Imagine witnessing a roaring cascade of water plunging from a height of 30 meters, creating a misty cloud and a thundering sound that can be heard from miles away. This is the Dhuandhar Falls, one of the most stunning and popular attractions in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.
The Dhuandhar Falls is situated on the Narmada River, which flows through a narrow gorge of marble rocks, creating a spectacular sight. The name Dhuandhar means ‘smoke and flow’, as the water droplets create a smoke-like effect when they hit the rocks. The waterfall is also considered sacred by the locals, as it is believed to be the site where the Hindu goddess Narmada descended from heaven. In this article, we will guide you on how to visit the Dhuandhar Falls, the best time to go, the things to do, and the nearby attractions that you can explore along with the waterfall.
How to Reach Dhuandhar Falls
The Dhuandhar Falls is located about 25 km from Jabalpur, the third-largest city in Madhya Pradesh. You can reach the waterfall by different modes of transport, such as air, rail, road, and boat.
By air:
The nearest airport to the Dhuandhar Falls is the Jabalpur Airport, which is about 35 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, etc. You can take a cab or a taxi from the airport to the waterfall, which will cost you around Rs. 500 and take about an hour.
By rail:
The nearest railway station to the Dhuandhar Falls is the Jabalpur Railway Station, which is about 23 km away. The station is a major junction in the Central Railway Zone, and has trains from all over the country, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, etc. You can take a cab or a taxi from the station to the waterfall, which will cost you around Rs. 400 and take about 45 minutes.
By road:
The Dhuandhar Falls is well-connected by road to Jabalpur and other nearby cities and towns, such as Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, etc. You can take a bus from Jabalpur to Bhedaghat, which is the nearest town to the waterfall, and then take a boat ride to the falls, which is a scenic and adventurous option. The bus fare is around Rs. 50 and the boat ride is around Rs. 100 per person. You can also drive your own car or rent a bike to the waterfall, which will give you more flexibility and convenience.
By boat:
The most exciting and unique way to reach the Dhuandhar Falls is by taking a boat ride on the Narmada River, which takes you through the marble rocks and offers a stunning view of the waterfall. The boat ride starts from Bhedaghat, which is about 2 km from the falls, and lasts for about 20 minutes. The boat ride is available from 7 am to 7 pm, except on Mondays, when it is closed.
The boat ride costs Rs. 100 per person and you need to wear a life jacket and follow the instructions of the guides.
Best Time to Visit Dhuandhar Falls
The best time to visit the Dhuandhar Falls is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the water level is high. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, and the rainfall is minimal. This is also the time when you can witness the famous Narmada Mahotsav, a cultural festival that celebrates the river and its heritage. The festival is held in January or February, and features various events, such as music, dance, art, literature, etc.
You can also visit the Dhuandhar Falls in the summer season, from April to June, when the weather is hot and dry, and the water level is low. The temperature can go up to 45°C, and the humidity can be high. However, this is the time when you can enjoy the boat rides and the cable car rides, which are less crowded and cheaper. You can also get a better view of the marble rocks, which are more visible and colorful in the summer.
You should avoid visiting the Dhuandhar Falls in the monsoon season, from July to September, when the weather is hot and humid, and the water level is low. The waterfall may not be as impressive and the boat rides may not be available. Also, be careful of the slippery rocks and the strong currents, and do not venture too close to the edge of the falls.
Things to Do at Dhuandhar Falls
There are many things to do at the Dhuandhar Falls, which will make your visit more enjoyable and memorable. Here are some of the activities and attractions that you can try at the waterfall:
Boating:
One of the most popular things to do at the Dhuandhar Falls is to take a boat ride on the Narmada River, which takes you through the marble rocks and offers a stunning view of the waterfall. The boat ride is a thrilling and romantic experience, as you can feel the spray of the water and the breeze of the air.
You can also see the different shapes and colors of the marble rocks, which are said to resemble various animals and objects, such as a crocodile, a monkey, a tortoise, etc.
The boat ride costs Rs. 100 per person and lasts for about 20 minutes. You need to wear a life jacket and follow the instructions of the guides while taking the boat ride. You are not allowed to carry any food or drinks on the boat, and you need to maintain silence and respect the sanctity of the river.
Cable car:
Another exciting thing to do at the Dhuandhar Falls is to take a cable car ride, which gives you an aerial view of the falls and the gorge. The cable car ride is a fun and adventurous option, as you can see the waterfall from a different perspective and angle.
You can also see the Chaunsath Yogini Temple, which is located on a hilltop near the falls. The cable car ride costs Rs. 120 per person and lasts for about 10 minutes. You need to follow the safety rules and regulations while taking the cable car ride. You are not allowed to carry any heavy or sharp objects on the cable car, and you need to keep your seat belt fastened and your hands and feet inside the car.
Photography:
The Dhuandhar Falls is a photographer’s paradise, as it offers a variety of scenes and angles to capture the beauty and the power of the waterfall. You can take pictures of the waterfall from different points, such as the viewing platform, the boat, the cable car, etc. You can also take pictures of the marble rocks, the river, the temple, and the surrounding nature.
The best time to take pictures of the waterfall is in the morning or the evening, when the sunlight creates a magical effect on the water and the rocks. You can also take pictures of the waterfall at night, when it is illuminated by colorful lights. You need to carry a good camera and a tripod to take the best pictures of the waterfall. You also need to be careful of the water and the rocks, and do not disturb the other visitors or the wildlife while taking pictures.
Shopping:
If you want to buy some souvenirs or gifts from the Dhuandhar Falls, you can visit the local market, which is located near the falls. The market sells various items, such as marble sculptures, paintings, jewelry, handicrafts, etc. You can find some unique and beautiful pieces of art and culture, which are made by the local artisans and craftsmen.
You can also bargain and negotiate with the sellers, and get some good deals and discounts. You need to carry some cash and a bag to buy and carry the items. You also need to be aware of the quality and the authenticity of the items, and do not buy anything that is illegal or harmful to the environment.
Nearby Attractions to Dhuandhar Falls
The Dhuandhar Falls is not the only attraction in Jabalpur, as there are many other places that you can visit along with the waterfall. Here are some of the nearby attractions that you can explore:
Chaunsath Yogini Temple:
The Chaunsath Yogini Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to the 64 forms of the goddess Durga, located on a hilltop near the Dhuandhar Falls. The temple is famous for its exquisite carvings and sculptures, and offers a panoramic view of the river and the falls.
You can reach the temple by climbing a flight of stairs or by taking a cable car. The temple is open from 6 am to 8 pm, and there is no entry fee. You need to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple. You also need to be respectful and quiet while visiting the temple, and do not touch or damage the idols or the walls.
Marble Rocks:
The Marble Rocks are a natural wonder, where the Narmada River flows through a gorge of white and pink marble rocks, creating a mesmerizing effect. The Marble Rocks are only 2 km away from the Dhuandhar Falls, and you can reach them by taking a boat ride or a walk. The best time to visit the Marble Rocks is in the evening, when they are illuminated by colorful lights.
You can also see the moonlight reflecting on the water and the rocks, which is a romantic and magical sight. The Marble Rocks are open from 6 am to 8:30 pm, and there is no entry fee. You need to be careful of the water and the rocks, and do not litter or pollute the river.
Balancing Rock:
The Balancing Rock is a curious phenomenon, where a huge rock balances on a small rock, defying gravity and logic. The Balancing Rock is located near the Madan Mahal Fort, which is about 15 km from the Dhuandhar Falls. You can reach the rock by taking a cab or a taxi from the fort, which will cost you around Rs. 100 and take about 15 minutes. The rock is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and there is no entry fee. You can take pictures of the rock and marvel at its stability and symmetry. You need to be respectful and not try to disturb or move the rock, as it is considered a natural wonder and a symbol of faith.
Madan Mahal Fort:
The Madan Mahal Fort is a historical fort, built by the Gond king Madan Singh in the 11th century. The fort is located on a hilltop, overlooking the city of Jabalpur. The fort is about 14 km from the Dhuandhar Falls, and you can reach it by taking a cab or a taxi, which will cost you around Rs. 200 and take about 30 minutes.
The fort is open from 7 am to 6 pm, and there is an entry fee of Rs. 10 per person. You can explore the fort and see the ruins of the palace, the temple, the granary, and the watchtower. You can also enjoy the view of the city and the surrounding hills from the fort. You need to wear comfortable shoes and carry water and snacks, as the fort is steep and rocky. You also need to be careful of the monkeys and the snakes, and do not damage or vandalize the fort.
The Dhuandhar Falls is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. The waterfall offers a spectacular sight, a thrilling experience, and a spiritual connection.
Whether you want to take a boat ride, a cable car ride, or a walk, you will be amazed by the beauty and the power of the Dhuandhar Falls. If you are ready to witness the Dhuandhar Falls for yourself, book your trip now and get the best deals and discounts.
We hope you found this article helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. We would love to hear from you. And if you have visited the Dhuandhar Falls, please share your stories and photos with us.
