Gandhisagar Forest Retreat: Experience adventure, culture and nature in Madhya Pradesh

Gandhisagar Forest Retreat offers a perfect blend of nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation with safaris, live concerts, yoga, balloon rides, and more. (Image: ANI)

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated the fourth edition of the Gandhisagar Forest Retreat in Mandsaur district on Friday, September 12, 2025.

Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in collaboration with the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, the retreat combines luxury camping, adventure tourism, and cultural experiences for visitors.

The retreat offers a wide range of thrilling activities, including hot-air ballooning, paramotoring, jet skiing, kayaking, and motor boating. Guests can also explore heritage trails at Hinglajgarh Fort, embark on wildlife safaris in Gandhisagar Sanctuary, and experience immersive rural life programs.

Emphasizing environmental conservation and biodiversity, the retreat features a 2,500 sq. meter butterfly garden with over 4,000 nectar and pollinator plants. The garden has already recorded more than 40 butterfly species and functions as an educational centre to teach visitors about butterfly life cycles.

This edition introduces a Rock Art Interpretation Zone, inspired by ancient Chaturbhuj Nala paintings, along with biodiversity walks, allowing visitors to connect closely with nature.

The inauguration comes shortly after the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board was honoured with the ‘Best State Tourism Board Award’ at the India Travel Awards 2025 in New Delhi on September 9, presented by Union Minister of Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

Tourism and Culture Minister Dharmendra Singh Lodhi described the recognition as a reflection of the state’s rich culture and heritage and highlighted the government’s efforts to make tourism a key driver of development.

Visitors can also enjoy live concerts, guided night walks, yoga and meditation sessions, wellness programs, immersive village tours, hands-on workshops, hot air balloon rides, and stargazing experiences under the clear night sky, offering a perfect blend of nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation.

The retreat promises to be a flagship destination in Madhya Pradesh, combining thrills, wellness, and heritage experiences for tourists seeking both adventure and serenity.

(With inputs from agencies)