1.3 The Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat

25/2/24 Sunday

Embarking on the next leg of our journey from Nagpur, we missed the expressway. The drive this morning feels like a dance as we weave our way past undisciplined trucks hogging the rightmost lane or honking impatiently to overtake the slower ones. The chaos is strangely exhilarating, turning our drive into an adventure of its own.

As we navigate through the unruly traffic, a picturesque scene emerges – the lush forest area around Pench Tiger reserve, stretching into the heart of Madhya Pradesh. The cool breeze and the impeccably smooth road transform the journey into a delightful experience.

And what's a road trip without a chai break? Our pitstop at Mohgaon becomes a culinary delight as we indulge in the heavenly combination of hot chai and delectable aloo and kanda bhajiyas. Energized and satisfied, we hit the road again on the next part of our escapade.

Bhedaghat beckons us with promises of marvels as we approach the destination where the mighty Narmada river courses through magnificent marble rocks. Flowing west, it eventually meets the Arabian Sea near Bharuch in Gujarat, a unique journey from east to west. The Narmada, cradled by the Satpura and Vindhya ranges in a rift valley, creates a breathtaking landscape.

Our abode for the night, the MPT Marble Rocks, perches itself right above the marble cliffs. A sail rowing boat awaits us to glide over the tranquil waters of the Narmada, offering a front-row seat to the stunning marble walls and natural beauty. The irony isn't lost that my mother's name is Narmada, adding a personal touch to this enchanting experience.

Further downstream, the river cascades dramatically, forming the Dhuandhar Falls – a spectacle that leaves us in awe. The thunderous roar and mist create a moment of sheer marvel, etching the memory in our minds.

As the day concludes, we make our way back to the hotel for a restful night. Tomorrow brings an early departure, as Varanasi awaits, promising more adventures, cultural richness, and the magic of the Ganges. 

The figures:

7.00 am Start from Nagpur

9.30 am Chai break at Mohgaon - 125 kms

12.30 pm Reached Bhedaghat - 175 kms

Travelled today : 300 kms

Total distance covered : 1081 kms

Tolls paid today : Rs. 520 

Total Tolls paid : Rs. 1645