MADHYA PRADESH

• Orchha

  

  Situated on the bank of Betwa River, Orchha is a quaint yet royal town that enhances the charm of MP, which is the essential part of incredible India. A small hamlet of beautiful and articulate structures, Orchha is a reminiscence of the Bundela Era. The architecture is the prime attraction that draws history buffs to Orchha. Apart from architecture, Orchha is quite a bliss in terms of being less populated and obviously lesser crowded. The quaint and regal settings and the quietude in the air make Orchha a perfect getaway in Madhya Pradesh.

• Kanha National Park

  

  The rich wildlife reserve, Kanha has been a major tourist attraction in MP. Reflecting a variety of flora and fauna this national park has been famous ever since Rudyard Kipling wrote his masterpiece called Jungle Book (It is believed that Kipling was inspired from Kanha National Park). Kanha is expanded in an area of 1,940-sq-kms and is most famous for helping the species of Barasinga (Swamp Deer) to not to go extinct in India. The thick forest mostly comprises of Sal, Bamboo and infamous Mahua trees. The park is also known for frequent sightings of Tiger, Blackbuck and Peacock. A large variety of birds can also be seen in Kanha National Park making it a popular place to visit in MP.

• Panna National Park

  

  Situated in Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh, Panna National Park is amongst the well-maintained wildlife reserves in the state. Panna is also one of the most important shelters for the Royal Bengal Tigers and is amongst the best national parks to visit in MP. Sprawling in an area of 542.67 sq kms, this national park is also the home to species like leopard, wild dog, wolf, hyena, sloth bear, chital and chowsingha. The park is inhabited by 200 species of birds. The location of the national park is an asset as it is situated at a short distance from famous town of Khajuraho

• Khajuraho

  

  Khajuraho can rightly be called the epitome of Indian art. A group of 22 temples is all it takes to make Khajuraho famous amongst world travellers. The intricate carvings and the fine erotic sculpture art are enough to make any history lover fall in love with the Indian art. The temples at Khajuraho are divided into three categories i.e western group, southern group and eastern group among which, the western group of temples has attained maximum fame. Apart from the temples, Khajuraho also houses two lakes. A small city, Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh can be a wonderful getaway for those having keen interest in history.

• Ujjain

  

  A city of amazing maze alleyways, Ujjain is the temple town of MP. An ideal escape for the spiritual souls, the city is a charming place undoubtedly. Find yourself at peace at the majestic temples that are dedicated mostly to the Shaivite and Vaishnavite sect of Hinduism. The temples at Ujjain are excellent specimen of Bundela art and architecture. The holy embankments of River Kshipra are amongst some places to spend time and feel tranquility at this otherwise chaotic city. Ujjain is also famed for celebrating the largest Hindu fair – Kumbh Mela and makes an ideal destination for religious tourism in Madhya Pradesh.

• Sanchi

  

  Known as the Buddhist hub, Sanchi in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh is a must-see. The city is famed for the Ashoka-built Sanchi Stupa. Sanchi boasts about rich history of the region as this city witnessed different ruling dynasties. Sanchi was the hotspot for merchants and traders when it was called Vidishagiri. Today’s Sanchi is a paradoxical land with remnants collection from different empires and offer excellent destination for spiritual tourism in Madhya Pradesh

• Bhimbetka Caves

  

  The Bhimbetka Caves in Bhiyanpura in the Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh offer a walkthrough to the prehistoric era of India. The caves are like the natural gallery that treasures wall paintings from prehistoric era ranging from Upper Paleolithic to the medieval period. The exploration of these caves is no less than an adventure; one tends to time travel while looking at these mesmeric wall paintings. Apart from the art-rich rock shelters, Bhimbetka preserves the relics of citadel and mini stupas that indicate towards Buddhist influence. Several inscriptions have also been found here that are reckoned to have belonged to Sunga, Kushan and Gupta periods along with an undeciphered era. Bhimbetka is absolutely a perfect place for history buffs and indeed one of the best places to visit in Madhya Pradesh.

• Gwalior

  

  Gwalior has been reckoned as one of the important cities that contributed towards the historic richness of India. Right from the Vedic Age to the time of Mutiny, this city of Madhya Pradesh remained a prominent land. Gwalior is rich in art and architecture, which suggests that it makes a great destination for sightseeing tour in MP.

• Bhopal

  

  Called Bhojpal in the 11th century, today’s Bhopal is a perfect blend of history and urban planning. A rich influence of 19th century Muslim rulers is evident in Bhopal and it surely has gifted this city an identity that overcomes all. Divided into two parts by pair of lakes, this capital city of Madhya Pradesh offers a great opportunity for exploration to any history buff.

• Bandhavgarh National Park

  

  Apparently, Bandhavgarh National Park in Umaria District of Madhya Pradesh is the best place to tiger tourism in India. This 446 sq km wildlife reserve is famed for being a large biodiversity. Home to a large number of tigers, Bandhavgarh is like a dream destination that enhances wildlife tourism in Madhya Pradesh. Apart from the tigers, the park is the host to about 250 species of birds, 80 species of aquatic animals and 37 species of mammals. A thrilling place, where you never know what will you spot at the corner of the turn, Bandhavgarh National Park is the highlight of the state of MP

• Maheshwar

  

  Often referred as the ‘Varanasi of Central India’, Maheshwar is a small town dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the bank of Narmada River, Maheshwar has lot of religious importance and is one of the major popular pilgrimage destinations in Madhya Pradesh. Infact, it is said that this holy town was once one of the eminent spiritual centres for the Hindu devotees. Today also, Maheshwar is a hotspot for those seeking spiritual experience. Apart from spiritualism, Maheshwar is an excellent hub for those wanting to treat their eyes with some fine Indian architecture as well.

• Mandu

  

  Mandu is a perfect place for the history aficionados. This small town is sometimes referred as Hampi of Central India. Perched on a hilltop, Mandu has history dating back to 10th century AD. Like other historic places, Mandu is also replete with the architectural grandeurs that reflect the influence of different ruling eras. This majestic city is a treasure-trove hidden in the heart of Madhya Pradesh and is indeed a must-visit place in the state.

• Omkareshwar

  

  Omkareshwar is seen as one of the most revered places in Madhya Pradesh. It is reckoned to be amongst the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, so one can very well estimate the importance of this sacred town. Soaked in a spiritual feel, Omkareshwar can be your perfect escape from the hectic and bustling crowd of a city and retire to a place that offers nothing but tranquility. In many temples of Omakareshwar, you shall be bound to spend extra time only to imbue yourself into more spirituality.

• Bhojpur

  

  On the bank of Betwa River, Bhojpur is a historic site in Madhya Pradesh and is said to be a city that could never be completed. The town is believed to have been established by the famous Paramara dynasty ruler Raja Bhoj. Bhojpur preserves many heritage attractions that date back to 11th century. The temples, rock paintings, caves and palaces are all adorned with the work of art, which can definitely woo any history lover. Bhojpur is indeed a right place to learn about the rich history of Madhya Pradesh.

• Chitrakoot

  

  The Hill of Many Wonders, Chitrakoot stretches in both MP and Uttar Pradesh. Chitrakoot is reckoned to be a sacred town that bears historic significance. The legend has it that it was the forest of Chitrakoot where Lord Rama and Sita stayed for 11 long years of their exile. Thus, Chitrakoot gained attention of many Hindu devotees along with those of history lovers. Although a small place, Chitrakoot is not short of any charm and if there has to be a choice to pick a place that you must visit in Madhya Pradesh then this can be it.

• Jabalpur

  

  Known for unmatched natural beauty and several tourist attractions, Jabalpur is considered amongst the best destinations to visit in MP. The city is surrounded by granite and sandstone hills and is most famous for its Marble rocks and the national park in its proximity. Jabalpur is situated on the bank of Narmada River and is a perfect place to spend a holidays in Madhya Pradesh.

• Chhatarpur

  

  Another feather in the hat of Madhya Pradesh, Chhatarpur is a beautiful historical town. The place is famed for its heritage tourist sites. It can be a perfect place for those seeking both peace and beauty. The natural charm shall offer peace of mind whereas the historical sites will render the opportunity to learn more about the cultural richness of MP. Chhatarpur seems ideal as a holiday destination for all.

• Pachmarhi

  

  Pachmarhi is a popular travel destination in Madhya Pradesh. In order to get relief from the scorching summer heat many seek shelter in Pachmarhi. This beautiful hill station is famous for cave paintings in the forest, viewpoints, waterfalls and a lake. The beauty of Pachmarhi has also been shown in Bollywood flicks like Asoka and Chakrvyuh. It is a touristy place, so one can see the availability of all those things that are necessary for the tourists.

• Vidisha

  

  Known for architectural grandeurs, Vidisha has a charm like no other. A resplendent historical site of Madhya Pradesh, Vidisha endures a lot of appeal to the history buffs. One might also get a clear picture of the rich past of Madhya Pradesh from the relics found in Vidisha. Truly an out an out historical destination in Madhya Pradesh, Vidisha is worth investing your time upon.

• Shivpuri

  

  An ancient town, Shivpuri boasts about the rich history of Madhya Pradesh. The town was once the summer capital of Scindia rulers of Gwalior. There are number of ancient buildings including forts, palaces and chhatris (cenotaphs), the town is also famous for national parks, wildlife sanctuary and waterfalls, which makes Shivpuri a complete holiday destination in MP.

• Deogarh

  

  Situated in the Lalitpur range of hills, Deogarh is a beautiful village in Madhya Pradesh. River Betwa that flows through this lovely little place enhances the beauty of this village. Deogarh was once a fortified city and was an important place to see the Jain architecture. Although now mostly in ruins; Deogarh is still a majestic travel destination in MP.

• Chanderi

  

  Chanderi is yet another historical town of Madhya Pradesh, where each meandering road makes you meet history. The history of Chanderi is extracted from myths and folklores as no written evidence could be found here. Today, Chanderi is a reminiscence of the ancient MP, where Gurjara-Pratihara used to rule.