Bhopal located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh is a vibrant bustling city showing the culmination of old traditions and modernity. The city has a perfect blend of culture and nature, making it the perfect destination to offer something to everyone. While trekking near Bhopal, you can immerse yourself in the alluring waterfalls, green foliage forests, and splendid architecture. The Satpuras and the Vindhyas mountain ranges add to the charm of Bhopal. Embark on trekking along the scenic trails of jungles, mountains, and magnificent forts for an enchanting journey.
7 Top Trails For Trekking Near Bhopal
Trekking Near Bhopal is an adventure worth considering to immerse yourself in the captivating wilderness and behold the natural beauty of the region. Here are our top picks of trekking places near Bhopal, along with the details you need to know before heading out.
1. Kathotiya Jungle
Located in the Satpura Hills, Kathotiya Jungle Trek is a world-famous spot. The rocks of the hills have prehistoric paintings around 17,000 years old. These paintings are similar to the ones found in the Bhimbetka region. On the way to the trek, you would witness the rich wildlife, including Sloth bears, tigers, leopards, foxes, and so much more. The jungle is also home to rare species of birds amidst the lush greenery. The Bhil and Bhilala are the two indigenous tribes of the jungle. The trekking offers several activities like rock climbing, mountain climbing, and exploring the village’s culture.
Distance from Bhopal: 25 km
Level of Trek: Moderate to difficult
Distance of Trek: 3-4 hours
Distance of Trek: 14 km
Starting point of Trek: Kathotiya
Altitude: 2000 feet
Must Read: Places To Visit In Bhopal
2. Kerwa Jungle Trek
Located on the outskirts of the city, the Kerwa jungle trek is for the adrenaline junkies. Along with the exquisite view of the jungle and wildlife, the ziplining over the Kerwa River is an unmissable experience. The sky zipping of Kerwa is the longest twin ziplining in southeast Asia. It is a 510m long cable passing over the tranquil Kerwa River and cutting through the air, giving you a thrilling experience.
Hop on this twin zipline with a friend or family and meet them midway in the air. If you are looking for a calmer experience, you can opt for paddling in the river or just walk along the jungle soaking in the sun.
Distance from Bhopal: 16 km
Level of Trek: Moderate
Distance of Trek: 2 hours
Distance of Trek: 6 km
Starting point of Trek: Kathotiya
Altitude: 110 feet
3. Shahganj Trek
One of the top treks near Bhopal, the Shahganj trek, will leave its imprint on your memory forever. The trek will lead you to the holy waters of the Narmada River. As you trek across the slippery jungles, you will get a panoramic view of the Amargarh waterfalls. The best time to enjoy the waterfall is around monsoon wherein mother nature amplifies the beauty of this place. The serene ambience of the forest and the soothing sounds of nature would rejuvenate your mind completely.
Distance from Bhopal: 70 km
Level of Trek: Moderate to difficult
Distance of Trek: 3 to 4 hours
Distance of Trek: 14 km
Starting point of Trek: Kathotiya
Altitude: 1500 to 2000 feet
Suggested Read: Wildlife Experience In India
4. Ratapani Jungle
In the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, Ratapani Jungle trekking near Bhopal will take you along the Vindhyas. The jungle is a wildlife sanctuary for tigers due to healthy proportions of forest, water and animals the sanctuary is the home to numerous mammals and birds. It was granted the status of sanctuary in 1976. Many parts of it are yet unexplored. The area has a dry deciduous forest, valleys and hills. The best time to visit this area is in monsoon to get a lush green forest view.
Distance from Bhopal: 60 km
Level of Trek: Moderate
Distance of Trek:2-3 hours
Distance of Trek: 8 km
Starting point of Trek: Delawadi entry gate
Altitude: 3996 feet
5. Bhimbetka Cave Trek
Located in the terrains of the Vindhyas mountain, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a rock shelter and of immense importance to historians. It’s around 30000 years old and has several rock paintings which were done by the prehistoric caveman. If you are a history lover and trekking near Bhopal, this place is a treasure trove.
The cave has paintings showing humans performing daily activities and animals highlighting their lives. The cave also contains archaeological remains of the era such as tools, and fossils, enhancing our knowledge. The paintings of the prehistoric era are a rich heritage in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, making you wonder about the ancient civilizations.
Distance from Bhopal: 45 km
Level of Trek: Easy
Distance of Trek: 2 to 3 hours
Distance of Trek: 14 km
Starting point of Trek: Goharganj
Altitude: 1800 feet
Suggested Read: Monsoon In Madhya Pradesh
6. Raisen Fort Trek
The fort is situated at the apex of a hill and was built in 1200 AD. The fort has royal residences and wells which were built at the same time. The fort has intricately carved domes and has a mosque and temple within its premises. It is a steep slope; hence, the trek would be difficult, but as you reach the top, you would be treated with ending views of the surroundings. The fort has nine gateways, a pool and a large courtyard in the centre. The Raisen Fort opens for Shivratri every year. It is one of the popular treks near Bhopal, and it will show the strategic viewpoints and architecture of the fort. Thus, as thrill seekers and architectural enthusiasts alike, you can have an exhilarating experience.
Distance from Bhopal: 44km
Level of Trek: Moderate to difficult
Distance of Trek: 2 to 3 hours
Distance of Trek: 14 km
Starting point of Trek: Raisen district
Altitude: 1150 feet
7. Chidikho Narsinghgarh Trek
Located in the Narsinghgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Lake Chidikho is a major attraction of this trek. Commonly allied as mini Kashmir of Madhya Pradesh, the undulated terrains of the region would challenge you and push you more. Surrounded by the greenery, cascading waterfall and crystal clear streams, it has everything a trekker can dream of. The word Chidikho means ‘the hiding place of birds’. You can dip in the waterfall to rejuvenate yourself from the tiredness. As you go up the rocky terrains, you will see the beautiful flowers and wildlife that will brighten your journey.
Distance from Bhopal: 90 km
Level of Trek: Moderate
Distance of Trek: 3 to 4 hours
Distance of Trek: 7 km
Starting point of Trek: Narsinghgarh
Altitude: 1300 feet
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Bhopal
Best Time For Trekking Near Bhopal
Winter is the best season to head out on adventurous treks near Bhopal. The temperature ranges from 8 to 25 degrees Celsius from October to March. With minimal humidity and breezy weather, you can get the most out of your trip. Don’t forget to wear warm clothes if you are planning to visit in December or January as the temperature drops sharply.
Bhopal experiences a hot summer with temperatures in the range of 24 to 45 degrees Celsius. The wind is dry and the days are sunny making it uncomfortable to take a tour of the place. In the monsoon months from July to September, the temperatures fall a bit. It is usually in the range of 19 to 23 degrees Celsius. The city receives heavy rainfall but the high humidity can make it difficult to enjoy the place.
Further Read: Tourist Places In Madhya Pradesh
Bhopal’s rich heritage and fascinating nature attract tourists from all over the world. If this guide about trekking near Bhopal entices you to plan a trip, here are some of the best packages for a trip to Bhopal. Venture to Bhopal and experience the adrenaline-filled adventures.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Trekking Near Bhopal
How to reach Bhopal?
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhoj International Airport, which is 13 km away from the city.
- By train: The nearest railway station is Bhopal junction at a distance of 2 km.
- By road: You can also opt for a road trip to Bhopal from nearby cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Pune and others.
What other activities can I do in the trekking places near Bhopal?
You can go on cave exploration, rappelling, jungle treks, river crossing and much more.
What are the necessary items to carry on a trek?
While going on a trek, make sure to carry your trekking shoes, a pair of trekking trousers, sun protection (sunscreen, caps and hats), light snacks and water.
Do I need to hire a tour guide for trekking near Bhopal?
It is not required for all the places but might be helpful in a few trekking places near Bhopal. They would help you understand the place and its importance better and make sure you're safe throughout the journey.
What should be the fitness level for treks near Bhopal?
It depends on the type of trail you are choosing. Some treks are easier but some may be steeper and hence require a higher fitness level. It is better to follow an active routine a few months before the trek to experience and enjoy trekking to the fullest.
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