Best Photo Spots in Pachmarhi
Pachmarhi fits a lot of variety onto one small plateau: sandstone cliffs, sal forest, waterfalls, rock-cut caves and long views over the Satpura hills. From the spray at Bee Falls to sunset at Dhupgarh, the highest point in Madhya Pradesh, the backdrop changes with every Gypsy ride.
Whether you enjoy landscapes, waterfalls, sunsets or quiet temple scenes, these are some of the best photo spots in Pachmarhi.
Entry Nominal
Bee Falls (Jamuna Prapat)
- Best timeMorning, before the crowds arrive, when the light on the water is soft and the pool is quiet.
- ColorsYellowWhiteTeal
Medium crowdEntry Nominal
Dhupgarh
- Best timeSunset, when the layered Satpura ridges turn gold and then fade into a soft blue haze.
- ColorsRustCreamForest green
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Handi Khoh
- Best timeMorning, when the light is soft and mist sometimes hangs over the forest in the gorge.
- ColorsForest greenRustWhite
Entry Free
Jata Shankar
- Best timeLate morning, when sunlight reaches down into the shaded ravine and lights up the huge boulders.
- ColorsSaffronWhiteRust
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Pandava Caves
- Best timeMorning, soon after opening, for soft light and an empty garden; late afternoon for warm light on the sandstone.
- ColorsRustCreamOchre
Why Pachmarhi Is Great for Photography
Pachmarhi sits on a sandstone plateau cut by deep ravines, so the scenery changes quickly. In one day you can photograph waterfalls like Bee Falls and Rajat Prapat, gorges like Handi Khoh and Jata Shankar, and cliff-edge viewpoints looking out over the forest. In town, the Pandava Caves and British-era buildings such as Christ Church add history to the mix.
The light changes with the seasons. Winter brings clear skies and long views to the horizon, while the monsoon brings full waterfalls, low cloud and deep green forest. Evenings at Dhupgarh and Priyadarshini Point are all about the sun going down over layer after layer of hills.
Photography Tips for Pachmarhi
- Book the sunset trip early: Gypsies for the Dhupgarh sunset fill up quickly in peak season, so book a day ahead.
- Go early to the waterfalls: Bee Falls is usually busiest from late morning, and the pool is much quieter first thing.
- Plan around the Gypsy rounds: Forest points are visited in morning and afternoon rounds, so check which points your trip covers before you set out.
- Protect your gear: Spray at the waterfalls and monsoon rain can soak a phone or camera, so carry a dry bag or zip-lock pouch.
- Stay behind the railings: Handi Khoh and the cliff viewpoints have sheer drops, so take your photos from behind the barriers.
- Respect the shrines: Ask before taking photos inside cave temples like Jata Shankar, and do not photograph people praying.
- Wear good shoes: Many of the best spots involve long flights of steps and rocky, slippery paths.
Best Time for Photography in Pachmarhi
October to February gives the clearest skies and the best sunsets from Dhupgarh. July to September is the time for full waterfalls, mist and green forest, though cloud can hide the views and the steps get slippery. From March to June the waterfalls run lower and the skies are often hazy.
Timings and permit rules for the forest points can change, so check at the permit counter in town before you plan your day.
Questions
Pachmarhi — FAQ
What are the best photo spots in Pachmarhi?
Some of the best photo spots in Pachmarhi are Dhupgarh, Bee Falls, Handi Khoh, Jata Shankar and the Pandava Caves. Between them they cover sunsets, waterfalls, a deep forest gorge, a cave shrine and ancient rock-cut caves.
Where can I watch the sunset in Pachmarhi?
Dhupgarh, the highest point in Madhya Pradesh, is the best-known sunset point, with views over layer after layer of the Satpura hills. Priyadarshini Point, where Captain Forsyth first saw the plateau in 1857, is another good choice and looks over the Handi Khoh valley.
Can I drive my own car to the photo spots in Pachmarhi?
Not to the forest points. Bee Falls, Dhupgarh and Handi Khoh are inside the tiger reserve, where outside cars are not allowed, so you need a forest permit and a registered Gypsy. Ask at the permit counter which spots in town you can reach on your own.
Is Pachmarhi good for photography in the monsoon?
Yes, if you do not mind the rain. The waterfalls run full and the forest is at its greenest from July to September, but cloud can hide the sunset at Dhupgarh, and the steps at Bee Falls and Jata Shankar get slippery. Some water points can also close after heavy rain.
What is the best time of day for photography in Pachmarhi?
Early morning is best for the waterfalls and ravines, when the light is soft and there are fewer people. Keep the evening for Dhupgarh or Priyadarshini Point, where the sun sets over the Satpura hills.