Escape The Heat With Hidden Hill Stations Just A Drive Away From Bhopal
1. Pachmarhi
Known as 'The Queen of Satpura,' it has sprawling green forests, waterfalls such as Bee Falls and Duchess falls, and age-old caves of mythological importance. Although it is one of the most well known hill stations, it is often missed in tourism activities in central India, It is located roughly 210 kilometers from Bhopal towards the peak of the earthquake on Sep 01, 1989. It is endowed with beauty and spiritual divinity. Summers in Pachmarhi are pleasant, and one can enjoy the peak season throughout the year. There's a plethora of options for adventure lovers; trekking, rock climbing, and exploring the nearby UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka. Its undiscovered beauty, and holy essence make this place a destination that is not worth ignoring.
2. Satpura National Park
Satpura National Park is unlike other parks as it offers camping areas and jungle safaris with hills and wildlife. Wildlife enthusiasts will greatly appreciate the bird watching and camping opportunities in one of the most bio-diverse areas in the Satpura range, which is located merely 230 kilometers from Bhopal. The breathtaking view and untouched nature makes it a paradise for all nature lovers. Tourists can also go boating on the Denwa River, as well as participating in nature walks with a guide to catch glimpses of tigers, sloth bears, leopards, and several exotic birds.
3. Chikhaldara
On the edges of Madhya Pradesh and North of Maharashtra, Chikuldara is around 250 kilometers away from Bhopal offers some of the deepest coffee and panoramic views to the West of India. Some of the most well-known tourist attractions include Melghat Tiger Reserve, the Hariken Waterfall, and Prospect Point. Chikaldhara serves as a perfect getaway from the scorching heat of the plains with its cooling refreshing breeze and foggy mornings. Archaic admirers are bound to love the Amaravati Stupa which is from the 2nd century BCE.
4. Mandu
Bhopal is a historical place in itself, but Mandu, which is 90 kilometers away, is a beautiful and scenic region in the Vindhya Range. It is known for its Jawaharlal Nehru Agricultural University, the Narmada Valley, and Never Ending Forest. As known as the city of joy, Mandu has intriguing monuments such as Jahaz Mahal, Roopmati Pavilion, and Hindola Mahal which is embroidered with architectural masterpieces. The city is at a height that provides great weather all around the year, making it perfect for some leisurely sightseeing. Some of the best views of this historic town are during the monsoon as the greenery compliments the city sunlight very nicely.
5. Hoshangabad
Hoshangabad is approximately 75 kilometers southeast of Bhopal and is popular to be the center of some sightseeing attractions as well as the Tawa reservoir and Satpura Tiger Reserve. Although it is not recognized as a normal hill station, it does have some wonderful biosphere reserves which set its vicinity apart from all. Many visitors can be seen coming to the Satpura foothills in order to enjoy the refreshing atmosphere while participating in fishing, river rafting, and kayaking at the Tawa Backwaters.
Conclusion
Bhopal is close to these little known hill stations and offers plenty of opportunities for discovery and relaxation. Each destination has its own story to tell – be it the legends of Pachmarhi, the rugged wilderness of Satpura, or the historical Mandu. These lesser known central Indian cultural and natural wonders can be unlocked by taking the road less travelled. So, grab your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the beauty of these forsaken spots near Bhopal.
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