Located in the heart of India, Lucknow is the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, known for its rich history and Nawabi culture. Amarkantak, situated in Madhya Pradesh, is a revered pilgrimage town famous for being the source of the Narmada River and its scenic natural beauty. Traveling from Lucknow to Amarkantak is popular among tourists seeking spiritual solace and nature lovers looking for a weekend getaway.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Amarkantak from Lucknow, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best time to visit, ensuring your journey is comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Lucknow to Amarkantak – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a preferred mode for many due to affordability and comfort, though there is no direct train to Amarkantak. The nearest major railway station to Amarkantak is Anuppur Junction, about 45 km away.

• Route and connectivity:

  From Lucknow, you can board a train to Anuppur Junction via Jabalpur or Katni. Trains like the Lucknow–Jabalpur Express connect these cities, taking around 14 to 16 hours depending on the service.

• Ticket booking and classes:

  Book tickets through IRCTC well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Sleeper and AC coaches are available, with fares ranging from ₹400 to ₹1200 depending on class.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Anuppur, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Amarkantak, which takes about 1.5 hours. Prepaid taxis are available at the station, and shared jeeps offer a budget option.

• Frequency and timing:

  Trains run daily but check timings carefully as some trains operate only on specific days. Night trains are convenient to save daytime for sightseeing.

• Scenic views and comfort:

  The route passes through dense forests and hills near Anuppur, offering pleasant views. Carry snacks and water as station amenities may be limited.

Bus

Buses are a common and economical way to travel between Lucknow and Amarkantak, though there is no direct bus. You will need to break your journey at Shahdol or Anuppur.

• Bus routes:

  Take a UPSRTC or private bus from Lucknow to Shahdol or Anuppur. From there, local buses or shared taxis connect to Amarkantak.

• Duration and fares:

  The total journey by bus can take 14 to 18 hours depending on connections, with fares ranging from ₹500 to ₹900. Overnight buses are available but may be less comfortable.

• Booking tips:

  Book tickets at the bus station or via online portals like RedBus. Choose Volvo or deluxe buses for better comfort on long routes.

• Road conditions:

  National Highway 30 and State Highways connect these towns. Roads are generally good but can be affected by monsoon rains, so plan accordingly.

• Travel tips:

  Carry light snacks and water, and be prepared for multiple changes. Avoid traveling late at night on local buses for safety reasons.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Lucknow to Amarkantak is an excellent option for flexibility and sightseeing along the way. The distance is approximately 700 km via NH30 and NH43.

• Route details:

  The most common route is Lucknow–Prayagraj–Rewa–Shahdol–Amarkantak. The roads are mostly national highways with tolls at intervals.

• Travel time and breaks:

  The drive takes around 13 to 15 hours depending on traffic and stops. Plan breaks at Prayagraj and Rewa for refreshments and fuel.

• Road conditions:

  Highways are generally well-maintained, but some stretches near forest areas may have potholes. Avoid night driving in remote areas for safety.

• Vehicle and permits:

  Ensure your vehicle is in good condition, carry a valid driving license, and keep documents handy. Petrol pumps and eateries are available en route.

• Scenic spots:

  The route passes through Vindhya ranges and forested areas near Amarkantak, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities.

Flight

There is no airport in Amarkantak, and the nearest airports are in Jabalpur and Raipur, both about 200 km away. Flights from Lucknow to these airports are limited and usually involve connecting flights.

• Flight options:

  Lucknow’s Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport offers flights to Jabalpur with a stopover in Delhi or Bhopal. Flight duration varies from 4 to 6 hours including layovers.

• From airport to Amarkantak:

  From Jabalpur or Raipur airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Amarkantak. The road journey takes 4 to 5 hours.

• Cost and convenience:

  Flights are the fastest but costlier option, with fares ranging from ₹3500 to ₹7000. Best suited for travelers with limited time.

• Booking tips:

  Book flights early via airline websites or aggregators like MakeMyTrip. Check for seasonal discounts and flexible cancellation policies.

• Travel advice:

  Combine flight with car rental or taxi for a comfortable onward journey. Avoid late evening arrivals to ensure transport availability.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Lucknow to Amarkantak, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Book your tickets in advance:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets early through IRCTC, RedBus, or airline portals to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Reach the departure point early:

  Arrive at Lucknow railway station, bus stand, or airport at least 1 hour before departure to manage check-ins and boarding comfortably.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, a power bank, and light blankets or shawls, especially if traveling overnight or during cooler months.

• Plan last-mile transport:

  From Anuppur or Shahdol stations/bus stands, pre-book taxis or check local bus timings to Amarkantak to avoid waiting.

• Stay connected and informed:

  Use mobile apps like IRCTC Rail Connect, RedBus, and Ola/Uber for real-time updates and local cab bookings upon arrival.

• Prepare for weather and terrain:

  Carry rain gear during monsoon and comfortable footwear for exploring Amarkantak’s hilly terrain and temples.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid traveling alone late at night on isolated roads or local buses. Use prepaid taxis or trusted cab services like Ola and Uber in towns.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and eat at reputable dhabas or restaurants en route. Avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC for train tickets and RedBus for buses. For flights, check airline websites for best deals.

• Local commute in Amarkantak:

  Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are common. Negotiate fares beforehand or use local apps if available.

• Luggage tips:

  Pack light as some transport modes have limited luggage space. Keep valuables close and carry a daypack for excursions.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon months (July–September) due to slippery roads and occasional landslides near Amarkantak.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to travel from Lucknow to Amarkantak is during the cooler months when weather is pleasant and roads are safe. Seasonal variations affect travel comfort and sightseeing.

Winter months offer clear skies and comfortable temperatures, while summers can be hot and humid. Monsoon brings lush greenery but also travel disruptions.

• Avoid peak festival weekends like Diwali and Navratri to escape heavy traffic and booked accommodations.

• Travel early morning or late evening to avoid city traffic in Lucknow and enjoy cooler temperatures on the road.

• Steer clear of monsoon travel due to slippery forest roads near Amarkantak and possible delays.

• Plan your arrival in Amarkantak during daylight hours to navigate local transport easily and check into accommodations smoothly.

Arrival at Amarkantak & What to Expect

On arrival, travelers find Amarkantak a serene hill station surrounded by dense forests and spiritual sites. The town is small but well-equipped with guesthouses, hotels, and eateries catering to pilgrims and tourists.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps, which are affordable and convenient for reaching temples and viewpoints. Popular stay areas include near the Narmada Udgam temple and the main market.

Visitors can explore attractions like the Narmada River source, Kapil Dhara waterfalls, and ancient temples on foot or via short local rides. The town’s peaceful ambiance and natural beauty make it a rejuvenating destination.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by train to Anuppur followed by a taxi to Amarkantak offers a balanced mix of comfort, cost-effectiveness, and scenic travel. It is ideal for those who enjoy rail journeys and want to avoid long road drives.

For travelers seeking flexibility, self-driving is rewarding with beautiful landscapes en route. Flights are best for time-constrained visitors but require additional road travel. With proper planning and the tips shared here, you can confidently embark on your journey from Lucknow to Amarkantak and enjoy a memorable trip.