Unveiling The Mystique of Chitrakote Waterfall

Chitrakote Waterfall

Chitrakote Waterfall is no ordinary waterfall, a popular tourist destination in Chhattisgarh known for its natural beauty and the breathtaking view it offers.

It is also referred to as the “Niagara Falls of India, “Because of its width and its widespread horseshoe shape during the monsoon season”.
It is located 38kms from Jagdalpur in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh state.

This Chitrakote falls is a natural Waterfall on the Indravati River.
Height is approx 95feet & width varies with the season, but can extend up to 980 feet during the monsoon.

With every season it changes colour because of the change in the climate condition.

Highlight

-With every season it changes colour because of the change in the climate condition.
During winter it shows reflection of crystal clear blue, during monsoon season you would encounter rage muddy water & in summer you meet across mossy green.

-you could visit the base of the waterfall, using the stairs that were man made. As you reach down you would be stunt by the mesmerizing greenery lush, sands & naturally curved stones. You could take a breadth near the sore while enjoying the art made by Supreme artist.

-near the sore you would be encounter by the local boat authority elected by the villagers. They would take you to the most amazing boat ride of your life. They provide & guide you about the precaution & safety measure before taking to the ride. Make sure to wear life jacket properly.

History & significance

The origin is in the Kalahandi district of Odisha, in the Vindhya Range of hills, then it flows westward, and then forms a fall at Chitrakote, after which it finally flows into the Godavari River at Bhadrakali, after traversing 390 km in the state.

It is said that Lord Rama had spent most of his exile in this region along with his wife Sita & brother Lakshman.
& the path which leads you to the chitrakote waterfall from Jagdalpur is also known as Ram van gaman path( Rama travelled forest through this path).

It is the widest waterfall of India reaching the width of 300mt (980ft) during the monsoon season.

Location & how to reach

Jagdalpur is situated in the southern most part of Chhattisgarh.
Distance from Jagdalpur it is 40kms away & from Raipur it is 291kms & from Vishakapatnam it is 335kms.
You could reach here either by road or by train, nowadays air route also connects Jagdalpur from raipur & hyderabad.

location

https://maps.app.goo.gl/zucvKpTu9DaS2grEA?g_st=com.google.maps.preview.copy

Best time to visit

You could visit any time you want. Every season gives you a magistic view & sense of a little closer to nature.
But if you want to see the rage of Chitrakote waterfall as I like, visit in between july to October monsoon season. The waterfall is most spectacular during the monsoon season when the river is in full spate.
But sometimes because of river spate roads get blocked for entire day or for a week.
And it might be dangerous to be anywhere near the rage water.

Though he likes the winter time fall as he likes to enjoy the calm fall, clear water & definitely the cheery on the top: The Boat Ride. They make sure to get you to as close as to the falls & you would feel the mist the gentle fall on your face, cooling your skin and creating a refreshing, almost magical sensation on your face and dampens your hair, making you feel alive and connected to the natural wonder before you.

The air is filled with the soothing sound of rushing water, and the mist creates a subtle, magical atmosphere, it all blurs the lines between reality and the ethereal.

Each step closer to the waterfall, it intensifies the experience.

Jot Down: check the weather condition before visiting in monsoon season.

What to expext:

Breathtaking Beauty: Chitrakote Waterfall offers stunning views, especially during the monsoon season when the waterfall is at its fullest.

But if you want to experience the intensifying mist & a gentle spray with crossing rainbows & breadth taking view while enjoying boat ride must visit during winter.

Picturesque site: you would be amazed by the wide, crescent-shaped falls provide a beautiful setting, perfect for photography. Not just from above but you would experience that after trailing down to the fall.

Greeny lush: the area around the fall provides you peaceful & serene environment when you look at it from the down.

Things to do:

–Must bring cash: as most of the Souvenirs shop run by the locals (villagers), they have not upgraded the payment system; but they upgraded their heart to let you explore there Home.

-Browse and purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs from nearby markets to take a piece of the local culture home with you.

–Click alot of photographers: Capture the stunning views of the falls, especially during sunrise and sunset when the lighting enhances the scenery.

– paramotor sports: on The otherside of the fall they provide the paramotor sports. If you are interested you could indulge yourself ( we never did that 🙂)

• Boat riding: Take a boat ride close to the falls for a thrilling and up-close experience of the waterfall’s power and beauty.
• Picnic: Enjoy a picnic by the waterfall with family or friends. You could either cook or take a prepared meal to enjoy taking it in the serene and picturesque environment.

–Bring your trash bag ( Must )

–Splash around: Take a dip in the calmer parts of the river downstream of the falls, where water is stagnant & low along the shore side but always ensure it’s safe to do so.

–Nature Walks: Embark on nature walks or hikes around the area to explore the lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna ( which is on downstream side of the fall )

–Camping: Spend a night camping near the waterfall to experience the natural beauty and sounds of the falls under the stars. (Govt. Cottages are nearby available but make sure to reserve it prior to visit as it always seems occupied. You can explore the nearby private cottages, they also provide stays with good amenities)

–Food : Try local Chhattisgarhi cuisine from nearby eateries. enjoying traditional flavors and dishes specially Chapda chatni & Desi Chicken, don’t leave Bastar without having it.

Must not to do:

–Ignoring Safety Signs: Don’t go close to the rage fall. Always follow posted safety signs and guidelines. They are there to protect visitors from potential hazards.

–Swimming Near the Falls: Avoid swimming close to the waterfall due to strong currents and the risk of fall & drowning.

–Climbing on Slippery Rocks: Refrain from climbing on rocks near the waterfall, as they can be extremely slippery and dangerous.

–Littering: Do not litter the area. Help preserve the natural beauty by disposing of trash properly. ( whenever & wherever you go please must carry your trash bag incase if you won’t find there any)

-Do not deface or damage natural formations, plants, or any infrastructure.

-Avoid making excessive noise, be nice to others as it can disturb the peace of the area and other visitors.

-Stay away from restricted or marked off areas to ensure your safety .

-Do not fire play lights, as it can be dangerous and potentially cause forest fires.

-Avoid feeding any animals you encounter to prevent disrupting their natural behavior and diet.

Insights from our Experience

Bastar always amaze you whether you lived there or went for the first time. It always gives surprises with its majestic climate, local culture, foods & it always has a touch of peace, calm & a longing connection with mother nature.

We had been there for a decade & Bastar did imprinted its magic on us. The place Chitrakote is always a go to place for all college students over there. Whatever be the occasion one must had to visit Chitrakote to brighten up the celebrations without Chitrakote no celebration would be considered as completed.

It took almost 50-60mins to reach Chitrakote after covering 36kms by road from our college. The view & journey of this 36kms itself is a process of beautiful event.

On our way to Chitrakote we crossed few villages, phool wali ghati( flower mountain) while continuing the journey on Ram van gaman path towards Chitrakote.

local food

Whenever we went there, we always had a plan where to eat first even before reaching the place,
We always pre-ordered our food at Yadav Dhabha which is 3kms prior to the destination.
They do serve amazing their home made freshly cooked food. Whether its veg or non veg, but must try and order desi Chicken ( they will let you choose your Chicken & made them freshly).

They made things at your order, so pay a little price book it prior & then leave for Chitrakote as on your way to return, enjoy the Desi village home Bastariya khana (food) & that taste I haven’t found any where.

Souvenirs

As we reach the site we encountered with the local souvenir small market filled with local fruits & souvenirs made up of bamboos showing Bastar culture & art. Also a sweet dish called tikhur barfi made up of a semi solid white powder (Curcuma angustifolia) a sweet puddings made of it ( we tasted that ). It was good, it had a similar taste like of Singhara halwa (Water Chestnut pudding ).

Jot down: enjoying the vibe, definitely buy something on your return.

Blend of Chaos & Calm

What we enjoyed most during our visit was the hiking near the waterfall, there is a man made trail which took us to the base of water waterfall. There encounter the waterfall that plunges from a great height, showing tumbling and stirring mesmerizing display of nature’s raw power.
As the water crashes floor below, it creates a thunderous symphony, synchronous reverberating through the lush, emerald-green forest that surrounds.

The mist from the waterfall hangs in the air, forming delicate droplets that glisten like tiny diamonds in the sunlight which I felt on my face while boating across the waterfall.
Nature gives additional touch by adding beautiful Rainbows ( sometimes it could be seen one or two simultaneously), a magical touch to the scene.
Down near the river fall the air we breathed filled with the earthy scent of moss and damp stone that took me back to my granny’s home in my every visit ( nostalgia).

Rowing Boating

We hired a row boat capacity of 8 people per person they charge 100rupees.
As we stepping towards the boat my heart was beating & skipping fast along with the rhythmic roar of waterfall.

As the boat begins to move, it glides smoothly over the calm water, & then they start rowing towards the waterfall. The closer we get, the more powerful the sound becomes, until it’s a deep, resonant thunder in the ears.

The air grows cooler and fresher, filled with the savour scent of water and earth.
What I saw ahead a majestic cascade of water plunging from a great height, creating a eternal mist that covers the area in a mystical haze.
As the boat rocks gently with the water’s movements, and droplets of spray begin to hit our face, a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the sun.

As the boat approaches the base of the waterfall, the force of the water becomes palpable & it becomes more pulsatile.
The power of the falls in the vibrations beneath our butt & feet, and the mist thickens, soaking the clothes and hair. The sound was almost deafen us, a constant roar that drowns out all other noises. Looking up, the waterfall seems to stretch endlessly into the sky, a mesmerizing curtain of white and blue.

The row boat persons skillfully navigates the boat closer to the falls, allowing us, everyone to experience the full force and beauty of Chitrakote, the natural wonder.
The water around us tosses & creating a mesmerizing dance of waves and swirl.
It was forever mind and humbling, revitalize & on the otherhand a tranquil experience, being so close to such a powerful force of nature. A perfect blend of chaos and calm that captivates the senses and soul.

As the boat reached the shore, I couldn’t help but looked back at the falls, their beauty and power leaving a lasting impression.
That core memory of the waterfall we engraved into our heart & mind forever.

Hope you engraved your soul with love, hope , faith , enthusiasm & everlasting tranquility on your visit 😊

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