This Untamed Hill Station in Maharashtra Where You Can Lose Yourself, Find Yourself — or Simply Sip Coffee Among the Clouds

Tucked away in the quiet folds of the Satpura ranges in Maharashtra’s Amravati district lies a dreamy hill station that has yet to be overrun by tourists, Chikhaldara. With a height of over 3,600 feet above sea level, it’s the only coffee-growing region in Maharashtra and offers a climate, charm, and calm that rivals better-known destinations like Mahabaleshwar or Lonavala. But unlike them, Chikhaldara still retains the magic of an unspoiled escape.

Let me walk you through why Chikhaldara deserves to be on your travel list, whether you’re seeking adventure, peace, romance, or a weekend of introspection.

Nature’s Sanctuary: Untouched, Unfiltered, Unforgettable

One of Chikhaldara’s strongest draws is its raw natural beauty. From sweeping panoramic valleys to thick forests echoing with birdsong, the landscape is a living painting. The cool breeze, the fluttering of leaves, and the distant roar of a waterfall transport you into a storybook scene. With temperatures rarely crossing 32°C in summer, it’s a year-round retreat — though monsoon and post-monsoon seasons (July–November) reveal the most vibrant greens and mist-covered hills.

Must-Visit Nature Spots:

• Mozari Point: For sunrise or sunset views that’ll stay etched in memory.
• Devi Point: Ideal for spiritual solitude and stunning valley views.
• Sunset Point near Gavilgad Fort: Offers a magical blend of history and nature.

Melghat Tiger Reserve: Wilderness Calling

Chikhaldara sits on the edge of the Melghat Tiger Reserve, one of India’s oldest and most biodiverse sanctuaries. It’s a haven not just for tigers, but also for leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison (gaur), hyenas, and over 250 species of birds. If you’re lucky, you might catch a sight of a tiger slinking through the tall grass or hear the haunting call of a sambar deer.

Pro Tip:

• Book a morning safari for a higher chance of wildlife sightings.
• Melghat is one of the less commercialized reserves, so expect a more authentic experience.

Historical Riches: Gavilgad and Narnala Forts

If you enjoy hiking through history, Gavilgad Fort is a must. Located on the edge of the Chikhaldara plateau, it’s a 12th-century fort believed to have been built by the Gonds and later occupied by the Mughals. The moss-covered walls, ancient Persian inscriptions, secret tunnels, and the breathtaking view from the top offer a perfect mix of adrenaline and awe.

Narnala Fort, located slightly away from the town, is equally imposing with triple-layered fortifications, ancient gates, and Islamic architecture.

Tribal Culture & Simplicity

Chikhaldara isn’t just a retreat into nature — it’s a window into Maharashtra’s tribal heartland. The Korku tribe, the original inhabitants, still live in the surrounding villages. If you’re open to it, a visit to a tribal hamlet (with a guide, of course) will give you a glimpse into their rich culture, organic farming practices, and soulful folk music.

Coffee and Climate: A Sipping Paradise

Yes, Chikhaldara is the only coffee-producing region in Maharashtra. While it may not have sprawling plantations like Coorg, it does have a charm of its own. Visit the Coffee Garden, which also has a botanical garden and a small nursery, for a peaceful walk and some locally brewed coffee.

Where to Stay: Comfort in the Wilderness

You won’t find five-star hotels here and that’s the beauty of it. From MTDC resorts with valley views to private cottages and forest rest houses, accommodation is charming, affordable, and perfectly blends with the atmosphere.

Top recommendations:

• MTDC Chikhaldara Resort
• Harshawardhan Hotel
• Satpura Retreat (heritage bungalow vibes)

Easy Accessibility

Chikhaldara is closer than you think:

• From Nagpur: 230 km (around 5.5 hrs by road)
• From Amravati: 85 km
• By Train: The nearest station is Badnera (near Amravati)
• By Air: Fly into Nagpur Airport and drive down

Though the drive has some ghat sections, the roads are well maintained, and the journey is picturesque.

Perfect for All Types of Travellers

• Solo traveller? Find spiritual calm in its quiet forests and soulful sunsets.
• Couple? The misty valleys and coffee-scented air make for a perfect romantic escape.
• Family? A safari, fort visit, and cool climate make it ideal for bonding.
• Photographers and birders? Chikhaldara is a goldmine of biodiversity and landscapes.

Chikhaldara isn’t flashy. It doesn’t have the touristy polish of more popular hill stations. And that’s its superpower. It offers silence where you expect noise, stars where you expect neon, and peace where you expect hustle. If you’re craving a break from concrete jungles and curated travel experiences, let Chikhaldara wrap you in its authentic, forest-scented hug.

Whether you go there to find yourself, lose yourself, or just sip coffee and watch the clouds roll by Chikhaldara will not disappoint.