Madhya Pradesh, often called the ‘Heart of India’, promises an amazing experience for the traveller. With historical monuments, rich wildlife, hill stations, pilgrimage sites, adventure sports, cuisines, festivities and a multitude of cultures this state has something for everyone!

A journey through Madhya Pradesh takes one on a twisting and turning ride encompassing the eternal monuments, erotic figures carved on the walls and temples of Khajuraho, exquisite lakes in Bhopal, intense climates of cultural capital Gwalior and stupas of Sanchi. Wildlife lovers may note that Madhya Pradesh goes by the sobriquet of the tiger state of India.

Read on to find more about our editors’ pick of top five tourist destinations of Madhya Pradesh.

Khajuraho-Temple-Madhya-pradeshKhajuraho

Khajuraho is a small village renowned globally for its magnificent temples which represent the great Indian architecture. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khajuraho has numerous sculptures that depict everyday life scenes but the most renowned are the sculptures that depict physical manifestation of love. Khajuraho temples were constructed during the reign of Chandel Empire between 950 and 1050 A.D. The Khajuraho village is mesmerizing, with a picturesque rural ambiance.

Dhubela Museum, Panna National Park, Pandava Waterfall, Benisagar Lake, Rajgarh Palace and the Ajaygarh Fort are other nearby tourist attractions.

orchhaheaderOrchha

Orchha is a beautiful region rising out of the hills located on the banks of river Betwa (approx. 16km from Jhansi). Proudly sheltering the historical monuments which haven’t lost their charm till date; it narrates the eternal tales of war and peace. It was discovered by Bundela rajput Rudra Pratap.

Temples of Orchha and Phool Bagh are the famous tourist destinations. One can also visit many-tiered Jehangir Mahal which was built in 1606 and has gained recognition for its fine murals and the Rai Praveen Mahal.

Gwalior fortGwalior

Historically a significant city, the city owes its name to a sage, Gwalipa, of former times. Gwalior was on the major erstwhile routes between north and south India. Even now, it is well connected to all the major cities of the country via road.

Among the numerous attractions of Gwalior, the glorious Gwalior Fort deserves special mention. Its architecture was appreciated by the first archeological surveyor of British India, Alexander Cunningham as the ‘noblest specimen of Hindu architecture in Northern India.’ Fort dates back to 8th century and was built by the Rajputs. The city also houses the tomb of Mohammed Ghaus II, renowned for its sandstone screen work. It is an exceptional tomb of early Mughal influence that belongs to late 16th Century.

Other tourist attractions are Gujari Mahal, Man Mandir Palace, Ghaus Mohammed’s Tomb, Sun Temple and Sarod Ghar.

Taj_ul_masjidBhopal

Capital of Madhya Pradesh, this city was founded by Raja Bhoj who named it Bhojpal in the 11th century. Here, one would find a perfect blend of historic splendor in perfect sync with contemporary lifestyle. Popular sites of interest are Taj-ul-Masjid, Jama Masjid, Van Vihar, Bharat Bhawan, Upper Lake, Lower Lake, BHEL Township and Regional Science centre.

Lazing in the water, Bandhavgarh, IndiaBandhavgarh

Located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is spread over a vast area of 105 sq km (with buffer region of 437 sq km). It was declared a national park in the year 1968. Bandhavgarh means ‘Brother’s Fort’. The reserve derives its name from the great Hindu epic of Ramayana. It is believed that this hillock was given by Lord Rama to his younger brother Lakshmana to keep his eyes on Lanka.

The abundant biodiversity of this National park has listed it as one of the most famous wildlife destinations in the country. Bandhavgarh is especially known for its dense tiger population.

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One Reply to “Madhya Pradesh | Exploring the Heart of India”

  1. Madhya Pradesh is also a one of the most popular destination and popular among all the tourists. As many of the ethnic places are there to visit & provides a good different feeling

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