Places to Visit in Chicholi, Nagpur, Maharashtra
Chicholi, located near Nagpur in Maharashtra, is a small town surrounded by lush greenery and known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and religious sites. While it’s not as popular as other tourist destinations in Maharashtra, it offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and those interested in offbeat travel. Here are the best places to visit in and around Chicholi:
1. Chicholi Dam & Lake
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A serene picnic spot with a beautiful lake surrounded by hills.
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Ideal for birdwatching, boating, and nature walks.
2. Ambazari Lake & Garden (Nagpur)
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Located about 50 km from Chicholi, this is Nagpur’s most famous lake.
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Features a musical fountain, Japanese garden, and boating facilities.
3. Pench Tiger Reserve (Nearby Wildlife Safari)
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About 70 km from Chicholi, this reserve inspired Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
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Home to tigers, leopards, Indian bison (gaur), and diverse birdlife.
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Best for jeep safaris and wildlife photography.
4. Ramtek Fort & Temple (Historical Site)
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Around 60 km from Chicholi, this ancient fort is linked to Lord Rama’s exile.
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The Ram Temple attracts pilgrims, especially during Ram Navami.
5. Khindsi Lake (Near Ramtek)
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A scenic boating and water sports destination.
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Surrounded by hills, perfect for picnics and relaxation.
6. Dragon Palace Temple (Kamptee, Nagpur)
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A stunning Buddhist temple built by Japanese monks.
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Known for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful architecture.
7. Deekshabhoomi (Nagpur)
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One of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in India.
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Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism here in 1956.
8. Sitabuldi Fort & Gandhi Bagh (Nagpur)
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A historic fort with colonial-era significance.
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Gandhi Bagh is a well-maintained garden with a toy train.
9. Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (Extended Trip Option)
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Located 150 km from Chicholi, one of India’s best tiger-spotting destinations.
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Also has sloth bears, wild dogs, and crocodiles.
10. Seminary Hill (Nagpur)
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A peaceful viewpoint offering panoramic views of Nagpur.
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Great for sunrise/sunset photography.
Best Time to Visit
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Winter (October–February) – Pleasant weather, ideal for safaris & sightseeing.
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Monsoon (July–September) – Lush greenery but limited safari access.
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Summer (March–June) – Best for wildlife sightings but very hot.
How to Reach?
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Nearest Airport: Nagpur (50 km).
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Nearest Railway Station: Nagpur Junction.
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By Road: Well-connected via NH53 (Nagpur-Jabalpur Highway).
Where to Stay?
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Budget: MTDC Resort (Pench), Nagpur city hotels.
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Luxury: Jungle resorts near Pench/Tadoba.
Chicholi is great for a short nature retreat, but combining it with Nagpur’s attractions makes for a perfect trip