Shabari waterfall (Shabari Jal Prapat) has three water bodies that fall from 40 feet parallelly, followed by a 60-foot-wide water bed (pool) and one more waterfall that leads to a larger water body that disappears in the forest. A comprehensive vista will captivate you with its distinct charm.
Shabari waterfall near Chitrakoot is located in the centre of Manikpur’s forest (Ranipur Wildlife Sanctuary), near the well-known Markundi settlement. The water source is Triveni Nala, which is connected to the Sarbhang Ashram. Social media made Shabari Jal Prapat and Brahaspati Kund the most popular during the Covid-19 lockdown. Both places are near Chitrakoot Dham, a lovely and spiritual destination to visit.
Best Time To Visit Shabari Waterfall
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The rainy season is the most significant time to visit Shabari waterfall because of the increased water flow. The best months to visit are July through September, though you can stay until December. There will be very little water during the winter, and you will not have the best view.
The waterfall’s surroundings are tranquil and peaceful, with lush foliage and diverse flora and wildlife. The area is home to various birds, monkeys, and other wildlife, making it an excellent location for birdwatching and wildlife photography. Visitors may also participate in various adventure activities such as rappelling, trekking, and camping, making it a perfect destination for adventure seekers.
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Things To Do Shabari Waterfall
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- Take a bath in the pool or under the waterfall—both will be a great experience. However, be cautious, as rocks are highly slippery due to green water fungus, so walk slowly inside the water and, with caution, do not go near the edges.
- Outdoor cooking and dining are popular here since there is so much room; you may bring cooking utensils and enjoy cooking and eating in nature.
- If you enjoy photography and have a DSLR camera (camera phones can also do the job), this site will delight you; it’s a terrific landscape to take superb shots and show off your expertise on social media.
History Of The Shabari Waterfall Near Chitrakoot, Bundelkhand
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According to mythology, the waterfall is named after Shabari, a figure from the Indian epic Ramayana who is thought to have resided in the surrounding jungles. Lord Rama is reported to have visited Shabari at this very location during his exile and enjoyed the berries she had offered him. As a result, the waterfall retains a special place in Hindu mythology and is revered by locals.
DM Dr. Jagannath Singh (the District Magistrate at the time) designated this location on July 31, 1998, after doing a study. This region used to be a hiding place for dacoits, which had kept this place away from people, but thanks to the local administration, which is working on improvement and security in the area, more and more people are visiting this place.
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Engineering Marvel And Immersive Experience
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The glass skywalk bridge was constructed by the Pawan Sut Construction Company, based in Ghazipur, under the supervision of the Forest and Tourism Department. The bridge, which can withstand a load of 500 kg per square metre, features an arrow-shaped extension that stretches 25 metres into the abyss and is 35 metres wide between the two supporting pillars.
As guests walk across the glass skywalk bridge, they will be treated to a breathtaking 360-degree view of the Tulsi Waterfall and the surrounding lush forest. The bridge’s translucent glass panels allow an unobstructed view of the three cascading streams that fall into the huge lake bed around 40 feet below, creating an awe-inspiring and immersive experience.
Future Plans For Shabari Waterfall
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The UP Forest Corporation (UPFC) has presented a proposal to develop a cactus garden, rock garden, view shades near the Tulsi waterfall, and skywalk. The skywalk bridge in Rajgir, Bihar, is reported to have inspired the project. The spokeswoman for the forest department said that the designers of the Bihar bridge will be engaged for assistance. The glass skywalk bridge, which cost Rs 3.70 crore to construct, blends seamlessly into the Kodand forest’s natural surroundings, including the cascading Tulsi waterfalls. Inspired by the iconic bow and arrow, the bridge’s unusual shape pays homage to the region’s cultural heritage. It serves as a mesmerising architectural marvel that will fascinate and inspire visitors.
The state government has renamed the historic Tulsi Waterfall, formerly Shabari Waterfall, to recognise its significance as the birthplace of famed poet and spiritual leader Goswami Tulsidas. This renaming, along with the installation of the glass skywalk bridge, is part of a larger effort to transform the area into a thriving eco-tourism destination. Chitrakoot tourist and pilgrimage area lies in both UP’s Chitrakoot and Madhya Pradesh’s Satna and holds vital religious significance. Due to its name first being mentioned in Sage Valmiki’s Ramayana and the place being called Lord Rama’s dwelling, tourists flock to Chitrakoot for both religious and recreational purposes.
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How To Reach
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The Shabari waterfall is 108 kilometres from Banda via Atarra, Chitrakoot, and Pindra (to Satna). On our voyage to the waterfall, we started from Banda and arrived Chitrakoot, then we took the Chitrakoot-Satna route for 36 km and reached Pindra, then we took the next left and drove 10 km further, we noticed a board for the waterfall and proceeded 2 km further, where we found this wonderful site.
The nearest railway stations are Manikpur and Karwi; the trip from Manikpur to Shabari Jal Prapat is 32 kilometres and takes 45 minutes by automobile via Markundi Village. If you want to visit Brahaspati Kund and Sabri waterfall on the same day, you may do so because the distance between them is 53 kilometres. The distance from Satna is 55 kilometres, and it takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes via Kothi and Majhgawa. The distance from Karwi is 40 kilometres via Pindra.
Further Read: Shri Kamta Nath Mandir Chitrakoot
Now that you have a list of things to remember for your next vacation to see the Shabari Waterfall make sure you plan your trip to Madhya Pradesh and this fabulous spot for the experience of a lifetime. Don’t miss out on these opportunities and book your tickets now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Shabari Waterfall
Why is Shabari Waterfall called the jewel of Bastar?
With a breadth of around 300 metres (984 ft), it is India's biggest waterfall and has a distinct horseshoe shape akin to Niagara Falls. The waterfall is named after Shabari, a figure from the Indian epic Ramayana who is thought to have resided in the surrounding jungles. As a result, the waterfall retains a special place in Hindu mythology and is revered by locals.
Is there a place to stay or camp near the waterfall?
There is a tourist resort adjacent to the falls. You can stay there. Staying in the open is also possible. There is a police outpost near the falls. There are also plenty of waterfalls.
What are other places worth visiting near Shabari Falls?
Following are the places worth visiting near Shabari falls:
- Kanger Valley National Park
- Kailash and Kutumsar Caves
- Tirathgarh Falls
- Zonal Anthropological Museum
What is the charge and timings for entry?
The charges are INR 25 for boating. There are no parking charges in the area. The timing of the waterfall is 8 AM to 6PM daily. Shabari Waterfall enchants visitors with its picturesque landscape.
What is the route to reach the waterfall?
The magnificent waterfall is located approximately 47 kilometres from the major town of Chitrakoot and can be reached easily by road. The travel to the waterfall is through lush forests, hilly terrain, and meandering trails. The walk is moderate in length and can be finished in an hour, making it suited for people of all ages.
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