Chhattisgarh's Vibrant Tribal Haats: Unique Village Markets in India
Markets are the lifeblood of Indian communities, but in remote Chhattisgarh—where tribal people have only recently adopted currency—these gatherings offer a distinctive cultural experience.
Vibrantly dressed locals trek up to 20km to bustling outdoor haats, trading homespun saris for intricate metalwork or lentil cakes for potent local firewater. Cockfighting bouts serve as thrilling sideshows for gambling enthusiasts, while village shamans mediate disputes. Even the local delicacy—live red ants—highlights this unique tradition.
Tribal women walking to Tokapal market near Jagdalpur. Image by Daniel McCrohan / Lonely Planet.
Where are they?
India's most densely forested state, Chhattisgarh boasts stunning mountains and waterfalls. Its remoteness has preserved tribal ways, fostering over 40 distinct tribes. While Naxalite activity affects some northern areas, peaceful regions like Bastar showcase rich cultural diversity, especially in their colorful tribal markets.
A young girl selling nuts and seeds at Tokapal market. Image by Daniel McCrohan / Lonely Planet.
Known as haats, these markets rotate daily— from villages to forests or meadows—drawing hundreds of tribal artisans specializing in unique crafts.
What’s for sale?
Currency is a recent addition; bartering persists. Tribal women trade fluorescent saris for mahuwa flowers used in brewing liquor, or bell-metalwork (crafted via ancient wax-thread molding) for live red ants.
Live red ants sold as snacks. Image by Daniel McCrohan / Lonely Planet.
Mahuwa flowers (date-like and used for liquor) remain popular, as do red ants—for their antibacterial sting in medicine or as snacks. Chapura, a fiery chutney of ants and chilies, is common, though some boldly eat live ants by the handful on leaves.
What else happens?
Markets often end with intense cockfights, where birds fitted with blades fight to the death amid heavy wagers. Disputes are settled by sirha shamans, who enter trances to consult gods—a revered tradition.
How to visit a haat?
