Tucked into the Satpura Range of Amravati district, Chikhaldara is a hidden gem, Maharashtra's only hill station in the Vidarbha region, perched between 1,118 and 1,188 meters above sea level. Wrapped in mist, myth, and greenery, this beautiful hidden spot blends natural beauty with cultural intrigue and adventure.
It’s interesting to note that Chikhaldara is the only coffee-growing region in Maharashtra , offering fragrant plantations that slope gently across its hills, an aromatic delight for both connoisseurs and casual sippers. The high-altitude climate lends itself to these plantations, making a stroll through the groves an immersive, sensory escape.
Legend whispers that it was here, in what was once known as “Keechakadara,” that the mighty Lord Bhima vanquished Keechaka and hurled him into a valley, christening the land and giving birth to the name Chikhaldara. As local lore meets lush geography, the hill station develops an enchanting aura.
Read more: 8 international destinations with direct flights from Delhi (no layovers required!)
But the flora doesn’t end there. The surrounding forests are part of the Melghat Tiger Reserve , home to dense teak and bamboo groves, orchids, and medicinal plants—creating a vivid backdrop for wildlife. Tigers, leopards, sloth-bears, sambars, and a symphony of birdlife call this area their domain.
Water features also punctuate the landscape: Shakkar Lake, Semadoh Lake, Bir Dam, Kalapani Dam, these serene bodies of water add reflective charm and cool excursions amid the greenery.
Viewpoints, forts, and mythical pools
For views that stir the soul, Panchbol Point (“Five Echoes”) offers both echoing cliffs and sweeping panoramas of the valley below. Nearby, Hariken Point gives another splendid lookout, with misty hills and tranquil finesse perfect for photographers and daydreamers alike.
Venture to the historic Gavilgad Fort , traces of ancient architecture, cannons, and ramparts bearing imperial inscriptions await atop a trek through the forests. And then there’s Bhimkund, a mystical blue water pool said to have sprung when Bhima struck the earth in the wake of Keechaka’s defeat—a serene, almost sacred nook beloved by myth lovers and nature seekers.
Read more: Spiritual tourism - 5 must-visit places in India for a spiritual getaway
When to go and getting there
Chikhaldara shines from October through June, cool, clear conditions ideal for sightseeing, nature walks, and plantation tours. Monsoons (July–September) drench the landscape, enhancing its lushness but making travel more challenging.
The hill station is accessible via multiple routes:
Air: Nearest airport is Nagpur (~230 km away)
Rail: Closest stations include Badnera (~110 km) and Amravati (~82 km)
Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Nagpur, Amravati, and Akola; winding, scenic roads encourage road-trip lovers.
Is it worth the journey
In Chikhaldara, every moment tells a story, whether it's the aroma of coffee at dawn, unexplored forest paths echoing wildlife whispers, or a legendary spring of mythic origin.
It’s interesting to note that Chikhaldara is the only coffee-growing region in Maharashtra , offering fragrant plantations that slope gently across its hills, an aromatic delight for both connoisseurs and casual sippers. The high-altitude climate lends itself to these plantations, making a stroll through the groves an immersive, sensory escape.
Legend whispers that it was here, in what was once known as “Keechakadara,” that the mighty Lord Bhima vanquished Keechaka and hurled him into a valley, christening the land and giving birth to the name Chikhaldara. As local lore meets lush geography, the hill station develops an enchanting aura.
Read more: 8 international destinations with direct flights from Delhi (no layovers required!)
But the flora doesn’t end there. The surrounding forests are part of the Melghat Tiger Reserve , home to dense teak and bamboo groves, orchids, and medicinal plants—creating a vivid backdrop for wildlife. Tigers, leopards, sloth-bears, sambars, and a symphony of birdlife call this area their domain.
Water features also punctuate the landscape: Shakkar Lake, Semadoh Lake, Bir Dam, Kalapani Dam, these serene bodies of water add reflective charm and cool excursions amid the greenery.
Viewpoints, forts, and mythical pools
For views that stir the soul, Panchbol Point (“Five Echoes”) offers both echoing cliffs and sweeping panoramas of the valley below. Nearby, Hariken Point gives another splendid lookout, with misty hills and tranquil finesse perfect for photographers and daydreamers alike.
Venture to the historic Gavilgad Fort , traces of ancient architecture, cannons, and ramparts bearing imperial inscriptions await atop a trek through the forests. And then there’s Bhimkund, a mystical blue water pool said to have sprung when Bhima struck the earth in the wake of Keechaka’s defeat—a serene, almost sacred nook beloved by myth lovers and nature seekers.
Read more: Spiritual tourism - 5 must-visit places in India for a spiritual getaway
When to go and getting there
Chikhaldara shines from October through June, cool, clear conditions ideal for sightseeing, nature walks, and plantation tours. Monsoons (July–September) drench the landscape, enhancing its lushness but making travel more challenging.
The hill station is accessible via multiple routes:
Air: Nearest airport is Nagpur (~230 km away)
Rail: Closest stations include Badnera (~110 km) and Amravati (~82 km)
Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Nagpur, Amravati, and Akola; winding, scenic roads encourage road-trip lovers.
Is it worth the journey
In Chikhaldara, every moment tells a story, whether it's the aroma of coffee at dawn, unexplored forest paths echoing wildlife whispers, or a legendary spring of mythic origin.
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