Nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi stands as a testament to nature’s allure, offering a haven for wanderers seeking serenity and adventure. Often referred to as the “Queen of Satpura,” this charming hill station is a delightful escape for solo travelers, families, and couples alike.
In this travel guide, we embark on a journey through Pachmarhi’s enchanting beauty, exploring its hidden gems, waterfalls, and spiritual havens.
Pachmarhi:
It remained veiled in obscurity until 1857 when Captain James Forsythe, a British Army officer, unveiled its hidden splendors. Perched at an elevation of 1067 meters, Pachmarhi is steeped in legends, with shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and tales of the Pandavas seeking refuge during their exile.
Today, Pachmarhi beckons travelers with its rich history, diverse flora, and the promise of adventure.
Discovering Treasures:
1. Bison Lodge Interpretation Centre:
- Location: 2 km from the main Bus Station
- Highlights: Once the residence of Capt. Fedrick Forsythe, now a museum displaying flora, fauna, and historical artifacts. Ideal for obtaining tourist permits and organizing Pachmarhi sightseeing.
2. Pandav Caves:
- Location: Near Arvind Marg
- Highlights: Legends intertwine with the five caves carved by the Pandavas during their exile.
Surrounding garden adorned with seasonal flowers. Open daily from 7 am to 7 pm.
3. Dhoopgarh:
- Location: Highest point in Pachmarhi (1350 meters)
- Highlights: Breathtaking views of sunrise, sunset, and neighboring towns. Best visited during monsoons for lush greenery and soft clouds. Open from 8 am to 6 pm.
4. Jata Shankar Caves:
- Location: Near Jamuna Prapat
- Highlights: Enchanting caves housing a naturally formed Lingam and Trishul of Lord Shiva. Geological formations and stalactites make it a must-visit for geology enthusiasts.
5. Rajat Pratap Falls:
- Location: Trek from Apsara Vihar waterfall
- Highlights: Majestic 350-feet tall waterfall, also known as Silver Falls. Scenic views, trekking, and bird watching opportunities. Best visited during or after monsoons.
6. Bee Falls:
- Location: Near Pipariya Road
- Highlights: Natural waterfall emitting a buzzing sound resembling bees. Scenic trek, beautiful surroundings, and a refreshing pool. Among the most visited waterfalls in Pachmarhi.
7. Reechgarh:
- Location: Around 1 km hike
- Highlights: Abode of bears with rock shelters. Ideal for photography with outstanding views. A reminiscent of Bollywood movie landscapes.
8. Chauragarh Temple:
- Location: Dedicated to Lord Shiva
- Highlights: Tradition of offering Trishul on Shivratri. A tough trek leading to breathtaking scenes. Auspicious for devotees making Trishul offerings.
9. Priyadarshini Point/ Forsythe Point:
- Location: Approximately 400 meters trek
- Highlights: Capt. Forsythe’s discovery point with overlapping hill ranges and misty clouds. Perfect for photography, offering exquisite views.
10. Mahadeo Hills & Gupt Mahadev:
- Location: Around 10-12 km from Pachmarhi
- Highlights: Northern part of the Satpura range with ancient Bada Mahadev and Gupt Mahadev temples. Spiritual and adventurous, with narrow cave sanctum.
Venturing Beyond Pachmarhi:
1- Tawa Dam and Reservoir:
- Location: Confluence of Tawa and Denwa rivers
- Highlights: Panoramic views surrounded by Satpura ranges. Sunset views, boat cruises, and bird watching.
- Connected by MP Tourism resort.
2. Satpura National Park, Madhai:
- Location: Part of Project Tiger
- Highlights: Home to diverse wildlife, including leopards, sambar, and cheetal. Jungle safari, bird watching, and boating across Denwa River.
Embracing Adventure:
Beyond its natural beauty, Pachmarhi offers thrilling adventures:
- Cycling: MP Tourism properties provide cycles to explore the city and visit the British-era Catholic Church.
- Trekking: Enchanting treks to various waterfalls, especially breathtaking during the monsoons.
- Ziplining & Parasailing: Satpura Adventure Club, recognized by MP Tourism, offers adrenaline-pumping activities like ziplining, parasailing, jungle camping, and bungee jumping.
Choosing the Perfect Season:
Pachmarhi extends its invitation throughout the year, each season painting a unique canvas:
- Monsoons: Lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and a captivating atmosphere.
- Summers: Pleasant temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, offering respite from the heat.
- Winters: Chilly weather with temperatures ranging from 4 to 14 degrees Celsius, necessitating warm clothing.
Navigating to Pachmarhi:
- By Road: Well-connected by buses from major cities like Bhopal, Nagpur, Hoshangabad, Pipariya, and Chhindwara.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Pipariya, connected to major cities. Taxis available for the 50-minute journey to Pachmarhi.
- By Flight: Bhopal and Jabalpur are the nearest airports, offering flights to and from major cities.
Choosing a Retreat in Pachmarhi:
- MP Tourism hotels: Renowned for their hospitality and scenic locations. The WelcomHeritage Golf View stands out as a high-end property.
- Private hotels: Options available in the market area.
FAQs for the Traveler’s Soul:
1. Is Pachmarhi worth visiting?
– Absolutely! It blends of waterfalls, trekking routes, and historical sites make it a must-visit destination in Madhya Pradesh.
2. How many days are required to visit Pachmarhi?
– Ideally, 2 days are sufficient to immerse yourself in the charm of Pachmarhi.
3. Is mobile connectivity available in Pachmarhi?
– Yes, major network providers ensure a smooth experience