PACHMARHI, MADHYA PRADESH – WHERE NATURE UNFOLDS ITS SERENE BEAUTY

Pachmarhi is a hill station located in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is situated in the Satpura Range of mountains and is known for its scenic beauty, lush green forests, waterfalls, and ancient caves. Pachmarhi is often referred to as the “Queen of Satpura” due to its picturesque landscapes and pleasant climate.
Here are some key features and attractions of Pachmarhi:
- Natural Beauty: Pachmarhi is surrounded by dense forests of teak, sal, and bamboo, offering a tranquil and serene environment. The region is rich in flora and fauna, with several rare species found in the Satpura Tiger Reserve.
- Waterfalls: Pachmarhi boasts several beautiful waterfalls that are worth visiting, such as Bee Fall, Apsara Fall, and Rajat Prapat (also known as Big Fall). These waterfalls provide breathtaking views and are popular spots for picnics and photography.
- Dhupgarh: Dhupgarh is the highest point in Madhya Pradesh, located in Pachmarhi. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is a popular spot to witness mesmerizing sunsets.
- Satpura National Park: Situated near Pachmarhi, Satpura National Park is a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to a variety of wildlife species, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison (gaur), and numerous bird species.
- Caves and Rock Shelters: Pachmarhi is famous for its ancient rock shelters and caves that depict prehistoric cave paintings. The Jata Shankar Caves and Pandava Caves are notable sites that attract visitors interested in archaeology and history.
- Mahadeo Hill: Mahadeo Hill is a sacred place for Hindus and features a cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a popular pilgrimage site and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Handi Khoh: Handi Khoh is a dramatic gorge located in Pachmarhi. It is characterized by steep cliffs and offers breathtaking views of the deep valley below.
Pachmarhi is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels and resorts, to cater to different budgets. The best time to visit is during the months of October to June when the weather is pleasant. It is well-connected by road and can be reached from major cities like Bhopal and Indore.
Experiences for Tourists
Pachmarhi offers a variety of experiences for tourists. Here are some popular activities and experiences you can enjoy while visiting Pachmarhi:
- Nature Walks and Trekking: Pachmarhi is blessed with lush green forests and scenic landscapes, making it an ideal place for nature walks and trekking. You can explore the numerous trails and paths that wind through the forests, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
- Wildlife Safari: Take a safari in the Satpura Tiger Reserve or the Satpura National Park to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. You can opt for jeep safaris, elephant safaris, or even walking safaris accompanied by trained guides.
- Waterfall Visits: Pachmarhi is known for its beautiful waterfalls. Visit places like Bee Fall, Apsara Fall, and Rajat Prapat to witness the cascading water and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere. You can also take a dip in the natural pools formed at the base of some waterfalls.
- Cave Exploration: Explore the ancient caves and rock shelters in Pachmarhi, such as Jata Shankar Caves and Pandava Caves, to witness prehistoric cave paintings and learn about the region’s history and cultural significance.
- Sunset at Dhupgarh: Head to Dhupgarh, the highest point in Madhya Pradesh, to witness breathtaking sunsets. The panoramic views from this vantage point are truly mesmerizing and offer a serene experience.
- Pilgrimage to Mahadeo Hill: Visit Mahadeo Hill, which houses a cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a popular pilgrimage site and offers a tranquil environment for prayer and meditation.
- Photography: Pachmarhi’s picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife provide excellent opportunities for photography. Capture the beauty of nature, wildlife, and local culture during your visit.
- Local Market Exploration: Take a stroll through the local markets in Pachmarhi to explore and purchase local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional artifacts. Don’t forget to try local delicacies and street food.
- Adventure Activities: For adventure enthusiasts, Pachmarhi offers activities like rock climbing, rappelling, ziplining, and camping. You can also indulge in boating and canoeing in the lakes and rivers around Pachmarhi.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending cultural programs, folk dances, and music performances organized by local communities. Interacting with the local people and learning about their customs and traditions can be a rewarding experience.
Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
- Bee Fall: Bee Fall is a stunning waterfall located in Pachmarhi. The waterfall cascades down from a height, creating a beautiful spectacle amidst the lush green surroundings. It is a popular spot for picnics and offers a refreshing experience.
- Dhupgarh: Dhupgarh is the highest point in Madhya Pradesh and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. It is a popular spot to witness mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets.
- Jata Shankar Caves: These caves are a significant religious site as they are believed to be the place where Lord Shiva concealed himself from the wrath of Bhasmasur. The caves feature natural stalactite and stalagmite formations, creating an intriguing atmosphere.
- Pandava Caves: Pandava Caves are ancient rock-cut caves that are believed to have been the dwellings of the Pandavas during their exile. The caves have intricate carvings and inscriptions and offer a glimpse into the region’s history.
- Handi Khoh: Handi Khoh is a deep and dramatic gorge in Pachmarhi. It offers stunning views of the steep cliffs and the lush green valley below. The place is known for its mesmerizing beauty and tranquility.
- Satpura National Park: Located near Pachmarhi, Satpura National Park is a biodiversity hotspot and offers incredible wildlife experiences. You can take jeep safaris, boat rides, and walking tours to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian bison, and a variety of bird species.
- Dhoopgarh: Dhoopgarh is another viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It is a popular spot to enjoy the sunrise or sunset and soak in the serene ambiance.
- Rajat Prapat (Big Fall): Rajat Prapat is one of the highest waterfalls in India, also known as Big Fall. It cascades down from a height of about 350 feet, creating a spectacular sight. The trek to Rajat Prapat is an adventurous experience.
- Chauragarh Temple: Chauragarh Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine located atop Chauragarh Hill near Pachmarhi. It requires a climb of around 1,300 steps to reach the temple. The temple is known for its beautiful surroundings and the annual pilgrimage during Mahashivaratri.
- Bison Lodge: The Bison Lodge is a historical building that now serves as a museum. It provides insights into the history, culture, and natural heritage of Pachmarhi. The museum showcases artefacts, photographs, and exhibits related to the region.
How to Reach
Pachmarhi is well-connected by road and can be reached from various cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states. Here are the different modes of transportation to reach Pachmarhi:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Pachmarhi is Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal, which is approximately 195 kilometres away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pachmarhi. Bhopal is well-connected to major cities in India, and there are regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major airports.
- By Train: The nearest railway station to Pachmarhi is Pipariya Railway Station, which is around 50 kilometres away. Pipariya is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai through regular trains. From Pipariya, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pachmarhi.
- By Road: Pachmarhi is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by bus or private vehicle.
- From Bhopal: Bhopal is around 200 kilometres away from Pachmarhi, and regular bus services are available from the Bhopal Bus Stand to Pachmarhi. You can also hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle from Bhopal to Pachmarhi.
- From Pipariya: Pipariya is approximately 50 kilometres away from Pachmarhi, and there are regular bus services from Pipariya Bus Stand to Pachmarhi. Taxis and private vehicles are also available for hire.