Akola – Image Credit: flickrohit (Flickr)
The city of Akola is located within Maharashtra state in Central India. Akola is primarily known for a history of cotton and textile manufacture and production. Today it is also popular as a medical destination thanks to several modern medical facilities and hospitals within the city. Many Indian residents travel to Akola for advanced medical treatment or for business. International visitors are more likely to enjoy the vibrant culture, exciting attractions and historical landmarks. The city of Akola is rising in popularity as a tourism destination and continues to grow in size. Read on for a better understanding of what to expect when visiting Akola, where to stay and what attractions you shouldn’t miss.
Travel in and Around Akola
Although there is an Akola Airport in the city, there are few flights that come to this smaller airport which has just one runway. To arrive by air it is recommended that international visitors either fly to the nearby International Nagpur Airport also in the Maharashtra Province, or simply arrive at one of the larger airports of Mumbai and take the efficient trains to get to Akola. Once in Akola it is not recommended to drive a personal vehicle. It is generally both safer and cheaper to take taxis, buses, rickshaws or even bicycles instead. Walking is also easy around Akola as long as you have a map or a local guide who can direct you around the city.
Popular Attractions in the City
The biggest attraction in all of Akola is without a doubt the Akola Fort. The fortress was constructed in 1697 by Asad Khan. However, many inscriptions on the walls of the fort suggest that it may have been constructed even earlier or by other individuals. The fort was stormed by invading British forces in the nineteenth century and today only the ruins remain. Another popular attraction
in Akola is the Raj Rajeshwar Temple. This temple is just one of the many in the region that are frequented by devout Hindus as well as visitors with an interest in the architecture and religious history of the area. Other popular temples include the Shreenath Dutta Mandir, the Birla Mandir and the Jalaram Mandir Birla Colony. Most are free to tour if properly dressed.
Dining in Akola
There are a number of wonderful dining establishments in Akola. As a larger and more modern city it is possible to find international cuisine at the hotels, larger medical centres and in the city centre. International cuisine will primarily be generic Western items and fast food. If you are interested in trying genuine Indian cuisine, there is no better place than Akola. Indulge in offerings from street vendors selling the likes of nagpuri sawaji, sol-kadhi, samosas and more. Feel free to inquire about the spiciness of certain items as locals have quite a high tolerance for bold flavours that you may not be accustomed to.
Accommodations in Akola
Many travellers pick the city of Akola for unusual holidays in India. While it may be smaller than cities like Mumbai or Delhi, Akola is a vibrant community that is thoroughly modern and has a genuine local culture. There are also a number of upscale accommodations in Akola. Three, four and even five star hotels can be found near the airport and the major railway stations in the city. Visitors planning on staying for longer than a week may want to research Indian apartments or guesthouses which offer a more affordable and traditional place to stay in Akola.
The city of Akola is an ideal place to visit for those wanting to explore a genuine Indian destination. See the historic Akola Fort, visit various temples in the area and sample delicious local cuisine in this remarkable city.
