Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, India
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, India
Eye-Catching Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh
Gwalior
A vital part of India’s incredible culture, Gwalior is brimming with stories and musical inspirations. Set in the plains with the backdrop of hilly landscapes, the city is primarily known for its fort which is termed as the gem among India’s fortresses. Every brick and wall of the monuments of this city glorify the rich history of Gwalior. Built by Surajesan, the city was once home to India’s most illustrious royalty and the forts are a testimony of the same. One of examples
Bhopal
The capital city Bhopal is an interesting old town titled as the ‘City of Royals’. The rich illustrious past of the city is showcased through its rustic mosques, bustling bazaars, majestic havelis and charming alleys. Primarily known for its two artificial lakes, Upper Lake and Lower Lake that divides the city, the interesting combination of the old and new is what makes the city find a sweet spot in an explorer’s heart. It is said that the city was controlled by the Begums for over 100
Indore
Rated as the cleanest city for five consecutive years, Indore is known for its gastronomical offerings and architectural marvels. Founded in the 16th century the city evolved as a commercial hub attracting visitors for work staying for delicious meals. The birthplace of Hindustani Classical Music’s Indore Gharana has a rich history of architectural marvels from the Maratha era that entices visitors. It is home to the stunning Kanch Mandir, which is entirely composed of glass and mirrors,
Orchha
Another historical gem of the state, Orchha is known as the ‘City of Palaces’ because of its magnificent mural paintings, palaces, frescos and cenotaphs. Attracting tourists from all over the world for its old world charm, this city served as the capital of the Bundela dynasty after being founded by a Bundela Rajput Chief in 1501. The Ram Raja Temple (the only place where Lord Ram is revered as both a God and a king), the Laxmi Narayan Temple (famous for its distinctive
Mandu
Exploring Mandu is like walking through a chapter of rich history explained through the architectural brilliance of its monuments. Home to some of India’s oldest monuments, this quaint town will surely surprise you with its enchanting stories. Situated in the Malwa region of the state, it is truly a magical spot to experience historical stories of undying love. This city is abundant with heritage buildings such as Rani Roopmati Pavilion, Hoshang Shah’s mausoleum, and Baz Bahadur
Jabalpur
Known as the ‘Land of Marble Rocks’, Jabalpur is an old two situated on the banks of River Narmada. Once an industrial dominated city, the place is now evolving as a tourist attraction with its beautiful ghats and the majestic 98- foot- high Dhuandhar waterfall, marble art and other historical landmarks. One must see the Bhedaghat-Marble Rocks and Dhuandhar Falls to know why the city has been titled as the land of marble rocks. Apart from that, the famed Chausath
Maheshwar
Maheshwar is known as the temple town of Madhya Pradesh due to its great mythological and historical significance in the Ramayana and Mahabharata tales. Situated on the banks of river Narmada, this lovely town is home to some of the most beautiful temples in the region that have rich historic significance and also fine examples of intricate craftsmanship. Holkar was the capital of Rani Ahilyabai, the Queen of the Maratha Malwa empire who embellished the city with several
Ujjain
This historic city on the eastern bank of Shipra river in Madhya Pradesh is considered one of the holiest cities as the fourth location of Kumbh Mela. The Kumbh Mela held every 12 years is the world’s largest peacetime gathering that attracts millions of tourists. It also houses the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Therefore the city is a land of religion, architecture and educational value. Bhasma Aarti is a daily
Pachmarhi
This serene little town has been listed as UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its flora and fauna. Also known as the ‘Satpura ki Rani’, this lovely hill station was discovered by Captain James Forysth in 1857. With numerous offerings for one and all, be it the scenic splendour, adventurous activities or forest thrills at Satpura National Reserve, this town has become a favourite among tourists for its beautiful mix of history and nature. You must visit the Pandava Caves that have been said to be
Khajuraho
An ancient city in Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho is known for its picturesque temples and sculptures. Built by the Chandela Dynasty in the medieval century from 950 to 1050 AD, the temple structures are now a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its unique idols, spiritual teachings and artistic architecture. The Hindu and Jain temples are unlike any other in the country with their uniquely crafted sensual sculptures that depict ancient sagas.
Activities Not to Be Missed in Madhya Pradesh
Light and Sound Show at Khajuraho
Highlighting the history of the Khajuraho temples, a lively Light and Sound Show is organized on the western group of temples. Legendary actor Shri Amitabh Bachchan has narrated the show that informs you about the history, construction, facts and myths surrounding this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beginning itselfs gives you goosebumps as the lights sparkle on the majestic monuments during night time. It is best to check online or with the local authorities and book tickets online to enjoy the perfect seats of the evening show. Attending the live show adds to the experience of witnessing the beauty of these temples.
Khajuraho Dance Festival
To depict the true essence of India’s rich history and glorify the majestic architecture of the Khajuraho temples, the government started hosting the festival back in 1975. Every year the week-long festival celebrates Indian art and dance forms gathering dance lovers from all over the world. Built in the 10th century the temples reflect aspects of everyday life in beautiful sculptures. However, slowly the 85 temples lost their charm and had to be brought back to life. Therefore the festival is organized to highlight India’s glorious past and artistry.
Dancers who have grown in traditional dance forms bless the stage with mesmerizing performances. Each dance form Mohiniyattam, Kathakali, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Bharatnatyam, Manipuri are brought to life with the backdrop of Khajuraho temples. Each ancient dance form is so unique depicting a different story through the expression of dance that it leaves you enthralled. Therefore, if planning a trip to see the temples plan accordingly if you wish to witness these cultural dance performances organized every once a year.
Adivart Tribal and Folk Art Museum
Situated in Khajuraho’s Chandela Cultural Complex, the museum is an insightful peek into the folk art and tribals of Madhya Pradesh. Merely 600 metres from the western group of temples, the museum is home to over 500 tribal antiques, folk art, jewellery, terracotta things, metal craft, and bamboo items. Every single piece showcases the local artists' cultural and ethnic sensibilities. The well known Karma or Kadamba tree, which is an intrinsic aspect of the Karam festival conducted during the rainy season, is one of the most eye-catching relics to see at the museum. Additionally it also depicts the progression of diver forms, styles and designs throughout the years. You can also purchase some original paintings and prints
The temples are awe inspiring and the more you understand the facts, myths and legends surrounding the construction of them, the more intriguing it gets. As each temple unravels new stories you’ll discover more about the country than you ever imagined. Every single sculpture and intricate designing has a purpose, meaning and message hidden behind it. The artists have aesthetically expressed the nuances of the human body. Many over the years have tried to decipher the stories etched on the temple walls and understand the history of that dynasty. Khajuraho is surely a place that is worth detouring for if not already on your must see list.
The temples are awe inspiring and the more you understand the facts, myths and legends surrounding the construction of them, the more intriguing it gets. As each temple unravels new stories you’ll discover more about the country than you ever imagined. Every single sculpture and intricate designing has a purpose, meaning and message hidden behind it. The artists have aesthetically expressed the nuances of the human body. Many over the years have tried to decipher the stories etched on the temple walls and understand the history of that dynasty. Khajuraho is surely a place that is worth detouring for if not already on your must see list.
National Parks in the Madhya Pradesh
Bandhavgarh
The national park at Bandhavgarh is India’s top tiger habitat with the largest density of Royal Bengal Tigers. Currently, it is also the source of all the white tigers on the planet. Centred around the classic Bandhavgarh Fort, what once used to be the hunting ground for the maharajas is now home to rich flora and fauna. The regal Bengal Tigers, mammal species, birds species and butterflies species can all be found here. Opting for the safari is the best way to explore the forest
Satpura National Park
One of the gems of Pachmarhi is the Satpura National Park, a magnificent Tiger Reserve that has also won the TOFT Wildlife Tourism Award for the most visitor-friendly wildlife destinations in 2010. Situated in the diverse suburbs of Madhya Pradesh, the reserve covers an area of 202 square miles. It has been named after the Satpura hill ranges and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Together with the Bori and Panchmarhi sanctuaries, it provides roughly 550 square miles
Pench National Park
While the state is known for its national parks and reserves, Pench National Park uniquely stands out for being the place that inspired the tales of ‘The Jungle Book’. The adventure of Mowgli and his battle with the enraged Sher Khan in Rudyard Kipling’s Mowgli is based on this particular environment in Madhya Pradesh. As a result, the Pench Tiger Reserve is also known as the ‘Land of The Jungle Book.’ You can take the local safari, jungle walk or night safari to explore and enjoy
Kanha National Park
With an expanse of over 941 square kilometers, Kanha is Madhya Pradesh’s largest national park. As one of the best managed parks in the country, it is home to the gorgeous Royal Bengal Tiger and the critically endangered Barasingha. Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh is home to approximately 350 kinds of birds and 1000+ types of flora, as well as leopards and wild canines. Traveling through Kanha National Park will allow you to see the real-life locales from National
Panna National Park
Earlier the hunting estate for rulers, the area was converted into a reserve and special efforts were made to create a flourishing home for the tiger population to multiply. This destination’s royal past stretches back to the mid-seventeenth century AD, when it became the capital of Maharaja Chhatrasal’s kingdom. Now Panna National Park is India’s 22nd tiger reserve and the sixth in Madhya Pradesh. Home to seven different kinds of vultures, it is a great place to capture the wild
Mouthwatering Meals of Madhya Pradesh
Reflecting the diversity of the state, the cuisine is also a kaleidoscope of different specialties. Influenced by the rich history of the region and its changing landscape, you will find everything from biryani, kebabs, korma, poha, jalebi, pilaf, rogan josh and ladoos. The flavours are more regional and traditionally infused with delicacies like Bun Kabab, Paya Soup, and many others may be flooding the streets. Like every other Indian state, do not miss out on enjoying the street flavours or the restaurants that offer these local dishes.
Fairs and Festivals of Madhya Pradesh
Shopping at Madhya Pradesh
Blessed with abundance of natural resources and India’s glorious historic sites, the state of Madhya Pradesh does not leave any stone unturned to showcase its cultural heritage through fairs and festivals. Besides the local traditional festivals, the state tourism board also organizes some beautiful festivals that amplify the essence of the local heritage. Be it the Khajuraho Dance Festival, the Ujjain Kumbh Mela, the Jal Mahotsav at Hanumantiya, Bhopal Literature Festival,
the Tansen Mahotsav or the Mandu Festival. Each festival picks a unique cultural aspect of the state and highlights it through various activities and seminars. Spread across the variou seasons all along the year, these festivals are a sure delight to experience when you are exploring the state. While Jal Mahotsav showcases a serene adventurous side of the man made lake, the Tansen Mahotsav takes you on a musical journey of the country. So do not miss out on checking the fairs and festivals schedule as you make a to do list of Madhya Pradesh.
When to visit Madhya Pradesh
It is difficult to experience the temples in the scorching heat season as it gets very warm therefore the best time to visit is from October to February during winters. The weather is perfect to see the intricate carvings outdoors and also visit the museums. Unlike the summer and monsoon seasons when the weather is either too humid or warm to step out comfortably. If you still come around that time it is best to carry cotton clothes and umbrellas while visiting the temples.
How to reach Madhya Pradesh
The Khajuraho Airport connects the temples to the rest of India especially cities like New Delhi, Bhopal, Mumbai etc. Regular connecting flights from domestic carriers like Air India, Indigo etc. serve the airport of Khajuraho. There are also regular bus and rail services from cities like Bhopal, Indore and New Delhi which are the major junctions up north. Further the local taxis and cab make your commute easier.
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