Best Places to Visit in Gondiya (Gondia), Gondiya, Maharashtra [Updated-2025]

Places to Visit in Gondiya (Gondia), Gondiya, Maharashtra

Gondia (also spelled Gondiya) is a city in eastern Maharashtra, often referred to as the “Rice City” due to its rice mills and agricultural significance. Surrounded by forests, lakes, and tribal culture, Gondia is a gateway to Vidarbha’s natural beauty and lesser-explored destinations.

Here’s a list of the best places to visit in and around Gondia, Maharashtra:

1. Navegaon National Park

• Distance: ~50 km from Gondia city.

• Highlight: Dense forest, a large lake, and diverse wildlife including leopards, sloth bears, deer, and over 200 species of birds.

• Why Visit: Ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and families. Boating and jungle safaris are available.

• Don’t Miss: Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary inside the park.

2. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary

• Distance: ~60 km.

• Highlight: Rich biodiversity with tigers, leopards, and wild boars.

• Why Visit: Popular for wildlife safaris and nature photography.

• Stay Option: Forest guesthouses inside the sanctuary offer an immersive experience.

3. Itiadoh Dam

• Distance: ~60 km from Gondia.

• Highlight: A scenic dam built on the Garvi River.

• Why Visit: Peaceful spot for picnics, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon.

• Tip: Combine with a visit to nearby forests or tribal hamlets.

4. Hazara Falls

• Distance: ~50 km.

• Highlight: A seasonal waterfall near the Maharashtra–Chhattisgarh border.

• Why Visit: Great during monsoon; a hidden gem with lush surroundings.

5. Nagra Dham Temple

• Location: In Gondia town.

• Highlight: A prominent religious site with spiritual importance.

• Why Visit: Peaceful temple complex with local cultural festivals.

6. Kachargadh Caves

• Distance: ~45 km.

• Highlight: Ancient Buddhist caves and tribal importance.

• Why Visit: Archaeological interest and trekking through forest terrain.

7. Navegaonbandh Lake

• Location: Near Navegaon National Park.

• Highlight: A large, tranquil lake amidst forests.

• Why Visit: Boating, birdwatching, and relaxing environment.

8. Gondia City Heritage Walk

• Highlight: Explore the city’s British-era railway heritage (Gondia is a major railway junction).

• Why Visit: See old railway quarters, grain markets, and local bazaars for a cultural immersion.

9. Tribal Culture Exploration

• Nearby Areas: Arjuni Morgaon, Deori, and Salekasa.

• Why Visit: Witness traditional crafts, festivals, and local forest-based lifestyles.

Travel Tips:

• Best Time to Visit: October to February (cool and green); monsoon is beautiful but can disrupt travel.

• How to Reach: Gondia has a major railway station (SECR zone) and a small airport with limited connectivity.

• Local Food: Try regional snacks like poha, vada pav, and rice-based tribal dishes.

• Stay: Options range from budget hotels in Gondia city to eco-lodges near wildlife sanctuaries.