Things To Do
in Umarkhed
Umarkhed is a small market town in eastern Maharashtra’s Yavatmal district, known for its agricultural surroundings, seasonal markets and relaxed provincial pace of life. The town sits near low hills and reservoirs that create pleasant green pockets and opportunities for short nature walks. Umarkhed acts as a local hub for surrounding villages, with simple eateries, weekly bazaars and basic services for visitors.
It’s a good base for low-key rural exploration, birdwatching and experiencing everyday Marathi hinterland culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples of Umarkhed, where intricate carvings and historical significance await. As the sun rises, witness the serene atmosphere and the locals engaging in morning prayers, providing a glimpse into the spiritual heart of the town. Don't forget to savor a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, featuring delicious poha and chai.
After lunch, head to the Umarkhed Fort, a historical site that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Wander through the remnants of the fort, learning about its history and the role it played in regional power dynamics. Capture stunning photographs and enjoy the tranquility of the area as you explore.
As evening approaches, visit the bustling local market where you can shop for handicrafts and sample street food delicacies. Engage with friendly vendors and learn about the local culture through their stories and products. End your day by watching the sunset at a nearby hilltop, soaking in the picturesque views.
Begin your day with a refreshing nature walk in the nearby forests, where the chirping of birds and rustling leaves create a symphony of sounds. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and various bird species, making it a perfect outing for nature enthusiasts. A light breakfast picnic amidst nature sets a serene tone for the day ahead.
Post lunch, visit the Umarkhed lake, where you can indulge in bird watching and observe migratory birds in their natural habitat. Join a local guide who can provide insights into the different species and the ecological significance of the area. Spend some time relaxing by the lakeside, taking in the soothing sounds of water and wildlife.
As twilight descends, participate in a guided night walk to experience the forest’s nocturnal wonders. Listen to the fascinating stories of the forest from your guide while keeping an eye out for night creatures. Conclude your evening with a cozy bonfire under the stars, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| ☕Cup of tea / chai | $0.20-0.50 |
| 🚕Short auto-rickshaw ride | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse per night | $10-25 |
| 🛒Local market groceries (daily) | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Maharashtrian culture and simple, home-style food
- Pleasant natural surroundings, reservoirs and easy short hikes
- Low costs and relaxed pace, good for slow travel and cultural immersion
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few formal accommodations
- Sparse nightlife and limited dining variety compared with larger towns
- Public transport can be infrequent, so a vehicle or local contacts help
- "नमस्ते (Namaste)" - Hello / Greetings
- "काय हावस? / क्या हाल है? (Kāy hāvas? / Kya haal hai?)" - How are you?
- "धन्यवाद (Dhanyavād)" - Thank you
- "किती देणार? / कितना है? (Kitī denār? / Kitna hai?)" - How much does it cost?
- "मला मदत हवी आहे (Malā madat havī āhe)" - I need help
- "शाकाहारी आहे (Shākāhārī āhe)" - I am vegetarian
- "पाणी (Pāṇī)" - Water
Places to Visit in Umarkhed
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm water reflections at sunrise and sunset make the reservoir a top spot for landscape and bird photography.
Colorful stalls, produce, textiles and daily life provide vivid street photography opportunities. Early morning market scenes are especially photogenic.
Architectural details, local rituals and festival preparations provide cultural photo subjects — approach respectfully and ask permission before photographing people.
Expansive views over agricultural fields and low hills are good for wide-angle landscape shots, especially after the monsoon when everything is green.
Food in Umarkhed
Umarkhed Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy sprouted lentil curry topped with farsan (crunchy mix) and served with pav (bread). Widely available at breakfast stalls and small eateries across town.
Must-Try!
A chickpea flour (besan) curry served with bhakri (millet or jowar flatbread), common in rural meals and a good way to taste local staples.
Flattened rice cooked with mustard seeds, chilies, turmeric and peanuts — a light and popular breakfast option.
Simple dal (lentil) with rice, accompanied by thecha (a hot chili-peanut condiment) — homely and typical of the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A traditional market where farmers sell vegetables, pulses, jaggery and local snacks. Good for sampling fresh fruits, roasted peanuts and street foods like vada pav and bhajiyas.
Small stalls near the reservoir selling tea, samosas, and grilled corn — pleasant for an evening snack with views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A respectful 'Namaste' with folded hands is a common greeting; address elders politely and remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
Modest clothing is appreciated — both men and women should avoid revealing outfits, especially in villages and religious sites.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women and during religious rituals.
Accept offerings and food politely; avoid public displays of affection and be mindful of local gender norms in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Umarkhed
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest and informal: 5–10% in restaurants where service is good, small change or a rupee or two for porters and drivers, and no tipping expected at street stalls.
Cash (Indian rupees) is the most accepted form, especially in markets and small eateries; mobile payments like UPI, Paytm and card acceptance are growing but may be inconsistent in rural areas — carry cash for the whole day.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry from March to June with daytime temperatures often high; plan outdoor activities early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated and seek shade during midday.
June to September brings heavy rains and green landscapes — good for nature photography and birdwatching but expect muddy tracks and occasional travel delays.
November to February is pleasant and cool, ideal for daytime exploration and hiking with chilly mornings and comfortable afternoons; nights can be cool so bring a light jacket.
Festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi and local fairs are lively and colorful — a great time to experience local culture but expect crowds and busy markets.
Umarkhed at Night
Hiking in Umarkhed
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle trail around the town reservoir ideal for short walks, birdwatching and sunrise/sunset photography.
Short hikes on nearby low ridges offering scenic overlooks of fields and villages; best after monsoon when greenery is at its peak.
Informal paths through farmland and small forest patches that provide immersive rural hiking experiences — hire a local guide for safer navigation and local insights.
Airports
How to reach Umarkhed by plane.
A regional airport with flights to major cities; several hours' drive from Umarkhed and commonly used by travelers to the region.
A larger airport offering more domestic connections and some international flights; easier onward ground transport to Umarkhed via road.
Another regional airport option with domestic flights; travel by road from Aurangabad to Umarkhed can take several hours but is feasible for itinerary planning.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority are Marathi speakers engaged in agriculture, trade and local services, with traditional village lifestyles and customs.
A large segment of the population is involved in farming crops like cotton, soybean, pulses and millet, shaping the local economy and seasonal rhythms.
There are tribal and Adivasi groups in the broader district whose cultural practices and livelihoods contribute to regional diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the town and villages — informal matches and local tournaments are common in open fields.
A traditional contact sport widely played in rural Maharashtra, featured in local competitions and village-level events.
Traditional Indian field games and simple athletic events are played in schools and during community festivals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Umarkhed.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian diets are easy to follow; many dishes are vegetarian by default. Ask for no onion/garlic if you have religious dietary restrictions, but clarify with vendors.
Vegan options exist but require asking — avoid ghee and dairy in gravies and request oil-only preparation at small eateries.
Rice-based meals, millet bhakris and many dals are gluten-free, but breads like pav and items made with wheat are common; always mention the restriction to cooks.
Street food is generally safe if eaten hot and from busy vendors; carry an allergy card in Marathi/Hindi for serious allergies and avoid raw salads if unsure about water quality.