Chitrakoot Waterfall (2025): Complete Guide to Visit India's Niagara Falls

Chitrakoot Waterfall (also called Chitrakote or Chitrakot Waterfall) is located in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, India. This beautiful waterfall on the Indravati River is one of the most famous tourist places in Central India. People call it the "Niagara of India" because of its wide horseshoe shape and powerful water flow.

Why Chitrakoot Falls is Special?

Widest Waterfall in India

Chitrakoot is India's widest waterfall. During monsoon season, it becomes almost 300 meters wide. Water falls from a height of about 30 meters, making it a must-visit place for nature lovers and photographers.

Beautiful Horseshoe Shape

The waterfall looks like a horseshoe during monsoon months. When the Indravati River has full water, the entire falls becomes one big sheet of water covering the whole horseshoe shape. It looks exactly like the famous Niagara Falls!

Water Changes Color with Season

The most interesting thing about Chitrakoot is that the water color changes with seasons. During monsoon, the water looks reddish because of soil mixing. In summer months, especially in moonlight, it looks pure white. This is really amazing to see!

Best Time to Visit Chitrakoot Waterfall

Monsoon Season (July to October) - Best Time

Monsoon is the best time to see Chitrakoot Falls in full beauty. The waterfall has maximum water flow and looks most impressive. The sound of falling water is so loud that you cannot talk properly near the falls! If you are lucky, you can see beautiful rainbows forming in the water spray.

Why it is nice to visit

• Waterfall is at full power
• Can see rainbows
• Best for photography
• Water covers entire width

Some bad things to note

• More crowd
• Boat ride may not be available in heavy rain
• Roads can be slippery

After Monsoon (October to November) - Also Good

Many people say October and November are perfect months to visit. Weather is pleasant, waterfall still has good water, and forests around are green and fresh.

Winter Season (December to February) - Decent

In winter, water flow reduces. The waterfall splits into 3 to 7 separate streams. It looks peaceful but not as impressive. Morning fog can make driving difficult.

Summer Season (March to June) - Avoid

Don't visit in summer. Temperature is very high and water level becomes very low. The waterfall does not look good at all.

How to Reach Chitrakoot Waterfall

I referred google/bing map to collect the following data

Location

• Distance from Jagdalpur: 38-40 km (around 1 hour by car)
• Distance from Raipur: 273 km (5-6 hours by road)
• State: Chhattisgarh
• District: Bastar

By Flight

Nearest big airport is Raipur Airport, which is 273 km away. Jagdalpur has small airport with UDAN scheme flights to Raipur and Visakhapatnam. From airport, take taxi or bus to reach the waterfall.

By Train

Jagdalpur Railway Station is closest, about 40 km from the falls. Good trains connect Jagdalpur to cities like Raipur, Visakhapatnam and Hyderabad:

• Durg-Jagdalpur Express
• Visakhapatnam-Kirandul Express
• Hirakhand Express

From station, hire taxi or take local bus to reach waterfall.

By Road

Easy to reach by road from Jagdalpur. Regular buses and taxis are available. The road journey is beautiful with green forests and tribal villages on the way.

Things to Do at Chitrakoot Waterfall

1. Take Boat Ride (Must Do!)

Boat ride is the best thing to do at Chitrakoot Falls. Local boats take you close to the waterfall from below. You can feel the cool water spray on your face. The experience is unforgettable, especially in morning time when sunlight is perfect.

Timing: Till 5 PM Cost: Around ₹50 per person Time: 10-15 minutes

2. Photography

Chitrakoot is perfect for photography. Best photos can be taken from the stairs going down from the viewing point. During monsoon, you can capture rainbows in the waterfall mist. Carry good camera!

3. Trekking and Walking

Rocky area around the falls is good for trekking. Dense forests are perfect for nature walks. You can spot different birds and enjoy the natural beauty of Bastar region.

4. Visit Shiva Temple and Caves

On left side of waterfall, there is a small Shiva temple and natural caves called "Parvati Caves." Below the falls, you can see many small Shiva Lingas and iron tridents. Nice place for darshan.

5. Swimming (Only When Safe)

When water level is low (winter/summer), you can swim in the pool below the falls. But never swim during monsoon - very dangerous because of strong water current!

6. Picnic

Government hotel and garden area at the top are good for family picnic. Log huts with facilities are also available if you want to stay overnight.

Places to Visit Near Chitrakoot Falls

Tirathgarh Falls (36 km away)

Another beautiful waterfall near Kanger Valley National Park. It has multiple steps and is very scenic. The 6 km drive through the national park is also enjoyable.

Kutumsar Caves

Inside Kanger Valley National Park. These caves are among Asia's largest. Open from September to May only (closed in monsoon when filled with water).

Kanger Valley National Park

Famous for wildlife, caves and natural beauty. Good for animal lovers and photographers.

Bastar Palace

Old palace of Bastar Kingdom with beautiful gardens and historical items.

Danteshwari Temple

About 30 km from Chitrakoot. This 14th century temple is dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, who is the main goddess of Bastar region.

Tamra Ghoomar Waterfall

Hidden waterfall just 20 minutes from Chitrakoot. More than 100 feet high and very peaceful. Good for day picnic.

Chitrakoot Waterfall Timings and Entry Fee

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM (sunrise to sunset)

Entry Fee: Small amount (keeps changing)

Boat Ride: Till 5 PM only

Where to Stay Near Chitrakoot Falls

I list some popular stays in and around Chitrakoot Falls:

1. Government hotel at the top of falls
2. Chitrakoot log huts with basic and modern rooms
3. Hotels in Jagdalpur (40 km away) - more choices available

Better to book rooms in advance, especially during peak season (monsoon and festivals).

Important Tips for Your Visit

1. Wear good walking shoes for stairs and rocky areas
2. Carry raincoat/umbrella in monsoon
3. Start early morning to avoid crowd and get best photos
4. Follow safety rules - don't go too close to edge
5. Don't visit in summer - water will be very less
6. Take water bottles, snacks and sunscreen
7. Hire local guide for better experience and information
8. Be careful in winter - morning fog makes it difficult to see

Interesting Facts About Chitrakoot Falls

• Name "Chitrakoot" comes from "chitar" meaning deer in local language - many deer used to live here
• One of only six waterfalls in India recognized as important geological heritage site
• During peak monsoon, water sound is so loud that you cannot hear people talking even if they shout!
• The Indravati River starts from Odisha state and creates this beautiful waterfall in Chhattisgarh

What People Say About Chitrakoot Waterfall

Visitors love Chitrakoot Falls for its natural beauty and power. Everyone says boat ride is the best experience - "once in lifetime feeling!" Most people recommend visiting during or just after monsoon for best views.

Conclusion

Chitrakoot Waterfall is a perfect place for family trips, adventure lovers, and anyone who loves nature. This natural wonder of Chhattisgarh gives you beautiful views, spiritual experience, and fun activities all together.

Whether you are from nearby cities like Raipur and Jagdalpur, or traveling from far places like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore or Chennai, Chitrakoot Falls is worth the journey!