PACHMARHI

Pachmarhi, known as the 'Queen of Satpura,' is a glorious hill station nestled 1,607m above sea level in Madhya Pradesh, India's second-largest state. Renowned for its scenic landscapes, gushing waterfalls, and lush green forests, it offers a perfect retreat for travel enthusiasts. Surrounded by mighty hills, Pachmarhi beckons visitors to escape their stressful lives and create memorable holidays. Initially part of the Gondi realm, Pachmarhi evolved into a hill station and recuperative enclave for British soldiers following Captain Forsyth's discovery, managed by Subhedar Major Nathoo Ramji Powar. This hidden gem in the heart of Madhya Pradesh promises an enchanting experience filled with natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness.

Discovery of Pachmarhi : Pachmarhi, stumbled upon by British officer James Forsyth in 1857, transformed into a retreat for British troops owing to its natural allure. Forsyth's commendation in "The Highlands of Central India" further elevated its renown. Exuding the essence of British colonialism, the locale boasts cottages and bungalows.

Nature's Bounty : Pachmarhi captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, verdant forests, and cascading waterfalls. The region is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. From leisurely strolls amidst the verdant valleys to adrenaline-pumping treks up the rugged hills, there's no shortage of outdoor adventures to embark on. Both Pachmarhi and its adjacent forests are encompassed within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Exploring Historical Treasures : Steeped in history and mythology, Pachmarhi is dotted with ancient caves, temples, and monuments that offer a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mahadeo Hills houses the famous Pandava Caves, believed to have been the abode of the Pandavas during their exile.

Biodiversity : Pachmarhi's forests boast a variety of fruit trees including mangoes, jamun, custard fruit, and lesser-known indigenous fruits like khatua, tendu, chunna, khinni, and chaar. Abundant oak and blue pine trees thrive in the area, alongside numerous medicinal plants and herbs known for their healing properties.

Highest Point of Madhya Pradesh : Mount Dhupgarh, situated in the Mahadeo Hills (Satpura Range) of Madhya Pradesh, India, is the highest point in the region. With an elevation of 1,352 meters (4,436 feet), it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is renowned for its stunning sunsets.

Waterfalls of Pachmarhi : Visitors to Pachmarhi seeking waterfall adventures shouldn't miss Bee Falls, Apsara Vihar Falls, and Silver Falls. Silver Falls, also known as Rajat Prapat, descends dramatically from a height of 350 feet, resembling a shimmering silver ribbon in the sunlight. Apsara Vihar Falls, accessible via a 10-minute downhill trail, holds historical significance as British women bathed here during the colonial era, inspiring the name Apsara Vihar. Bee Falls, or Jamuna Prapat, is the most captivating, with water cascading 150 feet and a sound reminiscent of buzzing bees, owing to the honeybees abundant in the area.

Pachmarhi's Pandav Connection : Pachmarhi, renowned for its scenic beauty, harbors several hilltop caves believed to be linked to the Mahabharata era. Derived from the Hindi words 'Panch' (meaning "five") and 'Marhi' (meaning "caves"), legend suggests these caves were constructed by the five Pandava brothers during their thirteen-year exile.

Prehistoric Paintings : On the trek to the base of Rajat Prapat waterfalls, visitors can encounter prehistoric paintings estimated to be over 10,000 years old. These ancient artworks depict scenes from the life of early mankind, offering a fascinating glimpse into our distant past.

Churches in Pachmarhi : The Catholic Church features French and Irish architecture. The church also has beautiful Belgian stained glass windows. Several fallen soldiers of the First and Second World War are buried in the church cemetery. Dating back to the year 1875, Christ Church is a fascinating church with its ‘sanctum-sanctorum’ featuring a hemispherical dome on top with ribs ending with faces of angels. The church also has stained glass windows, a brass baptismal font and a bell. The chimes of the bell can be heard from afar.

Embracing Adventure : For the adventurous at heart, Pachmarhi offers a myriad of thrilling activities to indulge in. From rock climbing and rappelling to paragliding and jungle safaris, there's an adventure waiting around every corner. Explore the rugged terrain on a mountain biking expedition or take to the skies for a bird's eye view of the stunning landscape - the possibilities are endless for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

Festivals in Pachmarhi : The Bastar Dussehra festival spans September and October, featuring 9 days of Navaratri celebrations and culminating in a grand procession. Nagdhari Fair in Pachmarhi sees visitors from Nagpur and Maharashtra worshipping Nag Devata. Pachmarhi Utsav lasts six days, starting from December 25, with cultural programs and performances. Shivratri Mela at the Shiva Temple atop Chauragarh peak draws devotees offering ‘trishuls.

Satpura National Park : Spanning 524 square kilometres, Satpura National Park is renowned for its diverse range of birds and animals. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bison, tigers, leopards, and four-horned deer roaming amidst thick evergreen forests of sal, teak, and bamboo. The park's picturesque landscape includes rivulets, waterfalls, an expansive reservoir, sandstone mountains, and deep gorges.

When to visit : Pachmarhi is an ideal destination throughout the year due to its pleasant weather and captivating landscape. While the monsoon and winter seasons enhance the hill station's beauty significantly, summer visitors to Madhya Pradesh will find Pachmarhi particularly appealing as it offers cooler temperatures compared to other towns in the region.

Pachmarhi, with its natural beauty, historical treasures, and adventurous spirit, beckons travelers to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. Whether you're seeking serenity amidst nature's embrace or thrilling adventures in the great outdoors, the customised tours of Pachmarhi created by Travelicious MP promise an unforgettable experience for all. So pack your bags, leave behind the hustle and bustle of city life, and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of this enchanting hill station in the heart of Madhya Pradesh.