Bailadila Range- An Archean Geological marvel rich in BIF Formation
Bailadila Range
Chhattisgarh is a state located in central India, and it is known for its rich mineral resources and geological features. One of the hidden geological features in Chhattisgarh is the Bailadila range, which is located in the Dantewada district of the state. The Bailadila range is a series of hills and mountains that are known for their rich deposits of iron ore. The name “Bailadila” means “hump of the ox” in the local language, and the hills are said to resemble the hump of an ox. The Bailadila range is composed of a series of peaks, the highest of which is Bailadila Hill, which has an elevation of 1,276 meters.
The Bailadila range is a geological marvel because it is composed of some of the oldest rocks in the world. The hills are made up of banded iron formations (BIFs) that date back to the Archean period, which occurred over 2.5 billion years ago. These BIFs are some of the oldest rocks on the planet, and they are of great interest to geologists and mineralogists because of their unique properties.
The iron ore deposits in the Bailadila range are of high quality and have low phosphorus and alumina content, making them ideal for steel production. The range has five hills, each with a unique name, and the highest peak is Bailadila Hill, which stands at an elevation of 1,276 meters. The Bailadila range is also home to several tribal communities, including the Gond, Muria, and Dhurwa tribes, who have been living in the area for centuries. These tribes have a rich cultural heritage and have a deep understanding of the local flora and fauna.
Geography
Bailadila Range is a mountain range rising in the Deccan Plateau about 200 km west of the Eastern Ghats. It is located near Kirandul town in the Dantewada district of southern Chhattisgarh, India. The Bailadila range is located in the northeastern area of the Deccan Plateau and extends in a roughly SW – NE direction for a length of about 70 km south of the Indravati River.
The hills are located at a distance of about 40 km southwest of Dantewada and have been a mining area producing very high-grade iron ore and mineral extraction.
Places to visit in Bailadila Range
The Bailadila range is a fascinating place to visit for its unique geological features and rich cultural heritage. While much of the area is inaccessible due to mining activities, there are still a few places that visitors can explore. Some of the top places to visit in the Bailadila range-
Nandaraj Parvat
Nandaraj Parvat is a mountain peak located in the Bailadila range. It is one of the prominent peaks in the range and is popular among trekkers and hikers for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The Nandaraj Parvat is at an elevation of around 1,400 meters, and the trek to the peak is challenging but rewarding. The trek takes visitors through dense forests and steep inclines, and it typically takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests.
In addition to its natural beauty, Nandaraj Parvat is also home to a small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shrine is located at the top of the peak and is a popular spot for pilgrims. To visit Nandaraj Parvat, visitors need to obtain permission from the local authorities and hire a guide to accompany them on the trek. The best time to visit is during the winter months between November and February when the weather is cool and pleasant. It is important to wear comfortable shoes, carry sufficient water and food, and follow all safety guidelines during the trek.
Gadiya Mountain
Gadiya Mountain is a scenic hill located near the Bailadila range. It is known for its unique rock formations and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hill is approximately 500 meters in height and is accessible by a winding road that leads to the top. The road is narrow and steep in some places, so visitors should be cautious while driving or riding. Alternatively, visitors can also trek to the top of the hill, which takes about 1-2 hours and offers a more immersive experience.
At the top of Gadiya Mountain, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and forests, including the Bailadila range. There is a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman at the top of the hill, which is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The temple offers a peaceful and serene environment and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
Muria Village
Muria Village is a tribal village located near the Bailadila range. The village is home to the Muria tribe, which is known for its unique culture, customs, and way of life. Visitors to Muria Village can learn about the tribe’s traditions and practices, including their unique farming techniques, handicrafts, and music. The Muria people are skilled farmers and cultivate crops like rice, maize, and pulses using traditional methods. They also create intricate handicrafts like bamboo baskets, wooden toys, and jewelry, which make for great souvenirs.
The village is also known for its music and dance forms, which are an integral part of the Muria culture. Visitors can watch traditional dance performances and listen to music played on unique instruments like the mandar, nagada, and dhol. While visiting Muria Village, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and traditions. Visitors should dress modestly, seek permission before taking photographs, and avoid disrupting village life. Many visitors hire local guides or take guided tours to explore the village and learn about the Muria culture.
Also, read- Mainpat in Surguja- A Tranquil Town and ‘Switzerland of Chhattisgarh’
Kailash Nagar Waterfall
Kailash Nagar Waterfall is a scenic waterfall located near Kanker, a town in the Bastar district. The waterfall is nestled amidst lush green forests and is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and camping. The waterfall is approximately 25 meters in height and is surrounded by rocky cliffs and boulders. Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters of the waterfall, relax on the rocks, or enjoy a picnic with friends and family. The area around the waterfall is also great for bird watching and nature photography.
To reach Kailash Nagar Waterfall, visitors need to trek through the forest for about 2 kilometers from the nearest road. The trek is moderately challenging, and visitors should wear comfortable shoes and carry sufficient water and snacks. Alternatively, visitors can also hire a local guide to accompany them on the trek. The best time to visit Kailash Nagar Waterfall is during the monsoon season between July and October when the waterfall is at its full flow.
How to get Bailadila Range
The nearest city to Bailadila Range is Kirandul, which is approximately 22 kilometers away. The nearest airport to Bailadila Range is in Raipur, which is around 375 kilometers away. From Raipur, you can take a taxi or a bus to Kirandul. Kirandul has a railway station, which is well-connected to other cities in India. You can take a train to Kirandul and then take a taxi or a bus to Bailadila Range. Kirandul is well-connected to other cities in Chhattisgarh and neighboring states by road.
