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Amarkantak!

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Population

10,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Chhattisgarh map Central India πŸ•‰οΈ Spiritual ⛰️ Mountains πŸ”οΈ Hill Stations Pilgrimage Amarkantak Chhattisgarh Narmada pilgrimage hill station temples Maikal hills

Amarkantak is a pilgrimage town nestled in the Maikal Hills of Chhattisgarh, near the border with Madhya Pradesh. It's renowned as the source of the Narmada and Son rivers, making it a sacred place for Hindus. The town offers a peaceful retreat with numerous temples and scenic beauty.

Amarkantak is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle and experience spiritual India. The numerous temples and natural beauty are a major draw. However, the town is relatively remote, and facilities are basic, so it may not suit all travelers.

Visiting Amarkantak requires some planning due to its remote location. Allow at least two to three days to explore the main sites. Transportation options are limited, so arrange travel in advance.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

10-25 degrees C

Pleasant and cool, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Clear skies and comfortable temperatures make it the perfect time to explore the region.

Why Visit:

The weather is ideal for temple visits and exploring the surrounding hills. The Narmada River is at its most accessible during this period. The cooler temperatures make walking and hiking more enjoyable. This is also the peak season for festivals.

Tip: Expect larger crowds, especially during festivals like Navratri and Diwali. Book accommodation and transportation in advance.

Shoulder Season

July to September

25-35 degrees C

Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making some areas difficult to access. The landscape is lush and green, but outdoor activities are limited.

Why Visit:

The landscape is at its greenest, and the waterfalls are at their fullest. Fewer tourists mean a more peaceful experience, but heavy rains can disrupt travel plans.

Tip: Roads can be slippery and prone to landslides. Check weather forecasts before traveling.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extreme heat makes it uncomfortable to explore during the day. The Narmada River level is low, and the landscape is dry.

Why Avoid:

The intense heat makes outdoor activities unpleasant. The dry landscape is not as scenic.

Note: Avoid visiting during this period unless you can tolerate high temperatures. Many smaller shops may close during the hottest part of the day.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Narmada Udgam Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

This is the main temple complex marking the origin of the Narmada River. Several smaller temples dedicated to various deities surround the main shrine...

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Kapil Dhara Waterfall

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Kapil Dhara is a scenic waterfall cascading from a height of about 100 feet. It is named after the sage Kapil, who is said to have meditated here. The...

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Sonmuda

⏱ 1 hour Free

Sonmuda is the source of the Son River, another important river in India. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The sunrise ...

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Shri Yantra Mandir

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

This modern temple is dedicated to the Shri Yantra, a sacred geometric pattern. The temple's architecture is unique and intricate. It is a place for m...

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Ancient Temples of Kalachuri Period

⏱ 2 hours Free

These ancient temples date back to the Kalachuri dynasty. They showcase intricate carvings and architectural brilliance. The temples are dedicated to ...

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Mai ki Bagiya

⏱ 1 hour Free

Mai ki Bagiya, meaning 'Mother's Garden,' is a beautiful garden with flowering plants and fruit trees. It is believed that the goddess Narmada used to...

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Things To Do

attractions

Trekking to Viewpoints

⏱ 2-4 hours πŸ’° Free

Explore the surrounding hills with guided or independent treks to scenic viewpoints. Several trails offer stunning panor...

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attractions

Meditation and Yoga

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή200-500 per session

Participate in meditation and yoga sessions at various centers in Amarkantak. Rejuvenate your mind and body in the peace...

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attractions

River Rafting on Narmada (Seasonal)

⏱ 3-4 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή1000-2000 per person

Enjoy a thrilling river rafting experience on the Narmada River (seasonal, during monsoon and post-monsoon). Navigate th...

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attractions

Photography Tour

⏱ 4-6 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή800-1500 per person

Capture the beauty of Amarkantak with a guided photography tour. Visit scenic spots and learn photography tips from expe...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Tribal Village Visit

3-4 hours | β‚Ή500-1000 per person

Experience the culture and traditions of the local tribal communities. Visit their villages and inte...

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celebration

Attend a Local Festival

Varies | Free

Participate in local festivals and celebrations. Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Am...

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celebration

Learn Local Handicrafts

2-3 hours | β‚Ή300-800 per person

Learn the art of local handicrafts from skilled artisans. Participate in workshops and create your o...

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celebration

Cooking Class

2-3 hours | β‚Ή500-1000 per person

Learn to prepare local dishes with a hands-on cooking class. Discover the flavors and spices of Chha...

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celebration

Attend a Bhajan (Devotional Song) Session

1-2 hours | Free

Experience the spiritual atmosphere by attending a bhajan session. Listen to devotional songs and im...

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celebration

Visit a Local Market

1-2 hours | Free (cost of purchases)

Explore the local market and experience the everyday life of the residents. Browse through the stall...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Baigan Bharta
Baigan Bharta

Smoked eggplant mash, a local specialty (try at local dhabas)

Dal Bafla
Dal Bafla

Lentil curry with wheat cakes, a regional favorite

Bhutte ki Kees
Bhutte ki Kees

Grated corn cooked with spices (available at street stalls)

Mahua Ladoo
Mahua Ladoo

Sweet made from Mahua flower, a tribal delicacy

Where to Eat

Annapurna Bhojnalaya

Annapurna Bhojnalaya

β‚Ή/β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian Vegetarian

πŸ“ Main Market Area

Simple and affordable vegetarian meals. Known for its good quality and quick service. A popular choice for budget travelers.

Thalis

β‚Ή200-400 for two

Restaurant at MMT Amarkantak

Restaurant at MMT Amarkantak

β‚Ήβ‚Ή/β‚Ήβ‚Ήβ‚Ή

Multi-Cuisine

πŸ“ Near Kapil Dhara

Offers a variety of dishes in a comfortable setting. A good option for a relaxed dining experience. Known for decent service.

North Indian dishes

β‚Ή500-800 for two

Street Food Spots

Main Market Area

Main Market Area

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Check for hygiene and freshness. Eat from popular stalls with high turnover.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Amarkantak

More restaurants & dishes from Amarkantak

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Near Narmada Udgam Temple

Ideal for pilgrims and those wanting to be close to the main attractions. Expect crowds and higher prices during peak season.

Best For: Pilgrims, first-time visitors

Main Market Area

Good for budget travelers and those wanting easy access to shops and restaurants. Can be noisy and crowded.

Best For: Budget travelers, shoppers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Shree Vishnu Inn

πŸ“ Near Narmada Udgam Temple

A basic but clean option with essential amenities. It's conveniently located near the main temple.

β‚Ή800-1200/night

Hotel Rajshree

πŸ“ Main Market Area

Simple rooms in a central location. Offers easy access to shops and restaurants.

β‚Ή700-1100/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

MMT Amarkantak

πŸ“ Near Kapil Dhara

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Good views of the surrounding area.

β‚Ή1500-2500/night

Hotel Grand Krishna

πŸ“ Near Narmada Temple

Well-maintained hotel with decent facilities. It has a restaurant and offers room service.

β‚Ή1400-2400/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή3000+/night

Amarkantak Resort

πŸ“ Secluded area outside town

Offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a spa. Provides a relaxing and luxurious experience.

β‚Ή3000+/night

Motel Chandramauli

πŸ“ Near the bus stand

Provides well-equipped rooms with a restaurant. It has a garden and provides a peaceful ambience.

β‚Ή2800+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Raja Bhoj Airport Bhopal (BHO), 550km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Pendra Road (PND), 40km from city

Main railway station serving Amarkantak. Connects to major cities. Limited express trains.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 20-24 hours (β‚Ή800-2000)
  • From Mumbai: 22-26 hours (β‚Ή700-1800)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Amarkantak Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Bilaspur: 4-5 hours (β‚Ή300-500)
  • From Jabalpur: 6-7 hours (β‚Ή400-600)

Note: Trains are generally more comfortable for longer distances.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200 depending on distance

Best for: Short distances within the town

Bargain the price before starting the journey. Agree on the fare beforehand.

local_taxi

Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή800-1500 for a day trip

Best for: Visiting attractions outside the town, day trips

Hire a taxi from a reputable agency. Negotiate the price for the entire trip.

directions

Local Bus

πŸ’° β‚Ή20-50 per trip

Best for: Traveling between nearby villages

Buses can be crowded and infrequent. Check the schedule beforehand.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Cover your shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή800, Mid: β‚Ή1500, Luxury: β‚Ή3000+

ATMs: Limited ATM availability. Carry sufficient cash.

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected at local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water only. Avoid tap water and ice.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants. Avoid street food from unhygienic stalls.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness can occur. Take it easy on the first day. Carry necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Available at major telecom stores. Requires passport and visa.

WiFi: Limited WiFi availability. Check with your hotel.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi is widely spoken. English proficiency is limited.

Tipping: Restaurants: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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