Places to Visit in Chitrakoot Falls

Chitrakoot Falls, often referred to as the Niagara Falls of India, is more than just a waterfall; it is an experience. It is in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh on the Indravati River. This horseshoe-shaped waterfall is the widest in India and drops from a height of around 95 feet. Despite the falls themselves being the main attraction, the area is just as magical.

Do not just use Chitrakoot as a photo stop if you are planning to visit. Stay as long as you can; explore what’s around you, dive into tribal culture, walk through some forests and see the sacred temples. 

Best Places to Visit in Chitrakoot Falls

Places to have on your itinerary while planning a trip to Chitrakoot Falls, which I found for you, will make an otherwise normal trip into a soulful one.

Chitrakoot Falls 

Of course, Chitrakoot Falls is the main attraction. Waterfall fed by the mighty Indravati River is most dramatic during the monsoon (July to October) when it is roaring with full force. However, the water does not become dry, and it gets dried out. It still retains its calm, with rock formations and water softly flowing.

Misty atmosphere, thundering sound of water, constant rainbows over all senses for overload. Viewing the falls from many different perspectives is possible with multiple viewpoints and safe railings. And there is a staircase down to the bottom of the falls for an intimate encounter.

Travel Tip: Visit both during the daytime for photography and also at dusk, when the falls are lit up – magical!

Boating at the Base of the Falls

Boat rides up to the base of the waterfall can be done in the drier seasons (November to May) as the water level recedes slightly. It's amazing to be so close to the plunging water and be drenched in mist by the time it reaches the bottom.

Usually, it is the boatmen who are mostly the locals, and if you’re lucky, they still indulge you with interesting stories about the local area and even tribal legends linked with the falls.

Note: Please be informed that the boats are not in operation during the monsoon due to safety reasons.

Chitrakote Nature Trail

Walk around the nature trail near the falls to wander in the tranquil forest trails and spot birds and butterflies or even some shy animals. The waterfall area has a looped trail that comes with peaceful picnic spots and tiny hidden viewpoints.

The falls are in a forest, part of an ecosystem called the Bastar ecosystem, rich in biodiversity and largely untouched by humans and not far from where the women are.

Perfect For: Nature lovers, photographers or just people who like a bit of quiet walking within greenery are going to find something perfect for them.

Chitrakoot Tribal Haat and Local Handicraft Shops

Tribal market stalls and haats by the locals have their main stand at the analysis that is pretty close to the main viewpoint as well as the parking area. Located in the stalls are items like bamboo items, tribal jewellery, wood carvings, Dhokra art/metal casting and traditional textiles, all made by hand.

Shopping here is not an optional thing with souvenirs; it is supporting the local tribal economy and discovering their craft heritage.

Hot Pick: Brass figurines and handwoven kosa silk scarves (hot pick).

Danteshwari Temple (Farther but Worth the Trip)

Although it is in Dantewada, about 75 km away, the Danteshwari Temple is sometimes visited en route to Chitrakoot Falls as part of a spiritual circuit. This shrine, one of the 52 Shakti peethas to be found in India, is 600 years old and has a rich cultural heritage for the local tribes.

The temple is built of black stone, is near the confluence of rivers Shankini and Dhankini and enjoys a peaceful atmosphere, and hence, it is worth visiting if you can spare a day there.

When to Visit: The temple comes alive during the tribal celebrations of Bastar Dussehra.

Tirathgarh Waterfalls

Among nature lovers, Tirathgarh Falls, at a distance of around 35 km from Jagdalpur, is a must-visit; it can also be clubbed with a visit to Chitrakoot. Tirathgarh is a series of tiered waterfalls which fall stepwise through the forests over rocks and is noted for its picturequeness and accessibility.

While in many places climbing on the rocks is prohibited, visitors can still do so on this one, as well as play in the nearby shallow  or pray at the small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Pro Tip: If you have a full day, you can visit both Chitrakoot and Tirathgarh in one circuit to enjoy the scenery.

Narayanpal Temple

The Narayanpal Temple, an ancient Vishnu temple near the Indravati River, lies about 12 km from Chitrakoot Falls. Going a bit less crowded, it is very rich in history and has architecture dated up to the 11th century.

This is an ideal stop for those who like to relax and pay visits to peaceful temples. Far from a hubbub of tourists, it is surrounded by silence, nature, and spirituality.

Ideal For: Spiritual travellers, history buffs, and heritage photographers.

Tamda Ghumar Waterfalls

Tamda Ghumar Falls, a well-known yet stunning cascade, emerges during the monsoon season approximately 45 km from Chitrakoot Falls. While Chitrakoot is of a massive scale, Tamda Ghumar is all about height and elegance, dropping down lush green cliffs enveloped in dense forests.

The place is pretty raw and open and a wonderful spot if you are a traveller looking to really see the country.

Travel Tip: A 4x4 vehicle or bike is the preferred mode of transport on the route, as it includes forest paths and muddy terrain.

Mendri Ghumar 

Another natural gem near to Tamda Ghumar is Mendri Ghumar Falls. Though not really a thundering fall over precipitous rocks, it's a gentle cascade over stepped rocks that makes it special because the entire scene is very scenic, and at the last time I was there, it was far away from people. You might be alone here without a sound but for the trickle of water and murmuring of the trees.

If you have something to snack on, it’s a wonderful picnic spot that provides for a few quiet hours.

Safety Note: Take essentials such as food and water, as there’s not even a shop or restroom in the area.

Local Tribal Villages 

Bastar’s indigenous tribes, the Gonds, Marias, and Murias, inhabit those villages around Chitrakoot Falls. Visiting these villages (with a local guide or a responsible travel group) allows you to catch a glimpse of their art, lifestyle, rituals and music.

You may see a traditional tribal dance such as Gaur or Dandari, and you may be invited for a meal made of forest herbs and grains.

Important: Always get permission or follow up with the locals. Respect privacy and customs.

Conclusion

Maybe the sheer beauty of Chitrakoot Falls would lure you at first, but the soul resides in everything else here. This region, positively untouched by commercial chaos, awaits exploration with its tribal crafts, waterfalls, forests, and temples.