Very few places in India have a rich tribal history and tradition as that of Bastar district in Chhattisgarh. Its tribal heritage is not just in the past; the region’s tribal population proudly upholds their cultural practices even today. The region is stunningly beautiful with awe-inspiring waterfalls, cave formations and a national park. However, due to unrest caused by fighting between government forces and Maoist insurgents, this region has not gotten its due as a tourist destination.

For the most part, tourist infrastructure is still rudimentary in many areas of Bastar, with a few hotels found near well-known sightseeing spots or pilgrimage centres. Thoughtful and sustainably-run tourism initiatives can improve the livelihood opportunities and income levels of the local people, while protecting and promoting the unique traditions, practices and ecology of the place.

Thus, local residents have started taking matters into their own hands to showcase their lifestyle and practices to outsiders. One such person is Shakeel Rizvi, who has opened up part of his home in Chhotebodal village, 21km from the district headquarters of Jagdalpur. 

Surrounded by fields and close to the Kanger Valley National Park, Chhotebodal is a typical Bastar village with 150 families. The homestay is an elegant and simple place to stay with both Indian- and Western-style toilets. Like many village homes today, it has a washing machine, a well-equipped kitchen with a fridge, and even a television.

It's the experiences that a traveller can have here that make this homestay stand out. The region is home to three main tribes – the Gondi, Dhurwa and Bhatra. Guests can interact with the people of these tribal communities and learn about their way of life during village visits and cooking excursions. By exploring local agricultural practices, visitors gain a better understanding of tribal cooking techniques and dishes. In fact, the homestay serves locally-grown organic food.

Visitors are spoilt for choice when deciding on which activity to do first. Whether its visiting the local tribal markets and historical sites; going on sightseeing tours to see the resplendent waterfalls (Chitrakote, Tirathgarh), caves (Kotumsar), and hills; birdwatching; hiking; cycling; tracking animals; witnessing the Tuma craftwork of Bastar, among other local craftsmanship techniques; attending dances performed by the Gondi and Muria tribes; and observing tribal festivals which typically take place from February to March, guests have a packed itinerary.

The Bastar Tribal Homestay is a socially responsible organisation which promotes local tribal practices and ensures travellers respectfully understand and experience them. The three room homestay has four beds in each room, and the per day cost for one person is INR 700. The food cost is INR 800 per day. Guests can hire motorcycles from the locals at a cost of INR 700 on a per day basis.

Travellers looking to book rooms at the Bastar Tribal Homestay should contact Shakeel Rizvi at +918319846855.