Chikhaldara: A Weekend Escape to North Maharashtra's Verdant Crown Nestled high in the Satpura Range, Chikhaldara, North Maharashtra's only coffee-growing hill station, offers a breath of fresh air and a truly rejuvenating weekend escape. Our recent trip there was an absolute delight, a perfect blend of serene natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and a much-needed break from the city's hustle. The journey itself was a picturesque prelude, winding through lush green landscapes that gradually transformed into the cooler, crisp air of the hills. We arrived on a Saturday morning, eager to soak in the tranquility. Our chosen stay, a cozy resort perched amidst the trees, offered panoramic views that were simply mesmerizing ā perfect for unwinding with a cup of the local coffee, a unique highlight of this region. Our weekend unfolded beautifully, balancing relaxation with exploration. We spent a significant part of Saturday morning exploring the numerous viewpoints that Chikhaldara is famous for. Panchbol Point, with its fascinating five-echo phenomenon, was particularly amusing, and the vastness of the valley from Mozari Point was truly humbling. The air was incredibly clean, and the gentle breeze made strolling around these scenic spots an absolute pleasure. In the afternoon, we ventured into the Melghat Tiger Reserve. While a tiger sighting is never guaranteed, the thrill of the jungle safari through dense forests, spotting various deer, monkeys, and a plethora of exotic birds, was an adventure in itself. The guides were knowledgeable, sharing insights into the diverse flora and fauna of the region, making the experience both educational and exciting. Sunday was dedicated to Chikhaldara's historical and mythological sites. We started with the impressive Gavilgad Fort, a testament to ancient architecture and strategic brilliance. Exploring its ruins and enjoying the sweeping vistas from its ramparts was a journey back in time. Later, we visited Bhimkund, a site steeped in Mahabharata legend. The tranquil waters and the surrounding natural beauty offered a moment of quiet contemplation, a perfect end to our sightseeing. What truly impressed us about Chikhaldara was not just its natural charm, but also the overall sense of peace that permeates the air. It's a place where you can genuinely disconnect, where the only sounds are the chirping of birds and the rustle of leaves. The local hospitality was warm and welcoming, and the simplicity of life in the hills was a refreshing change. For anyone seeking a peaceful yet engaging weekend getaway in North Maharashtra, Chikhaldara is an absolute gem. Itās a place to breathe, to explore, and to simply be amidst nature's grandeur. We left feeling completely refreshed, already planning our next visit to this enchanting...
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Rating: 5/5
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Chikhaldara, and I must say, it was an experience beyond compare. Nestled amidst the Satpura mountain ranges, Chikhaldara is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
The journey to Chikhaldara itself was an adventure, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of lush valleys and dense forests. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the crisp mountain air and the serene ambiance that enveloped the entire region.
One of the highlights of my trip was exploring the stunning viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. From the tranquil Devi Point to the majestic Mozari Point, each viewpoint offered a unique perspective, leaving me in awe of nature's beauty.
Chikhaldara is also home to several picturesque lakes and waterfalls that add to its charm. I spent hours admiring the serene beauty of Bhimkund and the cascading waters of the Shakkar Lake, feeling completely rejuvenated by the tranquil surroundings.
The wildlife sanctuary in Chikhaldara is another must-visit attraction. Trekking through the dense forests, I was fortunate enough to catch glimpses of exotic birds and animals in their natural habitat, making it a truly memorable experience for a nature enthusiast like myself.
In addition to its natural splendor, Chikhaldara also offers a rich cultural experience. I had the opportunity to interact with the warm and welcoming locals, who shared fascinating stories about the region's history and traditions, adding depth to my overall experience.
Overall, my visit to Chikhaldara was nothing short of magical. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or simply longing for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Chikhaldara has something to offer for everyone. I highly recommend this hidden paradise to anyone looking to reconnect with nature and embark on an unforgettable journey of...
Ā Ā Ā Read moreVery nice place to visit, cool and charming atmosphere. Lots of places for all around the hill station like,
Bhim Kund: An old mythological goes that Bhim killed Kichaka and threw him in this valley, giving it the name Kichakdara. He then took a bath in the nearby lake and it is thus called 'Bhim Kund'.
Gwaligarh Fort: An inner and an outer fort, the Gawilgarh Fort is known for its unique architecture. It is one of the three forts in Chikhaldara.
Narnala Fort: The Narnala fort is actually a group of three forts, namely Zafrabad , Teliagarh and Narnala itself. Situated on the hills of Satpuda, this fort is of great historical importance, as it has seen many wars.
Muktagiri Temple: Muktagiri is a collection of 52 temples of the Jain religion, all built in the mountain. There is waterfall which provides a backdrop to the magnificent site.
Bir lake: The Bir lake was built during the time of British colonialism. The lake is built in Basalt and was used by the British soldiers. The water was initially used for Chikhaldara tow. It also has an old garden which is not well maintained.
Kalapani Lake: Towards the side where you climb to the upper plateau, is a small road that leads to Kalapani Lake. Walking a little more ahead will bring you to Shiv Sagar point. This is the point best known for watching the sunset.
Panchbol Point: This is one of the famous and important points of the area. There is a tar road from the Bir Lake towards this valley from the north side. You can spot coffee plantations on the way while you go towards the point. And also can take experience of sound reflection. If yu sought once it will be reflect back five times reflected by five hills together.
Melghat Tiger Reserve: Boasting of 82 tigers and other animals like panthers, sloth bears, sambar, wild bear, and wild dogs, the Melghat Tiger Project has a total area of around 1677 sq. km. One often spots...
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