India's Madhya Pradesh for First-Timers

[RAHUL SHARMA]

Vacations in India often consist of just the hill stations of Uttarakhand, beaches of Goa, backwaters of Kerala and/or forts of Rajasthan. But, the famous commercial under the tagline Incredible India by the tourism ministry has brought back to memory Madhya Pradesh by encapsulating everything the state has to offer. It is a seamless blend of mythology, spirituality and history. Its monuments, sacred places, cascading waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and rich art and culture are the factors that have contributed in the flourishing of MP tourism. This city has so much to offer that making an itinerary becomes almost impossible. Detailed below are all the cities and tourist places that you can visit while here.

 

Khajuraho

One of the most popular tourist destinations here, Khajuraho is noted for its fine temples of the Hindu and Jain religions. These temples are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their intricate carvings and architecture. The figures on the temples portray meditation, wrestling and spiritual teachings. As a matter of fact, out of the 85 temples that were originally built, only 20 have survived the natural wear and tear, and destruction. Some other shrines of prominence in the complex are Lakshmana, Kandariya Mahadeva, Parsvanath, Chitragupta, Devi Jagdambi and Brahma temples.

Gwalior

Having being ruled by many dynasties, Gwalior is one of the best tourist places in MP owing to its historical importance. Gwalior Fort, also known as the Gibraltar of India, is the main attraction and a living example of the rich regional past. Surrounded by high walls on all sides, the imposing hilltop fort overlooks the entire city. Gujari Mahal, Sarod Ghar, Man Singh Palace, Sun Temple and Jai Vilas Palace are some other points of interest in Gwalior.

Indore

The largest city in the state, Indore is known for its gems, Rajwada Palace, Kanch Mandir, Chhatris and Lalbagh Palace. These monuments narrate the glory of the city, which dates back several hundred years. Apart from this, Indore is a business hub for as well, drawing businesspersons and employment seekers. Travellers also flock to here to taste the delectable food at the Sarafa Bazar and indulge in some jewellery shopping.

Orchha 

Located on the banks of the charming Betwa River, Orchha is a historic town, founded by Rudra Pratap Singh in the 16th century. While here, holidaymakers will travel back in time as most of the monuments here still remain intact. History lovers can visit prominent architectural marvels that are a part of every Madhya Pradesh tour guide like Jahangir Mahal, Laxmi Narayan Temple and Raja Mahal. 

 

Sanchi

Renowned across the world for its Buddhist stupas, temples and monasteries, Sanchi is a site where to propagate the Buddhist philosophy, Emperor Ashoka ordered the building of the Great Stupa, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also admire the famous Gupta art inside Udayagiri Caves. Other notable places to visit in and around Sanchi are Gupta Temple, the ASI museum, The Great Bowl and Bija Mandal.

 

 

Mandu

This little-known place is bedazzled with Afghan art, depicting African motifs like baobab trees. Mandu has so much to offer that it will make you speechless. A MP travel guide is bound to recommend a visit to architectural masterpieces like Baz Bahadur Palace, Rewa Kund, Hindola Mahal, Jahaz Mahal, Jami Masjid and Tomb of Hoshang Shah. 

Pachmarhi

Also known as the Queen of Satpura, Pachmarhi is a hill station, boasting rich flora and fauna. It is believed that the Pandava brothers visited Pachmarhi during their exile and stayed in what is now called Pandava Caves. Here, you can get a glimpse of many picturesque waterfalls like Rajat Pratap, Bee Fall, Apsara Fall and Duchess Fall. Other points of interest in the town are Jata Shankar Cave, Satpura National Park, Mahadeo Hills and Chhota Mahadeo.

Ujjain

Located on the banks of the Shipra River, it is the host to Kumbh Mela, a major driving force of religious tourism in Madhya Pradesh. Held once every 12 years, it is among the largest religious gatherings in the world. Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, is the most sacred Hindu site in Ujjain. Other than these, MP tourism is also boosted by national parks like Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench, Van Vihar, Panna and Madhav that are renowned for their high concentration of tigers.