Image Source: Deepesh Patidar
Overview of Janapav Kuti
50 km from Indore, there is a scenic place named Janapav Kuti that is popular among trekkers for its adventurous routes and beautiful views. It’s a beautiful mountain, located in the Janapav Kuti village in the Mhow tehsil of Indore district, Madhya Pradesh. The place is significant both for adventure enthusiasts and pilgrims alike.
The highest peak in the Vindhyanchal Range
At an altitude of 881 m above sea level, Janapav is the highest peak in the entire Vindhyanchal mountain range. It’s the birthplace of Lord Parshuram, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Considered sacred by the Brahmin community, there is an ashram of Jamadagni, the father of Pashuram, who used to live here with Renuka, the mother of Parshurama. It’s believed that the variety of medicinal herbs and plants here are actually grown here first. Apart from a religious place, the hill is surrounded by lush forest and is a heaven for nature enthusiasts and trekkers. The trekking to the summit provides an adventurous experience combined with stunning views. Watching panoramic views from the summit is a major attraction, especially in monsoon season when the area transforms into a lush green with streams, waterfalls, and a misty ambiance.
Colourful Fair and Pilgrimage Destination
Janapav Kuti is not only a trekking centre but also a pilgrimage centre. The tank on the hills above is considered the source of twelve rivers that include Chambal, Nakheri, Saraswati, etc., as per folklore. Every year in the month of Kartik Purnima, the first full moon after Diwali, a fair is organised in the Janapav kuti where pilgrims from all over the world come to dip in the sacred tank and offer their prayers.
Developed as an International Pilgrimage Centre
Keeping in mind the tourism potential of the region, the government of Madhya Pradesh decided in 2008 to develop the Janapav Kuti as an international pilgrimage centre. A road was constructed from the highway to the mountain to facilitate easy transport.
Nearby Attractions
- Mhow: A nearby cantonment town with historical significance.
- Choral Dam: A serene water reservoir ideal for picnics and relaxation.
- Indore: Known for its vibrant culture, street food, and historical sites like Rajwada and Lalbagh Palace.
How to Reach Janapav Kuti
By Car:
Janapav Kuti is situated in Mumbai-Agra National Highway, and it is well-connected to nearby cities like Indore, Ujjain, and Dewas by road. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from these cities to reach Janapav Kuti. The nearest major city, Indore, is around 50 km away from Janapav Kuti.
By Train:
The nearest railway station to Janapav Kuti is Mhow Junction, which is around 21 km away. You can take a train to Mhow Junction from Indore, Ujjain, Dewas, and other nearby cities. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Janapav Kuti.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Janapav Kuti is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is around 60 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India like Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Janapav Kuti.