Things To Do
in Chānda
Chānda sits on the edge of the Vidarbha plains, blending forest-fringed landscapes with agricultural villages. The town serves as a gateway to Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve and the layered culture of rural Maharashtra. Expect a laid-back pace, vibrant markets, devotional temples, and forests alive with wildlife and birdlife.
Chānda offers a raw, authentic glimpse of central India away from the big-city bustle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Mahakali Temple, where you can witness the early morning rituals and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. Marvel at the intricate carvings and the vibrant colors that adorn the temple, bringing history to life. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby market, smelling the fresh flowers and spices that vendors offer.
In the afternoon, head to the historic Gawali Ghat, a picturesque spot along the river. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the views of the flowing water and the lush landscape around you. As the sun moves across the sky, take the opportunity to photograph the beautiful scenery and local wildlife.
As the sun sets, make your way to the bustling local market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and textiles. Engage with local artisans, learning about their crafts and perhaps picking up a unique souvenir. End your day with a dinner at a local eatery, savoring authentic Chānda cuisine.
Begin your morning with a guided nature walk in the surrounding forests of Chānda, where the sounds of chirping birds awaken the landscape. Explore the rich biodiversity that thrives in this region, spotting various species of flora and fauna. Keep your camera ready as you may encounter colorful birds and playful monkeys along the way.
After your nature walk, spend the afternoon at a nearby lake, where you can relax by the water and enjoy a picnic lunch. Bring your binoculars for some bird watching; the area is known for its migratory birds that visit during the season. Take a leisurely boat ride to get a different perspective of the stunning scenery.
As dusk approaches, return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for an evening stroll along the lake. The sunset casting golden hues over the water offers a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation. Conclude the evening with a cozy dinner at a lakeside café, enjoying fresh local fish dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🚕Taxi 5 km | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Local crafts souvenir | $5-20 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Tadoba Tiger Reserve and diverse wildlife
- Rich rural culture and authentic Vidarbha cuisine
- Relatively affordable cost of living and fewer crowds than major cities
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Some services and infrastructure may be basic in rural outskirts
- Travel to larger cities can require longer drives
- "Namaskaar" - Hello
- "Tumcha naav kay?" - What is your name?
- "Krupaya madat kara" - Please help me
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Ho" - Yes
- "Nahi" - No
Places to Visit in Chānda
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the forest edge with silhouettes of treetops and early wildlife activity.
Calm water reflections and soft skies provide tranquil portrait and landscape opportunities.
Architectural details, lanterns, and everyday life offer intimate, human-scale photography.
Food in Chānda
Chānda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Gram flour curry served with millet or jowar flatbread; a staple comfort dish of Vidarbha.
Must-Try!
A spicy chickpea flour curry paired with bhakri; rustic and deeply regional.
A fiery sprouts curry served with pav (bread); popular for breakfast and lunch in the region.
Sprouted moth beans curry, often enjoyed with bhakri or rice and a squeeze of lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh produce, legumes, spices, and quick street bites during the day.
Evening stalls along the riverfront serving bhaji, chaat, and sweet snacks with views at sunset.
Smaller markets on the edge of town where you can buy millet flour, greens, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly for temples; remove shoes where required and follow local rules for photography and entry.
A polite namaste is common; avoid physical contact with strangers in formal or conservative settings unless invited.
Ask permission before taking photos of people; in some villages, photography may be restricted or require consent.
Safety
Tipping in Chānda
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and guides, a tip of 5–10% is common if service charge is not included. Hand tips in cash are appreciated for informal services.
Cash remains widely used; cards are increasingly accepted in hotels and larger shops; digital wallets and UPI are common in towns for small payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures often above 40°C (104°F). Hydration and sun protection are essential; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Expect heavy rains and lush greenery; roads can become slippery and travel times increase. Pack waterproof gear and appreciate forest trails from moderate distances.
Mild to cool days with cooler evenings; a comfortable time for sightseeing and outdoor photography, especially around sunrise and sunset.
Chānda at Night
Hiking in Chānda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forestry and nature trails around the Tadoba Reserve offering wildlife viewing and scenic overlooks.
Short hikes to hilltops with monastery-like shrines and village perspectives; good for panoramic shots.
Airports
How to reach Chānda by plane.
Major regional hub with frequent domestic flights; approximately 150–180 km from Chānda.
Small, limited-service airstrip; flight availability varies by season and operator.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language and cultural orientation; livelihoods largely linked to agriculture and forest resources.
Gond and other tribal groups with distinct customs and crafts present in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across towns, with local leagues and informal matches in parks and grounds.
A traditional sport played in rural areas and schools; common in local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chānda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes are vegetarian; ask about onion/garlic if needed and request Jain options if required.
Many bhakri and zunka dishes are millet-based; specify if you need to avoid wheat or other gluten-containing ingredients.
Requests to avoid onion/garlic are common; inform cooks of any other restrictions and rely on lentil- or millet-based preparations.