As the countdown to the New Year 2025–26 begins, the picturesque hill station of Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh is experiencing an unprecedented tourist surge. Nestled in the Satpura range, the destination is reporting full occupancy across its accommodation spectrum, with room rates skyrocketing in response to the festive demand.
Peak Season Prices Skyrocket Amid Full Occupancy
The festive rush has transformed Pachmarhi's hospitality landscape. Room tariffs, which typically range between Rs 3,000 and Rs 5,000 per night, have soared to over Rs 9,000 per night during this peak period. Premium resorts are commanding prices of Rs 15,000 and above for a single night's stay. Industry reports indicate that more than 70 percent of listed hotels in the region are operating at full capacity, a fact corroborated by online travel platforms showing nearly all options within the town limits as sold out.
Spillover Effect Benefits Neighbouring Towns
With no rooms left in Pachmarhi itself, the tourist influx is spilling over into nearby areas. Travelers are now securing accommodations in towns such as Pipariya, Matkuli, and Sohagpur, commuting daily to the hill station for the celebrations. Resorts in Matkuli are offering rooms in the range of Rs 4,000 to Rs 5,000, presenting a more affordable alternative. Meanwhile, homestays and unique lodging options near Satpura National Park, including riverside camps and glamping setups, have gained significant popularity.
This accommodation shortage has also spurred the creation of hybrid travel packages. These packages combine stays in these neighbouring towns with curated day trips to Pachmarhi's major attractions, offering a practical solution for last-minute planners.
Cultural Pull and Official Response
Local hoteliers attribute this massive rush to Pachmarhi's solidifying reputation as a premier hub for year-end festivities. "Pachmarhi has become one of the most sought-after destinations for New Year celebrations. Tourists from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and others visit every year," stated a local hotel manager. The appeal is magnified by a packed calendar of cultural events, concerts, and traditional bonfire gatherings.
Despite the accommodation crunch, the celebratory spirit remains undimmed. The hill station is buzzing with:
- Cultural performances and local markets.
- Popular outdoor excursions to sites like Jatashankar Temple and Bee Falls.
Recognizing the booming popularity, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Department is actively promoting sustainable tourism practices. Officials are urging travelers to plan and book their visits well in advance for future seasons. The current scenario underscores Pachmarhi's successful evolution into one of central India's most popular New Year hotspots, with its surrounding areas now playing a crucial role in hosting the overflow of enthusiastic holidaymakers.
