Dhoopgarh, the highest peak in Madhya Pradesh, is located near the charming hill station of Pachmarhi in the Satpura range. This popular destination attracts nature lovers, trekkers, and weekend travelers looking for scenic views and a refreshing escape from city life.

This guide covers all practical ways to reach Dhoopgarh, including train, bus, car, and trekking options. Whether you are planning a quick getaway or a detailed adventure, you’ll find tips to plan your journey confidently and enjoy the stunning landscapes.

Getting from Major Cities to Dhoopgarh – Main Options

By Train

Train travel is a convenient way to reach Pachmarhi’s nearest railway stations before continuing by road. Though there is no direct train to Pachmarhi, nearby stations connect well to major cities.

• Nearest railway stations:

  Pipariya is the closest station to Pachmarhi, about 45 km away. It is well connected to Jabalpur, Bhopal, and Mumbai via regular trains.

• Travel time and ticket costs:

  From Bhopal to Pipariya, trains take around 4–5 hours with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹600 depending on class. From Jabalpur, it’s about 3 hours.

• Train frequency and comfort:

  Several daily trains run on these routes, including express and passenger trains. Booking in advance on IRCTC is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Pipariya station, taxis and buses are available to Pachmarhi. Shared jeeps are common but can be crowded during holidays.

• Seasonal tips:

  Avoid monsoon months for train travel as landslides can cause delays near the Satpura range.

By Bus

State-run and private buses offer a budget-friendly way to reach Pachmarhi, with decent frequency from nearby cities. Bus travel is popular among weekend travelers and backpackers.

• Bus routes and operators:

  MSRTC and MPSTDC operate buses from Bhopal, Jabalpur, and Hoshangabad to Pachmarhi. Volvo and deluxe buses are available on some routes.

• Travel duration and fares:

  Buses from Bhopal take about 5–6 hours, costing ₹200–₹400. From Jabalpur, it’s roughly 4 hours.

• Bus stands and boarding points:

  Bhopal’s ISBT and Jabalpur’s main bus stand have direct buses. Pachmarhi bus stand is centrally located for easy onward travel.

• Comfort and frequency:

  Daytime buses are preferable for safety and scenic views. Night buses are less common and not recommended due to hilly roads.

• Local transport from Pachmarhi:

  Shared taxis and auto-rickshaws can take you from Pachmarhi town to the Dhoopgarh trailhead.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving to Pachmarhi and Dhoopgarh is an excellent option for flexibility and exploring the region at your own pace. The roads are generally good but require caution on mountain stretches.

• Key highways:

  National Highway NH46 connects Bhopal to Pipariya, and from there, State Highway SH22 leads to Pachmarhi. The route from Jabalpur also uses NH30 and SH22.

• Distance and driving time:

  Bhopal to Pachmarhi is approximately 200 km, taking around 5 hours. From Jabalpur, it’s about 165 km and 4 hours.

• Road conditions and rest stops:

  The roads are mostly well-maintained with scenic views of forests and hills. Fuel stations and eateries like local dhabas are available near Pipariya and Pachmarhi.

• Driving tips:

  Avoid night driving due to narrow ghat roads and wildlife crossings. Monsoon season can make roads slippery, so drive cautiously.

• Parking and access:

  Pachmarhi town has designated parking areas. The Dhoopgarh trek starts near Rajat Prapat waterfall, accessible by a short drive from the town.

By Flight

There is no airport in Pachmarhi, but the nearest airports offer convenient access followed by road travel. Flights save time for travelers coming from distant cities.

• Nearest airports:

  Raja Bhoj Airport in Bhopal (about 200 km away) and Jabalpur Airport (about 165 km) are the closest options.

• Flight availability:

  Both airports have regular flights connecting to Delhi, Mumbai, and other major cities. Book early for better fares.

• Airport to Pachmarhi transfer:

  From the airport, hire a taxi or take a bus to Pachmarhi. Prepaid taxis are available at the airport for hassle-free travel.

• Travel time and cost:

  The road journey from airports to Pachmarhi takes 4–5 hours, with taxi fares ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 depending on vehicle type.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flights may be affected by fog in winter mornings, so plan arrivals accordingly.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers reach Dhoopgarh smoothly, combining train or bus with local transport and trekking.

• Book train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or MSRTC online portals for buses to secure seats, especially during holidays.

• Arrive at Pipariya station or Pachmarhi bus stand early:

  Morning arrivals allow ample time for onward travel and avoid last-minute rush.

• Hire a taxi or shared jeep to Pachmarhi town:

  Confirm fares beforehand and choose vehicles with good reviews for comfort.

• Reach the Dhoopgarh trailhead near Rajat Prapat waterfall:

  Local autos or taxis can drop you here; the trek starts from this point.

• Carry water and snacks for the trek:

  The 3 km uphill trail takes about 1.5–2 hours; stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes.

• Return to Pachmarhi town by evening:

  Plan your descent before dark to avoid slippery paths and limited visibility.

Practical Travel Tips

• Book tickets in advance:

  IRCTC and MSRTC websites allow advance bookings; avoid last-minute hassles especially in peak season.

• Carry cash and small change:

  Many local taxis and shops do not accept digital payments, so keep cash handy.

• Use prepaid taxis or trusted apps:

  Ola and Uber may not operate in Pachmarhi, so rely on prepaid counters or local taxi unions for safe rides.

• Stay hydrated and carry bottled water:

  Tap water is not recommended; buy sealed bottles from trusted vendors.

• Pack light but include rain gear:

  Weather can change quickly in the hills, especially during monsoon and winter.

• Respect local wildlife and environment:

  Avoid littering on trekking trails and follow guidelines to protect Pachmarhi’s forests.

Best Time & Conditions

The ideal time to visit Dhoopgarh is during the cooler months when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. Avoid monsoon for safer trekking and better road conditions.

Winter mornings can be foggy, so plan early departures for the trek to enjoy sunrise views without delays.

• Avoid peak traffic during weekends and festivals to experience peaceful trails and less crowded roads.

• Monsoon (July–September) brings heavy rains making roads slippery and trails muddy; best avoided for trekking.

• Early mornings (5–7 AM) offer the best chance to witness the spectacular sunrise from Dhoopgarh peak.

• Winter months (November to February) are cool but can have fog, so carry warm clothing and check weather forecasts.

Arrival at Dhoopgarh & What to Expect

Upon reaching Pachmarhi, travelers find a quaint hill station with colonial charm and lush greenery. The town offers basic amenities, eateries, and guesthouses catering to tourists.

The trek to Dhoopgarh starts near Rajat Prapat waterfall, about 3 km from Pachmarhi town. The trail is moderately challenging but well-marked, passing through dense forests and offering panoramic views.

Local transport options include shared jeeps and taxis. Prepaid taxis from Pachmarhi bus stand or Pipariya station are recommended for safety and fixed fares. Stay areas near the market provide easy access to food and supplies.

Conclusion

Traveling to Dhoopgarh is best done by combining train or bus to Pipariya or Pachmarhi, followed by a short road trip and trek. This approach balances convenience, cost, and scenic experience.

For those seeking flexibility, self-driving offers control over schedule and stops. Regardless of the mode, planning ahead and considering seasonal factors ensures a safe and memorable journey to this beautiful peak.

With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip to Dhoopgarh and enjoy the breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere that make Pachmarhi a beloved destination.