Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh – Literally meaning the central State, Madhya Pradesh straddles India’s heartland to divide north from south and east from west. The State has great geographical diversity with its forest clad hills, plateaus and plains cut deep by swift rivers and barren desolate ravines. Surrounded by the mighty Vindhya and Satpura hill rages, a third of India’s forest are located hare. These forests are rich in some of the finest hardwoods in the world – teak, sal, Indian ebony and rosewood. Some of the richest mineral deposits in the world are founded here. Bandhavgarh and its sister sanctuary Kanha are an irresistible attraction for all wildlife lovers. Kanha is considered one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in Asia, with rich forests, rolling grasslands and meandering streams. Tiger, panther, bear, wildcat, deer, gaur, wild pig are among the many animals that call these forests their home. The marble rocks, near Jabalpur are famous for their glistening splendor a marvel such as only nature could create. Here the Narmada flows between towering, glistening white rocks of marble for over 3 km before cascading down in a fascinating waterfall. The State is incredibly rich in Hindu and Buddhist architecture, sculpture and places of worship. A rich and historical legacy, formidable forts that echo battle sounds and tales of rare heroism. Gorgeous palaces that evoke opulence, style and royal ambience. Some of the most impressive architecture anywhere in India is to be found in Khajuraho, Orchha, Shivpuri and Gwalior. The khajuraho temple wee built in an inspired burst of creativity in the 10th and centuries. Of the original 85 temples, 22 survive today, enthralling visitors from all over the world. Life in every form and mood has been captured here in stone. Khajuraho is India’s unique gift to the world.
Tourist Places in Madhya Pradesh
Bhopal – state capital, founded by the 11th century ruler Bhoj who was fond of building dams to form beautiful lakes or ‘ pals’ India’s premier centre for the cultivation of arts, Bharat Bhavan is here. Bhojeswer temple in nearby Bhojpur is incomplete but impressive. About 40 km away, at Bhimbetka are over 500 rock cut caves with startling rock painting going back to the palaeolithic ages. Airport: Bhopal.
Sanchi- the Buddhist stupa is close by Airport: Bhopal.
Indore: Palaces, temples Museum. Airport: Indore.
Ujjain – Kumbh mela held here every 12 years. An ancient city that predates the Buddha.
Omkateshwar near Indore, Mahakaleswar at Ujjain – Iyotirlinga temples.
Maheshwar – hallowed by memories of queen Ahilyabai, this is a small weavers’ village on the banks of the Narmada, where the famous Maheshwari sarees are woven.
Mandu – Ruins of the largest fortified city in the world. Full if lakes, palaces, gardens, mosques, temples. Perched at an altitude of 610 m in the Vindhya hills, Mandu was once ruled over by the sultans of Malwa and the Mughals.
Kanha, Bandhavarh, Madhav, Panna – national parks and wildlife sanctuaries Kanha, one of the original project tiger reserves, Bandhavgarh, the habitat of Several species of deer and tigers . Madhav and Panna are home to many species of flora and fauna.
Pachmarhi – hill resort.
Orchha – in the heart of Bundelkhand hallowed by centuries of turbulent history, it was once the capital of Bundela kings. Palaces, forts and temples in excellent state of preservation.
Shivpuri – Sumer capital of Scindia rulers of Gwalior, situated in the midst of wooded hills. Nearby Madhav National park hosts many migratory birds and wild animals.
Gwalior – famous for its hilltop fort with Raja Mansigh palace, temples. Tansen Music Festival is held here. Airport: Gwalior.
Khajuraho- 85 Chandela temple of exquisite craftsmanship of which 22 are still there. An annual dance festival is held here where the doyens of Indian classical dance perform in Khandariya Mahadev temple. Airport: Khajuraho.
Chitrakoot – Rama, sita and Lakshmana, the legendary figures of the Ramayana spent much of their 14 year exile here.
Bastar District – very rich in tribal life and culture where the Bhils, Gonds, Oraons and other tribes have still retained much of their original lifestyle. Chitrakoot falls.