Bhedaghat, often hailed as the Grand Canyon of India, is a captivating place nestled in the Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh. This stunning destination invites visitors to immerse themselves in the extraordinary beauty of its marble rocks, which display a dazzling array of colours and shapes on either side of the picturesque Narmada River. As you journey through this breathtaking gorge, you'll find that the magical marble mountains seemingly come to life, morphing into forms reminiscent of animals and living creatures.
Bhedaghat-Lametaghat, a gem in the Narmada Valley, is not just a feast for the eyes; it holds profound cultural significance as the Narmada River winds its way through awe-inspiring marble mountains. This area offers a remarkable glimpse of geological metamorphism and showcases some of the most incredible rock formations you'll ever encounter.
One of the main attractions in the area is Dhuadhar Falls, renowned for its smoky appearance. The falls create a dramatic cascade that carves deeply into the ancient rocks. Located near Jabalpur, these misty marble-rock waterfalls of the Narmada can be enjoyed from a ropeway or admired from the Panchwati Nauka Vihara or boathouse. This magnificent waterfall is a favourite among visitors. It is considered breathtaking from a boat on a moonlit night, and the powdery white sculptures made from the local white soapstone are popular souvenirs.
For a spiritual encounter, the 10th-century Chaunsath Yogini Temple is a must-visit, showcasing spectacular architecture. Climbing the 100 steps to the temple rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the Narmada Valley. Remarkably, this temple remains one of the few in such good condition, allowing you to connect with history and spirituality. The temple’s circular wall houses 64 chambers, each dedicated to a yogini or bharavi, showcasing the profound artistry of the era. With 101 majestic pillars, the Chausath Yogini Temple is not only a site of worship but also a source of inspiration, believed to have influenced the corridor design of the former Parliament House.
Jabalpur, one of the largest cities in Madhya Pradesh, was an important centre of power during the rule of the Gond dynasty in the 15th century. It is located in a rocky basin north of the Narmada River, surrounded by low hills interspersed with lakes and temples. The city boasts a rich cultural and artistic heritage. Check out our guide here.
A thrilling boat ride through the Bandar Kund, or Monkey Pond, allows visitors to witness the marble rocks so closely that monkeys could leap between them.
Make a trip to the Dumna Nature Reserve. Spread over nearly 728 hectares of forested land on a plateau, about 40m above Jabalpur, it is home to many species of native trees, plants, shrubs, herbs, creepers, climbers and grasses. The park boasts diverse ecosystems like woodlands, grasslands and wetlands. The place comes alive during the monsoon season when the rain showers blessings on the landscape. Count yourself lucky if you spot wild boars, crocodiles, leopards, chital, porcupines and butterflies during your time here. Visit the Khandari Dam, where you can walk on a hanging bridge, stand on a fishing platform, ride a toy train and go boating on the rippling waters of the reservoir.
Bhedaghat was listed under the tentative UNESCO Heritage Site list in 2021. According to UNESCO, the Narmada Valley is a treasure trove of dinosaur fossils, particularly in the captivating Bhedaghat-Lametghat area of Jabalpur. In 1828 William Sleeman made history by collecting the first dinosaur fossil from the Lameta Bed, marking a significant paleontological discovery.
Bhedaghat also captivates history and palaeontology enthusiasts, offering a fascinating experience for those intrigued by these subjects. The region is not only geologically significant but also rich in cultural heritage. According to the UNESCO description, Alexander Cunningham described this picturesque site as a sacred bathing place on the Narmada River, where the convergence of the Narmada and Banganga rivers enhances its sanctity. Towering magnesium limestone cliffs frame the crystal-clear waters of the Narmada, offering visitors a stunning panoramic view. As Captain J. Forsyth eloquently notes, “The eye never wearies of the effect produced by the broken and reflected sunlight, glancing from a pinnacle of snow-white marble against the deep blue sky. Here and there, the saccharine white limestone is interspersed with dark green or black volcanic rock veins, a contrast that enhances the purity of the surrounding marble like a setting of jet.”
Moreover, the inimitable marbles of the Bhedaghat area have different shades, such as white, grey, pink, and bluish-grey, giving additional beauty to the marble rocks. Several mafic dykes, intruded into the bright marble of the Bhedaghat area, which also enhanced the beauty of the area and increased the geological importance of the region. The Bhedaghat area is the only example of regional metamorphism within a short distance of 2 to 3 km, which is very rare worldwide.
