Madhya Pradesh, a land brimming with natural splendours and heritage excesses, hides away plenty of uncovered places. One of the major offbeat terrains in the fold of Madhya Pradesh is Damoh, situated in the heart of India. The city conflates natural, cultural and historical attractions in a single spread. It houses old, historic temples, untouched natural reserves, quaint local markets, and much more, offering its visitors experiences that are unmatched in authenticity. For the ease of travellers, we have crafted a perfect two-day itinerary that will ensure that you make the most of your days in the city. Check out the program before you head off to this offbeat gem.
Start your day at the tranquil Jatashankar Temple, situated about 4 km from Damoh town. This historic temple honouring Lord Shiva is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including a nearby stream and a natural cave. The temple is a great place to find spiritual peace before the crowds arrive because it is open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm and admission is free. After that, travel about 25 kilometres to the breathtaking Nidan Waterfall, a seasonal waterfall that is best seen during or shortly after the monsoon season. It’s ideal for nature photography or just taking in the scenery because it’s surrounded by lush greenery. Although admission is free, it is advised to bring water and snacks because there aren’t many facilities.
After lunch, travel to Kundalpur, standing at about 35 kilometres from Damoh. The 63 Jain temples at this pilgrimage site are well-known for their elaborate carvings and historical significance. The Bade Baba Temple, which honours Lord Adinath, is a must-see because of its exquisite architecture and serene atmosphere. The temples here are free to enter and are open from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. Another helpful suggestion is to have a filling vegetarian meal at a neighbourhood dhaba close to Kundalpur, where you can savour regional specialities like poha, dal bafla, and seasonal sabzis.
Wrap up the day at Giri Darshan Park, a tranquil spot in Damoh town perfect for an evening stroll. The park has no entry fee and is ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration, with lush lawns and a peaceful vibe. For a topping dinner recommendation, consider dining at a local eatery like Damoh Tadka, known for its simple yet flavourful north Indian thalis and street food options like samosas and kachoris.
Kickstart your second day with a visit to the Nohta Temple Complex, situated roughly 24 kilometres from Damoh. A must-see for history buffs, these venerable temples, which date back to the tenth century, are devoted to Lord Shiva and are renowned for their breathtaking sandstone architecture and historical significance. The complex is free to enter and is open from 5 am to 9 pm. After that, travel another 45 kilometres from Damoh to Ghughua Fossil Park. A fascinating look into prehistoric times and a treat for science buffs, this unusual park is home to fossilised plants and trees that date back millions of years. The park costs INR 50 per person to enter, and it is open from 8 an to 5:30 pm.
After your morning explorations, head to the iconic Bandakpur Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. Situated around 17 km from Damoh, this temple attracts devotees from across the region. The temple is open from 6 am to 7 pm, and entry is free. What makes the temple worth paying a visit is its striking architecture, which exudes a unique, old-world charm. Once you have absorbed most of the temple premises, head out for lunch. Try exploring a local restaurant or eatery near Bandakpur, where you can sample classic Bundelkhandi cuisine like aloo poori and seasonal vegetable curries.
Towards the evening, take a leisurely walk through the busy local markets of Damoh to round off your trip. These markets are ideal for purchasing local snacks, traditional jewellery, and handloom fabrics as souvenirs. The lively ambience is a unique experience. Later on, choose a traditional spread at a well-known restaurant like Zayka Restaurant, which serves genuine regional and north Indian cuisine, for your last meal in Damoh.
The best time to visit Damoh is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring outdoor attractions. For an efficient journey, note that Damoh is well-connected by train and road, with the nearest airport being in Jabalpur, about 100 km away. Local transport options like auto-rickshaws and private cabs are readily available for getting around. Remember to dress modestly at heritage monuments and temples and follow local customs, especially in spiritual sites. Carry cash for shopping and food, as digital payments might not be accepted in some areas, and ensure your phone is charged for navigating rural spots where network coverage may be limited.
Air: The nearest airport to Damoh is Jabalpur Airport, situated at a distance of 110 km from the destination city.
Rail: Damoh is well connected by Train. It is situated between Bina (JN) and Katni (JN).
Road: Damoh Bus Stand is at the centre of the city where bus availability is frequent for nearby stations like Sagar, Jabalpur, Chhatarpur, Katni, Tikamgarh and Panna. Bus services are also available to other metro cities like Bhopal, Indore, Nagpur and Allahabad.
