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

Best Places to Visit in Shivani, Akola, Maharashtra

Here are the best places to visit in and around Shivani, Akola district, Maharashtra:

Top Attractions in Shivani Region

1. Shivani Temple (Main Attraction)

• Why Visit?

  • Ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Shivai (local deity)

  • Unique Hemadpanthi architecture style

  • Annual festival (Navratri) draws large crowds

2. Akola Fort (35 km)

• Highlights:

  • Historic Mughal-era fortress (built 1697 AD)

  • Houses Raj Rajeshwar Temple

  • Well-preserved bastions and fortifications

3. Balapur Fort (45 km)

• Special Features:

  • Strategically important medieval fort

  • Double-walled construction

  • Temple of Goddess Jagadamba inside

4. Narnala Wildlife Sanctuary (55 km)

• Must-See:

  • Home to leopards, sloth bears and birds

  • Contains historic Narnala Fort complex

  • Scenic nature trails

5. Murtijapur Jain Temples (60 km)

• Why Visit?

  • 12th century Jain temples with exquisite carvings

  • Important pilgrimage site

  • Peaceful spiritual atmosphere

6. Patur Fort (50 km)

• Specialty:

  • Impressive hilltop fortress

  • Spectacular sunset views

  • Offbeat historical site

7. Akola’s Gandhi Garden (35 km)

• Attractions:

  • Colonial-era public garden

  • Planetarium and mini-zoo

  • Relaxing green space

Best Time to Visit

• October-March: Pleasant weather (18-32°C)

• July-September: Lush greenery (monsoon)

• Avoid April-June (extreme heat >40°C)

How to Reach

• By Road: Connected via NH161 and state highways

• Nearest Airport: Akola (35 km)

• Rail Access: Akola Junction (major station)

Local Experiences

• Attend Navratri festival at Shivani Temple

• Try Vidarbha’s famous Saoji cuisine (spicy meat curries)

• Visit local cotton farms (major regional crop)

Stay Options

• Budget hotels in Akola (35 km)

• Basic lodges in Balapur (45 km)

• Homestays in rural areas

This region offers a mix of spiritual sites, historic forts and Vidarbha’s rural culture – perfect for offbeat explorers. The area is especially rewarding for history enthusiasts and those interested in traditional Maharashtra temple architecture.