Akola, located in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region, offers a blend of heritage forts, ancient temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and peaceful city gardens. This guide covers all major attractions along with activities, best time to visit, secret tips, and nearest transport points. Here is a detailed guide to major attractions in Akola (Maharashtra, India) — with popular sights, what to do there, best time to visit, tips, and a table of practical info.
1. Narnala Fort
A historic hill fort complex known for its massive gates, stone architecture, and panoramic valley views. Excellent for history lovers and trekkers.
Activities & Things to Do
- Trekking and hill walking
- Exploring fort walls, water tanks, and viewpoints
- Heritage photography
- Nature watching
Best Time to Visit
- October to February (cool weather)
- Early morning or sunset recommended
Secret Tips
- Wear strong shoes (terrain is uneven)
- Carry water and sunscreen
- Hire a local guide for hidden paths
- Start early to avoid heat
Nearest Transport
- Nearest Bus Stop: Local buses till Shahnur, then auto/taxi
- Nearest Railway Station: Akola Junction
- Nearest Metro: Not available in Akola
2. Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary
A serene forest sanctuary ideal for wildlife spotting and nature walks.
Activities & Things to Do
- Bird-watching
- Wildlife viewing
- Nature trails
- Photography
Best Time to Visit
- October to March
- Early morning for maximum animal activity
Secret Tips
- Carry binoculars
- Keep noise low for better sightings
- Wear earth-tone clothes
- Carry snacks and water
Nearest Transport
- Nearest Bus Stop: Barshi-Takli Road
- Nearest Railway Station: Akola Junction
- Nearest Metro: Not applicable
3. Nehru Park, Akola
A clean and green city park perfect for families, walkers, and children.
Activities & Things to Do
- Walking and jogging
- Picnic
- Kids’ play area
- Relaxation
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning
- Evening strolls
Secret Tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds
- Great place to relax after city sightseeing
Nearest Transport
- Nearest Bus Stop: Local city buses
- Nearest Railway Station: Akola Junction
- Nearest Metro: Not applicable
4. Rajeshwar Temple
One of Akola’s most important ancient Shiva temples with spiritual ambience.
Activities & Things to Do
- Darshan
- Attending morning/evening aarti
- Exploring temple architecture
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning or evening
- Maha Shivratri for festive experience
Secret Tips
- Avoid peak hours for peaceful darshan
- Dress modestly
Nearest Transport
- Nearest Bus Stop: City bus stops nearby
- Nearest Railway Station: Akola Junction
- Nearest Metro: Not applicable
5. Akola Fort (Asadgad Fort)
A city-located heritage fort great for short visits and quick city exploration.
Activities & Things to Do
- Walk around fort remains
- City view photography
- Quick heritage tour
Best Time to Visit
- Morning or sunset
- Winter season
Secret Tips
- Combine with nearby markets for a half-day city tour
- Good for travelers short on time
Nearest Transport
- Nearest Bus Stop: City bus service
- Nearest Railway Station: Akola Junction
- Nearest Metro: Not applicable
6. Balapur Fort
A historical fort located near Balapur town with scenic surroundings and old architectural remains.
Activities & Things to Do
- Fort exploration
- Photography
- Heritage walk
Best Time to Visit
- October to February
- Evenings for better lighting
Secret Tips
- Limited food shops nearby — carry your own snacks
- Best combined with a local Balapur sightseeing trip
Nearest Transport
- Nearest Bus Stop: Balapur Bus Stand
- Nearest Railway Station: Akola Junction
- Nearest Metro: Not applicable
Table – Places in Akola with Popularity, Visit Time & Fees
| Attraction | Popularity | Avg. Time Needed | Entry Fee | What to Do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Narnala Fort | High | 2–4 hours | Free | Trekking, heritage walk, views |
| Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary | Medium–High | 3–5 hours | Approx. ₹100 | Wildlife & bird watching, nature trails |
| Balapur Fort | Medium | 1–2 hours | Free | Fort exploration & photography |
| Rajeshwar Temple | Medium | 30–60 mins | Free | Darshan, cultural visit |
| Akola Fort | Medium | 1–2 hours | Free | Heritage walk, city views |
| Nehru Park | Medium | 1–2 hours | Free | Walk, picnic, kids play |
H3 – Nearest Bus Stop, Metro & Railway Station (Table)
| Attraction | Bus Stop | Railway Station | Metro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Narnala Fort | Shahnur Road Bus Stop | Akola Junction | No Metro |
| Katepurna Sanctuary | Barshi-Takli Road Stop | Akola Junction | No Metro |
| Balapur Fort | Balapur Bus Stand | Akola Junction | No Metro |
| Rajeshwar Temple | Local City Bus Stops | Akola Junction | No Metro |
| Akola Fort | City Bus Stand | Akola Junction | No Metro |
| Nehru Park | Local City Bus | Akola Junction | No Metro |
Image Gallery of Akola
YouTube Video of Akola
Why Visit Akola?
Akola offers a mix of heritage forts, ancient temples, green sanctuaries, and laid-back city parks — giving something for history buffs, nature lovers, spiritual visitors, and casual travellers alike. The winter months make sightseeing comfortable. With a bit of planning and local transport, you can cover multiple attractions in one trip.