Madhya Pradesh, commonly referred to as MP, is situated in the central region of India and is often considered as the heart of the country. It is the second-largest state in terms of area and the sixth-largest in terms of population with approximately 75 million inhabitants. Bhopal serves as its capital city, while Indore is the largest urban center. The state has played a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Islam. MP boasts a plethora of monuments, intricately carved temples, stupas, forts, and palaces spread throughout the state. The landscape is diverse, featuring spectacular mountain ranges, winding rivers, and vast forests. One of the highlights of MP is its accessibility, as it is well connected to major cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai, making it easy to reach from any part of the country.
Place to See
Pilgrimage
Ujain, Omkareshwar, Maheswhar, Amarkantak, Chitrakoot
Natural and Wild life
Pachmarhi, Marble Rocks (Bhedaghat), Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, Panna National Park, Pench National Park, Shivpur.
Heritage
Khajuraho, Gwalior, Datia, Orchha, Chanderi, Sanchi. Bhojpur, Bhimbetka, Islamnagar, Mandu
Archeological Treasures
MUSEUM NAME
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PLACE
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TREASURES
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Satna
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Earliest and finest
sculptures from Bharhut (2nd century BC). Khoh (5th century BC) and Nachnakuthara
(5th century BC)
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Sanchi
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Portions of the Lion
or Bull capitals. Maurya period (3rd century BC); Yaksha & Yakshi images from
Shunga period (2nd-lst century BC): sculpted
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Vidisha panels
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from Sanchi Stupa gateways (2nd-lst
century BC); Jaina sculptures from the Gupta period
(5th century AD)
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Gujari Mahal
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Most of the Shunga period sculptures from Vidisha
region. Indian art in general. & Pratihara art
in particular. The world-renowned Gyaraspur Shalabhanjika (10th century AD) is housed here.
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State Archaeological
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Parmara period art (9th-11th
century AD) and
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Museum. Hinglajgarh
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sculptures from Maurya. Gupta. Aulikara or
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Mandsaur
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Pratihara days
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Mandsaur Museums
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Jaisimhapura & Vikram
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Kirti Mandir
Museums
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Rajgarh
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State Archaeological
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Parmara art. unique
sculptures, coins from various
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Museum &
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parts of Madhya Pradesh. Dhar Parmara
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bronzes, copies of Bagh paintings and decorative art pieces from the
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University Museums
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State Archaeological
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Damoh
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Further developments
of Kalachuri art
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Museums
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Dhubela. Rewa
Shahdol.
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(7th-13th century AD)
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Chausath Yogini
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Bhedaghat
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|
Shivpuri
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Jaina Tirthankar
sculptures (11th-12th century AD) from Narwar &
adjacent sites
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State Archaeological
Museum
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Panna
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ASI Museums
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Khajuraho
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Chandela art
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(both main & Jardin Site Museums)
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Cities
Taj-ul-Masajid - Bhopal |
Bhopal, the vibrant capital city of Madhya Pradesh, has a rich and illustrious history that it takes pride in. The city was established on the site of the 11th-century city of Bhojapal, founded by Raja Bhoja. The current city was founded by Dost Mohammed, an Afghan soldier of fortune, who made it his capital during the turmoil following Aurangzeb's demise. Legend has it that Dost Mohammed met the beautiful Gond queen, Kamlapati, who sought his help after her consort was murdered. The queen was known to drift across the lake on a lotus barge on moonlit nights. The two lakes in Bhopal remain a prominent feature of the city and serve as its nucleus. The old city retains the noble influence of its past rulers with bustling markets, palaces, and mosques. Visitors can explore the Jama Masjid, Moti Masjid, Taj-ul-Masajid, as well as the Shaukat Mahal, Sadar Manzil, and Gohar Mahal in the walled city's Chowk area. The new city is equally impressive, featuring well-manicured parks, broad avenues, and modern structures. Tourists can't miss visiting the famous Bharat Bhawan multi-arts complex, the Museum of Man, and Van Vihar National Park. They can also enjoy an evening at the Boat Club on the Upper Lake.
Lal Baag Palace - Indore |
Blue Marble Rocks - Jabalpur |
Jabalpur, once a pleasure resort and the capital of the Gond kings in the 12th century, later became the seat of the Kalachuri dynasty. The Marathas took control of the city until the British established a spacious cantonment with elegant colonial residences in 1817. Today, Jabalpur serves as an essential administrative and commercial center.
Pilgrimage
Ujjain Temple - ICKCON |
Ujjain is considered one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism and is known for its hosting of the Kumbh Mela festival every twelve years. According to legend, the city was renamed Ujjayini by King Shiva of Avanti to commemorate his victory over the demon ruler of Tripura. Ujjain was a prosperous town along a trade route with Mesopotamia and Egypt and was ruled by several dynasties, including the vice-royalty of Ashoka in 275 BC. The famous poet Kalidasa is said to have written some of his works here during the reign of Chandragupta II.
Though Ujjain's political importance declined after the Scindia capital moved to Gwalior in 1810, it still attracts pilgrims and visitors to its temples, including the Mahakaleshwar Temple, Bade Ganeshji ka Mandir, Harsiddhi Temple, and Chintamani Ganesh Temple. Other attractions include the Pir Mastyendra-nath, Bhartrihari Caves, Durgadas ki Chhatri, Kal Bhairava, Gad Kalika, Vikram Kirti Mandir, Gopal Mandir, Navgraha Mandir (Triveni), Panchkroshi Yatra, Siddhavat, and the Vedha Shala (Observatory). The Kaliadeh Palace, a 15th-century structure built by the Malwa rulers, is also worth a visit and is located just outside of Ujjain town.
Getting here: 55km from Indore.
Omkareshwar Temple |
Omkareshwar is a small island situated at the confluence of the Narmada and Cauvery rivers, known for its ancient Brahmanic temples. The island is formed by two hills and a valley, resembling the Hindu symbol 'Om'. One of the twelve Jyotirlingas is housed in the beautifully carved Shri Omkar Mandhata Temple located on the island. The Siddhanath Temple, showcasing the 10th century architecture, is also an important attraction. Visitors can also explore the 24 Avatars, a group of Jain Temples, the Satmatrika Temples, and the scenic Kajal Rani Cave situated 9 km from Omkareshwar, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Getting here: 78km from Indore.
Getting here: 91km from Indore
Amarkantak is a significant place of pilgrimage where the Satpura and Vindhya ranges converge, and it is the starting point of the Narmada and Sone rivers. The Narmada Udgam and Sonmuda Temple are the most sacred shrines in the area. As per the Puranas, taking a dip in the Ganga once, Saraswati thrice, and Yamuna seven times is essential to attain salvation. However, merely seeing the Narmada is believed to bring eternal happiness. The Narmada Udgam Temple features a black basalt statue of the goddess Narmada, worshipped by many devotees annually. Amarkantak is also known for its Dhuni Pani hot springs, Brighukamandal, Dugdhdhra and Kapildhara waterfalls, dense forests, and beautiful garden temple at Mai ki Bagiya. The town's serene charm is not to be missed.
Getting here: 228km from Jabalpur; 45km from Pendra Road.
Chitrakoot, situated in the Vindhyas, is a serene destination adorned with forest glades and mountain streams. This place has a rich spiritual history, dating back to the time of Ramayana, as it is believed that Rama and Sita spent eleven years of their exile here. In addition, the great Sage Atri and Sati Anusuya meditated here, and the holy trinity of the Hindu pantheon were incarnated here. There are several sites of religious significance to visit in Chitrakoot, such as Ramghat, Kamadgiri, Janaki Kund, Sati Anusuya, Sphatik Shila, Hanuman Dhara, Bharat Koop, and the Gupt Godavari Caves.
Ahilya fort (Maheshwar Fort-) - Maheshwar |
Maheshwar is a town situated on the banks of the Narmada river, which was formerly known as 'Mahishmati', an important cultural and political center mentioned in the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The town was revived in the 18th century by Rani Ahilyabai of Indore, who commissioned the construction of many temples and a fort complex that still stands today. The palace within the fort has been turned into a museum, displaying treasures from the royal family.
The Rehwa Weavers' Society, which produces the famous Maheshwari saris, is also located inside the fort. Maheshwar's 1.5km-long riverfront is famous for its bathing ghats and rows of tiered temples with ornately decorated doorways and overhanging balconies. The town's important temples include Kaleshwara, Rajarajeshwara, Vithaleshwara, and Ahileshwar. A fan-shaped stairway leads to the royal enclosure within the Maheshwar Fort and the Ahileshwar Temple, constructed in 1798.
Getting here: 91km from Indore
Amarkantak |
Amarkantak is a significant place of pilgrimage where the Satpura and Vindhya ranges converge, and it is the starting point of the Narmada and Sone rivers. The Narmada Udgam and Sonmuda Temple are the most sacred shrines in the area. As per the Puranas, taking a dip in the Ganga once, Saraswati thrice, and Yamuna seven times is essential to attain salvation. However, merely seeing the Narmada is believed to bring eternal happiness. The Narmada Udgam Temple features a black basalt statue of the goddess Narmada, worshipped by many devotees annually. Amarkantak is also known for its Dhuni Pani hot springs, Brighukamandal, Dugdhdhra and Kapildhara waterfalls, dense forests, and beautiful garden temple at Mai ki Bagiya. The town's serene charm is not to be missed.
Getting here: 228km from Jabalpur; 45km from Pendra Road.
Chitrakoot Tourist Attractions |
Chitrakoot, situated in the Vindhyas, is a serene destination adorned with forest glades and mountain streams. This place has a rich spiritual history, dating back to the time of Ramayana, as it is believed that Rama and Sita spent eleven years of their exile here. In addition, the great Sage Atri and Sati Anusuya meditated here, and the holy trinity of the Hindu pantheon were incarnated here. There are several sites of religious significance to visit in Chitrakoot, such as Ramghat, Kamadgiri, Janaki Kund, Sati Anusuya, Sphatik Shila, Hanuman Dhara, Bharat Koop, and the Gupt Godavari Caves.
Getting here: 195km from Khajuraho; 78km from Satna.
Nature and Wildlife
Pachmarhi Hills and Pachmarhi Water Falls |
Pachmarhi, which is now a Biosphere Reserve, is a picturesque hill station surrounded by the Satpura mountain range. The serene atmosphere of this place is enhanced by the bridle paths that lead to quiet glades, bamboo and jamun groves, and dense sal forests. The area is also home to several magnificent waterfalls such as Jamuna Prapat (Bee Falls) and Rajat Prapat (Big Falls).
Additionally, visitors can explore the cave shelters of the Mahadeo hills, which feature remarkable rock paintings dating back to as early as 10,000 years ago. Other notable attractions in Pachmarhi include Priyadarshini Point, Handi Khoh, Apsara Vihar, Irene Pool, Jalawataran, Sunder Kund, Mahadeo, Chhota Mahadeo, Chauragarh, Jata Shankar, Dhoopgarh, Pandav Caves, Piccadily Circus, Vanshree Vihar, Reechhgarh, Sangam, Catholic Church, Christ Church, Satpura National Park, Bison Lodge, and the Cave Shelters.
Getting here: 195km from Bhopal.
Blue Marble Rocks - Jabalpur |
Bhedaghat's Marble Rocks stand tall with their shimmering glory, reaching up to a hundred feet on both sides of the Narmada River that flows through a narrow ravine. It's recommended to experience a boat ride under the moonlight (available from November to May), and don't forget to witness the striking Dhuandhar Falls and the Chausath Yogini Temple. Take a look at the beautiful soapstone handicrafts before leaving.
Getting here: 2 3 km from Jabalpur.
BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK |
Bandhavgarh National Park boasts the highest density of tigers in India, making it an excellent destination for tiger-spotting. This is also where the world's first white tiger was found by the Maharaja of Rewa. In addition to tigers, the park is home to a variety of wildlife such as deer, leopards, sambar, and wild boar. Visitors can also spot over 250 species of birds and explore the Bandhavgarh Fort and Prehistoric Caves, which feature inscriptions and drawings. Other attractions in the area include Madhav National Park, Scindia Chhatris, Madhav Vilas Palace, George Castle, Bhadaiya Kund, and Sakhya Sagar Boat Club.
Getting here: 164km from Jabalpur; 2 37km from Khajuraho.
KANHA NATIONAL PARK |
Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh has been a sanctuary for tigers since 1974 and is a source of pride for the state. The park, which was vividly depicted in Kipling's Jungle Book, is home to majestic tigers, as well as other fauna such as leopards, gaur, barking deer, black buck, the rare hardground barasingha, and over two hundred bird species. Its landscape includes sal forests, grasslands, and streams, with breathtaking sunsets at Bamni Dadar that are not to be missed.
Getting here: 165km from Jabalpur.
PANNA NATIONAL PARK |
Panna National Park, characterized by valleys, plateaus, grasslands, gorges, and escarpments, is a tiger habitat centered around the magnificent Ken River. You can enjoy a night jeep safari or take a boat ride to spot crocodiles basking in the sun. Don't miss the nearby breathtaking Raneh Falls.
Getting here: 32km from Khajuraho.
PENCH NATIONAL PARK |
Indira Priyadarshini Pench National Park, previously known as Pench National Park, is renowned for its abundance of chital and sambar, and the highest density of herbivores in India within the Pench Tiger Reserve. It is home to vast herds of gaur, Nilgai, and wild dog, with large populations of tiger, leopard, barking deer, and chinkara. The park also houses over 285 species of resident and migratory birds.
Shivpuri is a town rich in royal history, where the dense forests were once the hunting grounds for Mughal emperors to capture elephants for their royal stables and stalk tigers. It was a popular summer resort for the Scindia rulers of Gwalior due to its luxuriantly forested hills. Today, visitors can witness the town's royal legacy in the form of exquisite palaces, hunting lodges, and cenotaphs. Notable places to visit include Madhav National Park, Scindia Chhatris, Madhav Vilas Palace, George Castle, Bhadaiya Kund, and Sakhya Sagar Boat Club.
Getting here: 112km from Gwalior.
CALL OF THE WILD
The State Directorate of Archaeology & Museums also maintains site
museums at Ashapuri, Bhanpura. Damoh. Kundeshwar and Chanderi. Other
museums worth seeing are Rajgarh, Shahdol, Panna and Mandla. The ASI
maintains collections of sculptures at Chanderi, Badoh-Pathari,
Gyaraspur, Thruvanji, Mandhata, Nachna and Bijamandal (Vidisha).
HERITAGE
Khajuraho is a renowned World Heritage Site that captivates visitors from around the world with its 85 temples, built by the Chandela Rajput rulers in a span of just 100 years from 950 to 1050 AD. Out of these, only 22 temples remain standing today. These temples are architecturally unique and differ from other temples built during the same period. They are constructed on high masonry platforms and have a distinct upward direction with vertical projections that create an impression of lightness and grace. The temples are divided into the Western, Eastern, and Southern groups and are mostly built of sandstone.
Getting here: 64km from Mahoba; 94km from Harpalpur; 175km from Jhansi; 117km from Satna.
Datia, which is mentioned in the Mahabharata as Daityavakra, is a city known for its significant historical monuments. The most famous among them is the Palace of Raja Bir Singh Deo, a seven-storey hilltop palace that was built in the 17th century. The city also boasts a temple featuring Mughal frescoes and the Gopeshwar Temple, both of which are must-visit attractions for history enthusiasts.
Getting here: 112km from Gwalior.
CALL OF THE WILD
Name/Key |
Area (Sq KM) |
Fauna |
National Parks |
||
Kanha |
940.00 |
Tiger, Leopard, Gaur,
Chital, Sambar, Nilgai,
Chinkara, Barking Deer, Barasingha,
Wild Boar |
Bandhavgarh |
448.85 |
Tiger, Leopard,
Chital, Sambar, Nilgai,
Chinkara, Barking Deer, Wild
Boar
|
Madhav |
375.22 |
Leopard, Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, Chinkara,
Black Buck, Chausingha, Wild Boar
|
Sanjay |
466.88 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai
|
Van Vihar |
4.45 |
Leopard, Lion, Bear,
White Tiger, Chital, Sambhar, Nilgai,
Blackbuck, Ghariyal, Crocodile, Tortoise, Monkey
|
Panna |
542.67 |
Leopard, Wild Boar,
Chital, Tiger, Sambar
|
Satpura |
585.17 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital. Nilgai, Gaur,
Bear
|
Fossil |
0.27 |
Plant Fossils
|
Pench 292.85 |
292.85 |
Tiger, Leopard,
Chital, Gaur, Sambar, Wild Boar, Muntjac, Nilgai`
|
WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES |
||
Kheoni |
122.70 |
Leopard, Bear, Chital,
Sambar, Nilgai
|
Narsinghgarh |
57.18 |
Leopard, Chital, Sambar, Wild Boar, Peacock, Grey Horn Bill
|
Gandhi Sagar |
368.62 |
Leopard, Chital, Chinkara, Barking Der, Nilgai, water Birds
|
Bori |
485.72 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital. Gaur, Bear, Wild Boar, Wild Dog
|
Pachmarhi |
417.78 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital, Gaur, Chinkara.
Bear, Nilgai, Wild Dog, Wild Goar
|
Dubri (Sanjay) |
364.59 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar,
Chital, Gaur, Chinkara, Nilgai,
Muntjac
|
Ratapani |
823.84 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara
|
Singhori |
287.91 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Black
Buck
|
Noradehi |
1194.67 |
Tiger. Leopard,
Chital, Sambar, Nilgai,
Wild Dog, Black Buck
|
Pench |
118.47 |
Tiger, Leopard,
Chital, Gaur, Sambar, Nilgai,
Jungle Fowl
|
National Chambal |
435.00 |
Gharial, Crocodile, Turtle,
Dolphin, Otter, Migratory Birds
|
Ken Gliarial |
45.20 |
Gharial Crocodile
|
Sone Gharial |
53.66 |
Gharial, Crocodile, Turtle,
Migratory Birds
|
Kuno-Palpur |
344.68 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara, Black Buck
|
Karera |
202.21 |
Black Buck, Sambar, Chital, Chinkara, Great
Indian Bustard
|
Ghatigaon |
511.00 |
Chinkara, Nilgai,
Sambar, Great Indian Bustard
|
Bagdara |
478.00 |
Leopard, Chital, Black
Buck, Sambar, Chinkara, Nilgai
|
Fensatallite |
110.74 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital, Muntjac
|
Panpatha |
245.84 |
Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Chital, Muntjac, Nilgai, Chousingha, Bear
|
Sardarpur |
348.12 |
Kharmor
|
Sailana Florican |
12.96 |
Kharmor
|
Gangau |
68.14 |
Nilgai. Cheetal
|
Orchha |
44.9 1 |
Nilgai
|
Ralamandal |
2.34 |
Sambar, Cheetal
|
Veerangana Durgavati |
2 3.97 |
Nilgai, Chital
|
Bird life is abundant in all the National Parks & wildlife Sanctuaries. |
HERITAGE
KHAJURAHO TEMPLE |
Khajuraho is a renowned World Heritage Site that captivates visitors from around the world with its 85 temples, built by the Chandela Rajput rulers in a span of just 100 years from 950 to 1050 AD. Out of these, only 22 temples remain standing today. These temples are architecturally unique and differ from other temples built during the same period. They are constructed on high masonry platforms and have a distinct upward direction with vertical projections that create an impression of lightness and grace. The temples are divided into the Western, Eastern, and Southern groups and are mostly built of sandstone.
The Western group is the largest, and its most significant temple is the Kandariya Mahadeo, dedicated to Shiva. The Lakshmana and Vishwanatha temples are also notable examples of exquisite temple architecture and sculpture. The Eastern group comprises the Gantal, Javari, Vamana, and Brahma temples, while the Southern group has the Duladeo and Chaturbhuja temples. The backdrop of the Vindhya hills adds to the stunning beauty of the temples.
The Khajuraho temples have three main compartments: the entrance or ardhamandapa, the assembly hall or mandapa, and the sanctum or garbha grihas. More developed temples have additional embellishments. The Archaeological Museum and the State Museum of Tribal and Folk Art are also popular attractions. The Western group also hosts a fascinating Son-et-Lumiere show in both Hindi and English, depicting the story of the Chandela kings and the legend of the Khajuraho temples.
Getting here: 64km from Mahoba; 94km from Harpalpur; 175km from Jhansi; 117km from Satna.
Gwalior Fort |
Gwalior was founded in the 8th century by chieftain Suraj Sen, who named it after the saint Gwalipa. Over time, various dynasties such as the Pratiharas, Kachwahas and Tomars have left behind a rich legacy of palaces, temples and monuments. One of the town's defining features is the magnificent Gwalior Fort, an excellent example of medieval architecture. Within the fort, notable structures include Raja Mansingh's Palace, Teli ka Mandir, Sas Bahu ka Mandir and the Gujari Mahal Museum. In the evening, visitors can enjoy the atmospheric Sound and Light Show. The Tomb of Tansen, near the beautiful Mausoleum of Mohammad Ghaus, is a famous site for a yearly music festival and is also worth a visit. Other notable attractions include the Jai Vilas Palace and Museum, Sun Temple and Gurudwara Data Bandhi Chhod.
Datia Fort |
Datia, which is mentioned in the Mahabharata as Daityavakra, is a city known for its significant historical monuments. The most famous among them is the Palace of Raja Bir Singh Deo, a seven-storey hilltop palace that was built in the 17th century. The city also boasts a temple featuring Mughal frescoes and the Gopeshwar Temple, both of which are must-visit attractions for history enthusiasts.
Getting here: 34km from Jhansi; 69km from Gwalior.
Orchha Fort |
Orchha, situated on the banks of the river Betwa, has a rich history dating back to the 16th-17th centuries, when the Bundela rulers built magnificent palaces and temples. It was particularly notable for the reign of Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo, who constructed the stunning Jehangir Mahal, adorned with chhatris, providing breathtaking views of soaring spires and cenotaphs. The walls and ceilings of the Raj Mahal and Laxminarayan Temple are adorned with murals of the Bundela School of Painting, which are just as beautiful as the exteriors. The town is also home to several small shrines and memorials, each with a fascinating history that adds to the charm of the place. Be sure to visit the Rai Praveen Mahal, Ram Raja Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, Phool Bagh, Dinman Hardaul's Palace, Sunder Mahal, Chhatris, and the Shahid Smarak.
Getting here: 16km from Jhansi.
Chanderi Fort |
Getting here: 127km from Shivpuri: 37km from Lalitpur.
Sanchi Stupa Bhopal |
Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Great Stupa built by Emperor Ashoka, which has become a symbol of India's cultural heritage. The hill also houses numerous other stupas, monasteries, temples, and pillars dating from the 3rd century BC to the 12th century AD. Visitors can see a sandstone pillar fragment inscribed with Ashoka's famous edict against division within the Buddhist community. The Gateways of Stupa 1 are masterpieces of early classical art, carved with tales of Buddha's life. Stupa 3 contains relics of two of Buddha's disciples which are now in England. The Gupta Temple and the Archaeological Survey of India Museum, which showcases some of the earliest known stone sculptures from the 3rd to the 1st century BC, are also worth a visit. Additionally, the nearby town of Vidisha has a State Museum that houses significant medieval sculptures and the Lohangi Hill monuments. Visitors should not miss the 2nd century BC Heliodorous Pillar and the 5th century AD Udaygiri Caves.
Getting here: 46km via Diwanganj; 72km via Raisen from Bhopal.
Bhojpur Temple |
Bhojpur, named after Raja Bhoja, the Parmara King of Dhar who founded it during his reign from 1010 to 1053, is famous for its grand Shiva Temple and Cyclopean Dam. The Bhojeshwar Temple, also known as the "Somnath of North India," was built in the 11th century but was never finished. The earthen ramp used to raise the temple to the dome level still exists, and the surrounding rocks are engraved with massive patterns suggesting a grand architectural plan for the temple. Despite its incomplete state, the temple is considered one of the best examples of temple architecture from the 11th-13th centuries. The lake created by the stone-and-earth dams to the west of Bhojpur no longer exists. The dams, which were approximately 100 meters wide at the base, were destroyed by Hoshang Shah, the Malwa ruler, in 1430.
Getting here: 28km from Bhopal.
Bhimbetka Caves |
Bhimbetka is a site located in the northern Vindhya range, known for its large rocks and over 600 rock shelters that contain India's richest collection of prehistoric cave paintings, which were discovered in 1957. These paintings, found in about 500 caves, depict various scenes from the Early Stone Age, such as hunting, dancing, music, and religious symbols, among others. With the largest group of rock shelters in the world, Bhimbetka has become a designated World Heritage Site.
Getting here: 46km from Bhopal.
Islam Nagar Bhopal |
Islamnagar, which was constructed by Dost Mohammed Khan, the Afghan ruler of Bhopal, is home to palaces and pavilions that combine Hindu and Islamic decorative styles. The formal Mughal gardens that encircle the palaces and pavilions are particularly noteworthy. Additionally, visitors should check out the Hammam of Chaman Mahal and the Rani Mahal.
Getting here: 11km from Bhopal on the Bhopal-Berasia Road; 20km on the Bypass Road.
Mandu Fort |
Mandu, once the fort capital of Malwa's Parmara rulers, was later renamed Shadiabad or the 'City of Joy' by the Malwa Sultans. It tells the story of the love between Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati, and her pavilion still stands atop a hill, overlooking his grand palace. The Sultans built stunning palaces, including the Jahaz Mahal and the Hindola Mahal, as well as ornate canals, baths and pavilions. During Mughal rule, Mandu became a pleasure resort, and the festive atmosphere was filled with joy and celebration.
Every structure in Mandu is an architectural marvel, including the Jami Masjid, Hoshang Shah's Tomb, and Champa Baoli. The royal enclosure houses various monuments, including Dilawar Khan's Mosque, Nahar Jharokha, Ujali and Andheri Baolis, Gada Shah's Shop and House, Taveli Mahal, and Ashrafi Mahal. Other sites to visit are Nilkanth Temple and Mahal, Hathi Mahal, Dariya Khan's Tomb, Dai ka Mahal, Dai ki Chhoti Behan ka Mahal, Malik Mughath's Mosque, Jali Mahal, and Echo Point.
TOURIST CIRCUITS
BHOPAL
|
KHAJURAHO
|
|||
Islamnagar
|
Datia
|
Panna NP
|
Bhedaghal
|
|
Sanchi
|
Omkareshwar
|
Shivpuri
|
Chitrakoot
|
Bandhavgarh NP
|
Bhojpur
|
Maheshwar
|
Orchha
|
Maihar
|
Kanha NP
|
Bhimbetka
|
Mandu
|
Chanderi
|
Amarkantak
|
|
Pachmarhi
|
Burhanpur
|
Pench NP
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Other Places Around
Bhopal Raisen, Vidisha, Udaygiri, Gyaraspur, Udaypur, Rahatgarh, Ashapuri, Ratapani, Salkanpur, Tamia. liori, Muktagiri
Indore Dhar, Bagh Caves, Bawangaja, Oon, Mandleshwar, Asirgarh, Nemawar, Dewas, Maksi, Nagda, Sailana, Agar, Mandsaur, Bhanpura, Gandhi Sagar
Gwalior Narwar, Sonagiri, Piehhore, Thruvanji, Karera, Kadwaha, Pawaya, Surwaya, Padavli, Mitavli, Bateshwar
Khajuraho Dhubela Museum, Rajgarh Palace, Pandav Falls, Raneh falls, Ranguan Lake, Panna, Majhgawan Diamond Mines, Nachna. Ajaygarh Fort, Govindgarh, Ramvan, Chachai & Keoti Falls, Mara Caves
Jabalpur Bargi, Roopnath, Bilhari, Nohta, Mandla, Rookhad, Sohagpur, Fossil Park
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