Pachmarhi-The Queen of Satpura
It was Dusshera 2016, the holiday succeeded a weekend offering us a chance to plan a short trip to any nearby place. So, out of our wander lust we just decided to tour Pachmarhi located 197 kms (approx.) from Bhopal. We started early morning at 6.00 am on Day 1 via road and reached this renowned hill station of M.P at 1.30 pm. Our road journey included a halt for breakfast and lunch.
As it was an instant plan, we did not have any advance hotel booking! However, through a friend we did have a deal fixed with local safari driver, which was greatly helpful. After reaching Pachmarhi we got to know that we dropped into the place during its peak season. Also, as it was a long weekend with offs, there was a huge tourist walk in. So, obviously we had difficulties finding a hotel. Somehow after searching for almost two hours we got a place to hide- “ Palace”. The hotel was good value for money.
There are excellent hotels and cottages run by M.P. tourism. Though the tariffs of these hotels are higher comparatively basis the quality of service and lodging facility. The cottages in fact are the best places to spend a refreshing and peaceful vacation period.
We wanted to breathe every moment and tourist spot in Pachmarhi. Therefore, we took a little rest and left for quick evening walk onto the streets of this military cantonment cum hill station. The next two days we moved through Pachmarhi via safari ride which is a real adventure and treat to eyes. The beauty and serenity of Satpuras is beyond expression in places like Dhoopgarh, Bee Falls, Duchess Fall, Bhavya Drashya, Green Valley, Pandav Caves, and Jata Shankar Temple. The soothing mountain breeze and the eye captivating greenery left us spell bound. There are many other similar tourist sites to go. I have mentioned here the ones where we spent most of our time soaking ourselves in the Satpuras! The weather was soothing.
Our three days short trip to Pachmarhi turned out to real memorable experience. Given a chance I will surely love to visit Pachmarhi again and will extremely love to spend an entire day at places like Bee Fall or Dhoopgarh!! The sunrise and sunset are just magnificent!!
Key points – every year the M.P. government declares annual tourist period for Pachmarhi which is mostly around Dusshera. And, remember the tariffs triples during annual tourist festival period making everything very expensive. In case you plan to visit during this time do book your hotel and safari ride in advance. Even if you drive to Pachmarhi, I will suggest to hire a Safari for sight-seeing as it saves your energy and gives you the opportunity to completely be present while witnessing some of the breath taking spots like Dhoopgarh!
