After soaking in the serene beauty of Chhindwara during the monsoon, it was time to head back to Narsinghpur (kareli)—this time under the cover of night. The trip via the same Madhya Pradesh state highway offered a completely different experience. Driving through the Satpura forest belt at night isn’t just a road trip—it’s a test of focus, instincts, and respect for nature’s quiet power.

The winding roads that looked lush and inviting in the daytime now appeared mysterious and shadowy. Places like Amarwara, which felt timeless and serene in the misty daylight, took on a haunting stillness as dusk settled in. The comforting hum of daytime activity faded, replaced by the urgency of locals hurrying home before darkness fully took over the forested roads. I slowed down, aware that wildlife movement, slippery turns, and poor visibility demanded complete attention.

Passing through Harai at night was a surreal experience. The forest on both sides felt deeper, darker, and alive in ways you only sense when the world sleeps. At one steep, winding stretch of the hill road, we paused near the ancient Dhula Dev Maharaja temple—a quiet ritual by several traveller like me, to seek protection for the journey ahead. The soft sounds of insects, rustling leaves, and the rhythmic hum of the engine became the soundtrack of the ride. With occasional shower, parts of the road were wet and slick, adding to the challenge of navigating this remote, hilly terrain.

Despite the caution and slower pace, this night drive left a deep impression on me. It reminded me that every road trip isn’t just about the destination, but about how differently the same path can feel depending on the hour and mood of nature. If the day drive from Narsinghpur to Chhindwara was about lush visuals and scenic beauty, the night drive back was about introspection, focus, and awe for the wild heart of Madhya Pradesh.

#Year2025 #RoadTrip #HighwayDrive #MadhyaPradesh #Chhindwara #Narsinghpur