A Scenic 9-Day Road Trip from Pune to Nagpur

Route via Burhanpur, Chikhaldara & Aurangabad | December 2023 | 1700 km

In the below travelogue, we set out on a soulful 9-day road trip spanning over 1700 kilometers across Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Instead of taking the direct route to Nagpur from Pune, we chose to explore hidden cultural gems along the way. Our journey unfolded through the border towns of Burhanpur and Chikhaldara before reaching Nagpur. From there, we took day trips to Pench National Park and Ramtek, immersing ourselves in nature and history. On our return, we paused at Aurangabad to break the journey, finally arriving back home in Pune with a heart full of memories and stories to tell.

After covering popular destinations across Konkan, Khandesh, and Western Maharashtra, we decided to chart new terrain by planning a road trip through the lesser-explored Eastern Vidarbha region. In December 2023, we set our sights on Nagpur, the central hub of this region.

Attractions to Explore

After researching travel blogs and guides, we curated the below list of unique cultural, natural, and heritage-rich stops along our route:

Burhanpur

Shahi Kila – Mughal-era fort complex with intricate carvings
Black Taj Mahal – A lesser-known twin to Agra’s monument
Dargah-E-Hakimi – Spiritual hub for Dawoodi Bohra pilgrims
Asirgarh Fort – Historic hilltop fort overlooking the Satpura ranges

Chikhaldara

Panchbol Point – Echo point with panoramic valley views
Hurricane Point – Breezy bluff ideal for sunset photography
Mozari Point – Serene spot near coffee plantations
Devi Point & Bhimkund – Mythological sites with natural charm

Nagpur & Nearby Attractions

Ambazari Garden – Family-friendly lakeside park
Deekshabhoomi – Iconic Buddhist pilgrimage site
Shri Ganesh Mandir Tekdi – Hilltop temple with city views
Raman Science Centre – Interactive museum for kids
Gandhisagar Lake & Itwari Market – Local charm meets street photography
Narrow Gauge Rail Museum – Vintage engines & rail history
Pench National Park – Jungle safari in tiger territory
Ramtek Temple – Spiritual retreat with epic backstory
Dragon Palace Temple – Japanese-style Buddhist sanctuary

Ahmednagar

Ahmednagar Fort – Historic site with Mughal-era significance

Itinerary

Samruddhi Expressway offers a direct 11-hour route over 750 km to Nagpur. We instead took a scenic detour to uncover hidden gems like Burhanpur and Chikhaldara along the Maharashtra–Madhya Pradesh border.

From Chikhaldara, we headed to Nagpur and spent time exploring nearby, Pench National Park and the historic town of Ramtek. For the return leg, we followed the Samruddhi Expressway back, stopping overnight at Aurangabad. We also visited the legendary Ahmednagar Fort before completing our circular journey to Pune.

journey from Nagpur was planned via Samruddhi Expressway and take a night halt at Aurangabad and explore Admednagar Fort before reaching Pune.

🏨 Hotels Booked

For this trip, we chose to stay exclusively at state tourism properties—MPSTDC (MP Tourism) in Burhanpur, and MTDC (Maharashtra Tourism) in Chikhaldara, Nagpur, and Aurangabad. Booking through these portals gave us budget-friendly accommodations that offer a touch of regional hospitality. We made our reservations two months in advance via their official websites: mpstdc.com and mtdc.co/en.

🚘 Day 1: Pune to Burhanpur — A 446 km Journey Through Heritage & Highways

We kicked off our trip with the longest stretch of the journey—roughly 450 km with an expected duration of 10 hours. Factoring in 3 to 4 breaks, we estimated reaching Burhanpur in about 12 hours.

🕖 Morning Departure

Despite planning to leave by 6:00 AM, we rolled out of our society at 7:15 AM. Our route was straightforward: Wagholi → Shikrapur → Shirur → Ahmednagar → Aurangabad → Ajanta → Jamner → Ichhapur.

The early morning traffic was mostly manageable, with just minor snarls in Wagholi. We braced for Shikrapur’s infamous congestion but found ourselves pleasantly surprised—it was smooth sailing.

🍽️ Breakfast Stop: Shivneri Misal

By the time we crossed Shirur, the clock struck 9:30 AM. We paused for a hearty South Indian breakfast at Shivneri Misal, which gave us the perfect start to our road day.

🥤 Midway Break: Sugarcane Tradition

Ahmednagar’s highway stretch offered a visual treat—sugarcane juice stalls operated by bullock-driven crushers lined both sides of the road. We couldn’t resist a 15-minute break, sipping freshly pressed cane juice while stretching our legs. It’s a charming, region-specific touch of local ingenuity.

🛣️ Crossing the Samruddhi Expressway

By noon, we zipped past Aurangabad and reached the intersection with the Samruddhi Expressway. We bypassed it to take a detour toward Ajanta, recalling our 2014 visit. Back then, the road was a narrow two-lane stretch—but now, it has transformed into a four-lane concrete highway, with better conditions despite a few ongoing patches of construction.

🍛 Lunch Stop: Shree Hotel Saiprasad

We stopped at Shree Hotel Saiprasad around 2:00 PM. Though modest, the place served a satisfying vegetarian thali—wholesome, fresh, and exactly what we needed before the last leg of the day.

🌇 Into Madhya Pradesh

With daylight waning, we avoided further stops. We passed Sillod and Ajanta, joined National Highway 753L at Pahur, and drove onward through Bodwad, finally entering Madhya Pradesh. After crossing the Tapi River, we reached MPT Tapti Resort in Burhanpur by 6:00 PM.

🏨 Stay at Tapti Resort, Burhanpur

MPT Tapti Resort, located alongside NH 753L heading toward Indore, offered a sprawling complex with a decent restaurant. While the food was slightly overpriced, it came with variety and convenience.

🌃 Dinner at Hotel Gurukripa

After unpacking and settling in, we wandered to nearby Hotel Gurukripa, just a 5-minute walk from the resort. Drawn in by its crowd, we went with the reliable vegetarian thali, which was served hot, fresh, and flavorful—a comforting finish to an intense drive.

By nightfall, weariness took over. We returned to the hotel and collapsed into bed, already dreaming about the next leg of our adventure.

🕌 Day 2: Discovering Burhanpur’s Mughal Legacy & Spiritual Soul

We began Day 2 with a mission to explore Burhanpur, a city founded in 1400 AD and once the capital of the Mughal . Kingdom. Strategically located as the gateway to Southern India, Burhanpur may not top tourist charts, but it thrives as a Power Loom textile hub in Madhya Pradesh. The attractions of the city were planned to be explored in the sequence – Shahi Kila – Black Taj Mahal – Dargah-E-Hakimi

🏰 Shahi Kila – A Fort of Forgotten Grandeur

After a hearty breakfast at our resort, we drove toward Shahi Kila, the city’s most iconic landmark. The route wound through narrow, congested lanes of the old city, and our GPS struggled to keep up. A kind local escorted us to the fort’s entrance on his bike—a gesture we won’t forget. If you’re visiting, take an auto rickshaw instead of driving.

Entry Fee: ₹25 (via ASI app)
Built By: Farooqui rulers; later expanded by Shah Jahan
Highlights: Shahi Hamam (royal bath for Mumtaz Mahal), riverfront views of the Tapti River
Trivia: The Taj Mahal was originally planned for Burhanpur, but due to lack of white marble, it was built in Agra. Mumtaz Mahal died here during childbirth.

Though in ruins, the fort still evokes grandeur with its platforms, bastions, and panoramic river views.

🖤 Black Taj Mahal – A Quiet Echo of Royal Memory

Just 3 km from Shahi Kila lies the Tomb of Shahnawaz Khan, known as the Black Taj Mahal. GPS again faltered, but with local help, we reached the site.

Architecture: Square layout, central dome, black stone construction
Surroundings: Garden setting, adjacent Paandan Mahal (named for its betel-box shape)
Legacy: Built by Shahnawaz Khan’s father, a Mughal subahdar of the Deccan

🛕 Gurudwara Badi Sangat & Dargah-e-Hakimi – A Spiritual Interlude

On our way to Dargah-e-Hakimi, we passed the majestic Gurudwara Badi Sangat. Its grand entrance drew us in. We covered our heads, paid respects to the Guru Granth Sahib, and joined the langar—a humble meal of daal-roti-chawal served with warmth.

Just a kilometer ahead, we reached Dargah-e-Hakimi, a revered shrine for Dawoodi Bohra Muslims.

Built In Honor Of: Syedi Abdulqadir Hakimuddin (17th-century saint)
Architecture: Pure white marble, Mughal elegance
Ambience: Immaculate gardens, ample parking, and serene surroundings—locals call it ‘Chota Amreeka’

🍽️ Lunch at Rehmania & Burhanpur’s Culinary Quirks

Famished by 2 PM, we headed to Rehmania Restaurant near Jaisthambh Chourah—this time by auto. Locals recommended Chicken Red Cook, Manda Rotis, and chicken biryani.

Manda rotis are a standout delicacy in Burhanpur. Although they resemble roomali rotis, they offer a distinct taste and come in much larger sizes. During the Mughal era, Burhanpur served as a major army cantonment, drawing soldiers from across India. Faced with the challenge of cooking large quantities quickly, local cooks innovated by creating oversized breads called manda rotis. Originally, each roti weighed around 500 grams. Today, while their size has decreased, they still remain significantly larger than the average roomali roti.

Unfortunately, the meal disappointed:

Chicken Red Cook: Oily and bland
Manda Roti: Cold and chewy (later we learned they’re sourced from specialty shops)
Biryani: White rice with chicken gravy—not quite what we expected

Still, we found joy in Burhanpur’s famous mava jalebi—a soft, dark, condensed milk sweet that tasted like a cross between jalebi and gulab jamun.

🎬 Evening Wind-Down: Movie & Comfort Food

With the evening free, we walked to Ankita Multiplex and watched Shahrukh Khan’s “Dunki”. On our way back, we played it safe with a comforting bowl of daal khichri at Hotel Gurukripa.

Day 3: Asirgarh’s Mystery & Chikhaldara’s Wild Beauty

We started Day 3 with high hopes to tick off Asirgarh Fort from our Burhanpur checklist. Located 25 km north of Burhanpur, this 15th-century fortress—built by the Ahir dynasty—lies in ruins but still whispers tales of strategic might. During the Mughal era, it held immense importance due to its location in the Satpura ranges, acting as a gateway between the Narmada and Tapti valleys. Aptly known as the “Key to the Deccan,” many considered Asirgarh the point where Hindustan ended and the Deccan began. Adding intrigue to its crumbling ramparts is the legend of Ashwatthama—the immortal warrior cursed by Lord Krishna, said to haunt the premises.

We hoped to visit the fort en route to Chikhaldara, sparing a detour. After checking out early and enjoying a complimentary breakfast, we followed NH753L for an hour before diverting toward the fort. However, the road leading up the hill was alarmingly narrow, lacking guard railings and offering no room for error. With broken patches and fresh landslide debris blocking our way—and not a soul in sight—we couldn’t justify the risk. Prioritizing safety, I carefully reversed the car, and we returned to base relieved but disappointed.

Route Roulette & River Crossing Drama

After skipping Asirgarh, we reconfigured Google Maps for Chikhaldara—196 km away. The GPS offered two choices: via Gudikhera or the shorter Nepanagar route. We chose the latter, winding through banana-filled villages, but connectivity played hide-and-seek with our progress. Maps led us across a bridge over the swollen Tapti River Though the flow of water was not that strong but the bridge was without any side railing. A small slide of the car would have taken us straight into the river. I spent almost 5 minutes watching other bikes and cars crossing the bridge but could not muster courage to cross it. Finally we all agreed to drop the idea and take an alternate route.

Tech gave way to tradition as we turned off GPS and asked locals for directions. A kind family guided us via Amlakhurd’s dusty tracks to Dedtalai, where we finally crossed into Maharashtra over a proper bridge.

Into the Wild: Melghat’s Enchanting Embrace

From Dedtalai, SH6 led us through Dharni and Harisal into the majestic Melghat Tiger Reserve. Verdant forests flanked our path, providing a visual feast. By 3 PM, we reached Semadoh’s tourist complex but found no satisfying food options. With 25 km still to go, and mountainous terrain ahead, we skipped lunch to beat the sunset.

The final stretch was unforgettable. The road, though broken and narrow, sliced through thick forests ablaze with streaks of sunlight piercing the canopy—a painter’s dream in motion.

Echoes & Evening Escapades

Five kilometers before Chikhaldara, we paused at Panchbol Point, a stunning viewpoint where five hills converge. Its name stems from the belief that any shout echoes back five distinct times—magical and eerie all at once. After soaking in the view and snapping photos, we headed to our hotel.

5 km prior to Chikhaldhara is Panchbol point. The plan was to explore this point on the way, else we had to return back to visit it. Panchbol point provides a panoramic view of the surroundings where 5 hills come together to form a deep valley. The Point has acquired its name from the belief that if you shout anything, you can hear the echo back not once but five distinct times. Consequently, the name ‘Panchbol’ – which means Five Echoes.

After spending a few minutes and clicking pictures, we carried on our journey to our Hotel.

At the forest department’s checkpoint, we paid a ₹260 entry fee and finally reached MTDC Resort, utterly famished. With limited options, we devoured onion bhajiyas and tea—the humble feast felt divine.

The evening unfolded with a short walk to Hurricane Point and Balancing Stone Point, a natural marvel of nine stones stacked in perfect harmony. A ropeway tower, silhouetted against the golden sunset, added to the charm. Later, we dined at Hurricane Garden Restaurant, which is near Hurricane Point. The options were thankfully more than what MTDC offered.

Day 3 pushed us to our limits but rewarded us with extraordinary memories. Between failed attempts, unforeseen detours, and nature’s surprises, this day packed more adventure than we could have imagined.

Day 4: Into Chikhaldara’s Cool Embrace

Nestled in the Satpura Range of Central India, Chikhaldara stands out among Maharashtra’s hill stations—most of which belong to the Western Ghats. Located in Amravati district, this quiet town hosts the Melghat Tiger Reserve, one of India’s key conservation zones. It’s also the only region in Maharashtra where coffee cultivation thrives, thanks to its cool climate and rich soil.

Most attractions here are scenic viewpoints offering sweeping vistas of forested valleys, misty hills, and placid lakes. We arrived in December—beautiful in its own way—but online reviews speak highly of monsoon months for the true Chikhaldara experience. Accommodation options are limited, so booking in advance is a must.

Our Day’s Trail of Discovery

We planned the day strategically, beginning at the farthest attraction and winding our way back:

Bhim Kund → Devi Point → Gawilgarh Fort (skipped) → Kalapani Lake → Botanical Garden → Prospect Point

We planned the day strategically, beginning at the farthest attraction and winding our way back:

Bhim Kund → Devi Point → Gawilgarh Fort (skipped) → Kalapani Lake → Botanical Garden → Prospect Point

🌿 Bhim Kund: Myth & Mist

After a short 6 km drive from MTDC resort, we reached Bhim Kund—said to be the spot where Bhim, the Pandava prince, killed Keechaka and threw him into the valley (hence Keechakadara). The pond where Bhim bathed earned its divine moniker. While the December visit gave us a dry valley with little waterfall activity, monsoon visitors are in for a visual delight with cascading streams. A few photos and a moment of calm later, we moved on.

🌺 Devi Point: Sacred Origins

A short drive brought us to Devi Point, where the Chandrabhaga River originates. Perched on a plateau, the area buzzed with camel rides, local stalls, and a perennially festive air. A small walk led to the Amba Devi Temple, tucked under massive rock slabs. Water gently drips from the temple ceiling, blessing devotees with a natural sprinkle of “holy water” while they wait for darshan. Monkeys loiter near the area—quick with their snack-stealing skills—so visitors be warned!

🏰 Gawilgarh Fort: A Missed Legacy

This 300-year-old fort, believed to be built by Gavlis (shepherd kings), later passed to Gonds, Mughals, and Marathas. Sadly, construction work near Devi Point closed the access road, and we couldn’t include it in our journey.

💧 Kalapani Lake: Quietude & Utility

On our way back, we paused at Kalapani Lake, which supplies water to Chikhaldara. Mostly dry in December, it didn’t offer much visually—but served up moments of serenity. If short on time, this stop can be skipped.

🍽️ Lunch & Local Delights

We walked to Gurukrupa Family Dhaba, just steps away from the Botanical Garden’s entrance. A simple lunch hit the spot—but what truly stole the show was the ‘rabdi’, a sweetened condensed milk dessert. We later discovered that rabdi is a local specialty—found at several joints across Chikhaldara. Definitely worth trying!

🌼 Botanical Garden: Nature Curated

Home to a vibrant collection of exotic plants, this garden offered a calm retreat. We strolled through manicured paths, admired blossoms and foliage, and spotted the quaint toy train chugging along quietly.

🌄 Prospect Point: Ending on a High Note

Our final stop for the day, Prospect Point, served up spectacular views of the Satpura Range, basking in the golden hues of early evening.

🌙 Evening Reflections

As dusk settled over this sleepy hill station, we learned most eateries close early. The MTDC restaurant only offered dinner if ordered in advance, so we opted for a simple meal of rice, daal, and chapatis. Thankfully, the flavors held up well to our hunger.

Day 4 offered a quieter kind of joy—a harmonious blend of myth, nature, and gentle exploration.

🚗 Day 5: Scenic Drive from Chikhaldara to Nagpur (222 km | 5 Hours)

We began Day 5 with a refreshing early morning walk to Thakur Point, a viewpoint that offers a surreal glimpse of the mountains bathed in sunlight while the valley below still sleeps in shadow. The contrasting hues of dawn created a magical start to our day.

After freshening up, we stopped for breakfast at Main Market before setting off on our road trip from Chikhaldara to Nagpur.

🛣️ Route Overview: Chikhaldara to Nagpur

Distance: ~225 km
Estimated Travel Time: ~4 hours 45 minutes
Route: Paratwada → State Highway 353J → Chandur Bazar → Ridhapur → Ner Pinglai → Tivsa → NH 53

The entire stretch had excellent road conditions, making the drive smooth and scenic. We reached Nagpur by noon.

Nagpur, the “Orange City of India,” is known for its juicy oranges, rich culture, and status as Maharashtra’s winter capital. Our first day in the city was packed with visit to heritage stops and spiritual sites – Ambazari Garden, Deekshabhoomi & Shri Ganesh Mandir Tekdi.

🌳 Ambazari Lake & Garden (Temporarily Closed)

Our first destination, Ambazari Lake and Garden, is the largest among Nagpur’s eleven lakes. The garden gets its name from the Marathi word “amba,” meaning mango, as it’s surrounded by mango trees. Sadly, we discovered the site has remained closed since the COVID-19 lockdown.

Still, we enjoyed a peaceful stroll along the lake’s edge before heading to lunch.

🍽️ Lunch at Haldiram’s: A Taste of Nagpur

Nagpur is dotted with Haldiram’s restaurants, making it easy to find one wherever you go. Known for their iconic Orange Burfi and flavorful vegetarian meals, we opted for the Veg Thali (₹300), which included – 2 Rotis, Daal, 2 Sabjis, Boondi Raita, Jeera Rice and a sweet treat

The thali was perfectly spiced, wholesome, and satisfying.

🕉️ Spiritual Stop: Deekshabhoomi

Next, we visited Deekshabhoomi, one of India’s most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Here, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism with thousands of his followers. This massive two-story stupa features Sanchi-style gateways and a hollow dome with a Buddha statue at its center.Inside, a photo gallery captures key moments from the lives of Buddha and Dr. Ambedkar, adding to the site’s spiritual gravity.

🙏 Ganesh Tekdi Mandir

Our final stop before checking in was Shri Ganesh Mandir Tekdi, one of Nagpur’s oldest and most revered temples. Located on a small hill (“tekdi”), this temple features a swambhu Ganpati idol believed to have naturally emerged from a peepal tree stem.

After seeking blessings, we drove past Haldiram’s Train Restaurant, a quirky eatery set inside a train coach near the railway station. Though we skipped it this time, it’s worth a visit if you’re nearby.

🏨 Stay at MTDC Resort, Nagpur

Located in the heart of the city near the Bombay High Court, the MTDC Resort offered spacious parking, clean rooms, and a good in-house restaurant. After checking in and relaxing for a bit, we headed out for dinner.

🍲 Must-Try Nagpur Delicacy: Matka Roti & Saoji Cuisine

No trip to Nagpur is complete without tasting its iconic Matka Roti and fiery Saoji Mutton.

Matka Roti is a delicately thin bread cooked on an inverted earthen pot (matka). Watching skilled women shape and spread the dough with swift hand movements was mesmerizing — though I did have some hygiene concerns when I saw the cooks using their entire hands till shoulders to spread the bread on the pot. It was anyways, an experience to watch the unique process.
Saoji Cuisine traces back to the martial Saoji community, known for their protein-rich, spicy dishes. The mutton is simmered in a bold gravy made with unique spices, including the fragrant dagad phool (Black Stone Flower), lending a smoky depth.

We visited Tasty Matka Roti (formerly Taj Matka Roti) at Central Bazar Road, Bajaj Nagar, and ordered- Mutton Saoji – ₹350 & Matka Roti – ₹20 each. The mutton was succulent, the gravy packed a punch, and the rotis paired beautifully with the bold flavors. Highly recommended!

💤 Calling It a Night

With hearts full of adventure and stomachs full of spice, we returned to our hotel to rest for the night and prepare for more Nagpur explorations.

🚶Day 6: Cultural Exploration in Nagpur – Zero Mile, Raman Science Centre & Itwari Market

We started our second morning in Nagpur with a laid-back breakfast at the in-house restaurant of MTDC Resort. One thing that truly stood out during our stay was Nagpur’s traffic infrastructure—wide roads, organized signals, and zero congestion. The city exudes the calm planning of places like Chandigarh or Bhubaneswar, making it a delight to explore.

Day 6 was scheduled to explore the city’s remaining attractions and iconic landmarks. We were to visit – Zero Milestone, Raman Science Centre, Gandhisagar Lake, Narrow Gauge Rail Museum and Itwari Market.

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📍 First Stop: Zero Mile – The Geographic Heart of Colonial India

Just five minutes from the resort, we arrived at Zero Mile, a small yet historically significant landmark. Built during the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India (1907), the sandstone pillar marked the central point of undivided India. Post-partition, the country’s geographic center shifted northeast into modern-day Madhya Pradesh, but the monument remains a proud reminder of British-era cartography.

🔬 Next Up: Raman Science Centre – Fun with Physics & Cosmos

Located five minutes away, the Raman Science Centre, named after physicist C.V. Raman, offered an exciting mix of interactive exhibits, educational displays, and hands-on activities. Highlights included:

A Planetarium with immersive cosmic journeys
3D Science Shows perfect for kids and adults alike
Combo Ticket (Science Centre + Planetarium + 3D Film): ₹70
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM to 7:00 PM

This spot is ideal for families, science lovers, and curious travelers looking to be inspired.

🌊 Gandhisagar Lake – A Serene Legacy

Next, we visited Gandhisagar Lake, believed to be over 275 years old and originally built by Chand Sultan as a water source. Although online sources mentioned open hours between 6 AM – 6 PM, we found the garden gate locked during noon—something to keep in mind for future visitors.

🍛 Lunch Break: Spicy Saoji Delicacies at Jagdish Bhojnalaya

Directly across from the lake sits Saoji Jagdish Bhojnalaya, a no-frills eatery famed for authentic Saoji dishes. We ordered – Mutton and Chichen Saoji Thalis. Though they didn’t serve Matka Roti, the Bhakris and rice paired well with the fiery flavors. The spot draws both locals and adventurous tourists seeking bold Nagpuri cuisine.

🚂 Evening Adventure: Narrow Gauge Rail Museum

Post lunch and a short rest back at our hotel, we set out for the Narrow Gauge Rail Museum, located about 5 km from MTDC. We left our car at the hotel and a 15-minute OLA ride brought us to the museum which exhibits of vintage steam engines. Historic coaches and railway tools. It also offers a fun Toy Train ride looping the museum grounds. Train enthusiasts and history buffs will especially enjoy this place.

🚇 Metro Ride to Itwari Market – Nagpur’s Local Bazaar Experience

After an hour at the museum, we walked to Kadbi Chowk Metro Station (Orange Line) and switched to the Aqua Line at Sitabuldi Interchange, which took us to Chilori Square. From there, a short walk led us to Itwari Market

Itwari Market is the ‘chandni chawk’ of Nagpur. It has wholesale shops selling garments, imitation jewelry, gold ornaments, dry fruits and groceries. You name it, and you will find it here. Once tired of window shopping, we stopped by a couple of street food vendors to try out some local delicacies. Before heading back to the hotel, we bought some breakfast essentials for the next day’s early start.

On our return journey, we passed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) building, which was stunningly lit in honor of the G20 Summit being hosted in the city. A perfect end to an engaging day.

🌄 Day 7: Pench Safari & Sacred Sojourn to Ramtek and Dragon Palace Temple

Our final day in Nagpur unfolded with a dose of wilderness and a trail through centuries-old faiths. We booked an early morning safari at Pench Tiger Reserve, followed by visits to Ramtek temples and the serene Dragon Palace Buddhist Temple on our return.

🐅 Into the Wild: Safari at Pench Tiger Reserve

Pench National Park, located on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, lies 90 km (about 2 hours) from Nagpur. Named after the Pench River, the MP side offers greater chances of spotting tigers.

Pench National Park Safari – Essential Planning Tips

Pench’s Madhya Pradesh side is divided into three core zones and three buffer zones, each accessible via specific entry gates:

Zone Type	Gate Name	Highlights
Core	Turia	Most popular; high tiger sightings; resort cluster nearby
Core	Karmajheri	Quiet zone; dense teak forests; forest rest houses available
Core	Jamtara	Smaller area; limited safari vehicle access
Buffer	Rukhad	Hilly region; vital corridor linking Pench & Kanha reserves
Buffer	Khawasa	Known as "Wolf Sanctuary"; offers exciting night safaris
Buffer	Teliya	Frequent sightings of black panthers, leopards, deer

All National Parks in MP require you to book a permit. I recommend to book it at least 3 months in advance. It can be done online at – https://forest.mponline.gov.in/ . December being a peak month, slots fill up fast. In 2023, the charges of permit were ₹600/person. Try to book it for the core zone (preferably Turia gate)
You need to book safari jeep separately. It can be booked directly at the venue or can be done online from https://www.penchnationalparkonline.in/online-pench-safari-booking.html . I will recommend to book it on the spot as I found the online prices a bit high.
Don’t forget to carry ID proofs which you mention at the time of booking permits
Make sure to pack some woolens (jacket and cap at least). Early morning safari in open jeeps is pretty cold during winters (Nov-Jan).
There is no network coverage inside the sanctuary. Carry sufficient cash.

Our Experience at Teliya Buffer Zone

We couldn’t secure core zone permits, so we booked a 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM slot at Teliya Gate. Leaving Nagpur at 4:30 AM, we zipped through foggy highways. Google Maps guided us smoothly to Manegaw Tek, where we met our jeep driver and forest ranger. Despite wearing jackets, the winter chill pierced our bones — woolen caps and gloves would have helped!

Wildlife Spotted:

Gaur (Indian bison), Spotted Deer & Sambar, Monkeys, Tiger pug marks (but no sighting — the tiger stayed elusive)

At one point, we rushed to a location with strong signs of a tiger nearby. Monkeys cried out in alarm, hinting its presence. But after a silent wait among idling jeeps, we headed back without a glimpse.

We took a break for tea and poha at temporary shack, then explored more of the buffer zone before returning to the gate at 9:30 AM.

Our next destination was Ramtek which is 48 km on return drive to Nagpur and takes 1.5 hours. There are two places to visit there – Shantinath Digambar Jain Temple and Ramtek Temple.

🕉️ Shantinath Digambar Jain Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shantinath, this peaceful complex holds fifteen smaller shrines and an eye-catching Manstambha. Even Kalidasa mentioned this site in his literary works.

🙏 Ramtek Ram Temple

Perched atop a hill, this temple commemorates Lord Ram’s exile journey. “Tek” means vow in Marathi, so “Ramtek” translates to Ram’s vow. Visitors believe that vows taken here are destined for fulfillment. We parked on the hilltop, dodged playful monkeys, and admired the Varaha statue — an avatar of Vishnu. On our way down, we savored hot bhakris, daal, and wangi bhaji from a nearby food stall.

Dragon Palace Temple – Kamptee’s Quiet Gem

Located near Kamptee village, about 20 km from Nagpur, the Dragon Palace Temple was built in 1999 with Japanese support. It has a huge sandalwood statue of Buddha and the premises are done beautifully with well-groomed gardens and an overall aesthetic appearance.

🌅 Wrapping Up the Day

Day 7 was an unforgettable mix of wildlife adventure and spiritual tranquility. From spotting a few wild animals in Pench’s forests to standing beneath sacred domes, our day closed with gratitude and warmth. After a wholesome dinner, we eased into bed to recharge for our next journey.

🚗 Day 8: Driving from Nagpur to Aurangabad – Samruddhi Expressway

On Day 8, we were to start our return journey to Pune. Pune is 690 km and is about 11 hours of drive. To make the drive a bit less frenetic, we decided to break up the return journey by halting overnight in Aurangabad, approximately 467 km and a 7-hour drive from Nagpur.

🍽️ Starting the Day with Nagpur’s Famous Tarri Poha

We checked out of MTDC Nagpur at 9 AM and made a stop on the way to try Tarri Poha, a beloved local breakfast dish combining fluffy poha with a spicy black chana (chickpea) gravy called tarri.

Our destination was Ramji Shyamji Pohewale, near Chatrapati Square Metro Station, drawn by its stellar reviews and bustling morning crowd. The setup was humble, but the food spoke volumes. The tangy-spicy tarri paired with soft poha made it a memorable first-time experience—definitely a must-try for breakfast lovers!

🛣️ The Drive: Navigating Samruddhi Mahamarg Expressway

We took the newly constructed Samruddhi Expressway toward Aurangabad. While the road promised speed and smoothness, we took precautions due to reports of “highway hypnosis”—a condition where long, uninterrupted driving causes a loss of awareness.

To prepare for the drive, we topped the car’s tank as we were not sure about the availability of petrol stations on the way. Also got the tires checked for nitrogen pressure to address overheating, and also packed some food from Haldiram’s in case we don’t get any restaurants on the way.

Despite early concerns, the drive was exhilarating. The six-lane concrete stretch, with a 120 km/hr speed limit, was beautifully maintained. We kept our speed around 100 km/hr, although the road’s seamlessness nudged the meter closer to 120 without much effort.

Notably, the expressway includes green corridors—wildlife underpasses and overpasses to ensure safe animal crossings.

Roadside Lunch with a View

Surprisingly, we found multiple petrol stations en route. We stopped at an HP outlet, which also had seating and refreshments. Using our car’s bonnet as a makeshift dining table, we enjoyed the packed meals — a moment that felt authentically road-trip worthy.

By 4 PM, we exited the expressway, having spent ₹1,000 via FastTag. The price felt justified for the road quality and time saved.

🏨 Checking Into MTDC Aurangabad

We arrived at MTDC Aurangabad by late afternoon. Having previously explored the city’s major attractions, we planned to stay in and relax.

MTDC Aurangabad is located in the heart of the city, walking distance from the railway station. The property is spread in a huge space with a well-maintained garden. Rooms are spacious and comfortable. It is managed by all women staff… so it does a good job on diversity. However, like all MTDC’s, maintenance is an issue. Leaky bathrooms, plaster breaking off from walls, limited amenities and food options take away the sheen of this strategically located property.

🍛 Dinner at Yalla Yalla

For dinner, we drove 2 km to Yalla Yalla, a casual restaurant with decent ambience on a bustling main road. Parking was a bit tricky due to evening rush. Restaurant has a simple décor and specializes in non-vegetarian dishes. We ordered chicken curry with naans and ‘qubani ka meetha’ for dessert. The food was satisfying, though nothing particularly extraordinary. A quiet end to a long yet rewarding day.

🚗 Day 9: Aurangabad to Pune via Ahmednagar – Forts, Flavors & Final Leg

Our last day on the Vidarbha journey was a breezy 5-hour drive to Pune, with a stop at Ahmednagar—a city we’d passed often but never truly explored.

🍵 Morning Start & Road to Ahmednagar

After enjoying MTDC’s complimentary breakfast of poha and tea, we hit Highway 753F toward Ahmednagar. The 2.5-hour drive unfolded smoothly, bringing us to the fort’s entrance within minutes of entering the city.

Exploring Ahmednagar Fort – A Citadel of History

Originally built in the 15th century by Malik Shah Ahmad, the founder of the Nizam Shahi dynasty, the fort stands as a circular structure surrounded by a deep moat—built to deter invaders.

Over the centuries, it passed through Mughal, Maratha, and British hands, eventually becoming a significant site in India’s freedom movement. Jawaharlal Nehru and fellow freedom fighters were imprisoned here, and it’s within these walls that Nehru wrote his iconic book, Discovery of India. Other highlights of the fort are –

Haathi Darwaza: Grand entrance gate
Leaders Block: Detention site for freedom fighters
Ashtakoni Mahal: Octagonal summer palace with cooling water tank

Today, the fort is managed by the Indian Army. There’s no entry fee, but visitors must register with valid ID proofs.

🍛 Lunch at Hotel Sandeep – Authentic Maharashtrian Fare

By the time we wrapped up the fort visit, it was lunch o’clock. We drove 8 km to the popular Hotel Sandeep, located on the Pune–Nagar Highway.

Though the service was slightly slow due to the crowd, the food was well worth the wait.

Must-Try Dishes:

Mutton Ukkhad: Rich, slow-cooked meat in traditional spices
Mutton Rassa: Aromatic curry best enjoyed with Indrayani rice

For a sweet finish, we walked to a nearby McDonald’s and indulged in soft-serve ice creams to cool off the spice.

🚧 Final Stretch to Pune & Year-End Traffic

At 3 PM, we began the final 100 km leg to Pune. Being 31st December, we kept an eye on traffic restrictions near Koregaon Bhima, which take effect before the New Year’s Day gatherings. Thankfully, we crossed the area before 5 PM, well ahead of the cutoff.

One more hour on the road, and by evening, we arrived in Pune—home again.

🧭 Reflections on a Journey Through Maharashtra’s Heartland

This trip through the Vidarbha region gifted us a diverse slice of Maharashtra:

The forgotten gateway city of Burhanpur
Serene hill station Chikhaldara in the Satpura ranges
The citrus charm of Nagpur, plus spiritual stops like Ramtek
A thrilling safari in Pench National Park
Smooth riding along the futuristic Samruddhi Expressway
And a final walk through Ahmednagar Fort’s historical corridors

Road Trip Prerequisites

There are certain things to keep in mind before planning a road trip in India. You can read my below blog for a few tips.

Travel Tips