in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. ...

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celebration

Ghotul Visit

2-3 hours | Free (donations appreciated)

A Ghotul is a traditional youth dormitory found in Muria tribal villages. It serves as a center for ...

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celebration

Tribal Dance Performance

1-2 hours | ₹500-1000 per performance (for a group)

Witness a traditional tribal dance performance showcasing the vibrant culture and artistry of the Ba...

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celebration

Local Market Visit

2-3 hours | Free (cost of purchases)

Visit a local market to experience the bustling atmosphere and authentic culture of the Bastar regio...

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celebration

Learn Dhokra Art

3-4 hours | ₹1000-2000 (including materials)

Dhokra art is a traditional metal casting technique practiced in the Bastar region. It involves crea...

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celebration

Visit a Bell Metal Craft Village

3-4 hours | Free (excluding purchases)

Bastar is known for its bell metal craft, where artisans create beautiful objects using a combinatio...

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View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Chapda
Chapda

Red ant chutney (try at local tribal markets)

Bastar Chicken
Bastar Chicken

Chicken cooked with local herbs and spices (try at local restaurants)

Mahua Ladoo
Mahua Ladoo

Sweet made from Mahua flowers (try at local sweet shops)

Petha
Petha

A type of pumpkin candy (try at local sweet shops)

Where to Eat

Chandralok Restaurant

Chandralok Restaurant

₹₹

Indian

📍 Jagdalpur

A popular restaurant serving delicious Indian cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly. A good place to try local specialties.

Bastar Chicken

₹400-600 for two

Green Chilli Restaurant

Green Chilli Restaurant

₹₹

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.

Veg and Non-veg Thalis

₹300-500 for two

Street Food Spots

Jagdalpur Market

Jagdalpur Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be mindful of hygiene. Choose stalls with high turnover. Try local snacks like 'bhajia' and 'samosa'.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Chitrakote Falls

More restaurants & dishes from Chitrakote Falls

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Jagdalpur City Center

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

Near Chitrakote Falls

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

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Akansha

📍 Jagdalpur

A basic hotel offering clean rooms and essential amenities. Good for budget travelers seeking a comfortable stay.

₹800-1200/night

Sai Krupa Hotel

📍 Near Jagdalpur Bus Stand

A simple guesthouse with decent rooms. Conveniently located near the bus stand for easy access to transportation.

₹700-1000/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2000-3000/night

Hotel Grand Kakkatiya

📍 Jagdalpur

A comfortable hotel with well-appointed rooms and modern amenities. Offers a restaurant and other facilities for a pleasant stay.

₹2000-3000/night

Rainbow Hotel

📍 Near Chitrakote Falls

Offers comfortable rooms and good service. Located closer to the falls, providing easy access to the attraction.

₹1800-2500/night

Luxury

₹4000+/night

Naman Bastar

📍 Jagdalpur

A luxury resort offering spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and other upscale amenities. Provides a comfortable and relaxing stay.

₹4000+/night

Bastar Jungle Resort

📍 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

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Jagdalpur Airport (JGB), 40km from falls

train

By Train

Stations:

Jagdalpur (JDB)

Connects to Visakhapatnam and Kirandul. It is located in the heart of the city.

Routes:
  • From Visakhapatnam: 12 hours (₹500-1000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Jagdalpur Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Raipur: 8 hours (₹400-600)
  • From Visakhapatnam: 14 hours (₹600-800)

Note: Trains more comfortable for long distances.

Getting Around

directions

Taxi/Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹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.

directions

Local Bus

💰 ₹10-20 per trip

Best for: Budget travelers, short distances

Buses can be crowded. Check the route and schedule beforehand.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear comfortable and breathable clothing. Carry light layers for cooler evenings. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

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.

health_and_safety

Health

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_card

Communication

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.

translate

Language & Tipping

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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