Chitrakoot waterfall, situated near Jagadalpur in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, is enclosed by the Vindhya Mountain Ranges, which enhances its overall beauty. Chitrakoot waterfall is on the Indravati River, which flows through Chhattisgarh. The waterfall is around 100 feet high and almost 1,000 feet wide, when in full abundance. Its breadth varies drastically as the level of water in the river reduces in the summer months. During the monsoon season, the Indravati River touches both the banks and carries silt deposits. Chitrakoot waterfall, which is 38 km away from Jagdalpur, is popularly known as the Niagara Falls of India. The waterfall has a horse-shoe form and is surrounded by thick and lush vegetation.
Topography of Chitrakoot Waterfall
Chitrakoot waterfall is located on the Indravati River, which originates in the kalahandi region of Odisha, in the Vindhya Range of hills. When it flows westward then Chitrakoot is formed. Then the river enters Andhra Pradesh and finally flows into the Godavari River. On the left bank of the Chitrakoot waterfall, a small Hindu shrine dedicated to God Shiva and several naturally created caves dedicated to goddess Parvati are located.
Geology of Chitrakoot Waterfall
Indravati River valley consists of quartzitic sandstone, which changes to the Archaean granite and gneisses near the Chitrakoot waterfall. It is one of the six waterfalls in India which is classified as geomorphosites. This classification is based on the research studies of geological features of heritage value existing in different parts of the country.
Features of Chitrakoot Waterfall
Chitrakoot waterfall enhances the picturesque horizon of the state of Chhattisgarh and contributes adequately to the tourism industry of the state. Moreover, the region is also popular for adventure sports like trekking, boating and hiking. Ministry of Tourism and Development of the Government of India has chosen this spot to develop it as an eco-tourism place. In 2010, there have been certain infrastructure improvements by the Government of India. Recently a small power plant of 7.5 MW capacity has been planned to utilize the water of the Chitrakoot waterfall.
Visiting Information to Chitrakoot Waterfall
The best time to visit the waterfall is between the rainy seasons, from July to October. Chitrakoot waterfalls can be reached by various ways. Raipur is the nearest airport, from where direct vehicles are available to reach the area. Jagdalpur is the nearest railway station, which is merely 38 km away from Chitrakoot waterfall.
