The hidden Chitrakote Waterfall of Chattishgarh-Geotourism
Chitrakote Waterfall India
The Chitrakote Falls or Chitrakot is a natural waterfall on the Indravati River, located approximately 38 kilometers to the west of Jagdalpur district in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. The height of the falls is 29 meters. It is the widest fall in India, reaching a width of nearly 300 meters. during the monsoon season. It is often called the “Niagara Falls of India”.The river flows with a powerful sense of grace and makes a beautiful waterfall at Chitrakoot. The visual appeal of these waterfalls compels you to think about the kind of misty ambiance along with the powerful water current. On the left bank of these waterfalls, there is a shrine dedicated to lord Shiva. Nearby, there are several naturally built caves which are known as the Parvati caves. The Chitrakote falls are one of the two naturally built waterfalls located near the Kanger Valley National Park. The second one is the Teerathgarh waterfalls.
The areas around the Chitrakoot falls are highly dense and forested. You will be mesmerized to visit here and by seeing the beauty of flying birds, the brilliance of nature, and the extreme noise created by the waterfalls. The waterfalls are quite beautiful to explore during the rainy season. Chitrakoot waterfall is also popular due to the Hindu legendary Lord Ram. There have many Hindu spiritual temples and pilgrimage sites. Various Hindu festivals like Makar Sankranti, Ramnaamvi, and Somvati Amavasya are celebrated here with a complete spiritual system.
The geology around the Chitrakote waterfall
The Chitrakote Falls is located on the Indravati River. The river originates in the Kalahandi district of Odisha, flows westward, and then forms a waterfall at Chitrakote. After traversing 390 km in the state, finally flows into the Godavari River at Bhadrakali. The river shows meandering nature on the upstream side of the falls as it drains through the plains of Jagdalpur. This reach of the river valley has very little forest cover. Below the falls the river traverses the Bodhghat forested area and filters the silt in the river.
The geological formation of the Indravati River valley consists of quartzitic sandstone and changes to the Archaean granite and gneisses near the Chitrakote Falls. It is one of the six waterfalls in India classified as “geomorphosites” (Geoheritage sites with geomorphological interest). The classification is based on research studies of geological features of heritage value existing in different parts of the country.
Activities in Chitrakote Waterfall
Local boat facilities available under the falls in a misty atmosphere provide views of the falls. In the early morning, sunlight is reflected in a blue hue. Seeing the beauty of the waterfalls is the best activity in Chitrakoot. The water can be seen throughout the year and the beauty is reflected particularly during sunset. As the fast-flowing water of the river flows over the sharp, near-vertical rock exposure at the widest reach of the river, it generates misty clouds.
Adventure sports enthusiasts use boats in the stormy part of this pond. Pilgrims can bathe in the calmer part of the lake. In the low-flow season, paddle boats are used in pools in the upstream part of the falls. In the pool below the falls, swimming and paddle boats are permitted. Local boatmen can paddle their boats under the spray below the falls.
Attraction Near Chitrakoot Waterfall
Chitrakote Waterfalls is the best attraction among locals and tourists. It is considered one of the best Tourist spots in Chhattisgarh. here is a list of some famous sites near Chitrakot Falls.
Tamra Ghoomar Waterfall
Tamra Ghoomar Waterfall is a recent discovery, which is tucked away from the swarming city. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green vegetation, With a height of more than 100 feet. It is a perfect spot for a day picnic frequented by tourists and locals. It is located adjacent to Chitrakoot Waterfalls and offers tranquil scenery, dense valleys, and magnificent hills.
Mendri Ghoomar Waterfall
Mendri Ghoomar Waterfall is another natural, located around 11 kilometers from Chitrakote falls. The waterfall forms during the monsoon months. Tucked between Chitrakote Barasur and Tirtha, Mendri Ghoomar is an Approximately 70 meters high waterfall. The waterfall has a more relaxed flow during the summer season and overflows during the monsoon season.
Teerathgarh Waterfall
The stunning waterfall attracts tourists in the fascinating shade that they do not feel like going back from there. Located on the river Munga bahar, this waterfall falls 100 meters below the stilted hillside of natural structures. Thousands of years ago, the cliffs downstream of the river were struck down by a lunar crater with an earthquake, and the staircase was made by it. The Numa Valley created this panoramic waterfall.
Chitradhara Waterfalls
Chitradhara Waterfall is a small waterfall in the Potanagar area on the road leading up to Chitrakoot falls. It is situated approximately 25 kilometers away from Chitrakoot Waterfalls and is surrounded by stretches of green vegetation and small ponds all around.
Danteshwari Temple
Danteshwari Temple is a 14th-century temple in Dantewada, which is devoted to the Kuldevi of the Bastar region, Goddess Danteshwari. it is situated around 30 kilometers away from Chitrakote falls. It is believed that the temple is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas. As per the legends, the temple was built on the spot where the tooth of Sati fell during the creation of Shakti Peethas.
Indravati River
The Indravati river is a tributary of the Godavari river. It follows a westerly direction entering Jagdalpur city and making mighty cliffs and comes across some of the most wonderful views of nature, especially in the monsoon season. To watch this river flow in its own grace is very satisfactory for a human being.
Also read- Geotourism around ‘Princess of Hills’- The Kodaikanal India
Best Time To Visit Chitrakote Waterfall
The best time to visit the Chitrakote falls is the monsoon months from July to October when the waterfall is in its full glory. The winter season is also a good time to visit Chitrakoot Waterfalls when the climate remains pleasant and the waterfall is milky white. Camping at Chitrakote waterfall is absolutely amazing to experience. While camping, you will get to stay in quality tents on a single or double-sharing basis. Camping at Chitrakote on a full moon night will surely leave you spellbound. At night, floodlights show the beauty of the waterfall. Enjoy a bonfire in the night sky with a magical milky sky, staring at the million twinkling stars.
How To Reach Chitrakoot Waterfall
Chitrakoot Waterfall is located in the Jagdalpur district of Chhattisgarh state. There are several options to reach Chitrakoot waterfall. The nearest airport is Swami Vivekananda International Airport, Raipur, at a distance of 290 km. It is well-connected to most of the major and neighboring cities such as Delhi, Pune, Bangalore, Mumbai, etc. The nearest railhead from the Chitrakoot waterfall is Jagdalpur, at a distance of 30 km. You can take a train from Raipur if you are planning to visit Chitrakoot waterfalls, Chattisgarh.
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