The call of the hills is strong, especially when it comes to the refreshing embrace of Pachmarhi, the “Queen of Satpura.” This past summer, we embarked on a road trip from Nagpur, Maharashtra to Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, and it was an adventure filled with breathtaking views, delicious local eats, a touch of history and loads of information.
Winding Roads on the Matkuli Pachmarhi Highway
I have created a detailed video recounting our experiences if you prefer a more visual experience. It contains all our experiences, stops and toll taxes paid. I have also included some Instagram reels on my favorite stops in this article.
To get a quick list of our stops and interesting places along the way, read on or scroll down to the end of the article where I have put them on a bulleted list. A couple of stops were made on our way back to Nagpur, since we did not have enough time when driving to Pachmarhi. But whether you stop on either way, these beautiful stops will make the journey so much more interesting!
First pitstop: Essential Fuel and Stunning Views
Our journey began with a top-up at the Indian Oil Petrol Pump in Khairitaygaon. This clean and convenient stop ensured a smooth ride ahead.
Views of the quaint Old Kanhan Bridge from new bridge
While we skipped the Jamsavli Hanuman Mandir, the Kanhan Bridge was unmissable. Pulling over for a moment, we were greeted by the sight of the quaint Old Kanhan Bridge, a timeless structure adding a touch of nostalgia to the landscape.
Breakfast with a View
Banjari Mata Mandir
Although the Banjari Mata Mandir wasn’t on our itinerary this time, the Chhindwara Road Ghats and View Point definitely were. The fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas were reason enough to stop, but the real treat was plenty of concrete picnic tables made there for travelers.
Here, we savored a delightful homemade breakfast spread.
Beautiful scene near Bijori
Tamia – Breathtaking Views and a ‘Desi’ 2nd Breakfast
View from Tamia Forest Rest House
A road trip from Nagpur to Pachmarhi is simply not complete without a stop at the Tamia Forest Rest House. Entry inside is FREE and the views are priceless!
This is a family tradition that I would never break on this route.
Outside Tamia Forest Rest House Gate – Yummy, healthy roti made of Jowar, Bajra, Makka served with tomato chutney, Brinjal bharta, Green chilli thecha and raw mango chutney just for INR 20!
For just 20 rupees, we enjoyed a platter of healthy roti made with jowar, bajra, and makka, served with a symphony of chutneys, bharta and a fiery green chilli thecha.
Re-fueled and happy, we continued our journey.
Nature’s Calling: Tigers, Temples, and Hot Springs
Tiger’s Water Drinking Point on Pipariya Ghat Road
The next stop was a quick one at the Tiger’s Water Drinking Point on Pipariya Ghat Road. This spot boasts another picture-perfect bridge, this time with a flowing river that attracts thirsty wildlife. While we didn’t see any tigers on this occasion, the chance encounter added a thrill to the drive.
Anhoni Hot Springs and Temple
An interesting detour awaited us on our return trip – the Anhoni Hot Springs and Temple. Here, we dipped our toes in the warm waters of the “Garm Pani Kund” and sought blessings at the Anhoni Mata Mandir. The natural hot springs are a welcome respite for weary travelers.
Denwa Darshan – Majestic Vistas and a Touch of History
At the Denwa Darshan View Point
The Denwa Darshan offered a glimpse of the magnificent Denwa Gorge, with the Denwa River snaking its way through.
Denwa Darshan View Point
While safety concerns have led to the barricading of the original viewpoint, the breathtaking panorama is still visible from designated spots along the road.
Satpura National Park Panarpani Gate
Finally, we reached the Satpura National Park Panarpani Gate. This time, a trip down memory lane was on the agenda. We had explored the park itself years ago, and on this occasion, we simply stopped for a nostalgic photograph at the entrance.
Lovely Village House spotted on the Nagpur Pachmarhi road
Pachmarhi Beckons
These signs always bring a smile to my face! (Sign in Hindi translates to: “Smile! You are in Pachmarhi” signalling the beginning of the town)
With every stop, the anticipation of reaching Pachmarhi grew. The scenic drive, peppered with cultural and natural wonders, was the perfect prelude to the tranquility that awaited us in the hill station. This road trip was more than just a journey from point A to point B; it was an experience that left us refreshed, inspired, and eager to explore more of what this beautiful region has to offer.
The Pachmarhi Cantonment Sign looms above beautifully on a hill as you enter the town, reminiscent of the ‘Hollywood’ sign
Here is a List of All Our Stops on the Nagpur-Pachmarhi Route:
Indian Oil Petrol Pump at Khairitaygaon – for fuel and clean washrooms
Jamsavli Hanuman Mandir – we did not make a stop here
Kanhan Bridge – for the unmissable views of the quaint Old Kanhan Bridge
Banjari Mata Mandir – we did not make a stop here
Chhindwara Road Ghats and View Point – Enjoyed Homemade breakfast at the picnic tables here
Chamatkarik Shri Hanuman Temple Siddhipeeth near Chhindwara – We did not make a stop here
Tamia Forest Rest House – View Point + 2nd breakfast! (Yummy, healthy roti made of Jowar, Bajra, Makka served with tomato chutney, Brinjal bharta, Green chilli thecha and raw mango chutney just for INR 20!)
Tiger’s Water Drinking Point on Pipariya Ghat Road – Another picture perfect quaint old bridge with a river flowing below that attracts wild animals who stop here for drinking water.
Anhoni Hot Springs and Temple – Garm pani kund and Anhoni Mata Mandir (We stopped here on the way back)
Denwa Darshan – magnificent views of the Gorge with Denwa river flowing through. The view point is now barricaded due to some incidents but you can see the views from any safe stop along the road.
Satpura National Park Panarpani Gate – We had stopped here several years ago to take a pic and we only stopped here for old memories sake. We did not enter the gate.
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