Chikhaldara: The Kashmir of Vidarbha and Maharashtra’s Only Coffee Hill Station
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region, Chikhaldara is the place to go. Often called the “Kashmir of Vidarbha,” it’s the only hill station in the area and sits about 1,100 metres above sea level. With its cool weather, rolling valleys, lakes, and forests, it feels like a world away from the city heat. Mesmerizing mist gently rolling over its hills and dales, playing hide n seek with sunlight will take your breath away. Just 230 km from Nagpur, it’s also right next to the famous Melghat Tiger Reserve, which makes it even more appealing for nature lovers.
Chikhaldara – A Hill Station with a Spiritual History
Chikhaldara isn’t only about scenery. It has roots in the Mahabharata. Locals believe this is where Bheema killed the mighty Keechaka and threw him into a valley. That’s how the place came to be called “Keechakadara,” which over time became Chikhaldara. This legend gives the town an old-world charm and makes the hills feel a little more magical.
Forests and Wildlife
The hill station is wrapped in the Satpura ranges and its dense forests are part of the Melghat Tiger Reserve. It’s a green, untouched stretch of teak, bamboo, and medicinal plants. Wildlife is abundant here—tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer, and hundreds of bird species. For birdwatchers, it’s paradise. Even if you’re not into wildlife, just walking through the forest or looking out over the valleys feels refreshing.
Places to See in and around Chikhaldara
Bhimkund: About 78 km away, this deep blue water tank is linked to the legend of Bheema. Surrounded by rocky cliffs, it’s as photogenic as it is peaceful.
Gavilgad Fort: A 12th-century fort perched high up in the Satpuras. Its ruins, Persian inscriptions, and old cannons take you back in time. The view from the top is worth the climb.
Panchbol Point: Famous for its echo—you shout once and it bounces back five times. Pair that with sweeping views of the valley, especially at sunrise or sunset, and you’ll know why it’s so popular.
Hariken Point: A quiet viewpoint with misty hills and endless greenery. Great spot for photos and for just sitting in silence.
Coffee Plantations: Chikhaldara is the only place in Maharashtra where coffee is grown. Walking through the plantations and sipping freshly brewed coffee is a must-do experience.
Other small but lovely stops include Mozari Point (perfect for sunrise), Shakkar Lake for boating, Semadoh Lake near the tiger reserve, and of course, the Melghat Tiger Reserve itself.
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— Maharashtra Tourism (@maha_tourism) August 24, 2025
Known as the Kashmir of Vidarbha, Chikhaldara is the only hill station in the region. With cool weather, green valleys, beautiful lakes and wildlife around, it's a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Located around 230 km from Nagpur, it's also close to the famous pic.twitter.com/ASVXxNlhzP
Best Time to Visit
The weather stays pleasant most of the year. October to June is the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon months, July to September, turn the place misty and green with waterfalls all around, but heavy rains can make travel tricky.
- How to Reach Chikhaldara
By Air: Nearest airports are Akola (150 km) and Nagpur (235 km). - By Train: Amravati (82 km) and Badnera (100 km) are the closest stations.
- By Road: Well-connected by buses and taxis from Amravati, Nagpur, and Akola. If you’re driving yourself, the winding roads through the countryside make the trip scenic and fun.
Travel Tips
Book your hotel or resort in advance if you’re visiting during weekends or holidays. Pack light woollens as evenings get cool, and carry rain gear if you’re heading there in monsoon. While exploring the forests, respect wildlife rules—no littering or loud noises. And don’t leave without tasting local Vidarbha-style Maharashtrian food, best enjoyed at small, reliable eateries.
Why Chikhaldara is a Must-Visit Destination
What makes Chikhaldara special is the variety it offers. Beautiful landscapes dotted by hills and dales, historical sites, wildlife, and the rare experience of sipping coffee grown right here in Maharashtra. This place is peaceful, not very crowded, and has a charm that’s hard to find in bigger hill stations. Whether you are looking for a relaxed holiday with family, a photography trip, or just a weekend to clear your head, Chikhaldara will give you memories that last.
