Bastar, Chhattisgarh, India - 7-Day Itinerary

Monday, August 7: Arrival in Bastar

Start your trip to Bastar by arriving at the Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur. From there, take a taxi or rent a car to travel to Jagdalpur, the district headquarters of Bastar. In the morning, visit the Chitrakote Waterfall, also known as the Niagara Falls of India, and marvel at its majestic beauty. In the afternoon, explore the Anthropological Museum to learn about the tribal culture of Bastar. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Indravati River and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

• Chitrakote Waterfall: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Anthropological Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 1 hour
• Indravati River: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, August 8: Bastar Tribal Villages

Embark on a cultural journey through the tribal villages of Bastar. In the morning, visit the Muria and Maria villages to witness their unique lifestyle and traditional arts and crafts. In the afternoon, explore the Bison Horn Maria village and interact with the local community. In the evening, witness the vibrant Dussehra celebrations at the famous Danteshwari Temple in Jagdalpur.

• Muria and Maria Villages: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Bison Horn Maria Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Danteshwari Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, August 9: Kanger Valley National Park

Explore the natural wonders of Kanger Valley National Park. In the morning, take a safari through the dense forests and spot various wildlife species, including leopards and sloth bears. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Kutumsar Caves, known for their stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the tranquil waters of Tirathgarh Waterfall.

• Kanger Valley National Park: Estimated cost - INR 300, Time spent - 4 hours
• Kutumsar Caves: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 2 hours
• Tirathgarh Waterfall: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, August 10: Bastar Palace and Bastar Haat

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Bastar. In the morning, visit the Bastar Palace, a beautiful heritage building showcasing the architectural brilliance of the region. In the afternoon, explore the Bastar Haat, a local market where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and textiles. In the evening, attend a traditional dance performance by the local tribes at the Dussehra Maidan.

• Bastar Palace: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2 hours
• Bastar Haat: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
• Dussehra Maidan: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Friday, August 11: Chitrakoot Falls and Kailash Caves

Explore more of Bastar's natural wonders. In the morning, visit the magnificent Chitrakoot Falls and soak in the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, hike to the Kailash Caves, a cluster of ancient rock-cut caves with intricate carvings. In the evening, relax by the Tirathgarh Waterfall and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Chitrakoot Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Kailash Caves: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Tirathgarh Waterfall: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, August 12: Bastar Iron Crafts and Dhurwa Tribe

Discover the artistic side of Bastar. In the morning, visit the famous Kondagaon village known for its intricate Bastar iron crafts. Witness local artisans creating beautiful handicrafts and learn about the traditional techniques. In the afternoon, interact with the Dhurwa tribe, known for their unique customs and traditions. In the evening, enjoy a delicious traditional meal prepared by the tribal community.

• Kondagaon Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3 hours
• Dhurwa Tribe Interaction: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Traditional Meal: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, August 13: Bastar Wildlife Sanctuary and Departure

Explore the rich biodiversity of Bastar before bidding farewell. In the morning, visit the Bastar Wildlife Sanctuary and embark on a thrilling jungle safari to spot various wildlife species, including tigers and elephants. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic beauty of the sanctuary. In the evening, depart from Jagdalpur and head back to Raipur to catch your flight back home.

• Bastar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 400, Time spent - 4 hours
• Picnic at the Sanctuary: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - 2 hours
• Departure from Raipur: Estimated cost - Variable, Time spent - N/A

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Explore the hidden gems of Bastar by visiting the remote villages of Bhejripal and Matkot. These villages offer a glimpse into the lesser-known tribal culture and traditions. Additionally, try the local delicacies such as the traditional tribal dishes and Mahua liquor, a popular local drink made from the flowers of the Mahua tree.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices on Kayak.