Photo: Bihar Images / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
📍 Kaimur, West Bihar, Bihar
The eastern end of the Vindhya range, where the Kaimur hills and Rohtas plateau rise about 2,000 feet above the plains in a sweep of forest, waterfalls and dramatic viewpoints. The plateau town of Adhaura and its surrounding forests are a cool, scenic retreat. The region hides ancient rock art, wildlife and several of Bihar's best waterfalls.
The Kaimur Range forms the eastern part of the Vindhya mountains, ending near Sasaram in Rohtas district, and its high tableland is known as the Rohtas Plateau. Rising roughly 2,000 feet above the surrounding plains, the plateau around Adhaura in Kaimur district offers cool air, dense forest and panoramic views over the valleys below.
The hills are dotted with waterfalls (such as Telhar and Karkatgarh), ancient rock paintings, and the Kaimur Wildlife Sanctuary, home to leopards, deer and rich birdlife. It is a rewarding region for nature lovers, trekkers and photographers seeking Bihar's wilder, higher landscapes.
October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant; the forests and waterfalls are lushest just after the monsoon.
Nature & Waterfalls A dramatic waterfall in the Kaimur hills where water plunges around 80 metres into a deep rocky gorge, framed by dense forest. Reached along the scenic Bhabua–Adhaura road, it is a hidden gem for nature lovers and trekkers seeking solitude. The viewpoint offers sweeping views of the falling water and surrounding valley.
Hindu Temples Considered one of the oldest functional Hindu temples in India, the Archaeological Survey of India dates it to around 108 CE. This unusual octagonal stone shrine on the Kaimur plateau is dedicated to Goddess Mundeshwari (a form of Durga) and Lord Shiva, and is a prized example of early Nagarastyle architecture. It is famed for a bloodless animalworship ritual where offerings are 'sacrificed' by touch alone.
Nature & Waterfalls A wide, multitiered cascade on the Karmanasa river, roughly 100 feet high and up to 300 feet across, near the Bihar–Uttar Pradesh border. The pools below are a natural habitat for crocodiles, and Bihar is developing the area as a crocodile conservation and ecotourism site. Its forested setting in the Kaimur hills makes it a peaceful, scenic getaway.
Nature & Waterfalls A scenic seasonal waterfall in the Kaimur Range near Sasaram, where water cascades over rocky steps into a deep natural pool. A popular monsoon picnic spot surrounded by forest, it lies close to its twin, Dhua Kund. The lush setting and cool spray make it a favourite weekend escape for the Rohtas region.
