Top 9 Things Jabalpur Is Famous For

1. Marble Rocks

When in Jabalpur, do not miss the mesmeric play of light on the white Marble Rocks. These are marble-like, magnesium-limestone cliffs and gorge that stretches along the River Narmada. The river winds through the deep gorge, offering a beautiful scenery. You can opt for a boat ride or a cable-car ride to view the exquisite beauty of this natural formation. The rocks change colors in different lights, and they look absolutely ethereal under moonlight. You are sure to cherish the memory for a lifetime.

Marble Rocks

Address: Bhedaghat Boating Point, Bhedaghat, Jabalpur District

Opening hours: 6am - 8:30pm (daily)

Price: 4.05 USD per boat

2. Khoye ki Jalebi

No trip is complete without sampling the local flavors. If you want to experience the true essence of Jabalpur’s culture, you have to acquaint your taste buds with the dish typical of this region - the khoya ki jalebi. Invented by a local confectionery manufacturer, Harprasad Badkul, back in 1889, this dark, spongy sweet delights Indians and foreigners alike. It is different from the typical jalebi, India’s signature sweet-dish, because it is made from khoya or mawa (thickened, dried milk). The flavor is out of this world.

3. Chausath Yogini Temple, Jabalpur

Situated at about an hour’s drive from Jabalpur city, the Chausath Yogini Temple marks history and spirituality’s confluence. Constructed around 1000 AD, the temple features the figurines of 64 (‘Chausath’ in Hindi) attendants (yoginis) of the Hindu goddess Durga, surrounding an idol of Lord Shiva. The intricate architecture and embellishments within the temple are quite fascinating to explore. The immaculately carved idols reflect superlative iconography. It gives you a glimpse into India’s rich architectural heritage and tantric beliefs.

Chausath Yogini temple

Address: Bheda Ghat, Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh 483053

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free

4. Rani Durgawati Fort

The historical Rani Durgawati Fort was used as a military outpost in the 11th century. It is now one of the most important historic attractions in the city. Sitting atop a hill, the location of the fort provides magnificent scenic views to the tourists. The spectacular balancing rocks on the way to this fort captivates travelers’ attention from all over the world. These geological wonders are massive stones balanced on the tip of other rocks, left undisturbed even by earthquakes. The fort speaks to you of the bygone days’ of military glory, especially of the warrior queen, the valiant Gond ruler, Rani Dargawati. Although compact in size, it provides ample infrastructural facilities for the army. You can explore the war rooms, a small reservoir, the main pleasure chamber of the erstwhile rulers, and the stables.

Rani Durgawati Fort

Address: Gurudev Colony, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh 482001

Opening hours: 8:45am - 5:45pm (daily)

Price: Free

5. Bargi Dam

The site of a hydroelectric power project and one of the principal sources of water supply in Jabalpur, the Bargi Dam, must be included in your list of places to visit in Jabalpur. Two significant irrigation projects have also been developed on this dam. A luxurious government resort located nearby offers breathtaking views of the gushing waters. You can go for a boat ride on the backwaters of the dam, or indulge in a lazy day of fishing. You can also attempt adventure sports like water scooter rides, ensuring an enthralling experience. The exotic location is also a haven for bird-watchers.

Bargi Dam

Address: Bargi, Jabalpur District, Madhya Pradesh

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: Entry inside the dam is free; 1.22 USD for boat ride

6. Lord Shiva Statue at Kachnar City, Jabalpur

The towering 76 ft (23 m) tall statue of Lord Shiva, sitting in meditation pose, leaves visitors awestruck. The top of this gigantic idol, built under the open sky, almost seems to touch the clouds. It is regarded as one of the tallest statues in the country. The sculpture rests on a cavern that houses replicas of the 12 jyotirlinga or Shiva linga idols from famous religious shrines across India. Witnessing the aarti, or the ritual of worshipping the Lord with lighted lamps in the evening is sure to bring spiritual bliss.

Kachnar City Shiva Temple

Address: E 19, Yashwar Nagar, Kanchan Vihar, Vijay Nagar, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh 482002

Opening hours: 7am - 8:30pm (daily)

Price: No entry fee

7. Narmada River

Counted among India’s holiest rivers, the Narmada River is one of the most iconic attractions in Jabalpur. Pilgrims flock to the shores of this river to take a holy dip in its waters, seeking absolution from sins. There are several ghats on this river’s banks, some of the notable ones including Gwari-ghat, Tilwara ghat, and Bhedaghat. The mortal remains of Mahatma Gandhi were immersed in the water at Tilwara Ghat. Gwari Ghat is the site of a temple dedicated to the Indian saint, Sai Baba. Bhedaghat is renowned for the marble rocks. The sight of the evening aarti on the banks of this river will leave you mesmerized.

8. Dhuandhar Falls

River Narmada plunges through a steep fall of 98 ft (29.8 m), forming the Dhuandhar Falls. The word ‘dhuan’ means smoke in Hindi. The river drops to the rocks below with tremendous force and speed. It gives rise to a smoke-like mist, and hence the name. You can view this gorgeous cascade of waters via a cable car ride or opt for a boat ride. If you brave the rocky terrains, you can click some memorable photographs from the viewing points.

Dhuandhar Falls

Address: Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh 482003

Opening hours: 6:30am - 8:30pm (daily)

Price: Free

9. Sangram Sagar Lake

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you are looking for a peaceful and pollution-free spot, head to the Sangram Sagar Lake. This human-made lake, dating back to the 15th century, was commissioned by the Gond ruler, Sangram Shah. The king also built a fort called Bajnamath nearby. Such brilliant medieval architecture adjoining the lake adds to its charm. Seekers of spirituality can visit the ancient temple on the banks of the lake. The water temperature attracts a chorus of migratory birds from Central and Western Asia, making it a bird watchers’ paradise. You can view the rare pin-tailed or spear-tailed ducks, coots, and red-crested pochards. Tourists and locals also gather here to view the exotic aquatic animals that make their homes in the lake. You can enjoy boating and fishing in the tranquil waters.

Sangram Sagar Lake

Address: Sangram Sagar Lake, Gwarighat, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh 482003

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

Be prepared to be enchanted

Follow this guide to all the things Jabalpur is famous for, and plan a detailed itinerary for your trip to this attractive destination. History lovers, admirers of nature, seekers of spirituality, and foodies, all of you will find something that caters to your preferences here. Do not forget your camera. You will not experience even a single dull moment and will be busy capturing fond memories throughout this exotic trip.

Editor’s Note: Due to Covid-19, the business hours of the attractions may differ from the stated timings in this article. Please be sure to check the updated hours from the websites.