Best Places to Visit in Balapur, Akola, Maharashtra [Updated-2025]

Travelo Info

June 5, 2025

Places to Visit in Balapur, Akola, Maharashtra

Balapur, in Akola district, offers a surprisingly rich heritage trail paired with natural escapes. Here’s your updated‐for‐2025 guide:

Main Attraction

Balapur Fort

A sturdy Mughal-era hill fortress built between 1712–1757 by Mirza Azam Shah and completed by Ismael Khan.
Strikingly positioned between the Man and Mhais rivers with three concentric gateways, towering red‑brick walls (up to 10 ft thick), bastions, a mosque, three wells, and the Bala Devi temple below.
Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, with no entry fee.
Ideal for a 2–3 hour visit—explore its architecture, riverside views, and the quiet ambiance as locals pass through .

Other Nearby Sites

Akola Fort (Asadgad/Korbandh Fort) – Rebuilt in 1697, originally from 780 AD. Notably associated with the Rajeshwar temple and featuring interesting inscriptions and folklore.
Narnala Fort – A hill fort within the Melghat area, about 50 km away; fantastic for trekking and wildlife, surrounded by a sanctuary.
Lord Mahadeo Cave – A serene Shiva shrine 20 km from Akola, set in lush greenery and popular for peaceful nature walks.
Kapshi Lake – Located ~25 km away, ideal for relaxation and birdwatching.
Antarikṣa Pārśvanātha Tīrtha – A Shvetambara Jain temple in Shirpur featuring a unique ‘floating’ idol, located within Akola district.

Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary

Time	Activity
Morning	Arrive at Balapur Fort, tour the fort, mosque & Bala Devi temple
Late Morning	Drive to Lord Mahadeo Cave for nature walk and meditation
Lunch break	In or near Akola
Afternoon	Visit Kapshi Lake for birdwatching
Late Afternoon	Head to Akola Fort for a quick historic stop
Optional Evening	On the way back, explore Antarikṣa Jain temple or relax near Narnala Fort area if time permits

Travel Tips

Best season: October–February for cooler weather, or early monsoon for greenery.
How to get there: Balapur is ~40 km from Akola; reach via local buses or hire a cab.
What to bring: Good walking shoes, sun protection, water, and camera.
Combine history & nature: Blend fort visits with quiet lakes and temples for a well-rounded cultural day out.

Balapur blends Mughal-style fort architecture with riverine charm, while the nearby forts, caves, and temples offer a captivating mix of heritage, spirituality, and nature.