The Jagdalpur Dussehra Festival of Jagdalpur in the Bastar region is not your typical Dussehra celebration. Unlike the well-known Dussehra observed across India, this festival stretches over an extraordinary 75 days, making it the longest festival in India. Rooted deeply in tribal traditions, it revolves around local deities, royal customs, and centuries-old rituals rather than the Ramayana narrative.
This grand celebration reflects the soul of Bastar’s tribal life, where communities like the Bison Horn Maria, Muria, Bhatra, Dhurwa, Gond, and Kumbhar tribes come together in devotion and cultural expression. The festival feels like stepping into a living tradition preserved for over 400 years, where rituals are performed with the same authenticity and reverence.
Instead of a single-day climax, the festival unfolds through multiple rituals and ceremonies. The chariot procession is the centerpiece, where massive wooden chariots are pulled by devotees and tribal groups. The rhythmic beats of traditional drums, vibrant dances, and ceremonial gatherings create a powerful and energetic atmosphere. Each tribe participates with its distinct music, dance, and attire, adding layers of diversity to the celebration.
This festival offers a rare chance to witness indigenous traditions in their purest form. From tribal dances and folk songs to ritualistic practices and local craftsmanship, every aspect reflects Bastar’s cultural identity. The involvement of the local king (Maharaja) in rituals adds a royal dimension, blending tribal and royal heritage seamlessly.
Visitors can also spend time at Chitrakote Falls, often called the “Niagara Falls of India,” and Kanger Valley National Park, known for its caves and biodiversity. These natural sites complement the cultural richness of the festival.
Road: Jagdalpur is well connected by road to Raipur (approx. 300 km) and Visakhapatnam (approx. 220 km) via buses and private vehicles.
Railway: The Jagdalpur Railway Station provides rail connectivity to major cities, with Raipur being about 285-300 km away by train route.
Airport: The nearest airport is Jagdalpur Airport (within the town). For better connectivity, Swami Vivekananda Airport is about 300 km from Jagdalpur.
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Arrival Visakhapatnam and transfer to a decent hotel close by the sea. If time permits visit to Seemanchalam temple, a great pilgrim site for a spiritual and cultural experience.
Take the early morning train ride which is one of the spectacular train rides in India as it rides through high hill valleys, tunnels, hamlets, forest.
Arrival at the Arakku station and further drive to Desia eco tourism (www.desiakoraput.com). Upon arrival, receive with warm welcome by the Desia team. Afternoon walk to mali tribal village to see their unique agricultural system.
Overnight stay at Desia.
Desia and excursion to Nandapur market.
Desia and excursion to Ounkadelli to meet most interesting bonda tribes. Also meet Gadaba, paraja tribes.
Desia and hike to various tribal villages of paraja, mali, gadaba, harijan communities to learn and experiencing their indigenous culture.
Today visit the colourful market for Dhurba tribes and cattletrade. Evening enjoy the Dussehra festivity in Jagdalpur. Overnight stay in a decent hotel at Jagdalpur.
During day visit the muria tribal village and the soectacular chitrakoot waterfall. Afternoon enjoy the dussehra festival by witnessing cultural activities by the tribes.
Whole day enjoy the colourful Dussehra festival.
Early departure for Rayagada and visit the weekly market for Desiakondh tribes. Enjoy the festive activities around Bissamcuttack areas. Overnight stay in a decent hotel.
Today meet another indigeneous Dunguria hill tribes at their weekly market in the morning. Afternoon meet tattoo faced kutia kondh tribes at their market and overnight stay in a simple hotel at Baliguda.
Morning visit the kondh tribal villages and enjoy the drive through beautiful countryside rural villages and late afternoon transfer to a hotel along the Chilika lagoon.
Morning enjoy the birding trip in the wetland to meet various birds in the nature. Further drive to Puri and overnight stay in a home stay or hotel. Enroute visit the craft and painter village.
Morning explore Holy city Puri by the national tourism awarded Green rider rickshaw riders to experience the daily happenings.
Afternoon excursion to konark to witness the world heritage majestoc sun temple. Evening enjoy the luxmi pooja festivity in Puri.
Departure for Bhubaneswar to visit the various ancient temples in the old city. Afternoon or evening transfer to airport to board your onward flight.
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