Chikhaldara
Chikhaldara is situated in Amaravati District. Situated on the ranges of Satpura at the height of 1118 mtrs. According to a legend Bheema killed the villainous Keechaka & threw him in to the valley, so this place came to be known as Keechakdara, and later Chikhaldara.
Chikhaldara is also famous for being the only coffee growing area in Maharashtra. Wildlife abounds here: Panthers, sloth bears, sambers and wild boar & even the rarely seen wild dogs.
The famous Melghat Tiger Project with a population of 82 tigers is located nearby. The scenic beauty of Chikhaldara can be enjoyed from Hurricane Point, Prospect Point, and Devi Point. Other interesting excursions include Gavilgad and Narnala Fort, the Pandit Nehru Botanical Gardens, the Tribal Museum and the Semadoh Lake.
How to Reach:
By Air:Chikhaldara is easily accessible by air. The Akola Airport is the nearest Domestic Airport to Chikhaldara, at a distance of around 150 km. There are plenty taxis available from the airport to reach Chikhaldara at an affordable and reasonable fare.
By Train:At a distance of 110 km, the Badnera station is the nearest railway station. It lies on the Central Railway Line. Several inter-city and out-station trains reach Badnera regularly from all major towns and cities within and outside Maharashtra. Taxis are available for hire from the railway station to the Wildlife Sanctuary at a rate of Rs. 7 per km.
ByRoad:The Chikhaldara Wildlife Sanctuary is very well linked by road. Many towns and cities in Maharashtra are connected to the Sanctuary by means of daily, regular buses. These buses are either state managed or private tour types. The travel fare depends on the choice of bus you make. However, this doesnt make for a comfortable travel.
Accommodation
1.Harshawardhan Resort
Amravati District
Chikhaldara, MH
094 05 978170
2.Satpura Retreat
Upper Plateau, Circuit House Road
Chikhaldara
07220 230 471
3.Jai Bhawani Tourist Hote
Paratwada
07223 220 311
Tourist Attractions:
Bhimkund (Kitchakdari)
Vairat Devi
Sunset Point
Bir Dam
Panchbol Point
Kalapani Dam
Mahadev Mandir
Semadhoh Tiger Project
Hariken Point
Mozari Point
Prospects Point
Devi Point
Goraghat
Shakkar Lake
Malviya and Sunrise Point
Government Garden
Museums
Waterfall
Dharkhura
Bakadari
Muktagiri
Weather:
The climatic conditions in the summer months are characterized by mildly hot weather and visiting the place during this time is possible. The temperatures range from a minimum of 32°C and can rise up to a maximum of 38°C. The months from March to May constitute the summer season. A cool breeze can be felt in the nights.
The months from June to September make up the monsoon season and these months are characterized by heavy rainfall. Visiting during the monsoon season is difficult as the heavy rains make it difficult to experience outdoor activities.
The months from December to February are part of the winter season and temperatures range from a minimum of 15°C to a maximum of 25°C during the winter months. Travelers may require light protective winter clothing if they are planning on visiting the place during this period.
