World-class geological park and museum will be built at Bhedaghat in Jabalpur: see what facilities will be available?
Jabalpur. Plans are underway for a major transformation to boost tourism in Bhedaghat. The initiative aims to secure 'Natural Heritage Site' status from UNESCO for the Bhedaghat-Lamheta Ghat area and subsequently develop it into a 'Global Geopark.'
The Central Government has approved an ₹87 crore project to develop the country's first geo-park, a world-class geological museum, and tourist amenities at the world-renowned Bhedaghat-Lamhetaghat in Jabalpur. The project will be developed over an area of approximately 12 hectares through the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board under the 'Swadesh Darshan 2.0' scheme. This approval will provide fresh momentum to tourism development in Jabalpur and boost local employment and business opportunities.
This approval is the result of sustained efforts made by Public Works Minister Rakesh Singh over the past two and a half years. The proposal, formulated through his efforts, was submitted to the Centre and has now received the green light. Singh, a four-time Member of Parliament from Jabalpur, championed this project to address long-term needs related to the city's natural heritage, science education, and tourism economy.
Bhedaghat: An Identity for All of Madhya Pradesh
Minister Singh stated that Bhedaghat is an identity not just for Jabalpur, but for the entire state of Madhya Pradesh. Its marble rocks, the Dhuandhar Falls, and the Narmada River attract tourists from across the country and the globe. The geological park and museum will further enhance this identity. "My endeavor has been to showcase Jabalpur's natural and historical heritage to the world alongside modern tourism amenities. The approval of this project is a significant step in that direction."
Structures will be developed while preserving the natural landscape
The project proposes a built-up area of approximately 5,745 square meters, with a target to keep 90 percent or more of the site as green space. Structures will be developed while preserving the natural landscape and existing trees, allowing visiting tourists to feel a connection with nature. Special emphasis will also be placed on ensuring the participation of the local community in local products, handicrafts, cuisine, and tourism services.
World-class geological museum and interpretation center to be developed
The project entails the development of a world-class geological museum and interpretation center featuring six thematic galleries, over 130 exhibits, 3D modeling, interactive touch tables, digital panels, an immersive theater, Titanosaur Square, a dinosaur park, a fossil garden, a geological maze, a rock garden, a tree-top walkway, a glass floor, nature walks, and viewing decks.
Modern tourist amenities will be available
The complex will also offer modern tourist amenities, including restaurants, a food court, a museum shop, a retail area for local products, a glamping-tent-based eco-resort, parking, and ticketing facilities. The museum will provide distinct, experience-based content tailored for children, students, and geology researchers.
Museum will present the geological history
The Lameta Formation is a unique geological feature of this region; notably, India's first dinosaur fossil, Titanosaurus indicus, was discovered here. The museum will present the geological history—spanning from the Earth's origin to the millions-of-years-old history of Madhya Pradesh and the Narmada Valley—in a manner that is simple, engaging, and scientifically accurate. Additionally, the geo-cultural characteristics of Madhya Pradesh's 13 geographical regions will be showcased using modern technology.
Although approximately 10.68 lakh tourists visited the area in 2025, most stayed for only a single day. This ₹87 crore project seeks to extend the average duration of stay to about one and a half days, thereby benefiting hotels, restaurants, transport services, guides, and local handicrafts. Spanning 12 hectares, the project will integrate geology, science, education, and nature tourism. Implementation is scheduled to take place between September 2026 and February 2028.