Places To Visit Near Akola: Explore The Rich Cultural Heritage Of Maharashtra

There are some awesome places to visit near Akola like temples, forts and sanctuaries.

There are numerous appealing places to visit near Akola, one of the major cities in Maharashtra. Surrounded by many beautiful locations, it renders historical experiences, natural sceneries, and spiritual happenings. These attractions near Akola are ideal for both short getaways and weekend escapes. There is the perfect atmosphere and excitement at these places, whether they are historic forts, tranquil animal sanctuaries, or revered temples. So, explore these major attractions surrounding Akola to add to your itinerary.

Top 9 Appealing Places To Visit Near Akola

Some of the most prominent places to visit near Akola Maharashtra are listed below:

1. Balapur Fort

An image of an ancient fort with astounding architecture and historical importance.

Photo: Nicholas / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Balapur Fort is a great piece of history to explore for history enthusiasts. The fort, erected during the Mughal period, atop a hill, stands out in a magnificent view over its surroundings and expresses the excellent measures of Mughal architecture. In addition to being a work of architectural wonder, it is a great location for history lovers, photographers, and hikers seeking adventure. Offering a mesmerising treat, the fort is one of the best places to see near Akola. Around ancient rocks and legendary stories of the Mughals, you would discover an unseen site of Maharashtra.

Location: Balapur; 26 km from Akola
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Entry Fee: N/A

2. Narnala Fort

The picture of the historical fort ruins at Narnala with parts of a wall beside a lake.

Photo: Ankitfunk / Wikimedia Commons

Narnala Fort is one of the oldest forts to visit near Akola, which existed in the 10th century. The place is famous for its gigantic complex and commanding views over the Satpura Hills. It remains the favourite destination for an explorer and trekker alike. Ancient gates and walls of the fort, along with its beautiful location, attract visitors, and for that reason, it has become a must-visit place for history and architecture enthusiasts. Its unmatched architecture makes it one of the most captivating attractions near Akola.

Location: Akot, 40 km from Akola
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: N/A

3. Narnala Wildlife Sanctuary

Narnala Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular places to visit near Akola.

Photo: Dana Ward / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

In the vicinity of Narnala Fort sits the rather unknown Narnala Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary houses leopards and sloth bears. It is one of the most breathtaking places to visit near Akola because of the incredible diversity of bird life there. It is a place for all nature lovers and trekkers since it encompasses them with the serenity and magnificence of nature. For those who seek a less crowded place, Narnala Wildlife Sanctuary could be one of the serene attractions near Akola.

Location: 40 km from Akola, near Narnala Fort
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Entry Fee: N/A

4. Anand Sagar

An image of Anand Sagar showing well-built temples, lakes and gardens near Akola.

Photo: Arvindkanojiya1 / Wikimedia Commons

This is a peaceful and maintained spiritual and recreational complex at Shegaon situated near Akola. Developed by Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan, it is one of the major tourist and pilgrimage spots. This beautiful spread area includes beautiful gardens, a large artificial lake, temples, and a meditation centre, which is family-friendly and devotee-friendly. It is a cherished destination in the Akola district to engage in religious and entertainment activities. It is included among the top places to visit near Akola.

Location: 42 km from Akola
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Entry Fee: ₹50 (adults), ₹20 (children)

5. Salasar Balaji Temple

Idol of Lord Balaji with flowers around in devotion and respect attracting several pilgrims

Photo: Dausaanoop / Wikimedia Commons

One of the most respectful places to see near Akola is the holy temple of Lord Hanuman, Salasar Balaji. It attracts men and women from each nook and corner of Maharashtra to have his benevolent blessings. Situated as such, it stands among the most noted places to visit near Akola for anyone seeking peace and blessings. Thousands of visitors throng the temple to appreciate its soothing ambiance and due importance of religious festivals.

Location: Lakhisar, 35 km from Akola
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: N/A

6. Om Shri Baara Jyotirlinga Shiv Mandir

Shivling, worshipped with flowers at one of the most prominent places to visit near Akola.

Photo: Kiran891 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Om Shri Baara Jyotirlinga Shiv Mandir is one of the prominent religious places to see near Akola. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and contains twelve Jyotirlingas. This is also spiritually a notable place near Akola and is hence an important tourist attraction. This makes it one of the quiet shrines with retreat and prayer, owing to its architectural nature and the spirit attached to it. Visiting the destination could bless you with enlightenment and spiritual discovery.

Location: 30 km from Akola
Best Time To Visit: December-February
Entry Fee: N/A

7. Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary

Image of an antelope at Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the places to visit near Akola

Photo: Colin Watts / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary is a site for nature lovers and those interested in wildlife. It is one of the finest places to visit near Akola in terms of its inhabitants of such a small population of four-horned antelopes and different varieties of bird species. With birds’ chirpings and artful flies, visitors can witness unseen dimensions of fauna. When visiting Maharashtra, one must add Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary to the itinerary to appreciate the beauty of wildlife.

Location: Barshitakli, 25 km from Akola
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Entry Fee: N/A

8. Kapshi Lake

A scenic view of a broad lake surrounded by mountains and greenery at Kapshi Lake.

Photo: Vivek Ganesan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kapshi Lake is a perfect, picture-friendly lake, situated right outside Akola. This lake, with silent waters and lush green surroundings, has made it the most desired destination for a picnic, boating, and photography. It is one of the many pretty places nearby Akola for visiting and presents a perfect sojourn for people wanting an escape from the frenzied pace of city life. It is a serene place of nature and one of the better places to visit near Akola.

Location: Kapshi Village, 40 km from Akola
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Entry Fee: N/A

9. Lord Mahadev Cave

An image of a cave covered with massive rocks at a tourist place to visit near Akola.

Photo: Avinash Rohra / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Lord Mahadev Cave is one of the relatively unknown spiritual sites near Akola. This ancient cave, dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracts devotees and those interested in exploring the unseen wonders of nature.
This off-beat religious destination is ideal for inner discovery. The place could be the best option for meditation and a peaceful day out. Including the destination in your trip could help you appreciate one of the hidden gems located near Akola.

Location: 35 km from Akola towards Balapur
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Entry Fee: N/A

The colourful destinations in this series near Akola will truly have a sense of great satisfaction for any tourist. The regions are a perfect blend of history, nature and spirituality that satiate the thirst of every kind of traveller. From ancient forts to peaceful wildlife sanctuaries and temples, these attractions near Akola present the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable trip. Plan a visit today with TripXL to appreciate the best places to visit near Akola.

Cover Photo: DesiBoy101 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit places around Akola is that of October to March when the conditions are mild, and thus every outdoor-related activity can be carried out with ease.
Yes, there are the Narnala Wildlife Sanctuary and Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary, and there are places near Akola where one can observe several species of wildlife.
Adventurous activities near Akola include Chikhaldara Hill Station trekking and nature trails. Apart from this birdwatching, caverns can also be explored. The best part is the panoramic views from several viewpoints.
Yes, Akola is surrounded by many spiritual places that attract pilgrims throughout the year like Salasar Balaji Temple and Raj Rajeshwar Temple.
For those who are interested in knowing more about the offbeat places, Katepurna Wildlife Sanctuary, Kholeshwar Temple, and several smaller villages around Akola give you glimpses of the rural beauty of Maharashtra.

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