Pachmarhi, located in Madhya Pradesh, is a wonderful destination amidst the greens of the Satpura Hill Range. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve recognized for its breathtaking natural beauty.
The hills of Pachmarhi, are mystically associated with Lord Shiva through traditions passed down to the generations.
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Located at an elevation of 1,067 meters, it is an ideal weekend getaway spot. The site is quite popular among nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and sports enthusiasts.
In this article, you will get to know about the following places to visit near Pachmarhi,
Let’s see each of these in detail…
1. Mahadeo Hills
The Mahadeo hill in southern Madhya Pradesh is located at a height of 1363 meters.
The hill is one of Pachmarhi’s three highest points.
Mahadeo Peak is where you can access the cave temple of Gupt Mahadev, which houses a sacred shrine to Lord Shiva. In addition to Gupt Mahadev, this temple also contains Bade Mahadev, another sanctum devoted to Lord Shiva.
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The sacred temple is home to one of the most exquisite shiva lingams or 12 jyotirlingas in India. These temples are highly regarded and extensively worshipped.
The lush surroundings and crystal-clear views of nature will soothe your soul. The plateaus and hills were created millions of years ago, during the Carboniferous epoch. On the eastern side of this hill, there is a cave with magnificent cave paintings and a sacred pond where devotees take a bath.
2. Jata Shankar Cave Temple
Jata Shankar Cave is a unique cave formation amidst the quaint valley that resembles Sheshnag, a mythical Hindu snake with one hundred heads. Legends say that Lord Shiva hid in this cave from another demonic mythological character, Bhasmasur to protect himself from the curse of getting bhasma or vanishing.
You will see a natural Shiva Lingam as you enter the cave, worshiped by pilgrims from all over the nation as it sits in the shade of a sizable rock. The water drips on the Shiva Lingam and it is said to be the starting point of the Jambu Dwip stream.
Many people offer flowers and incense sticks to the Jambu Dwip (Ganga) outside the cave. The rock formation of the cave resembles the matted hair of Lord Shiva and hence the name “Jata”.
The cave offers each and every tourist a unique experience. If you visit Panchmari, make sure to visit this destination.
3. Dhoopgarh
It is the highest mountain peak of the Satpura Range, perched 1350 meters above sea level. This hill station was originally known as Harvatsa Kot which means “the tallest peak”. It is not just Pachmarhi’s highest point, but also the highest point in Madhya Pradesh and Central India.
At Pachmarhi, watching the glorious sunsets and sunrises is a breathtaking experience. You can also view the lower Satpura Ranges and the Vindhyan Ranges from the vantage point.
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Additionally, this location is one of the popular picnic spots. During the monsoons, Dhoopgarh is encircled by greyish-black monsoon clouds and lush foliage, and hence nature looks more splendid during this time. Therefore monsoons can be considered the best time to visit this place.
Trekking to Dhoopgarh involves visiting the picturesque waterfalls and valleys. This upland indeed has a heavenly appearance, thanks to the rocky scarps, ravines, and clefts that make it a tranquil key destination in Panchmarhi.
4. Bee Falls
Bee Falls is an incredibly beautiful tourist spot in Pachmarhi. The huge gushes of water tumbling gracefully from a height in the middle of a beautiful forest is a sight to behold. The sides of the falls are dotted with lush green vegetation and foliage. It is one of the most visited attractions in Pachmarhi.
Once you’ve descended the stairs and reached the top of the fall, you will be left awe-stricken. A soothing and tranquil atmosphere surrounds the waterfall. A pool is present at the base of the waterfall, and another one is present at a slightly higher elevation.
Adventurous trips from Apsara Vihar to Rajat Prapat through the captivating Bee Falls are an exciting adventure among the youth. Many city dwellers also arrange for a lovely picnic near the falls. The sublime aura around the falls makes it a perfect place for photography as well.
5. Shri Pancha Pandava Cave
The 1000-year-old Pancha Pandava Cave is another important landmark. There are five ancient caves in this massive rock-cut cave. The tourist spot attracts many visitors and this cave is carved out of a low hillock. These caves are the abode of the Pandava brothers from the great epic “Mahabharata”.
The cleanest and the most spacious cave is known as the Draupadi Kuti, which is named after Draupadi, the wife of the five Pandava Brothers. The Bhim Kothari is the darkest cave and it was named after Bhim-the strongest of the five brothers.
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There are some motifs and brick stupa above the caves as well. Currently, these caves are protected monuments of the hill station.
You can also view a beautiful garden from the cave. Numerous tourists come here to Panchmarhi because of the mythological importance and beautiful scenic backdrop.
6. Handi Koh
Handi Koh is 300 feet tall and steep cliff and is one of the finest examples of a deep ravine in the country with numerous mythological stories associated with it. The destination is enveloped in verdant lush foliage and gurgling streams that make the area more soothing.
According to the mythical legends, it is believed that the gorge was once a vast lake and was guarded by a devilish snake. But the snake was destroyed by the outrage of Lord Shiva and hence the event dried up the lake into a small pot or handi.
The enticing nature and the quiet ambiance surrounding the place make it one of the popular destinations in Pachmarhi. You can also enjoy a memorable trekking trip to Handi Koh.
These are some of the popular places to visit near Panchmari, Madhya Pradesh.
So if you plan your trips to Madhya Pradesh, do not miss out on the extraordinary beauty concealed amidst the “ Queen of Satpura”.
The majestic beauty and history surrounding the places of Pachmarhi will rejuvenate your soul and mind.
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