Madhya Pradesh · Central India

Amarkantak travel guide

Source of the Narmada

Amarkantak
R Singh · CC BY 2.0
Best time
Jul–Mar
How long
1–2 days
Stay a night
₹700–5,000
Food a day
₹200–900
Nearest railhead
40 km away
Nearest airport
120 km away

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About Amarkantak

A quiet, offbeat forest plateau where the Narmada and Son rivers begin — ancient Kalachuri temples, waterfalls and sal forest.

Things to do in Amarkantak

  1. Narmada Udgam

    1 h · Free

    Narmada Udgam is a sacred temple tank located at the very source of the holy Narmada River in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh. Pilgrims and visitors gather at this revered site to witness the origin of the river and offer their prayers.

    Tip: Dress modestly as this is an active place of worship

  2. Kalachuri Temples

    45 min · Free

    The Kalachuri Temples are an 11th-century temple group located in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, India. Visitors can explore these historic shrines that showcase ancient Indian architecture and spiritual heritage.

  3. Kapildhara Falls

    2 h · Free

    Kapildhara Falls in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, is the Narmada river's first big waterfall. Set amidst dense forests and cliffs, it is a serene spot where the river plunges into a gorge.

    Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the path around the waterfall can be uneven.

  4. Sonmuda

    45 min · Free

    Sonmuda is known as the source of the Son River, located in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh. Visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and the dense forests below from this peaceful viewpoint.

    Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes to easily explore the viewing area.

  5. Sarvodaya Jain Temple

    45 min · Free

    Sarvodaya Jain temple is a huge stone temple in Amarkantak built entirely without iron. Its remarkable architecture and beauty make it a prominent landmark in the town.

    Tip: You can easily reach the temple from Pendra Road by rental car, taxi, or auto-rickshaw.

Where to stay in Amarkantak

  • Near Narmada Udgam

    ₹700–2,000

    Ashrams and simple hotels.

  • MP Tourism Holiday Homes

    ₹2,500–4,500

    Comfortable forest-edge stay.

What to eat

  • Ashram bhojanalayas

    restaurant · veg

    Simple vegetarian meals.

Good to know

  • Nights are cool even in summer; it’s a dry, vegetarian town.

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Amarkantak travel guide: best time, things to do, how to reach · JrnyLoop Blog