Located in the Amravati district, Chikhaldara is the only hill station in Maharashtra’s eastern belt, sitting pretty at an altitude of 1,188 meters (3,898 feet). Surrounded by dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic valley views, Chikhaldara is a rare blend of myth, mist, and complete serenity—still shielded from the noise of mainstream tourism.
If you're seeking a destination that combines wildlife, cool weather, history, and natural beauty, this complete guide to Chikhaldara is all you need.
Quick Snapshot
Location: Amravati district, Maharashtra
Altitude: 1,188 m above sea level
Best Time to Visit: October to March for crisp winter charm; July to September for lush monsoon greens
Ideal Duration: 2–3 days
Perfect For: Nature lovers, solitude seekers, photographers, families, and offbeat explorers
How to Reach Chikhaldara
By Road:
From Nagpur: ~230 km (5.5 hours) via NH53 and MH SH 6
From Amravati: ~85 km (2 hours)
Good quality roads with scenic forest stretches
By Train:
Nearest station: Badnera Junction (BD) near Amravati (~85 km)
From there, take a cab or local bus to Chikhaldara
By Air:
Nearest airport: Nagpur Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport (~230 km)
Regular taxis and car rentals available
Places to Visit in Chikhaldara
Melghat Tiger Reserve
A part of India’s Project Tiger initiative, this forest reserve is home to tigers, leopards, Indian gaurs, sloth bears, barking deer, and over 200 species of birds. Jeep safaris are available at select entry points, and the area is rich in teak, bamboo, and medicinal flora.
Entry Point: Semadoh village
Safari Timing: Morning and evening slots
Tip: Book in advance during peak seasons
Bhimkund
According to the Mahabharata, this is where Bhima killed Kichaka and threw him into the valley, giving Chikhaldara its name ("Kichak + dara" or 'valley of Kichak'). Today, it’s a scenic spot with a mythological past, surrounded by valleys and a tranquil pond.
Sunset Point (Prospect Point)
For panoramic views of the Vairat hills and the distant Satpura ranges, this point is your golden hour haven. On clear days, you can even spot the Pandhar Kawda and Gavilgarh Fort from afar.
Gavilgarh Fort
This 12th-century fort is perched on a hilltop, offering a blend of history and architecture with weathered bastions, Persian inscriptions, and thick stone walls. It belonged to the Imad Shahi and later Mughal and Maratha rulers.
Entry: Free
Wear shoes: The fort area is uneven with grass-covered stones
Waterfalls and Lakes
Panchbol Point: Named because your voice echoes five times; also a viewpoint above deep valleys
Shakkar Lake: Ideal for boating, surrounded by hills
Kalapani and Bakadari Waterfalls: Best visited in monsoon
Where to Stay
Chikhaldara has limited but charming options. Book ahead, especially during monsoon and winter weekends.
Top Picks:
MTDC Resort Chikhaldara – Government-run, simple but scenic views
Harshawardhan Hotel – Family-friendly and centrally located
Yatri Niwas – Budget-friendly with basic amenities
Eco-Tourism Cottages at Semadoh – Rustic, forest-flanked cottages managed by the Forest Department
Food & Local Cuisine
Local food is simple, vegetarian-friendly, and made with seasonal produce. Most hotels serve Maharashtrian thalis, poha, bhakri, and seasonal sabzi.
Must try: Kadhi–Khichdi, Zunka Bhakar, and local toor dal preparations
Limited options for gourmet meals—carry dry snacks if you're a picky eater
Things to Do
✅ Go on a Jungle Safari
✅ Watch the sunrise at Mozari Point
✅ Birdwatching in Melghat
✅ Visit the Tribal Museum for local Warli-style artifacts
✅ Take nature walks along foggy trails
✅ Buy forest honey and bamboo items from local eco-shops
Why Chikhaldara Is Different
Unlike commercial hill stations that are flooded with tourists, cafes, and camera-clicking crowds, Chikhaldara offers quietude and raw nature. There are no malls, no loud clubs, and barely any honking. Just forest whispers, tribal folklore, and endless skies.
In many ways, Chikhaldara isn’t just a getaway—it’s a reminder of what real travel used to feel like before it became content.
Whether you're looking for an offbeat weekend escape or a soul-refreshing pause amid the forested hills, Chikhaldara delivers with grace and greenery. It’s Maharashtra’s best-kept hill secret—an untouched gem that deserves more footfalls, but only from those who walk softly.
