Are you looking for a unique and offbeat destination to explore in India? Do you want to experience the rich and diverse tribal culture, ancient temples, natural beauty, and wildlife of Chhattisgarh? If yes, then you should definitely visit Dantewada, a district in the southern part of the state that offers a plethora of attractions and activities for all types of tourists.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to Dantewada tourism, including the best places to visit, things to do, travel customs and traditions, how to reach, and more. Read on to find out why Dantewada should be your next travel destination.
Things to do in Dantewada
Dantewada is a land of tribes and temples, where you can witness the harmony between nature and culture. Here are some of the attractions and activities that you can enjoy in Dantewada:
Danteshwari Temple: This is the most famous and sacred temple in Dantewada, dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, the patron deity of the Bastar region. The temple is believed to be one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, where the tooth of Goddess Sati fell. The temple is located on the confluence of the Shankini and Dhankini rivers, and has a beautiful architecture and sculpture. The temple is also the venue of the famous Bastar Dussehra Festival, which is celebrated for 75 days with great pomp and fervor.
Bailadila Mountains: These are a range of hills that are rich in iron ore deposits and have a stunning landscape. The name Bailadila means “the hump of an ox” in the local language, as the hills resemble the shape of an ox’s hump. The highest peak in the range is Akash Nagar, which is 1,276 meters above sea level. The hills are also home to various flora and fauna, such as sal trees, bamboo, orchids, tigers, leopards, bears, etc. You can enjoy trekking, camping, birdwatching, and photography in these hills.
Chitrakot Waterfall: This is the largest waterfall in India by volume and is also known as the Niagara Falls of India. The waterfall is formed by the Indravati River, which plunges from a height of 29 meters into a horseshoe-shaped gorge. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and rocky cliffs, creating a spectacular sight. The best time to visit the waterfall is during the monsoon season, when it is at its full glory. You can also take a boat ride near the waterfall and enjoy the spray of water.
Indravati National Park: This is one of the finest national parks in India and is a part of the Project Tiger initiative. The park covers an area of 1,258 square kilometers and has a diverse terrain of hills, valleys, streams, and grasslands. The park is home to many endangered and endemic species of animals, such as tigers, leopards, wild dogs, sloth bears, gaur, nilgai, sambar, chital, etc. The park also has more than 200 species of birds, such as hill myna, peacock, hornbill, parrot, etc. You can enjoy safari rides, nature walks, and wildlife photography in this park.
Also Read: Is Chhattisgarh Safe for Tourists?
Travel Customs and Traditions in Dantewada
Dantewada is a place where you can experience the authentic tribal culture and traditions of Chhattisgarh. Here are some of the customs and traditions that you can witness in Dantewada:
Bastar Dussehra Festival: This is the most important and grand festival in Dantewada, which celebrates the victory of Goddess Danteshwari over a demon king. The festival lasts for 75 days, from Shravan Purnima (full moon day in August) to Vijaya Dashami (tenth day after Navratri). The festival involves various rituals, processions, and ceremonies, such as Rath Yatra (chariot procession), Jogi Bithai (marriage ceremony of Goddess Danteshwari), Nisha Jatra (night festival), Maaoli Parghav (farewell ceremony), etc. The festival attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from all over India and abroad.
Tribal Cuisine: The cuisine of Dantewada reflects the simplicity and diversity of the tribal communities. The staple food consists of rice, millet, maize, and pulses, which are cooked with local herbs and spices. Some of the popular dishes are angakar roti (rice flour bread), pithora (rice beer), chila (pancake), muthia (steamed dumplings), bara (fried lentil cakes), etc. The cuisine also includes various non-vegetarian delicacies, such as chicken, fish, crab, etc., which are prepared with tribal recipes and methods.
Dokra Art: This is a form of metal casting art that is practiced by the Ghadwa tribe of Dantewada. The art involves making intricate and delicate sculptures of animals, birds, humans, gods, etc., using brass or bronze. The art is done by using the lost-wax technique, which involves making a clay model, covering it with wax, and then pouring molten metal into it. The wax melts and the metal takes the shape of the clay model. The art is unique and exquisite and reflects the tribal culture and beliefs.
Ghotul Dance: This is a traditional dance form that is performed by the Muria tribe of Dantewada. The dance is a part of the ghotul system, which is a social institution that provides education and training to the young boys and girls of the tribe. The dance is performed in the evening in a circular formation, with the boys playing drums and flutes and the girls singing and dancing. The dance is a way of expressing love, joy, and friendship among the tribe members.
How to Reach Dantewada
Dantewada is well-connected by air, train, and road to different parts of India and abroad. Here are some of the modes of transportation that you can use to reach Dantewada:
By Air: The nearest airport to Dantewada is Raipur Airport, which is about 380 kilometers away. Raipur Airport has regular flights to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, etc., and some international destinations, such as Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore, etc. From Raipur Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Dantewada.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Dantewada is Dantewada Railway Station, which is about 2 kilometers from the town center. Dantewada Railway Station has trains to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, etc. From Dantewada Railway Station, you can take a rickshaw or a taxi to reach your destination.
By Road: Dantewada is well-connected by road to different parts of Chhattisgarh and neighboring states, such as Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, etc. You can find buses and taxis from Raipur, Jagdalpur, Vishakhapatnam, Hyderabad, etc., to reach Dantewada. You can also drive your own vehicle or rent a car to reach Dantewada.
Conclusion
Dantewada is a hidden gem in Chhattisgarh that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you are a pilgrim, a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in Dantewada. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Dantewada today and explore the land of tribes and temples. If you need any assistance or information regarding Dantewada tourism, feel free to contact us. We are Tripoto, your trusted travel partner.