Mahadeo Hills

About Mahadeo Hills

Mahadeo is a sandstone hill rising to 1363 metres, and it is the place on the plateau people go to when they want quiet rather than a spectacle. From the top it gives wide views over the surrounding forests and valleys of the Satpura.

The hill is not only a viewpoint. It is known for an age-old Shiva temple and for a number of natural caves in the rock, and it is the starting point for the far harder climb to Chauragarh. For pilgrims, Mahadeo is the first of the two shrines; for everyone else it is a good hill with a long view.

On the hill

The Shiva temple

An old Shiva temple stands on the hill and is actively visited, particularly around Shivratri. It is also where pilgrims heading for Chauragarh begin the steep climb beyond.

The caves and the views

Natural caves are set into the sandstone, and the open ground above them looks out across forest and valley in several directions. Between the rock, the shrine and the view, an hour here is easily spent.

Planning your visit

Mahadeo is reached by road from Pachmarhi town and is normally visited on the same trip as Chauragarh, which begins from here.

• Footwear is removed at the temple.
• If you intend to continue to Chauragarh, start very early; it is 1300 steps beyond this point.
• Shivratri brings heavy pilgrim traffic to the whole area.
• Carry water, as the hill is exposed in places.

Best time to visit

October to March is the comfortable season and gives the clearest views over the valleys. Shivratri, usually in February or March, is the most significant time for pilgrims and the busiest for everybody else. The monsoon keeps the hill green but frequently closes the view.