Pachmarhi

Pachmarhi, also known as ‘Satpura ki Rani‘, is a scenic hill station in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh, India. Set in the Satpura Range, it is renowned for its rich history, myriad natural attractions, and cultural heritage. The town, sitting at an altitude of around 1,067 meters, is enveloped in lush greenery, with dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and majestic caves. Popular sites include Bee Fall, a spectacular waterfall; Pandava Caves, ancient Buddhist sanctuaries linked to the epic Mahabharata; and Handi Khoh, a deep valley with sheer cliffs. The Satpura National Park nearby is a biodiversity hotspot where tourists can spot a variety of flora and fauna.

The region’s biodiversity is complemented by soothing weather throughout the year, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Pachmarhi’s historical significance is accentuated by its association with the British era, visible in its colonial architecture and church buildings. The pristine town not only offers tranquility but also serves as a base for trekking and exploring the natural beauty of central India’s highlands.

Visiting Hours

The falls are open to visitors from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Sunday.

How to Reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal, which is about 195 km from Pachmarhi. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or use bus services to reach Pachmarhi.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Pachmarhi is Pipariya (station code PPI), which is about 54 km away. It is on the Howrah-Mumbai main line and is well connected to major cities in India. From Pipariya, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Pachmarhi.
• By Road: Pachmarhi is connected by road to various cities and towns. Regular bus services are available from major cities like Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Nagpur to Pachmarhi. Alternatively, you can drive to Pachmarhi as the roads are well-maintained and offer a picturesque journey.

Highlights

• Tourist Attractions: Pachmarhi has several tourist attractions including Bee Falls, Jata Shankar Caves, Dhoopgarh (the highest point in Madhya Pradesh), Handi Khoh (a deep valley), Mahadeo Hill, Pandav Caves, Satpura National Park, and the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve.
• Outdoor Activities: Tourists can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in Pachmarhi, including trekking, horse riding, and rock climbing. Parasailing and paragliding are also available at Mahadev Hills during certain seasons.
• Local Cuisine: While in Pachmarhi, tourists can savor local delicacies like poha, jalebi, and savory snacks. The local tribal cuisine is also worth trying, which includes dishes made from wild forest produce.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pachmarhi is from October to June. The weather during these months is pleasant and conducive for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from July to September, is also beautiful but might be inconvenient for traveling and sightseeing due to heavy rainfall.