Easy Tourist Guide

Bastar, known for its natural beauty is surrounded with dense forests, hilly mountains, streams, waterfalls, natural caves, natural parks and many more. This land of tribes rich in natural resources easily attracts the tourists at first sight itself. From the view point of tourists and tourism, Bastar is called the ‘Kashmir of Chhattisgarh’. This is one such tourist place that is worth visiting to explore culture, religion, tradition, beauty of nature and living of mountain tribes.

Where is Bastar?

Bastar district is in the southern part of present day Chattisgarh and Jagdalpur is the district town. Bastar has an average elevation of 2000 ft above sea level.

About Bastar

The beauty of Bastar district lies in its natural forest area and various types of tribes. Bastar has the largest strength of tribes anywhere in the world. Maria is the largest group of tribes in Bastar while the Gond tribe remains perhaps the least in contact with the world outside. The tribal people of Maria and Muria are extremely colorful and picturesque, who have preserved their ancient culture to the fullest.
Deep forest area, cool flowing stream, mountain valleys, caves, high waterfalls, sky-touching valleys with the spread of greenery in between spells magic and wonder in the hearts of every tourist visiting Bastar.
People from various parts of world and India visit Bastar every year to explore the rich ancient culture of India among its tribe.

In and around Bastar

There are so many places which are worth seeing in and around Bastar and so many are unexplored that any tourist visiting Bastar will definitely carry with him a cherishable memory.
The main tourist attraction are :
Chitrakoot waterfall – Horse-shoe shaped Chitrakoot waterfall is not only the largest but also one of the prettiest waterfall of India. This gorgeous waterfall is on the river Indravati falling from a height of 100 mt. thereby making a misty appearance. The rainbow colors of the fall attract the tourists at the very first sight itself.
In the morning, this waterfall which is also known as the “Niagara of India” have a milky appearance, and as the afternoon arrives it turns whitish, and as the sun sets, the water appears to be reddish. In the evening, this water fall is enlightened with artificial lights. The water after falling from a height of hundred meters settles down quickly, making boating easy for the tourists. Boating here is a lifetime experience.

Bastar Palace – The Bastar palace is one of the major heritage destinations of the state that attract and fascinates the tourists. This is a historical remain of the Bastar kingdom and is worth visiting. The palace has a rich wealth of art and architectural work that illustrates the refined aesthetic sensibility of the kings of Bastar. On the occasion of Dushera a 75 day long tribal festival is celebrated in the Central Indian State of Chhattisgarh centering Bastar and Bastar palace. It’s a very colorful event consisting of processions, worships, sacrifices, dances and much more being attended by tribes from adjoining areas.
Tiratgarh waterfall – The waterfall is actually situated in Kanger Valley National Park and the height is approximately 300 ft. The waterfall although not as big as Chitrakoot waterfall, but its beauty is so mesmerizing, that it leaves the visitors spellbound.
Anthropological Museum - This Museum is located in the office of the Anthropological Survey of India situated at Dharampura. It provides a perfect window-view of the life-styles and culture of various adivasis tribes in Bastar.
Kutumsar Caves and Kailash Gufa - This is the biggest tourist attraction, and are close to Tiratgarh waterfalls. Both Kutumsar Caves and Kailash Gufa are located in Kanger Valley National Park. The kutumsar caves are pitch-dark caves, which has Stalactites and Stalagmites in fantastic formations. A forest guard equipped with torchlight will be provided for necessary guidance. Kailash gufa is also similar to the Kutumsar caves.

Danteshwari Temple – It is an ancient temple built by the kings of Bastar for their family goddess Devi Danteshwari. The temple is considered as one of the 52 Shakti peethas and an important Hindu pilgrimage centre.
Kanger Valley National Park - The Park is Paradise for the nature lovers where both Sal and Teak are seen in their finest form. The valley is in fact one of the last pockets of virgin forests that is still left in the peninsular region.
The Park fauna consists of tiger, panther wildcat, cheetah, samber, barking deer, wild pig, jackal, langoor, rhesus macaque, sloth bear, flying squirrel, python, hyena, rabbits, crocodile, otter and civet.
The Park derives its name from the Kanger River which flows throughout its length.

How to reach Bastar?

By Air - Raipur in the north and Vizag in the east are the two nearest airport both being at a distance of 300 km.
By Rail – Jagdalpur is the nearest railhead although with a very limited trains.
By Road - Direct interstate buses are available from Jagdalpur to Vizag, Rajahmundri, Hyderabad, Vijaywada, and Koraput.

Where to stay at Bastar?

Akanksha Hotel (07782 – 25336, 25349).
Poonam Lodge (07782 – 22393, 25176).
Anand Lodge (07782 – 22560).

Ambikapur is a perfect tourist destination with temples, caves, hills, rivers, hot water springs and spectacular waterfalls. The historic town of Ambikapur is situated near the Vindhyachal – Baghelkhand mountain ranges having connections with the Indian epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. The place has something to offer for every tourist, wheather he is a nature lover, an ardent follower of religion or simply wants to explore new places.

Where is Ambikapur?

Ambikapur is in Surguja district of Chhattisgarh state in India

About Ambikapur

The exotic location of the place unharmed by the advancement of science and technology is bound to attract tourists. Nature in its primitive form being preserved here is perhaps the most fascinating feature of Ambikapur.
The recent excavations of various heritage monuments have made Ambikapur a popular destination of Chhattisgarh. Historians have found that some of the archaeological ruins and temples here date to an era before Christ.
The Jogimara Caves here are an example of one of the world’s first ever inscriptions on love, making it a major tourist attraction. Some of the other caves located here is an evidence of the existence of civilization here
from pre-historic times.
Historians also believe that the great Sanskrit poet Kalidasa may have spent some time in the Ramgiri mountains while he was working on his epic `Meghdoot’, written sometime between the 16th and 17th century.

In and around Ambikapur

The various temples located in and around Ambikapur spiritually enlighten the tourists who have a love for religion. Among the significant temples are Mahamaya temple located east of Ambikapur, Shivpur Shiv temple, Buddha temple at Mainpat, and the Nageshwar Shiv temple.
Shivpur Shiv temple - It is a popular pilgrimage destination. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva amidst picturesque natural surroundings is a must-visit for every tourists coming to Ambikapur. During the occasion of Maha Shivratri and Basant Panchami a very big festival is organized every year.

Manipat – Located near Ambikapur, Manipat is a charming hill station known for the tiger point waterfall and the delightful Buddha temple. Woolen fabric of Manipat deserves special mention. The tiger point waterfall is extremely popular among tourists and its location amidst picturesque surrounding makes the visit to the waterfall a memorable one.
Buddha temple – The temple located at Manipat near Alampur is a popular destination for followers of Buddhism as well as for normal tourists. This beautiful temple apart from housing a wonderful statue of Lord Buddha gives a firsthand experience of Buddhist culture and religion.
Tattapani – This is a continuously flowing hot water source ideal for skin disease ailments. Water is so hot near the source of this hot water spring that even rice bundled in a piece of cloth gets cooked.
Thin-thini patthar - It is a huge cylindrical-shaped rock of about two hundred quintal resting on a ground rock. When it is stricken with a solid material, a metallic sound echoes. Different sound comes from different points of the stone.

Semarsot wildlife sanctuary - Covering an area of 430.36 Sq.Km. the sanctuary has a wide variety of deer, like Nilgai, Chital, Sambar, Chinkara as well as number of Leopards sloth bears, wild boars, foxes and colorful birds. The sanctuary is covered with Sal and other deciduous trees.
Tamor Pingla wildlife sanctuary - Covering a ground of 608.55 Sq.Km this sanctuary has a mix of Sal and other deciduous trees. It is not uncommon to sight multi-hued migratory birds, a number of species of Indian deer, like the barking deer, four-horned antelope, chitals and sambar deer. One can even catch glimpses of python, cobras, striped hyenas, jackals, brown and red varieties of jungle fowl, blue bulls, and green pigeons.
Kailash caves - These cave was created by Saint Rameshwar Gahira Guruji. Temple of Lord Shiva-Parvati and also temple of different God-Goddess are there in caves. On occasion of Mahashivratri huge festival is organized here which is being attended by pilgrims from places far and near.
Ramgarh and Sita Bengra – These are the caves in which Lord Rama, and his wife Sita, are believed to have stayed during their 14 years of exile. The charming beauty of the place is really mesmerizing.
Pawai waterfall – It is a natural waterfall which flows throughout the year and is a popular picnic spot.
Ramgiri mountain is one of the exotic locations to be visited near Ambikapur. The place is believed to have been the home of Lord Rama during his days of exile.

How to reach Ambikapur?

By Air – Jabalpur is the nearest airport from where one can reach Ambikapur by train or bus or by hired vehicle.
By Rail – Bishrampur at a distance of 27 Km. from Ambikapur is the nearest railhead. Although Annupur railway station at a distance of 205 Km. is a much better option.
By Road – Ambikapur is well connected by buses with places like Raipur (358 Km.), Bilaspur (230 Km.), Raigarh (210 Km.), and Annupur (205 Km.)

Where to stay at Ambikapur?

Hotel Mayura (220258)
Hotel Kanchan (224444)
Hotel Basant (222615, 221134)
Hotel Deep (220397)
Hotel Surya (221445)
Hotel Poonam (222563)
Hotel Mayank (222563)

Melkote, the temple town of Karnataka is a popular center of pilgrimage built on rocky hills of Yadavagiri (or Yadugiri) overlooking the Cauveri valley. The place attracts tourists from around the world for its breathtaking scenic beauty and its bracing climate. A visit to Melkote is unique in the sense that it gives us a fast hand experience and knowledge of our own cultural heritage in its living form. Historical studies have shown relatively little change in the plan of the town, the type and character of the dwellings and its cultural practice.

Where is Melkote?

Melkote is in Pandavapura taluk of Mandya district, Karnataka. It is about 51 km from Mysore and 133 km from Bangalore.

About Melkote

The picturesque hill town of Melkote is full of shrines and monasteries and is an important centre for devotees of Lord Vishnu. This town gained religious importance in the 12th century AD when the famous South Indian Vaishnava philosopher and teacher, Sri Ramanuja lived in Melkote for about 12 years.

Life in Melkote is centered around the Cheluvanarayanaswamy temple in the town and the Yoganarasimhaswamy temple on the hill overlooking the town of Melkote. It is these temples that have made the town a popular tourist and pilgrimage attraction. These temples have helped to preserve the tradition and culture of the town and at the same time is a repository of all the knowledge. The temple premises houses the oldest Sanskrit Pathsahala in India that dates back to 1853.

In and around Melkote

The temple of Cheluvanarayanaswamy is of prime attraction for tourist and devotees visiting Melkote. The temple, built in the Vijayanagar style, houses some of the most intricately carved pillars and is one of the four most sacred places of Vaishnavism in South India.

On the top of the hill is an impressive temple of Yoga Narasimha. It is believed that the image of Yoga Narasimha temple was installed by Prahlada. Krishnaraja Wodeyar III presented a gold crown to this temple. This temple and its surroundings present the most panoramic view.
Raya gopura, which is also known as Gopalaraya entrance, is an incomplete structure leading to the hill. It has four tall pillars and has no tower above it. This architectural masterpiece is said to have been built in a day or two.
Melkote temple wildlife sanctuary created on 17 June 1974 mainly to protect the wolf is also a must visit for the tourists… Other mammals found in this sanctuary are jungle cat, leopard, bonnet macaque, langur and pangolin. It is also an ornithologist’s paradise, with numerous species of birds indigenous to the area, .and peacock.
The Thondanur Lake, 18 km from Melkote is a good picnic spot.

How to Reach Melkote?

By Air - Bangalore is the nearest airport.
By Rail - Nearest railhead is Pandavapura, Mandya.
By Road - Melkote is well connected by roads from Mysore and Bangalore.

Where to stay at Melkote?

There are various Mathas (ashrams) in Melkote where tourists and devotees can stay in lieu of donations according to his or her will. Staying at this ashramas is indeed an unique experience.
The Forest Department and the Public Works Department have a guest house each.
The Academy of Sanskrit Research  (08236-48741/48781) has lovely cottages surrounded by lush green gardens.

Alampur, near Hyderabad is known as the Dakshina Kailasam and home to nine Nava Brahma temples dedicated to Lord Shiva built by the Badami Chalukyas about 200 years ago. The holy city of Alampur located at the confluence of Tungabhadra and Krishna River is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites of India. This place preserves numerous archaeological remains in the form of the temples, which represents a crossbred of architectural style.

Where is Alampur?

Alampur is in Mahbubnagar district, in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is located at about 90 KM from Mahabubnagar, 27 km From Kurnool and 200 km from Hyderabad.

About Alampur

Alampur, one of the most sacred places of worship in South India is believed to be the place where the beauty of the earth is concentrated on that bend where the Tungabhadra rushes on to its sangam with that Krishna. The aesthetic pleasure of the striking landscape of Alampur is believed to have fused with the spirits in the shrines where the morning and evening prayers rang to the sound of bells to awaken the deities.

This ancient temple of Alampur built in a Dravidian style has fort like walls, towers and a rich endowment of sculptural work. It is even regarded as one of the finest specimens of Chalukyan architecture.

In and Around Alampur

The Nava Brahma temples are the main attraction of Alampur. The nine Nava Brahma temples enclosed within a miniature fortress on the left bank of Tungabhadra River are, – Taraka Bhramma, Swarga Bhramma, Padma Bhramma, Bala Bhramma, Garuda Bhramma, Kumara Bhramma, Arka Bhramma, Vira Bhramma and the Vishwa Bhramma. All of these temples though dedicated to Lord Shiva are markedly different from each other in their architectural style. The brilliance of the artists who carved the sculptures of these temples is indeed commendable.
Also in the enclosed courtyard is located the Suryanarayana temple, dating back to the 9th century. This temple has reliefs representing the incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

There is also a Narasimha temple with inscriptions from the period of Krishna Deva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire.
Near Alampur, is Papanasam with a cluster of over 20 temples of varying sizes and styles. The most important of these is the Papanaseswara temple.
To the west of Alampur lies Sree Sailam, which is regarded as one of the greatest Saivite shrines in the Indian subcontinent and constitutes one of the 12 Jyotirlingam shrines of Lord Shiva.

How to Reach Alampur?

By Air - Hyderabad is the nearest airport where both domestic and international planes land. From the airport one can hire private car to reach Alampur.
By Rail - Kurnool is the nearest railway station from where regular bus services are available to reach Alampur.
By Road – Alampur is well connected with other towns by regular bus services.

Where to Stay?

Though the place is ideal as a day long weekend tour yet there are a number of good budget hotels available.
The Mourya Inn (8518) – 224999
Hotel S.V. Regency (08518 – 248212).
Haritha Hotel (08514-284516).
Hotel Rajshri (08512-253304).

Traveling to the historical city of Orcha founded by the Bundela Rajput chieftain Rudra Pratap is a real rewarding experience. The historical monument of the medieval city of Orcha is a unique travel destination where history is etched in stone. Over the years, Orcha has become one of the preferred destinations for tourists who want to experience the rich cultural heritage of India. Temples and palaces of this medieval city are true symbols of Indian artistry and architecture that are far ahead of its contemporary and are objects of awe for the rest of the world.

Where is Orcha?

Orcha is a town in Tikamgarh district of Madhya Pradesh state, India. Situated on the banks of River Betwa, Orcha lies in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh.

About Orcha

The medieval city of Orcha was once the capital of the Bundela rulers. The historical monuments still retain their pristine medieval charm, narrating stories of its glorious past, every bit of which is a cherishable experience to the tourists.
Orcha has a series of magnificent temples, dating back to the 17th century. They are still in use today and visited regularly by thousands of devotees.
Apart from the rich history, the place is also noted for its scenic beauty and the crystal clear waters of the river Betwa, which adds charm to the place. Moreover Bundela architecture, which is a curious synthesis of Rajput and Mughal styles, has its own significance and beauty.

In and Around Orcha

Orcha fort complex – The main tourist attraction of Orcha is the Orcha fort complex, located on an island on River Betwa, having a number of palaces within it. Orcha’s fort complex is approached by tourists through a multi-arched bridge, and houses three palaces set in an open quadrangle.

Jehangir Mahal - Situated within the fort complex is the exceedingly beautiful Jehangir Mahal which is the most visited monument in Orcha. The palace was built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir to Orcha. The main tourist attraction of the palace is the two statues of bowed elephants right at the entrance.

Raj Mahal palace - Situated to the right of the quadrangle within the fort complex, this palace was built by Madhukar Shah, the deeply religious predecessor of Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo. The palace is noticeable for its plain exteriors and interiors depicting religious themes.

Rani Praveen Mahal Palace – This palace was built by King Indramani in the 17th century. It is said that he built it for his love Rai Parveen who was an exceptionally talented poetess and a musician. The palace is only two floor high and was built this way to match with the height of trees in the area. Visitors can get scintillating views of nearby gardens of Anand Mahal and the Octagonal flower garden.

Ram Raja Mandir - This palace-turned-temple is surely one of the most unusual in India and an important tourist attraction as it is the only temple in India where Ram is worshipped as a king.
Chaturbhuj temple – This temple is situated on a gigantic stone was the original destination of the idol of Lord Ram, but later, statue of Lord Vishnu was established. The temple houses a huge assembly hall for the devotees.

The Laxminarayan temple – This temple is a unique blend of temple and fort architecture. It was built in the year 1622 A.D. by Vir Singh Deo. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi. The frescoes within this temple depict social and secular themes. These frescoes have retained their vibrant colors, in spite of being hundreds of years old and fascinate every tourist visiting the temple.

Sunder Mahal palace – The palace almost in ruin today, is still a place of pilgrimage for Muslims. Dhurjban son of Jhujhar, embraced Islam when he wed a Muslim girl at Delhi. He spent the latter part of his life in prayer and meditation and came to be revered as a saint.

Phool Bagh is laid out as a formal garden, testifying to the refined aesthetic qualities of Bundelas. This garden has fountains, pavilions and ingenious water ventilation system.

The Shahid Smarak commemorating the martyrdom of Chandrashekhar Azad, the great freedom fighter, is an important place to visit.

How to Reach Orcha?

By Air – Nearest airports is Gwalior (125Km). Flights from Delhi and Bhopal are regular to Gwalior.
By Rail – Nearest rail station is at Jhansi (16 km), on the Mumbai – Delhi and Delhi – Madras main lines. All major mail and express trains stop at Jhansi.
By Road - Orcha lies on the Jhansi – Khajuraho road. Regular bus services connect Orcha with Jhansi. Orcha is also well connected with Delhi, Gwalior, Agra, Bhopal and Varanasi via regular bus services.

Where to Stay at Orcha?

The Orcha Resort (07680 – 252222 /23 /24)
Amar Mahal Hotel (07680-252102 / 252202)
Sheesh Mahal (07680-252624 / 252624)
Betwa Retreat (07680-252618 / 252618)
Bundelkhand Riverside Retreat (07680-252612 / 252612 / 252332)
Ganapati Guest House (07680-252765 / 252765)

Nalanda, one of the oldest universities of the world is one of the most visited historical places of India. A visit to Nalanda is a journey to the rich history of India. Tourists from around the world visit Nalanda every year to have a glimpse of this archaeological wonder of history.
Nalanda today is in ruins yet, imparts a scholarly look standing tall telling the story of its glorious history. Once an important centre of Biddhism is one of the must visit site of Buddhism.

Where is Nalanda?

Nalanda is in the state of Bihar in India and is 90 Km from the state capital of Patna.

About Nalanda

The University of Nalanda was founded in the 5th century by the Gupta emperors. The university was considered an architectural masterpiece, and was marked by a lofty wall and one gate. Nalanda had eight separate compounds and ten temples, along with many other meditation halls and classrooms. On the grounds were lakes and parks. The library was located in a nine storied building where meticulous copies of texts were produced. The archaeological zone here is classified into a number of sites that include 11 monasteries and several temples built in red bricks.
In this first residential international university of the world, 2,000 teachers and 10,000 students from all over the world lived and studied. The subjects taught at Nalanda University covered every field of learning, and it attracted pupils and scholars from Korea, Japan, China, Tibet, Indonesia, Persia and Turkey.
Though Lord Buddha visited Nalanda several times during his lifetime, this famous centre of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 6th-12th centuries AD. Hiuen Tsang, the Chinese pilgrim spent three years at Nalanda. He has left a detailed account about the university, its curriculum and activities.
The university remained in prominence till 12 century AD when the Afghans attacked Bengal and burnt down this great University.

Sightseeing in and around Nalanda

Nalanda Museum – Established in 1971, the museum has a good collection of ancient manuscripts and Buddhist statues that are rare in appearance and style. The museum also displays artifacts of the Maurya, Gupta and other periods.
Nav Nalanda Vihar – Established in 1951 so as to keep the ancient tradition of spreading knowledge alive. The Bihar government has set up this institute that teaches Pali near the ancient university. Here Indian as well as foreign students study and do research on Buddhism and Pali.
Rajgir – 15 km from Nalanda is Rajgir, the ancient capital of Magadha Empire which flourished in the 6th century BC. The city has a huge historical importance because of its association with Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavira making the place a preferred destination of Buddhists and Jains. The first Buddhist council immediately after the Mahaparinirarvana of Lord Buddha, to pen down his teachings, was also held at Rajgir.
The hill town of Rajgir, surrounded by seven hills is in the midst of lush green forest is quite popular among tourists. Apart from its scenic beauty other major tourist attractions of the place are Jail of Bimbisara, playground of Jarasandha, Venuvana, Karand tank, Maniyar math, Swamabhandar cave, Pippala cave, and Viswa Shanti Stupa.

Bodhgaya – 55 km from Nalanda is Bodhgaya, the holiest amongst holy places of Buddhist World. It is the place where Prince Siddhartha attained the supreme enlightenment under the Bodhi tree and became Buddha, the enlightened one. The present Bodhi Tree is fifth in succession of the original tree under which Lord Buddha had attained the enlightenment.
The ancient Mahabodhi Temple, the railings and the Ashokan pillar are of great historical and architectural importance. The modern monasteries of Japan, Thailand, China, Tibet, Myanmar, Bhutan and Sri Lanka built in their national architectures are very colorful and remain humming with religious activities.
Gaya – 65 km from Nalanda is Gaya, one of the most sacred pilgrim centers for the Hindus. According to Hindu mythology there is a belief that an individual goes to heaven if his last rites are offered under the celebrated Akshayabat or immortal banyan tree, in Gaya.
The temple of Vishnupad on the bank of river Falgu attracts a very large number of pilgrims from all over the world.
Pawapuri – 26km from Nalanda is the city of Pawapuri. It is a great pilgrimage center of the Jains. Lord Mahavira, the greatest propounder of Jainism had delivered his last sermon, took Mahaparinirvana and was cremated here. Jalmandir and Samosharan are two beautiful temples here of exquisite architecture built in white marble.

Bihar Sharif - Located 13 kilometers away from Nalanda, Bihar Sharif was once the capital of the Muslim Governors of Bihar between 13th and 16th centuries and has a huge historical importance. The place houses the beautiful tomb of Malik Ibrahim Vaya constructed on top of the rocky hill. Hanuman Mandir at Badi Pahari, and prison of Jarasandh are other major tourist attractions of Bihar Sharif. Also, the place has a mosque of 14th century Muslim saint Makhdum Shah Sharif-ud-din, which attracts a large number of tourists every year.

How to reach Nalanda?

By Air – The nearest airport from Nalanda is Patna around 89 Km away. There are regular flights from Patna connecting to Kolkata, Delhi, Ranchi, Mumbai, Varanasi, Lucknow and Kathmandu.
By Rail - Rajgir 12 Km away is the nearest railway station from Nalanda. Although nearest major railway point is Gaya around 65 Km away, and is well connected to all major Indian cities.
By Road – Nalanda is connected through a good road network with Rajgir 12 km, Bodh Gaya 50 Km, Gaya 65 Km, Patna 90 Km, Pawapuri 26 Km, and Bihar Sharif 13 Km.

Where to stay at Nalanda?

There are only a few hotels and rest houses available in Nalanda. It is better to stay at Rajgir and visit Nalanda on a day excursion. There are a number of good qualities and budget hotels available in Rajgir. Some of them are :
Indo Hokke Hotel, Nalanda (Booking contact number – 06112-255245/035/037)
Gautam Vihar, Rajgir (Booking contact number – 06119-255273)
Tathagat Vihar, Rajgir (Booking contact number – 06119-255176)
Ajatsatru Vihar, Rajgir (Booking contact number – 06119-255027)

Panchmari is a silent and serene hill station among the Satpura range in Madhya Pradesh. This small and somewhat sleepy hill station is an ideal holiday destination for those who wish to relax and spend their time in close association with nature. Also known as the “Queen of Satpura”, Panchmari is perhaps one of the loveliest hill stations of India with a unique combination of religion, history and nature.

Where is Panchmari?

Situated at an altitude of 1067 mt. in the Satpura hills, this is the only hill station of Madhya Pradesh and is in the Hoshangabad district.

About Panchmari

Panchmari derives its name from the five rock-cut caves that are there in Panchmari. They are associated with the Pandavas of Mahabharata and the stunning cave paintings are a reminder of our glorious past.
Blessed by nature Panchmari is truly heaven on earth. From bouncing waterfalls to calm rivers, from serene valleys to deep gorges everything here is spectacular.
Presence of a number of holy caves and temples has made Panchmari a favourite pilgrimage destination of Hindus. Shrines of Lord Shiva located in deep caves, ravines and atop cliffs speak of the rich Shaivite tradition Panchmari has.
Amidst this rich Shaivite tradition of Panchmari exists a pleasant English Panchmari, – the colonial hill station. The picturesque town of Panchmari was developed by the British as a resort to escape the hot Indian summers. Panchmari is also famous for its colonial architecture. Pretty bungalows with red tiled roofs, well tended gardens and pebbled paths dot Panchmari town. The churches with beautiful stained glass windows are lovely too.

Sightseeing in and around Panchmari

Be it a rock climber, a wild life enthusiast or simply a nature lover, Panchmari has something to offer to everyone. This lovely hill station is abound with natural beauty. Some of the major sightseeing destinations of Panchmari are :-
Fairy Pool – It is easily accessible by a short trek through the forest. The pool is suitable for small children since it is quite shallow.
Bee Fall - Also known as Jamuna Prapat this fall is located 3 Km from the town and is so popular among tourists that they prefer to scale the roads leading to this fall on foot. The place is well known for its bathing pools and spectacular backdrop. Taking a bath in the fall rejuvenates the body and soul.

Duchess Fall – It is the least accessible of all the waterfalls of Panchmari. A fairly steep descent of almost 4 Km by foot takes one near the fall. In spite of this, people brave the trek for the serene beauty and majestic cascade that awaits them. The deafening roaring sound which this 100 mt. fall makes on hurtling down needs special mention and can be heard from a distance.
Pandava caves – This is an ancient rock cut caves. They have been declared a national monument. According to Hindu mythology the legendary Pandava brothers are said to have taken shelter in these caves. The well maintained garden near the cave is another attraction for tourists.
Big Fall – It is a ten minute descent from the Fairy Pool. It is one of the most popular waterfalls of Panchmari.
Irene Pool – It is named after Irene Bose, wife of Justice Vivian Bose and its discoverer. The water here leads to a cave and then disappears underground.
Mahadeo – This is the most sacred Shaivite spot in Panchmari. This 30 m long cave temple is famous for beautiful cave paintings of the 6th century BC. Each year thousands of people come to offer trishuls (tripronged spears) to Lord Shiva on the occasion of Shivratri.

Jata Shankar – This is another famous cave formation resembling the locks of the Hindu god, Shiva and hence considered holy. Pilgrims as well as tourists in large number visits the cave in large number. The location and the surroundings of the cave is stunningly beautiful. This is one of the major sightseeing spot of Munnar.
Chauragarh – Chauragarh is four km from Mahadeo, it is one of Satpura’s prominent landmarks, the summit crowned with emblems of Mahadeo worship.
Dhoopgarh – It is the highest point in the Satpura mountain range (1350 mt). It is best to visit the summit at dawn or just before dusk to have a spectacular view of sunrise and sunset. The view of the morning sun rising above the glistening lake and behind the scrubby hills or the sun gliding slowly behind the hills is a spectacular sight.
Forsyth Point – Now called Priyadarshini Point, it is the place from where Panchmari was discovered by Captain Forsyth. This view point is popular among tourists and they flock in large number to get a glimpse of beautiful and picturesque Panchmari hills.
The Catholic Church and Christ Church are the two most prominent churches of Panchmari and were both built by the British. They are renowned for their architectural beauty and exquisite stained glass windows.
Camping out in Panchmari’s forests is a rare joy and an experience to cherish life-long.

How to Reach Panchmari?

By Air – Nagpur and Bhopal are the closest airports connected with regular flights from Mumbai and Delhi. From the airport buses and taxis are easily available to reach Panchmari.
By Rail – Pipariya on the Mumbai-Howrah mainline is the nearest rail station well linked to Panchmari (47 Km) by buses and taxis.
By Road – M.P. Tourism runs regular buses from Bhopal. Buses and taxis are also available from Nagpur.

Where to stay at Panchmari?

Panchmari has accommodation for every traveler.
1) The Golf View (Booking contact number – 07578-252115, 252716)
2) Hotel Pandava (Booking contact number – 07578-252380, 252381)
3) Rock End Manor (Booking contact number – 07578-252079)
4) Satpura Retreat (Booking contact number – 07578-252097)
5) Glen View Resort (Booking contact number – 07578-252533, 252445)
6) Hotel Highland (Booking contact number – 07578-252099)