Bailadila

Bailadila mountain range is famous in the world for its enormous & top quality deposits of iron ore. As the first open cast mine of India, Bailadila is a place of public importance. It is situated on the banks of Indravati river towards the south of Dantewada district. As this range of mountain contains peaks that look like the humps of the ox at different places, this range of mountains is called as "Baila Dila", meaning the hump of ox/bull, in the local language.

The iron ore mines are situated at the top most peak of this mountain range known as Aakash Nagar, which can be visited with prior permission from NMDC (National Mineral Development Corporation). A 22 kms lengthy Ghat Road, that leads the visitors from Bacheli to Aakash Nagar thrills them with serpentine twists and offers a bird eye view of the entire region through out their journey. The largest conveyor system of the country is also installed in Akash Nagar. Aakash Nagar offers the visitors a panoramic view of the green forests and beautiful landscapes.

Similarly, a 12 kms of Ghat Road from Kirandul takes the visitors to Kailash Nagar, yet another peak of Bailadila range. Kailash Nagar is equally beautiful as Aakash Nagar. One can find the rare and wonderful deposits of “Blue Dust” the sand like blue colored Iron Ore, which satisfies one’s quest to encounter with the wonders of mother nature.

How to reach: Bacheli is 29 kms from Dantewada and Kirandul is 41 kms from Dantewada. Buses as well as private taxis are available from Dantewada at regular intervals for Bacheli as well as Kirandul.