Bastar, located in the southern part of Chhattisgarh, India, is a region that captivates with its unique blend of nature, culture, and history. Nestled amidst dense forests and lush green landscapes, Bastar is known for its rich tribal heritage, home to numerous indigenous communities. The region's vibrant traditions, arts, and handicrafts, such as the famous Bastar Dhokra art, showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of its people. Bastar is also renowned for its wildlife sanctuaries, where one can encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna. With its raw beauty and captivating charm, Bastar offers a mesmerizing experience, connecting visitors to nature and indigenous cultures.

Chitrakoot Waterfalls:

“The most iconic natural beauty of India, which made Bastar famous, is the Chitrakote waterfall. It is the widest waterfall of INDIA, 300 meters (980 feet) wide fall is in its prime. The more you see it, the more you fall in love with it.

Bastar - Histry and Heritage:

Bastar was the unruled land when Raja Annam Dev first came to establish his kingdom. The undefeated history, a small but relevant palace tour, a day that changed the course of the Royal Family. The great legacy attached to Maa Danteshwari, the major deity of the family. The story of gods, kings & tribal coming together.

A 1000 years old history of Barsur will give you chills about the dynasties that ruled here. From Nag Dynasty to current ruling Bhanjdeo Dynasty the history goes as old as 470 BC (as per the information sourced from our research). Barsur was a capital city in certain time of history the ruins of which can be found. The visitable places are battista temple, mama bhancha temple, chandraditya temple and Ganesh Idol from 11th century protected by archaeological survey of India.

Breathtking nature and waterfalls of Bastar:

Thousands of years ago, the cliffs of downstream down the river were struck down by a lunar crater with an earthquake, and the staircase made by it, Numa Valley created this panoramic waterfall. Stepped down to a 300 feet height this sight will be in your memoirs forever. A three-step trek down to the river Munga Bahar is the climax of the day.

 

Nearest main airport is Raipur but there is an airport in Jagdalpur also which is a town in Bastar. Services are limited. Jagdalpur is a railway station also. Jagdalpur is a base for the tourists to go for nearby places and adventures.

Distances:
Raipur – 320 Kms.
Nagpur – 485 Kms.
Koraput – 106 Kms.
 

What you can do there?: 

When visiting Bastar, there are several things to do that will immerse you in the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are some recommendations:
1.    Explore Chitrakote Falls: Known as the "Niagara of India," Chitrakote Falls is a majestic waterfall located on the Indravati River. Marvel at its breathtaking beauty and enjoy a boat ride to get a closer view.
2.    Visit Tribal Villages: Bastar is renowned for its tribal communities. Take the opportunity to visit villages like Kanger Valley, where you can interact with the tribes, learn about their way of life, and appreciate their unique traditions.
3.    Discover Bastar Palace: Explore the historical Bastar Palace in Jagdalpur, which showcases the architectural grandeur of the region's erstwhile rulers. Admire the intricate carvings and gain insights into the region's royal history.
4.    Trek in Kanger Valley National Park: Embark on a trekking adventure through the dense forests of Kanger Valley National Park. Discover stunning caves, waterfalls, and an incredible variety of flora and fauna along the way.
5.    Experience Bastar Dussehra: If you visit during the festival season, don't miss Bastar Dussehra, a unique celebration lasting 75 days. Witness vibrant processions, traditional dances, and religious rituals that showcase the cultural richness of the region.
6.    Shop for Dhokra Art: Bastar is renowned for its traditional Dhokra art, which involves the casting of metal objects using the lost-wax technique. Explore local markets to find exquisite Dhokra artifacts and support local artisans.
7.    Enjoy Local Cuisine: Indulge in the flavors of Bastar by trying traditional tribal cuisine. Sample local dishes like Chapura, a rice pancake, and Dehati Chicken, a spicy chicken curry, to savor the authentic taste of the region.
Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural experiences, or natural wonders, Bastar offers a wide range of activities to make your visit memorable.

Major attractions of the tour:

•    Local Bazar of the remotest places in Chhattisgarh
•    Pottery craft in the village of potters
•    Culture visit to a village where the lifestyle prevails since 750 generations
•    Chitrakote – Visit to the widest waterfall of India
•    Narayanpal Temple – 11th Century temple with the biggest stone inscription
•    Glorius history of the Bastar Royal Family
•    Visit to the Bastar Royal Palace
•    Walk beside the biggest man-made lake in Asia
•    Witnessing the 4000-year-old art form called Dhokra Craft
•    Excursion to the remotest village with no road, water, electricity connection
•    Interact with various forms of tribe during the trip
•    Tirathgarh – the most beautiful waterfall ever formed
•    Be a part of the heart moving Goncha Festival


Nearby places of interest: 

Bastar region is a big region and is located little far away from major cities and towns of India. However, a trip to Bastar can be coupled up with places like North Chattisgarh, Kanger Ghati National Park, Visakhapattnam, etc.

 

Typical itinerary:

5N/6D
Raipur to Raipur

Day 1: 

•    Arrive at Raipur Airport 
•    Rest for some time
•    Head for Kanker Palace
•    Become aware of their royal history with an interesting story, a palace visit followed by lunch.
•    Leave from Kanker to Kondagaon; or stay at Kanker Palace guest house
•    Evening coffee/tea time, relax and get oriented for the coming amazing trip
•    Dinner & Rest

Day 2:

•    Start your day a little late, have breakfast
•    We leave for pottery activity at Kumharpara (the village of potters)
•    After a mindful session of pottery, take a free walk in the village
•    Lunch
•    Head for an interior part of Kondagaon to visit the Ghotul (a very ancient lifestyle practice maintained by the tribes since 750 generations)
•    Enjoy the tribal dance and music, with award winning singers of the country followed by dinner
•    Back to resort & rest.

Day 3:

•    Start early in the morning for the Chitrakote Waterfall
•    Now we move to see the first ever temple of Lord Vishnu in Bastar built in 11th Century
•    While returning we stop & observe the deity of the tribal in a Gudi (the place of worship of the tribes)
•    Head for Mendri Ghumar viewpoint
•    Lunch
•    Check in at the hotel rest for some time
•    Head for a small heritage walk of the Jagdalpur City with its rich history.
•    Dinner & Rest

“The most iconic natural beauty of India, which made Bastar famous, is the Chitrakote waterfall. It is the widest waterfall of INDIA, 300 meters (980 feet) wide fall is in its prime. The more you see it, the more you fall in love with it.”

Day 4: 

•    Ready & head for the village excursion for a full day.
“Our village expedition is an important part of the trip where you can explore the difference and significance between tribal culture and urban culture. The limited resources and a fulfilled life of satisfaction is a very rare combination to see. The life of and around the conflict, the surreal stories, hardships, and ease of existence completely lie here. A small trek to find where the village is and a lifetime of surprises to take with.”
•    Lunch
•    While coming back make a stop at the homestay, review the whole day, freshen up and again enjoy some home-cooked tribal cuisine for your dinner

Day 5: 

•    Breakfast & Departure for Danteshwari Mandir at Dantewada
•    After temple visit, we explore various archaeological discoveries kept inside the temple
•    Lunch
•    After lunch we head to Barsur for visitation of various architectural establishments of the 11th century.
•    Return to Jagdalpur & Dinner
•    Rest

Day 6: 

•    Breakfast & Departure for Tirathgarh Waterfalls
•    After Tirathgarh, we get towards the local bazar where we learn about the rural market and their economy, how it functions and how it works.
•    Lunch
•    Visit memory pillars, a death ritual of the tribal
•    Stay at Jagdalpur & head back next early morning


Includes – The package includes:

•    Pick-up from Raipur Airport
•    Travel to all the places mentioned
•    Meals either Veg or Non-Veg from Day 1 to Day 6
Breakfast on Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6.
Lunch on Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6.
Dinner on Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6.
Evening Tea or Coffee on Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6.
(Snacks & Meals other than above mentioned are chargeable.)
•    Accommodation in 2 or 3 Places. (hop-on)
Day 1 Night stay at Kanker Palace or Kondagaon Hotel
Day 2 at Night Stay at Kondagaon Hotel
Day 3 to Day 5 Night Stay at Premium Hotel in Jagdalpur
•    All experiences, permissions, community charges, local authority permissions, activity & workshop charges and guide charges.
•    Drop-off at Raipur Airport.

Excludes – The package excludes:

•    Price of any artifacts/goods/anything that you buy
•    Any side snacks that you have apart from the meals described in the inclusions
•    Any deviations from the prescribed route
•    Any tips for the local guides & support staff.
•    Accommodation & Meals other than above mentioned
•    Any other things not mentioned in the inclusions.

The price given is for a couple travelling together.
 

House Rules:

•    Right of admission reserved.
•    All homestays have their own house rules and it will be shared post confirmation.
•    Homestays are local area accommodations, therefore, it is important for tourists to behave properly with the locals hosting and serving them.
•     Activities mentioned above may change due to change in weather conditions and otherwise.
•    Tourists are informed to take care of the nature and use dustbins to dispose the trash.
•    Water is always scarce in arid areas. So, please conserve water at all the homestays.
•    The charges for activities shall be extra.
•    Confirmations are subject to availability.
•    All communications should be with SAMSONA GETAWAYS team only or authorized representative of SAMSONA GETAWAYS.
•    The locations could be exotic and may have difficult terrains. Please prepare well for the locations with respect to weather conditions. SAMSONA GETAWAYS is not responsible for any injury or damage due to tough environmental conditions. Few sites need trek to reach, so please read about the property and location carefully.
•    The pictures shown in the website are for illustration purpose and actual as far as possible.
•    Please plant a TREE while you stay there, weather permitting. Contact the Homestay owner for assistance.
•    Please try to reach our locations by day light.
•    Reach out to us for any clarification.
•    Keep a torch and lighter handy, in case of load shedding and snow fall.

Cancellation Policy:

Though we trust our guest that once they connect to us, they will not cancel the trip, but under unusual conditions if you are forced to cancel the tour with us, we will refund you the amount based on the following days prior to cancellations:

15 days before the Trip                 –     100% of total charges
11 to 14 days before the Trip                 –     75% of total charges
8 to 10days before the Trip                 –     50% of total charges
4 to 7 days before the Trip                 –     25% of total charges
1 to 3 days before the Trip                 –     No refund