Ashmadha Fossil Park, located approximately 80-km away from Indore, is the perfect place for history buffs to enjoy their weekend. The fossilised remains of flora and fauna from 6.5 crore years ago at this park, have attracted several paleontologists from across the globe and, if you are looking for a getaway that’s going to land you in ancient times, this is the place to be at! A weekend getaway to this fossil park will guarantee you an experience equivalent to watching the T-Rex roar on the silver screen.
Narmada valley’s rich geological past
India has its own exquisite array of Cretaceous dinosaurs that lived here when all continents were a part of the giant landmass of Gondwana. The Narmada basin located in today’s Madhya Pradesh is the richest source of dinosaur fossils since it was the home of Rajasaurus Narmadensis, the Narmada royal. For this reason, several fossil parks have been established across the state of MP, and if you wish to enjoy a scenic route with a taste of natural history then, Ashmadha Fossil Park is your perfect weekend getaway. From starfish skeletons to dinosaur eggs, bones and teeth, this park is truly a treasure trove of items that will transport you back to the Mesozoic era.
True to its name, the Ashmadha Fossil Park, will intrigue you with a wide variety of fossils. The unique museum set up here, houses excavated fossils from the Narmada basin, which is home to the rarest, most-significant inter-trappean fossils that can unfold the deep mystery about early life on earth.
This fossil park in MP, houses the only human fossil found in Asia, a 5 lakh-year-old fossil of Homo Erectus (predecessor of Homo Sapiens). It is believed that this fossil can help in understanding the evolution and migration pattern of humans thereby, putting several assumptions to rest.
Things to keep in mind:
Ashmadha Fossil Park is located on the Dhar-Mandav road, near Resort Shivani. As per online sources, it is open from around 9.15 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week. In light of events highlighting damage to fossils and museum property, it is suggested that you handle everything that has a connection with natural history with extreme care during your visit.
Fulfil your wanderlust by taking a detour to Dhar Fort, approx. 30-km away from the Ashmadha fossil park, on your way back to Indore, to revel in the architectural wonders and aesthetic artworks dating back to the Gupta period.
Knock Knock
If the tales of Jurassic park excite you, it’s time to pack your bags right away and head straight to the Ashmadha Fossil Park. This place will surely transport you through time much like Scarlett Johansson in Lucy. Also, do not forget to take a bow if you spot the Narmada royal, Rajasaurus Narmadensis!
