12 Best Things to Do in Pachmarhi

Pachmarhi isn't a place where you just look out of a car window. It's a place to walk, climb, swim, explore and slow down. Whether you have two days or five, here are the best things to do in Pachmarhi to make the most of it.

1. Take a Gypsy Sightseeing Tour

Most of Pachmarhi's best spots lie inside forest areas where only registered Gypsies are allowed. A Gypsy tour is the easiest way to cover waterfalls, caves and viewpoints in one or two days, and the open-top ride through the forest is fun in itself. See the full list of Pachmarhi tourist places.

2. Climb to Chauragarh

This is the classic Pachmarhi challenge: about 1,300 steps up to a Shiva temple on a hilltop. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours up and back down. Go early, carry water, and take your time. The view at the top is the best reward in Pachmarhi.

3. Watch the Sunset at Dhupgarh

Head to the highest point of the Satpura range and watch the sun drop behind the hills. Bring a light jacket, because it cools quickly once the sun is down.

4. Swim and Splash at Waterfalls

Stand under Bee Falls, or let the kids play in the shallow pool at Apsara Vihar. On a warm afternoon, nothing in Pachmarhi feels better. Always listen to the guides about where it's safe to enter the water. More in our Pachmarhi waterfalls guide.

5. Explore the Caves

Crawl into Gupt Mahadev, walk through the gorge at Jata Shankar, and climb around the five Pandav Caves. Each cave has its own story, so hire a local guide if you want to hear them.

6. Go on a Jungle Safari

Book a jeep safari in Satpura National Park through the Madhai gate. It's quieter than the big tiger parks, and that's part of the charm. Look for sloth bears, leopards, giant squirrels and huge herds of gaur. Safaris are closed in the monsoon.

7. Go Boating on Pachmarhi Lake

After a long day of sightseeing, a slow boat ride on the lake is the perfect way to relax. Couples love it at sunset.

8. Trek to Hidden Waterfalls

If you like adventure, ask your guide about trails to Duchess Falls or Rajat Prapat. They're tougher than the regular spots, but you'll find quiet water and very few people. Our Pachmarhi adventure tour package is built around trails like these.

9. Walk Through History

Visit Christ Church, the Bison Lodge museum and Priyadarshini Point to see Pachmarhi's British-era past. It's a nice change from waterfalls and caves.

10. Join a Festival

If your dates line up, Mahashivratri (February/March) and the Nagdwari Yatra (monsoon) show you the spiritual side of Pachmarhi. Expect large crowds, music and long lines of pilgrims climbing the hills.

11. Shop for Local Goods

Pick up forest honey, herbal products and bamboo crafts at the small market near the bus stand. They make good, simple souvenirs.

12. Slow Down and Look Up

Pachmarhi has very little light pollution. On a clear winter night, step outside your hotel and look up. You'll see more stars than you ever see in the city.

Quick Tips for Your Trip

• Wear proper shoes. Most spots involve steps, rocks or slippery paths.
• Start early. Popular spots get crowded after 10 am, especially on weekends.
• Carry cash. Mobile network and card payments can be patchy inside the forest.
• Plan at least 3 nights. Two full days of sightseeing plus an easy final morning works best.
• Respect the forest. Don't litter, don't feed the monkeys, and stay on marked paths.

Frequently Asked Questions