Yavatmal, known as the “Cotton City of India,” is a hidden gem in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. It offers a perfect blend of wildlife, ancient temples, and serene water bodies.
Top Must-Visit Attractions
1. Wildlife & Nature
- Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary: The crown jewel of Yavatmal. It is a prime habitat for Tigers, Leopards, and Sloth Bears. Best for Jeep Safaris.
- Painganga Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its diverse birdlife and lush green undulating terrain.
- Sahasrakund Waterfall: A breathtaking waterfall on the Painganga River (approx. 100 km from city), especially stunning post-monsoon.
- Boregaon Dam (Rajhans): A popular local picnic spot featuring boating, children’s parks, and scenic sunset views.
2. Religious & Heritage Sites
- Chintamani Ganpati Temple (Kalamb): One of the Vidarbha Ashtavinayak temples. The idol is “Swayambhu” (self-manifested) and is located underground.
- Kedareshwar Temple: An 1,100-year-old Hemadpanthi-style Shiva temple known for its intricate stone carvings.
- Rangnath Swami Temple: A highly revered site dedicated to Lord Vishnu, attracting thousands during its annual fair.
- Baba Kambalposh Dargah (Arni): A significant Sufi shrine that hosts a massive annual Urs attended by people of all faiths.
Planning Your Visit
| Factor | Recommendation |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (Winter) for wildlife and sightseeing. |
| Ideal Duration | 2 to 3 Days. |
| Language | Marathi (Local), Hindi, and English. |
How to Reach & Local Transport
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Nagpur (NAG), roughly 150 km away. From Nagpur, you can hire a taxi or take a luxury bus.
- By Rail: Yavatmal has a small station (Dhamangaon, 45 km away, is a better-connected alternative on the main line).
- By Road: Extremely well-connected via National Highway 44.
- From Nagpur: 3 hours.
- From Pune/Mumbai: Frequent overnight sleeper buses (Chintamani, Vidarbha Travels).
- Local Travel: Auto-rickshaws are the primary mode of transport within the city. For sanctuaries, hiring a private SUV/Jeep is recommended.
Where to Stay & Eat
- Accommodations: Revati Pride, Hotel Grand Central, and Hotel Chintamani Deluxe are reliable options for comfortable stays.
- Local Food: Don’t miss the Varadi Cuisine. Try the spicy Saoji preparations if you enjoy heat, and the local Puran Poli.
Download Yavatmal Tourist Map
Tips for New Visitors
- Safari Booking: For Tipeshwar, book your safari gate entry online in advance via the Maharashtra Forest Department portal.
- Connectivity: Mobile network is strong in the city but can be spotty inside wildlife sanctuaries.
- Local Markets: Visit the Chintamani Bazaar for local textiles and high-quality cotton garments.