About this Experience

Join this remarkable journey to witness the extraordinary Bastar Dussehra festival. Travel through lush landscapes and tribal communities, meet local artisans, and attend sacred rituals as you discover the heart of Bastar. This immersive experience invites you deep into traditions that have thrived for centuries, set against the backdrop of captivating nature.

Experience Breakdown

Raipur – Jagdalpur

Jagdalpur

Arrive in Raipur before 7:00 AM and begin your journey towards Bastar.

Highlights

  • Visit the Tribal Museum offering fascinating insights into the history, lifestyle, art, and traditions of Chhattisgarh’s indigenous communities.
  • Explore the beautiful Tatamari Valley, known for its lush landscapes and authentic local cuisine.
  • Reach Jagdalpur and enjoy an exclusive Heritage Walk through the old town.

Experience

  • Walk around the historic Sirhasar Square and listen to fascinating stories of the Bastar royal family.
  • Visit the legendary Dalpat Sagar, one of central India’s oldest man-made lakes, built nearly 400 years ago by King Dalpat Deo. More than just a lake, it has been the lifeline of Jagdalpur—supporting irrigation, daily life, festivals, and community gatherings for generations.
  • Understand the fascinating connection between Jagdalpur and Dantewada, and why Goddess Danteshwari is worshipped in both places.

Special Experience

  • Rath Parikrama – Witness one of the sacred rituals of Bastar Dussehra as devotees circumambulate the magnificent ceremonial chariot.

Tirathgarh Waterfalls • Kanger Valley National Park

Kanger Valley National Park

Approx. Distance: 100 km.

Highlights

  • Witness the spectacular three-tiered Tirathgarh Waterfalls.
  • Explore Kanger Valley National Park, one of India’s most beautiful biosphere reserves.
  • Discover the stunning Mandarkonta Caves, famous for naturally formed stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Shop for authentic Bastar handicrafts.

Special Experience

  • Bamboo Rafting at Dudmara

Float gently through crystal-clear forest waters on a traditional bamboo raft while surrounded by dense forests, bird song, and untouched wilderness. This slow-paced experience lets you appreciate the raw beauty and tranquillity of Bastar like few places in India.

Festival Highlight

  • Nisha Jatra

As night falls, witness one of Bastar Dussehra’s most mystical ceremonies. The Bastar King performs secret rituals and Tantric worship dedicated to the local goddess—a centuries-old tradition rarely witnessed by outsiders.

Chitrakote Waterfalls & Tribal Heritage

Chitrakote

Highlights

  • Visit the magnificent Chitrakote Waterfalls, often called the ‘Niagara of India.’
  • Walk along the riverbank to discover naturally formed hidden Shivlings.
  • Enjoy a refreshing river walk and foot bath.
  • Visit traditional Dhokra and terracotta artisans.
  • Explore the 1,000-year-old Narayanpal Temple.
  • Visit a sacred Dev Gudi, where tribal deities are worshipped.
  • Experience a local village and the scenic Bastar countryside.

Festival Highlight

  • Mawli Parghaw

One of the grandest events of Bastar Dussehra. The revered idol of Maa Mawli, the beloved sister of Goddess Danteshwari, is ceremoniously welcomed into Jagdalpur from Dantewada. Thousands of devotees, tribal chiefs, musicians, and traditional dancers accompany the goddess in a magnificent procession filled with drums, chants, and rituals.

This sacred reunion symbolizes unity among Bastar’s tribal communities and marks one of the most emotionally significant moments of the entire festival.

Dantewada • Barsur Heritage

Dantewada

Highlights

  • Visit the revered Danteshwari Temple, one of India’s sacred Shakti Peethas.
  • Explore the ancient temple complex of Barsur, home to centuries-old stone temples.
  • Discover unique Memory Pillars, carved stones narrating the stories of departed villagers.

Festival Highlight

  • Bhitar Raini

Witness the spectacular pulling of the massive wooden chariot through the streets of Jagdalpur—a tradition unlike any other in India. The streets come alive with tribal dances, rhythmic drumming, vibrant local markets, and thousands of devotees gathering to celebrate this extraordinary event. The atmosphere is deeply spiritual yet incredibly festive, offering an unforgettable cultural experience.

What’s included

  • Included 4 Nights’ Accommodation
  • Included Comfortable Vehicle throughout the trip
  • Included 4 Breakfasts
  • Included 5 Vegetarian Lunches
  • Included Local Expert Guides
  • Included Entry Tickets
  • Included Kanger Valley National Park Entry
  • Included Mandarkonta Cave Entry
  • Included Bamboo Rafting
  • Included Heritage Walks
  • Included Dhokra Artisan Visit
  • Included All Bastar Dussehra Rituals mentioned
  • Included Parking & Toll Charges

What’s not included

  • Flights/Train Tickets
  • Water Bottles (We encourage carrying reusable steel bottles.)
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Tips
  • Shopping
  • Anything not mentioned under Inclusions

Highlights

Important Information

* Pickup from Raipur at 7:00 AM on 18th October. Please arrive before 7:00 AM. Breakfast on Day 1 is self-sponsored.

* We recommend flying into Raipur as Jagdalpur has limited and expensive flight options with inconvenient arrival timings.

* Return to Raipur is expected around 8:00 PM on 22nd October. Please book onward travel accordingly.

* Guests choosing to join directly at Jagdalpur or leave from Jagdalpur instead of using the Raipur transfers will receive a ₹2,000 refund.

* Depending on the weekly tribal market schedule (Friday- Monday), minor adjustments may be made to include the best local markets without affecting the overall itinerary.

Terms and Conditions

  • The initial booking amount of ₹22,000 is non-refundable.
  • For cancellations made before 25th August, ₹10,000 can be carried forward as a credit toward any future Trail the Himalayas trip.