Chikhaldara!
india-guide.in
india-guide.in
Population
7,000
Best Time
October to June
Time Needed
2-3 days minimum
Currency
Rupee (₹)
Trip Planning pages built for fast decisions and deeper discovery.
Showcase Your Photography Skills • Help Thousands of Travelers • Get Featured with Credit
Chikhaldara is a hill station located in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, nestled within the Melghat Tiger Reserve. It is the only hill station in the region, offering a cool respite from the surrounding plains and known for its coffee plantations.
Chikhaldara offers scenic viewpoints, wildlife sightings, and a peaceful atmosphere. However, it is relatively remote and lacks extensive tourist infrastructure compared to more popular hill stations. The roads can be rough in places, and options for dining and accommodation are limited.
Getting to Chikhaldara requires a drive from Nagpur or other nearby cities. Allow at least two to three days to fully explore the area and enjoy the natural surroundings. Hiring a car with a driver is recommended for flexibility.
October to February
10-25 degrees C
Pleasant and cool weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Clear skies and low humidity make for comfortable exploration.
Why Visit:
This is the peak season to visit Chikhaldara as the weather is perfect for exploring the viewpoints and wildlife. The forests are lush after the monsoon, and you have the best chance of spotting wildlife. Birdwatching is also excellent during this time.
Tip: Expect higher prices for accommodation and transportation. Book your accommodation in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
March to June
25-35 degrees C
The weather starts to warm up, with occasional heat waves. Evenings are still pleasant, but daytime temperatures can be high.
Why Visit:
The crowds are thinner during this period, and you might find better deals on accommodation. The landscape is drier, but there are still opportunities for wildlife sightings. Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Tip: Carry sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. Be prepared for hot and dry conditions.
July to September
22-28 degrees C
Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season makes it difficult to explore the area. Roads can be slippery and some viewpoints might be inaccessible.
Why Avoid:
The monsoon season is best avoided as outdoor activities are limited and the roads can be challenging. Visibility is often poor due to heavy fog and rain. Landslides are also a possibility.
Note: Some hotels and resorts may offer discounted rates during the monsoon, but consider the accessibility issues.
Bheem Kund is a natural pool believed to be associated with the mythological character Bheema from the Mahabharata. It is located deep within the hill...
Read more arrow_forwardDevi Point is a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is named after a small temple dedicated to a local ...
Read more arrow_forwardGawilghur Fort is a historical fort dating back to the 14th century. It played a significant role in the region's history and offers insights into the...
Read more arrow_forwardMelghat Tiger Reserve is one of the oldest tiger reserves in India. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, slot...
Read more arrow_forwardSunset Point offers a spectacular view of the setting sun over the hills. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike....
Read more arrow_forwardShakkar Lake is a small lake located near the main town of Chikhaldara. It offers boating and other recreational activities....
Read more arrow_forwardPanchbol Point is known for its echoing effect; if you shout, the echoes can be heard multiple times. It offers scenic views of the surrounding valley...
Read more arrow_forwardEmbark on a jeep safari through the Melghat Tiger Reserve for a chance to spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. Exp...
Read more arrow_forwardTrek through the rugged terrain to reach the mythical Bheem Kund, a natural pool surrounded by rocky cliffs. The trek of...
Read more arrow_forwardChikhaldara is a birdwatcher's paradise, with a wide variety of avian species inhabiting the forests and hills. Explore ...
Read more arrow_forwardVisit the coffee plantations around Chikhaldara and learn about the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans. You ...
Read more arrow_forward3-4 hours | ₹500-1000
Experience the culture and traditions of the local tribal communities living in the Melghat region. ...
Read more arrow_forward1-2 hours | Free
Visit a local temple to experience the religious and spiritual atmosphere of the region. Observe the...
Read more arrow_forwardVaries | Free
If you happen to be in Chikhaldara during a local festival, take the opportunity to witness the vibr...
Read more arrow_forward2-3 hours | ₹100-500
Discover the local handicrafts and art forms of the Melghat region. Learn about the techniques and m...
Read more arrow_forwardVaries | ₹100-500
Sample the local cuisine of the Melghat region, which is known for its unique flavors and spices. Tr...
Read more arrow_forwardOngoing | Free
Learning a few basic phrases in the local language, Marathi, can enhance your interaction with the l...
Read more arrow_forward
A traditional Maharashtrian thali with spicy curries and bhakri (where to try: local restaurants)
Spicy and flavorful curries from the Vidarbha region (where to try: Saoji restaurants)
Freshly brewed coffee from the local coffee plantations (where to try: cafes and coffee shops)
Indian
📍 Near the bus stand
A simple restaurant serving authentic Maharashtrian cuisine. The food is delicious and reasonably priced, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists.
₹400-600 for two
Multi-Cuisine
📍 Near Devi Point
Offers a variety of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The restaurant has a pleasant ambiance and provides good service.
₹800-1200 for two
💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person
⚠️ Tips: Try the local street food for a quick and affordable meal. Be mindful of hygiene and choose stalls that look clean.
More restaurants & dishes from Chikhaldara
This area is convenient for travelers arriving by bus. It offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, but can be noisy during the day.
Best For: Budget travelers
This area offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. It is ideal for travelers who want to be close to nature, but transportation can be limited.
Best For: Nature lovers
₹800-1500/night
📍 Near the bus stand
Offers basic and clean rooms at an affordable price. A convenient option for budget travelers.
₹800-1500/night
📍 Near Gavilghur Fort
Provides comfortable rooms and basic amenities. The location is ideal for exploring the nearby attractions.
₹1200-2000/night
₹2500-4000/night
📍 Near Devi Point
Offers well-appointed rooms and a multi-cuisine restaurant. The resort provides a comfortable stay with scenic views.
₹2500-4000/night
📍 Near the main market
Features spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. A good option for families and couples.
₹3000-4500/night
₹5000+/night
📍 Away from the town center (peaceful)
Offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and multiple dining options. The resort provides a premium experience with personalized service.
₹5000+/night
📍 Scenic location with valley views
Features cottages, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. Offers a tranquil stay amidst nature.
₹4500+/night
Airport: Nagpur Airport (NAG), 230km from city
Badnera Junction (BD), 110km from city
Major railway station with trains from Mumbai, Delhi, and other major cities.
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
Note: Trains are generally more comfortable for long distances.
💰 ₹2500-3500 per day
Best for: Sightseeing, exploring remote areas
Hiring a car with a driver is the most convenient way to get around. Negotiate the price beforehand.
💰 ₹50-200 per trip
Best for: Short distances within the town
Bargain for the fare before starting the journey. They are not always readily available.
Pack light clothing for the day and warm clothing for the evenings. Comfortable shoes are essential for trekking and sightseeing.
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are available in Chikhaldara, but it's best to carry sufficient cash.
Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for smaller transactions and in local markets. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.
Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases.
Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic stalls.
Common Issues: Carry insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Consult a doctor before traveling if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good network coverage. A local SIM card can be purchased with valid ID proof.
WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at some hotels and resorts, but the connectivity can be unreliable.
Language: English is spoken by some locals, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Marathi phrases can be helpful.
Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+2 more attractions
Top Attractions:
+3 more attractions
Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!
Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.
Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Essential cookies are always enabled.
