Do you ever wonder what makes trekking through the jungles of Chhattisgarh so captivating? Chhattisgarh is known for its verdant forests and diverse wildlife. Home to many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, Chhattisgarh offers an ideal setting for jungle trekking adventures.
The state has a long history and tradition of tribes living in harmony with nature in forested regions. Trekking through Chhattisgarh’s jungles provides a unique opportunity to experience pristine wilderness, encounter exotic flora and fauna, and learn about indigenous tribal cultures.
The majestic Sal, Teak, and Bamboo trees, winding rivers, and varied terrain make Chhattisgarh an exciting jungle trekking destination. With an array of trekking routes catering to different skill levels, jungle treks here offer something for everyone. The changing seasons provide varied trekking experiences, with new sights and sounds at different times. With proper guidance and precautions, an unforgettable jungle trek awaits in Chhattisgarh’s forests.
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About Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh is a state located in central India. It was carved out of Madhya Pradesh in the year 2000 and became India’s 26th state. Chhattisgarh is known for its dense forests, hills, rivers, and waterfalls.
Geographically, Chhattisgarh is surrounded by the states of Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand to the north, Odisha to the east, Maharashtra to the southwest, Telangana to the south, and Madhya Pradesh to the northwest. The state covers an area of 135, 194 sq km.
Chhattisgarh has a sub-tropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. The average annual rainfall is around 1400 mm. The monsoon season lasts from June to September, when the state receives the majority of its rainfall. The summers are extremely hot, with temperatures rising above 45°C in some parts. Winters are relatively milder, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C.
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The Four largest Jungle Treks of Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh is home to some of the most pristine and unexplored jungles in India. These forests are a treasure trove of exotic flora and fauna. Here are some of the major jungles that make Chhattisgarh an exciting destination for jungle treks:
Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the northern part of the state, this sanctuary is home to over 200 species of birds, sloth bears, leopards, and barking deer. The terrain comprises dense, deciduous forests, grasslands, and rocky hills.
Kanger Valley National Park
Situated in the Bastar region, this park is known for its scenic beauty. The lush green forests, meandering streams, and verdant valleys make it perfect for jungle treks. It is home to tigers, leopards, deer, antelopes, and over 200 species of birds.
Indravati National Park
Spread over a sprawling 575 sq. km. area, this park located in the Dantewada district boasts dense forests, grasslands, and rocky caves. Elephants, gaurs, sloth bears, and a variety of cats can be spotted here, along with exotic birds like hill mynas, grey hornbills, peafowl, and bee-eaters.
Udanti Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled between the Sabari and Godavari rivers, this sanctuary comprises mixed moist deciduous forests and boasts rich biodiversity. During treks here, one can spot a wide range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, wild dogs, chinkaras, and flying squirrels.
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With their raw, untouched beauty and abundance of wildlife, these jungles make Chhattisgarh an exciting destination for adrenaline-pumping jungle treks and wildlife spotting.
Popular Jungle Treks of Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh offers some amazing jungle trekking routes that allow you to explore the raw wilderness and natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the most popular trekking routes:
Kanger Valley
Located inside the Kanger Valley National Park, this is one of the most famous treks in Chhattisgarh. The lush green valley is fed by the waters of the Kanger River and surrounded by the scenic Bastar Hills. As you trek through the valley, you’ll pass through dense tropical forests and get to spot wildlife like deer, wild boar, langurs, and more. The valley is also home to many waterfalls and caves to explore.
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Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary
This lesser-known sanctuary near Raipur offers excellent opportunities for jungle trekking. As you make your way through the sanctuary, you’ll traverse grasslands, dense forests, and rocky landscapes. Keep an eye out for leopards, sloth bears, chitals, and more. There are also ancient cave paintings and ruins to discover during the trek.
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Mainpat
Nestled in Surguja district, Mainpat is fast becoming a noted jungle trekking destination. The plateau is dotted with waterfalls, limestone caves, and lush sal forests. As you trek, watch out for exotic bird species and a wide range of butterflies. The trek also takes you to the Sita Bengra Falls and the ruins of the 17th-century Mainpat fort and Jain temples.
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Jungle Treks of Chhattisgarh by Terrain Difficulty
The difficulty level also depends on the time of year and weather conditions. The rainy season from July to September can make treks more strenuous. Choosing a trek that matches one’s experience and fitness is important. The jungle treks in Chhattisgarh vary in difficulty levels. Here’s a breakdown:
Easy Treks
The treks rated easy are suitable for beginners and families. They involve relatively flat terrain and short distances of less than 10 km per day. Some popular easy treks are the Tirathgarh Falls trek and the Chitrakoot Falls trek, which take 1-2 days and do not require high fitness levels.
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Moderate Treks
Moderate treks have longer distances, around 15-20 km daily, and modest elevation gains. They require a moderate level of fitness. Some examples of moderate treks are the Barnawapara Wildlife Trek and the Mainpat Trek. These treks take 2-4 days.
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Difficult Treks
Difficult treks in Chhattisgarh are meant for seasoned trekkers and involve long distances of 20+ km daily. They also have steep ascents and high elevation gains. Fitness levels need to be high. Some challenging treks are the Achanakmar Wildlife Trek and the Indravati National Park Trek, which span 4-6 days.
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The Best Time for Jungle Trekking in Chhattisgarh
The best time for jungle trekking in Chhattisgarh depends on the weather and your preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
Temperatures
Temperatures are hot most of the year, with daily highs around 30–40 °C from March to June. The winter months of December–February are more pleasant, with highs of 25–30 °C. Early mornings and nights can be quite chilly in the winter.
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Rainfall
July through September is monsoon season, which brings with it a lot of rain. While lush greenery can be beautiful, trails often get extremely muddy and leech-infested. Travel can also be hampered by flooding and landslides.
Seasons
- Winter (December-February) offers pleasant daytime temperatures for trekking. You may encounter some foggy mornings. Wildlife sightings are common as animals congregate near water sources.
- Summer (March-June) has hot and dry weather. Trekking can be tiring but rewarding, as water sources attract wildlife. Less vegetation may provide better visibility.
- Monsoon (July-September) has high rainfall. Trekking can be challenging, but the landscape is vibrantly green. Leeches are prevalent.
- Post-monsoon (October-November) has ideal weather that is not too hot. The jungle is lush, with swelling streams and waterfalls. Wildlife was active before the winter slowdown.
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The most popular and comfortable seasons are the post-monsoon autumn months and the winter. Time your Chhattisgarh jungle trek to match your interests!
Trekking Permits
Trekking in the jungles of Chhattisgarh requires obtaining permits from the forest department in advance. The permits allow controlled access to the core forest areas for trekking while also monitoring and regulating tourism activity.
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The permits need to be obtained by trek operators on behalf of their clients. Individual trekkers cannot directly apply for permits. The key requirements are:
- A trek itinerary with details of the route, duration, campsites, etc. needs to be submitted by the operator at least 15 days before the trek start date. Last-minute plans are usually not approved.
- The client list with full details (name, age, ID proof, etc.) has to be provided. Permits are issued for specific people and can’t be transferred or reused.
- A processing fee per person is charged by the forest department. Additional camping fees need to be paid for overnight stays.
- A forest guide must accompany each trekking group. The guide fees are included in the permit costs.
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The processing can take 7-10 days during peak seasons. Hence, tour operators need to plan well in advance and account for the permit approval timelines. Carrying printouts of the permits during the trek is mandatory.
Best Operators
Chhattisgarh has several excellent operators that can arrange jungle trekking tours. Some recommended organizers to consider are:
- Jungle Jiva: This company specializes in jungle treks in Chhattisgarh. They offer all-inclusive multi-day packages with experienced guides, all meals, and comfortable camping accommodations. Popular treks go to Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary and Achanakmar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- CG Tourism: The official tourism board offers guided treks in many regions. These are very affordable group treks with local guides and basic accommodation. Good for budget travelers.
- Wildlife Adventure: For a more luxurious experience, Wildlife Adventure has private guided treks with gourmet meals and private tents. Their expert naturalist guides make the treks special.
- Tribal Tours: This company arranges treks that focus on the indigenous tribal villages and culture. You’ll hike to remote settlements and experience traditional life. Unique cultural insight.
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When choosing an operator, consider your budget, interests, and desired trek difficulty. Going with a reputable local company ensures an authentic experience plus safety. They handle all the permits and arrangements, too.
Final Assessment
With its wealth of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, Chhattisgarh offers jungle trekking for all levels and interests. The state’s wilderness areas and national parks contain dense forests, rolling hills, deep valleys, and an abundance of wildlife. The state’s scenic beauty, rare wildlife, and indigenous tribal culture make its treks a one-of-a-kind adventure.
In my final assessment, I list the following top jungle treks in Chhattisgarh for 2024:
- The Kanger Valley National Park Trek: This 3- to 4-day trek takes you through one of India’s most pristine wilderness areas, with scenic waterfalls, limestone caves, and diverse wildlife. October through March are the ideal months.
- The Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary Trek: Explore sal and teak forests on this 2-day trek, with chances to spot leopards, sloth bears, and flying squirrels. Late November and February are ideal months.
- The Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary Trek: A remote but rewarding 2-day trek with towering cliffs, scenic viewpoints, and rich biodiversity. Late October to early April is the best season.
- The Indravati National Park Trek: A 3- to 4-day trek through some of eastern India’s most intact forests, home to tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and more. Late December to mid-March is the ideal trekking window.
Have a Jungle Book experience this summer in the wilderness of Chhattisgarh. Enjoy a unique and unforgettable adventure in the heart of India’s wildlife.
Stay tuned for more adventure guides from Salam Travellers.
