Things To Do
in Khandwa
Khandwa is a historic town in Madhya Pradesh perched along the Narmada River, serving as a gateway to central India's rural heartland. It blends ancient temples, bustling markets, and agricultural landscapes, offering a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Its riverine setting provides scenic viewpoints, ghats, and easy day trips to nearby villages and limestone hills.
Visitors enjoying authentic small-town life here will find affordable, welcoming experiences and a snapshot of everyday rural India.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Gopal Mandir, where the intricate carvings and vibrant colors of the temple will leave you in awe. Spend time admiring the architecture and learning about the history of this revered site. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding gardens, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery, sampling dishes like Poha and Jalebi, which are famous in the region. Post-lunch, visit the ancient Siddhivinayak Mandir, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, where you can witness rituals and offerings made by devotees. The serene atmosphere and the melodious chants will create a spiritually uplifting experience.
As the sun sets, head to the Khandwa Fort, where you can explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Capture the breathtaking sunset as the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and purples. Conclude your day with a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the flavors of Khandwa.
Begin your morning at the bustling Khandwa Market, where the vibrant colors of spices, textiles, and local handicrafts come to life. Engage with friendly vendors and try your hand at bargaining for unique souvenirs. Don't miss sampling some fresh fruits and snacks available at the market stalls.
After a hearty brunch, visit the nearby Khandwa Museum to delve into the local history and culture through fascinating exhibits. Spend time learning about the tribal art and the various artifacts that showcase the heritage of this region. You can also take a guided tour to get deeper insights into the exhibits.
As evening approaches, relax at a traditional tea house, sipping on chai while chatting with locals. Observe the lifestyle of the residents as they wind down from their day. Later, enjoy a cultural performance or folk music, which often takes place in local venues during the weekends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $15-30 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable and authentic Central Indian experience
- Friendly locals and easy day trips
- Riverfront scenery and limestone hills nearby
- Limited nightlife and some areas lacking tourist infrastructure
- Summer heat can be intense
- Travel times to larger cities require planning
- "Namaste" - Hello
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Kya aap Angrezi bolte hain?" - Do you speak English?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yahan rehna hai" - I would like to stay here
Places to Visit in Khandwa
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views, ghats, and silhouetted boats create classic golden-hour photography opportunities.
Rugged limestone formations and quarry edges provide dramatic textures and panoramic shots.
Vendors, rickshaws, and daily-life scenes offer vibrant street photography subjects.
Food in Khandwa
Khandwa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional favorite: baked dough balls served with rich dal, best enjoyed at local dhabas or family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
A corn-based dish with milk and spices, a comforting staple that captures the area’s reliance on maize.
A light, popular breakfast dish made from flattened rice, often served with sev and a squeeze of lime.
A classic sweet treat popular at markets and street stalls, especially in the evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively lanes where locals grab bhajia, samosas, Poha, and freshly fried snacks alongside chai and jalebi.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say Namaste with hands pressed together. A respectful greeting goes a long way with locals.
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and avoid pointing feet toward sacred spaces. Seek permission before taking photographs inside temples.
bargaining is common; do so politely and with a smile. Carry small change to facilitate easy transactions.
Safety
Tipping in Khandwa
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants without a service charge, leaving about 5-10% of the bill is customary. For guides or drivers, small tips (around INR 50-100) are appreciated for good service.
Cash (INR) is widely accepted; many shops and eateries also take cards or digital wallets (UPI). In larger establishments, you may encounter card payments and contactless options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot and dry conditions with temperatures often above 40°C (104°F). Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Heavy and brief showers bring humidity and occasional flooding in low-lying areas. Carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear; roads can get slick.
Milder days and cool nights, with comfortable daytime temperatures making outdoor exploration pleasant. Layers are recommended for mornings and evenings.
Khandwa at Night
Hiking in Khandwa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic limestone hills near Parasia offering short hikes with quarry views.
Pleasant riverbank routes along the Narmada for easy day hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Khandwa by plane.
The closest major airport with frequent domestic connections.
A major airport serving eastern MP and neighboring states.
A well-connected airport serving the state capital.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cities and markets predominantly use Hindi, with Marathi influences in border areas.
Agricultural communities make up a large part of the surrounding region.
Various tribal and non-tribal communities contribute to the local culture and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, played in schools, clubs, and local grounds.
Common at schools and community fields; informal matches often take place in evenings.
Popular in gyms and homes; local clubs organize weekend rounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khandwa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are abundant; ask for dal, chapati, and seasonal vegetables. Communicate spice preferences and request oil-free preparations if needed.