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Bastar is a land that seamlessly interweaves the vibrancy of tribal traditions with the raw beauty of nature. In one of my previous blog posts, I spoke about the reasons why you should visit Bastar – its cultural diversity, natural wonders and obviously the food. The region’s lush greenery and astounding natural wonders are what every nature lover desires. There are a lot of lakes, waterfalls and beautiful, deep gorges in Bastar.
In today’s post, I’ll focus on 3 waterfalls in Bastar that stand as nature’s jewels in Bastar’s crown, beckoning travellers with their sheer beauty and the promise of unforgettable experiences.
Waterfalls In Bastar
Carved by the up-and-down hilly landscape and the zig-zag rivers and streams that flow through the region, these waterfalls are a testament to the raw beauty of nature. In this lush green haven, these come alive during the monsoon season, from July to September, when they cascade with full force. The lush foliage surrounding these falls enhances the ethereal experience, creating a symphony of greenery and flowing water that is truly captivating.
What adds to the charm is that many of these waterfalls are conveniently close to the town of Jagdalpur, forming a cluster of natural wonders waiting to be explored. So one can cover most of these waterfalls in one go.
The waterfalls that I visited during my trip and recommend you also visit during your trip are Chitrakote Waterfalls, Tamda Ghumar, and Tirathgarh. Let me quickly talk about these in brief.
Chitrakote Waterfalls – Niagara Falls Of India
Located approximately 40 kilometres from Jagdalpur, Chitrakote Waterfalls is a natural wonder that never ceases to amaze. Often referred to as the “Niagara Falls of India,” this majestic cascade lives up to its reputation. As you arrive, you’ll find ample open parking facilities for a fee of Rs 50 for a full day. A cluster of shops just outside offers a glimpse of local crafts and souvenirs. But the real spectacle awaits as you approach the falls.
The sight is awe-inspiring, with water plunging dramatically over the rocky edge, closely resembling its iconic North American counterpart in the breadth of it. For the adventurous souls, a nature trail beckons, winding its way to the base of the waterfall. The path, though not strenuous, demands time and patience as you descend and ascend, but the reward is a close encounter with the thundering waterfall — a memory that lingers long after you’ve left this natural wonder. I didn’t as I didn’t have much time at hand.
There’s also an option for overnight camping at Chitrakote for which you can reach out to Unexplored Bastar who can arrange it for you.
Tamda Ghumar Waterfalls
Situated just 12 kilometres from the Chitrakote Waterfalls, the journey to Tamda Ghumar is a scenic drive, you’ll drive through green paddy fields under the vast blue sky. The road to Tamda Ghumar offers glimpses of rural life and an opportunity to connect with the tranquil countryside. The final stretch involves a bit of off-roading, thanks to my Tata Punch, I was able to sail through the rough roads. Road signs and markings could be more distinct, as you can find yourself lost at times until you reach the falls.
The drive to Tamda Ghumar is totally worth it when you get the first glimpse of the striking 100-foot cascade directly from the serene Indravati River. Unlike Chitrakote Waterfalls, Tamda Ghumar enjoys the privilege of fewer visitors, making it a haven for those seeking a more intimate rendezvous with nature’s splendour. Here, you’ll find solace in the unspoiled beauty that surrounds you, a testament to the allure of this hidden gem in the heart of Bastar. I truly loved this one and would highly recommend you visit here and spend some time amidst nature.
Tiratgarh Waterfalls
Hidden within the embrace of the Kanger Valley National Park is Tirathgarh Waterfalls which is located approximately 45 kilometers from Jagdalpur. The journey to Tirathgarh is nothing short of enchanting. As you traverse the forested road, navigating through streams, and towering green trees.
Once you reach, you pay Rs 20 for parking and another Rs 25 per head as the entry fee. Please note that the place can get extremely crowded on weekends and holidays. While a guide isn’t obligatory, I chose to hire one, guided by Culture Devi’s recommendations. With Umesh as my companion, we embarked on a descent of numerous steps to the waterfall’s base.
Tirathgarh reveals itself in three distinct levels, with the first being the bustling bathing area. A section is open for bathing and there’s literally no place to stand. Beyond, at level two, the falls beckon closer. Along the way, you’ll encounter temples steeped in history. Umesh kept me entertained with captivating tales of the falls, both mythological and geological. I was initially reluctant to go further down because I knew I’d strain myself.
Tempted by his stories, I ventured further down to the last level, a trek that involved crossing a small stream – a first for me. The reward? Spectacular views not just of the falls but also of the intricate rock layers. I’m so glad I did this. There’s also a Tiratgarh Trek that one can go which is a 4km long trek around the waterfall.
Lastly, the return journey was a different story, challenging my stamina. If you’re visiting with parents or the elderly, I’d recommend sticking to level one, as it can be strenuous and perilous. And, of course, keep an eye out for the mischievous monkeys that call this place home.
Unforgettable Memories in Bastar’s Waters
The trio of Chitrakote, Tamda Ghumar, and Tirathgarh stand as the crown jewels. While each has its own unique charm, I found my heart swaying to the rhythms of Tamda Ghumar, a hidden gem off the beaten path.
As I descended to the mystical base of Tirathgarh, I uncovered layers of natural wonder that will forever be etched in my memory. The region also boasts smaller cascades, like Mendri Ghumar, which, though I visited, didn’t amuse me much.
That’s about it for this blog post on waterfalls in Bastar that you must visit. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Tweet to me at @Atulmaharaj, DM on Instagram or Get In Touch.
