Madhya Pradesh · Central India

Pachmarhi travel guide

Satpura’s queen of waterfalls and caves

Pachmarhi
Abhayashok · CC BY-SA 3.0
Best time
Oct–Jun
How long
2–3 days
Stay a night
₹1,000–8,000
Food a day
₹300–1,400
Nearest railhead
50 km away
Nearest airport
200 km away

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About Pachmarhi

MP’s only hill station — sandstone gorges, waterfall pools, Pandava caves and the highest point in central India, inside a tiger reserve.

Things to do in Pachmarhi

  1. Bee Falls

    2 h · Free

    Bee Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing pool to splash in directly below the cascading water.

  2. Dhoopgarh

    2 h · Free

    Dhoopgarh is the highest point of the Satpuras, located in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, India. It functions as a prominent viewpoint where travellers gather to watch the sky change colors over the surrounding hills and valleys.

    Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes for the uneven terrain around the viewpoint.

  3. Jata Shankar Cave

    1 h · Free

    Jata Shankar Cave is a revered Shiva shrine located in a scenic gorge in Pachmarhi. Natural rock formations inside the cave resemble the matted locks of Lord Shiva.

    Tip: Wear comfortable footwear as the path involves walking over uneven rocky terrain.

  4. Pandav Caves

    45 min · Free

    Pandav Caves in Pachmarhi are five ancient rock-cut caves believed to have been carved by Buddhist monks. Local legend also links these historic shelters to the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata.

    Tip: Wear comfortable footwear as you climb the short flight of steps leading up to the caves.

  5. Apsara Vihar

    1 h · Free

    Apsara Vihar is a quiet waterfall located in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, featuring a lovely shallow pool beneath the cascade. It is an ideal spot for visitors looking to relax by the water in a serene natural setting.

    Tip: Wear comfortable footwear as the short walk to the pool involves uneven paths.

  6. Handi Khoh

    30 min · Free

    Handi Khoh is a 300 ft gorge located in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is a popular viewpoint known for its deep valley and surrounding dense forests.

  7. Chauragarh Temple

    5 h · Free

    Chauragarh Temple is a revered Shiva hilltop shrine located in Pachmarhi. Pilgrims and visitors undertake a challenging climb up 1,300 steps to reach the sacred destination and take in the surrounding views.

    Tip: Wear sturdy walking shoes for the steep climb up the stairs

Where to stay in Pachmarhi

  • MP Tourism properties

    ₹2,500–6,000

    Well-placed hotels across town.

  • Main bazaar

    ₹1,000–2,500

    Budget lodges near the gypsy stand.

What to eat

  • Poha-jalebi

    street food · veg

    The MP breakfast.

  • Bhutte ka kees

    local dish · veg

    Grated corn cooked in milk and spices.

How to reach Pachmarhi by bus

Bhopal to Pachmarhi bus

Board at: Habibganj Naka, Alkapuri

Run by: MP State Road Transport, private non-AC buses

When: Morning and evening departures daily

Book tickets in advance during peak holiday seasons.

Ready-made Pachmarhi itineraries

Good to know

  • Most sights are inside the reserve — hire a gypsy from the town stand.
  • Mahashivratri brings huge crowds to Chauragarh.

Going to Pachmarhi? Build the plan, split costs with your group and keep tickets in one place.

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Pachmarhi travel guide: best time, things to do, how to reach · JrnyLoop Blog