lR;eso t;rs Central Railway Nagpur Division Tourist Places in & Around Nagpur TOURIST PLACES IN AND AROUND NAGPUR Zero milestone of India It is practically at the geographical center of India. In fact, the zero milestone of India is in this city. National highway NH-7 (Varanasi - Kanyakumari) & NH-6 (Mumbai - Sambalpur - Calcutta) and major railways trunk routes from Mumbai, Chennai, Howrah & Delhi pass through this city. Important Central & State Government offices and institutions are located in Nagpur Dragon Palace This is a temple dedicated to Lord Buddha, situated near Kamptee, about 21 kms from Nagpur. This monument boasts of beautiful architecture and landscape spread over 10 acres of land and is a major tourist attraction. It has been built with Japanese patronage and architecture. Diksha Bhoomi Baba Saheb Dr. B.R. Ambedkar had embraced Buddhism along with lacs of his followers on 14th October 1956 at this place. Subsequently, on the occasion of Dussehra every year, Buddhist followers turn up in lacs to commemorate the event. This “Monument” is having a dome shape which is an attraction in itself. Pench-Sillari Pench National Park and Tiger Reserve extends over an area of 257 sq.km in lower southern reaches of Satpura hill ranges, along northern boundary of Nagpur District. It attained the National Park status from Government of Maharashtra in 1975 and has been subsequently, declared as the Tiger Reserve of India in Feb, 1999. Raman planetarium This planetarium is named after the great scientist and Nobel laureate Dr C.V. Raman and has now found a place in the planetarium map of world. This planetarium houses 45 interactive galleries and a 130-seater gallery fitted with computer controlled Zeiss projector. Star-studded night sky has allured mankind from dawn of civilization. He gazed at it with awe and wonder and strived to find his place in the midst of the celestial bodies. The Raman Planetarium reproduces celestial beauty perfectly. Ramtek-Temple Ramtek gets its name from Lord Rama who, with Sita and Laxamana is said to have rested here. Situated on the north –eastern areas of Nagpur District, covering area of 1129 sq. miles. It is famous for its Ram Mandir and Kalidas memorial. Ramtek, especially during Ramnavami festival is a uniquely fascinating journey, where history, geography and spirituality blend seamlessly to provide an unforgettable travel experience Khindsi- Lake Located just 5 kms.from Ramtek, this beautiful lake is surrounded on all sides by verdant forests. AddedBendes trekking and water sports are also an added attractions. One can choose from motor boats, pedal boats, rowing boats or even water scooters, to enjoy scenic beauty of this place. Khekranala Reservoir of Khekranala lies amidst lush forests of Khapa Range, in north-eastern Vidarbha region, just 55 kms from Nagpur on Chhindwara Road, near Khapa. This spot is ideal for setting up base camp for an invigorating trek through the rugged, low-lying hills which surround the reservoir. The lake is surrounded by rich flora and fauna. Ambhora Situated at 74 kms from Nagpur on the verge of river Vainganga, is a tiny place that houses a well known temple of Chaitanyesvara. Also placed here is tomb of a Hindu Saint named Har Har Swami. Tadoba Tadoba National Park is known as the jewel of Vidarbha, with rich deciduous teak forest and is also a home to many extinct spices of wild life like chital, barking deer, wild boar and sambar. The nearest Rail head is Chandrapur on Nagpur-Ballarshah section. The park is a riot of colours in any season and is a perfect retreat Sewagram This town bears the honour of being the Heqdquarters of Social Service Programme conducted by Mahatma Gandhi. It gets its name from the words Sewa - means service and Gram - means village. There also exists a Gandhi Ashram and a Gyan Mandir, Sewagram is 88 kms from Nagpur. Wardha and Sewagram are the nearest railhead to reach this Ashram. Nawegaon Dam Vidarbha's most famous and popular forest resort, Navegaon provides a variety of adventure sports to those who wish to have a thrilling experience. This dam was built by Kolu Patel Kohli at the beginning of the 18th century, having a picturesque lake adorning the hub of the hill ranges. Abutting to this lies Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, along with three fascinating gardens and childrens' park. Watch towers have also been provided to catch the wildlife in action. Chikhaldara Chikhaldara is just 230 kms, from Nagpur by Road. In epic Mahabharat, Bheema killed evil Kichaka after a herculean bout and threw him into valley. Hence the name Chikhaldara or Chikhalda from Kichak Dara, valley of Kichak. Situated in Satpura ranges at a height of 1118 m, Chikhaldara is a green and unspoilt hill station, with gently wooded slopes, rippling streams and an invigorating cool weather..