Pachmarhi
Pachmarhi is a beautiful hill station located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and wildlife. Pachmarhi is situated at an altitude of 1,067 meters and is surrounded by the Satpura range of mountains.
History
The history of Pachmarhi dates back to the 1850s when it was discovered by Captain James Forsyth of the British Army, who was on a mission to explore the Satpura Range. Forsyth was amazed by the natural beauty of the place and decided to establish a military outpost there.
In the following years, Pachmarhi became a popular summer retreat for the British officers and their families. They built bungalows, churches, and other colonial-era buildings, which can still be seen in the town. The town also served as a sanatorium for the British soldiers who were suffering from tuberculosis and other ailments.
During the Indian independence movement, Pachmarhi became an important center of activity for the freedom fighters. The town was a hub of underground activities, and many revolutionary leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, and Jawaharlal Nehru visited the place to meet the activists.
After India gained independence in 1947, Pachmarhi became a part of the newly-formed Madhya Pradesh state. Since then, the town has been developed as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation has taken several initiatives to promote tourism in the region, including the development of new hotels, tourist bungalows, and other infrastructure.
Culture
The culture of Pachmarhi is a blend of the tribal and non-tribal communities living in the area.
1.
Tribal Culture: Pachmarhi is home to several tribal
communities like the Gond, Korku, and Baiga. They have their unique customs,
traditions, and beliefs. Their lifestyle revolves around agriculture, forest
produce, and hunting. They worship their deities and perform various rituals
and ceremonies to appease them. The tribal art and craft of Pachmarhi are
famous for their intricate designs and use of natural materials.
2.
Festivals: Pachmarhi celebrates many festivals
throughout the year. Some of the important festivals are Navratri, Diwali,
Holi, and Christmas. During these festivals, people of all communities come
together to celebrate and exchange greetings. The local markets are decorated
with lights, and special food items are prepared.
3.
Music and Dance: The folk music and dance of Pachmarhi are an
integral part of its culture. The tribal communities have their unique musical
instruments, such as the dholak, nagara, and shehnai. The dance forms are also
diverse, ranging from the fast-paced Gond dance to the elegant Baiga dance.
4. Food: The cuisine of Pachmarhi is a mix of tribal and non-tribal food. The local cuisine includes dishes like bafla, bhutte ki kees, and poha. These dishes are made using local ingredients and have a unique taste. The non-tribal communities have also contributed to the cuisine of Pachmarhi, and you can find restaurants serving Indian, Chinese, and continental food.
5. Handicrafts: Pachmarhi is known for its exquisite handicrafts made by the local artisans. The handicrafts include bamboo items, dhokra art, and terracotta pottery. These handicrafts are unique in design and make great souvenirs for tourists.
A visit to Pachmarhi will give you a glimpse of the vibrant and diverse culture of this beautiful hill station.
How to reach
here are the details on how to reach there:
1.
By Air: The nearest airport to Pachmarhi is the Raja Bhoj Airport
in Bhopal, which is around 195 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi
or take a bus to reach Pachmarhi.
2.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Pachmarhi is Pipariya,
which is around 47 km away. Pipariya is well-connected to major cities in
India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From Pipariya, you can hire a taxi
or take a bus to reach Pachmarhi.
3. By Road: Pachmarhi is well-connected by road to major cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Bhopal, Indore, Nagpur, and Jabalpur to reach Pachmarhi.
Once you reach Pachmarhi, you can explore the various attractions that the hill station has to offer.
Places to visit
Pachmarhi offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and historical landmarks. Here are some of the must-visit places in Pachmarhi for a memorable trip:
1. Bee Falls: Located amidst lush green forests, Bee Falls is a stunning waterfall that is a popular tourist spot in Pachmarhi. The sound of water gushing down the rocks and the cool breeze makes it a perfect spot for a picnic.
2. Pandav Caves: The Pandav Caves are believed to have been carved out by the Pandavas during their exile. These ancient rock-cut caves are located on a hilltop and offer a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
3. Jatashankar Caves: The Jatashankar Caves are a series of cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The caves are located in a deep valley and are surrounded by lush green forests. The main cave has a large Shivling, and there are several other smaller caves and shrines around it.
4. Bada Mahadeo : The temple is believed to be over a thousand years old, and it has been a place of worship for generations of locals. It is said that the Pandavas from the Mahabharata epic had visited this temple during their exile. The temple is made of stone and has a simple yet elegant design. The Shiva linga is situated in the inner sanctum of the temple, which is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
5. Handi Khoh: Handi Khoh is a deep gorge located in Pachmarhi, and it is said to be the place where Lord Shiva drank the poison that came out during the churning of the ocean. The view of the deep gorge and the surrounding hills is simply stunning.
6. Satpura National Park: Satpura National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located near Pachmarhi, and it is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can go on a jeep safari or a trek through the forest to spot tigers, leopards, and other wildlife.
7. Apsara Vihar: Apsara Vihar is a beautiful waterfall located near Pachmarhi, and it is a popular spot for swimming and picnics. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests, and the water is crystal clear.
8. Bison Lodge Museum: The Bison Lodge Museum is a small museum located in Pachmarhi, and it is dedicated to the history and culture of the region. The museum has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the British Raj and the local tribes.
9. Dhoopgarh peak : It is the highest point in the Satpura Range, standing at an elevation of 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) above sea level. It is famous for its spectacular views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and forests. Visitors can witness breath-taking sunrises and sunsets from the top of the hill. The hill is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.
10. Chauragarh : The peak of Chauragarh stands at an elevation of 1,326 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green forests and breath-taking panoramic views.Trekking to Chauragarh is an adventurous activity that attracts a large number of tourists every year. The trek starts from the base of the hill and takes around 3-4 hours to reach the top. The trekking trail is steep and can be challenging, but the stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the fresh mountain air make the climb well worth the effort. At the top of Chauragarh, there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which is a major attraction for the trekkers. It attracts a large number of devotees during the annual Mahashivratri festival. Visitors can also enjoy the breath-taking views of the surrounding hills and valleys from the top of the peak.
11. Rajat Prapat waterfall: Rajat Prapat Waterfall is a multi-tiered waterfall that cascades down from a height of approximately 350 feet. The waterfall is named Rajat Prapat, which means "Silver Fall," because the water appears silver as it cascades down the rocks. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and rocky cliffs, which add to its natural beauty.
12.Gupt Mahadev : The temple is built inside a cave and is adorned with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The entrance to the temple is a narrow passage which leads to a big hall where the main shrine of Lord Shiva is located. The walls of the cave are adorned with intricate carvings of various deities and mythological figures.
13. Amba Mai: Amba Mai is a popular temple located in Pachmarhi. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Amba, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga. Apart from its religious significance, Amba Mai Temple is also known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The temple features a beautiful entrance gate, a large courtyard, and a sanctum sanctorum where the idol of Amba Mai is placed.
These are some of the must-visit places in Pachmarhi for a memorable trip. With its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Pachmarhi is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating holiday.
Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, Pachmarhi offers a wide range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.
1. Hotels: Pachmarhi has a variety of hotels ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the popular ones are Hotel Gokulam, Hotel Natraj, and Hotel Pandav. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, good service, and basic amenities like a restaurant, Wi-Fi, and parking.
2. Resorts: Pachmarhi is home to some beautiful resorts that offer a luxurious stay amidst nature. Some of the popular ones are Glen View Resort, MPT Club View Resort, and Satpura Retreat. These resorts have well-appointed rooms, swimming pools, spas, and other recreational facilities.
3. Homestays: Homestays are becoming increasingly popular among travellers who want to experience local culture and hospitality. Pachmarhi has a few good homestays like Boriya Village Homestay and Jungle Retreat Homestay. These homestays offer a comfortable stay with home-cooked meals, personalized service, and the opportunity to interact with locals.
4. Guesthouses: Pachmarhi also has many guesthouses that are budget-friendly and offer a basic stay. Some of the popular guesthouses are Hilltop Guest House, Kachnar Guest House, and Misty Meadows Guest House. These guesthouses have clean rooms, basic amenities, and are ideal for budget-conscious travellers.
5. Campsites: Pachmarhi also offers camping options for travellers who want to spend time in nature. Some of the popular campsites are Pachmarhi Adventure Camp, Camp Serenity, and Rock End Manor Camping. These campsites offer tents, campfire, and outdoor activities like trekking, bird watching, and nature walks.
Conclusion
Pachmarhi is a perfect destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those who are looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and pleasant weather, Pachmarhi is definitely worth visiting. So, plan your trip to Pachmarhi and enjoy the serene beauty of this charming hill station.