Situated at 1100 m, Pachmarhi, popularly known as 'Satpura ki Rani' (Queen of Satpura), sits beautifully, embellished by nature and history, amidst the Satpura range. Legend says the Pandava brothers visited Pachmarhi during their exile. This beautiful region in the hills, was discovered by Captain James Forsyth in 1857. This most popular hill station of Madhya Pradesh is a treasure with ancient caves of the Buddhist era residing in harmony with serene waterfalls. Pachmarhi is sure to make you feel calm, the way you felt when you put your bare feet on the garden grass for the first time, as a child.
Pachmarhi is 47 km form Pipariya, which is on the Itarsi-Jabalpur rail line, 2 hours from Jabalpur and approximately 1 hour from Itarsi. You can also take a direct bus from Bhopal, which is 210 km away by road. Pachmarhi can also be reached from Nagpur by road, and the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation has started luxury buses which take 8 hours to reach Pachmarhi.
Pachmarhi can be visited throughout the year, though the best time to visit Pachmarhi is from October to June. The summers are pleasant followed by moderate showers during the monsoon which leave the weather very attractive and enjoyable. The winters can be slightly harsh with temperatures dropping to almost 4 degree Celsius. One might also want to plan a visit around Bastar Dusshera and Navratri celebrations which can fill your experience with more light, colour and excitement.
Pachmarhi is the only hill station and is the highest point in Madhya Pradesh. Pachmarhi is also often known as "Satpura ki Rani" or the "Queen of the Satpura Range". Situated at an altitude of 1,067 metres, the picturesque town is a part of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to leopards and bison.
Five sandstone cut caves on the hilltop are believed to be the spot where Pandavas stayed in Pachmarhi during their exile, making it a popular spot among religious tourists. Being at an elevated height and surrounded by bewitching forests of the Satpuras with the streams and waterfalls, Pachmarhi is a perfect weekend getaway from the nearby cities of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Since the town was discovered and developed in modern times by Captain James Forsyth of the British Army, it houses charming churches built in colonial style architecture.