Two Promising Weekend Destinations from Nagpur
Widely recognized as the 'Orange City,' Nagpur unfolds as a tranquil urban center seamlessly blending contemporary and timeless elements, surrounded by a plethora of diverse flora and fauna. Boasting a captivating fusion of historically significant shrines, natural caves, formidable forts, undulating mountains, cascading waterfalls, dense forests, and glistening rivers, Nagpur stands out as a must-visit destination in Maharashtra. Yet, for the residents of Nagpur seeking a break, the neighboring districts and towns offer a wealth of historical and cultural treasures, making them ideal for extended vacations or brief weekend getaways.
Two prominent destinations that perfectly cater to the quest for relaxing and gratifying weekends from Nagpur are Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary and the town of Ramtek.
Nagzira National Park:
Once under the rule of the Gond Kings, Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary now serves as a refuge for a diverse array of wildlife, including Indian wild boar, mouse deer, sambar deer, dholes, jungle cats, herbivorous mammals, reptiles, Bengal tigers, leopards, chitkul, and more. Recognized as an outdoor museum to appreciate and explore nature, this wildlife sanctuary spans an area of 116.54 sq km (45.00 sq m) and earned its declaration in 1970. In 2012, the state government decided to integrate the sanctuary with an additional national park under the Tiger Project.
Bordered by hilly slopes, shaping the Gaikhuri Hills of the southern Satpura range, Nagzira National Park stands as a captivating wildlife sanctuary. The name originates from a Nag temple positioned at the sanctuary's center and the nearby Mahadeo temple. The term 'Zira' (Zara) in Marathi denotes a lasting water source flowing from a valley in Pongezara, Nagzira. Approximately 117 km from Nagpur, the sanctuary is reachable in about 3 hours, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich variety of flora and fauna, with the jeep safari at Nagzira offering a memorable experience. Safaris are conducted in both morning and evening slots. For an added dose of wildlife adventure, consider including a visit to Tadoba or Pench in your Nagzira tour package .
Ramtek Town:
Ramtek, situated just 50 km from Nagpur, emerges as a hidden gem in Maharashtra, offering an ideal destination for picnics, outings, and pilgrimage. The town is home to a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Laxmana, perched on the hill known as Ramgiri. Legend has it that Lord Rama, along with his family, halted here for a few days during their exile from Ayodhya, adding a sacred touch to this pilgrimage site near Nagpur. Positioned atop Ramgiri, the expansive temple complex features a set of stairs that offer easy access, complemented by a clock tower at the rear of the main shrine, providing panoramic views of the town and countryside.
Recent discoveries within the temple complex reveal two shrines older than the main ones. These temples, dedicated to Varaha and Tribikrama, are believed to date back to the Vakataka period, between 420 AD to 450 AD. Visitors can also explore Sindoor Baoli and Karpoor Baoli, adding historical depth to their journey. Another noteworthy attraction is the Kalidasa Memorial, constructed in honor of the renowned Sanskrit poet Kalidasa. It is said that the natural beauty of Ramgiri during the monsoon season served as inspiration for his magnum opus, 'Meghadootam.' Ramtek, with its blend of spirituality, history, and scenic allure, unfolds as a multifaceted destination in close proximity to Nagpur.
