Best Tourist Attractions of Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh was created by combining the sixteen districts of Madhya Bharat, eight districts of Vindhya Pradesh, two districts of Bhopal, and seventeen districts of Mahakoshal.
The state had 43 districts when it was created. Two sizable districts were split off as a result.Interesting Madhya Pradesh-related facts The “Tiger State of India” is Madhya Pradesh. Bhimbetka, Sanchi, and Khajuraho are the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Madhya Pradesh.
The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling was inspired by Pench National Park, and the real Mowgli was discovered in the Jungle of Seoni.
The best national parks in India are found in Madhya Pradesh. To see the Tiger and go on an Indian Wildlife Safari, many tourists and wildlife enthusiasts visit this area.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions of Madhya Pradesh
1. Khajuraho Erotic Temples
10% of the artwork in the Khajuraho temples, which includes both outside and inside pieces, is sexual or erotic. Small sexual engravings can be seen on the outside surface of the inner wall of some temples that have two levels of brickwork.
These practises may be tantric sexual ones, according to some academics.
Khajuraho’s temples are renowned for the artful fusion of their architecture and sculpture.
Every surface has numerous anthropomorphic and non-anthropomorphic carvings that portray both holy and secular subjects.
Major Attractions of Khajuraho Erotic Temples
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
- Lakshmana Temple
- Devi Jagadambi Temple
- Chitragupta Temple
- Vishvanatha Temple
- Dulhadev-Tempel
- Matangeshvara Temple
- Jain Temples
- Erotic Sculptures
- Sound and Light Show
Best Time to Visit:
- November to February
Activities to do:
- Explore the beautiful Khajuraho Group of Monuments, known for their finely carved temples.
- Attend the spectacular Sound and Light Show, which tells the narrative of Khajuraho in an engaging fashion.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the Region’s rich cultural legacy.
- Take a naturewalk to the nearby Panna National Park to see the rich fauna and gorgeous scenery.
- Attending a traditional dance performance or touring the colorful markets for handicrafts and souvenirs are great ways to learn about local culture.
How to reach there?
- By Air: Khajuraho Airport serves major cities like Delhi and Mumbai. It is around 5 km from the temples, and taxis are available for the short ride.
- By Road: Khajuraho is well accessible by highways, with buses and taxis departing from adjacent places such as Jhansi, Satna, and Chhatarpur.
- By Train: Khajuraho Railway Station is connected to Delhi, Agra and Varanasi. Regular Trains, such as the Khajuraho Express, make Travel more convenient for Guests.
2. Bandhavgarh National Park
Indian national park Bandhavgarh National Park is situated in Madhya Pradesh’s Umaria district. Bandhavgarh, a national park covering 105 square kilometres (41 sq mi), became a tiger reserve in 1993 after first being designated as a national park in 1968. 716 square kilometres make up the current core area.
There are more Royal Bengal tigers there than anywhere else in the world, making it the premier tiger habitat in India. In Bandhavgarh National Park, the ancestors of all white tigers in the world can be found. The first national park in India to offer tourists “The Hot Air Balloon Safari” is Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit:
- The Reserve is normally open to tourists from the 15th of October to 30th of June.
Activities to do:
- Embark on thrilling excursions to see majestic Bengal Tigers and other wildlife.
- Explore the park’s old caves and ruins, which are historically significant.
- Enjoy birding among the park’s rich bird population.
- Take part in guided nature-hikes to learn about the flora and fauna.
- Relax and rest in magnificent jungle lodges, surrounded by a beautiful environment.
How to reach there?
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jabalpur Airport, which is roughly 190 Kilometers away. Taxis are available for the Trip to Bandhavgarh.
- By Road: Nearby cities such as Jabalpur, Satna, and Katni have well-connected roads, and buses and taxis operate there.
- By Train: Umaria Railway Station, located around 35 Kilometers away, is the nearest railhead. Trains like Vindhyachal Express connect important cities.
Major Attractions of Bandhavgarh National Park
- Tiger Safari
- Bandhavgarh Fort
- Shesh Shaiya
- Bamera Dam
- Climbing Point
- Chenchpur-Waterfall
- Three-Cave-Point
- Elephant Safari
- Karua-Plateau
- Rajbahera Dam
3. Kanha National Park
The Royal Bengal tiger, Indian leopards, sloth bears, barasinghas, and Indian wild dogs all have sizable populations in the park. This reserve’s jungles served as the inspiration for the woodland in Rudyard Kipling’s renowned book The Jungle Book.
Tiger, Panther, Chital, Sambar, Barasingha, Black Buck, Barking Deer, Chousingha, Gaur, Langur, Wild Pig, Jackal, Sloth Bear, and Wild Dog are some of the main species present. Reptiles: fan-throated lizards, pythons, Indian cobras, Russell’s vipers, Indian kraits, common rat snakes, common skinks, Indian monitors, Indian garden lizards, etc.
Major Attractions of Kanha National Park
- Tiger Safari
- Kanha Museum
- Bamni Dadar (Sunset Point)
- Kanha Meadows
- Shravan Tal
- Sondar-Tank
- Kanha Tiger Reserve
- Kanha Fort
- Elephant Safari
- Bison Road
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Activities to do:
- Go on thrilling jungle safaris to see tigers, leopards, and other animals.
- Guided nature-walks allow you to explore the lush forests and grasslands.
- Enjoy birding among the park’s rich bird population.
- Visit the Kanha Museum to learn about the Region’s Vegetation, Animals, and tribal history.
- Interactions with indigenous groups and village visits provide opportunities to learn about the local culture.
How to reach there?
- By Air: The nearest Airport is Jabalpur Airport, which is around 160 Kilometers away. Taxis can be booked at the airport for the trip to Kanha National Park.
- By Road: Roads are well connected, with buses and taxis departing from adjacent cities such as Jabalpur, Raipur and Nagpur.
- By Train: The nearest major railway stations are Jabalpur and Bilaspur, which have direct trains to a variety of cities.
4. Gwalior
The state of Madhya Bharat, which eventually merged with the larger state of Madhya Pradesh, had Gwalior as its winter capital.
Gwalior was still a princely kingdom under the British Raj before India gained its independence on August 15, 1947, and the Scindia were in charge there. All around the city are tall, rocky hills; to the north, they barely form the boundary of the Ganga-Yamuna Drainage Basin.
Major Attractions of Gwalior
- Gwalior Fort
- Jai Vilas Palace and Museum
- Sas Bahu Temples
- Teli Ka Mandir
- Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum
- Sun Temple
- Man Singh Palace
- Tansen’s Tomb
- Scindia School
- Gopachal Parvat
Best Time to Visit:
- September to March
Activities to do:
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Admire the Grandeur of Gwalior Fort, which has complex architecture and panoramic views.
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Visit the Majestic Jai Vilas Palace and the Scindia Museum.
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Explore the Old Sas Bahu Temples, which feature excellent craftsmanship.
Explore the bustling marketplaces for Souvenirs and local Foods. -
Attend a classical music performance at the Tansen Tomb to honor the famous Performer.
- How to reach there?
- By Air: About 8 Kilometers from the City Center, Gwalior Airport is connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Road: Buses and Cabs are available from neighboring towns like Agra, Jaipur and Delhi, and the area is well connected by national roads.
- By Train: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major cities have direct trains that stop at Gwalior Junction, a significant railway station.
5. Orchha
Orchha is a town in the Madhya Pradesh state of India, next to the city of Niwari in the Niwari district. The town was founded in the Bundelkhand region by Rajput ruler Rudra Pratap Singh sometime after 1501 as the capital of an eponymous erstwhile princely empire that covered parts of central and north India.
Lord Rama is also the King of the town of Orchha, which is the only location in India besides Ayodhya. The background of this is as follows: King Madhukar Shah of Orchha was a follower of Lord Krishna, while his wife, Queen Kunwar Ganesh, was a devotee of Lord Rama in the 16th century.
Major Attractions of Orchha
- Orchha Fort Complex
- Jehangir Mahal
- Rajmahal
- Rai Praveen Mahal
- Chaturbhuj Temple
- Ram Raja Temple
- Laxmi-Narayan-Tempel
- Betwa River
- Phool Bagh
- Cenotaphs (Chhatris)
Best Time to Visit:
- September to March
Activities to do:
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Explore the architectural marvels of the Orchha Fort Complex, which includes breathtaking temples and palaces.
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Take a relaxing boatride on the Betwa River, which offers beautiful views of the surrounds.
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Witness the captivating Sound and Light Show that narrates Orchha’s history.
Visit the Chaturbhuj Temple, which is known for its unique architecture and spiritual ambiance. -
Interact with craftsmen and observe traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving to have a better understanding of local culture.
How to reach there?
- By Air: Gwalior, around 120 miles away, has the closest Airport. To get to Orchha, Taxis are available for hiring at the Airport.
- By Road: With good access to the area’s highways, Jhansi, Gwalior, and Khajuraho are close by cities that provide buses and cabs.
- By Train: The closest railhead is Jhansi Railway Station, which is around 18 kilometers away. Shatabdi Express trains offer connections to key cities.
6. Bhopal
It is also known as the city of lakes because of its natural and constructed lakes, and it was controlled for nearly a century by the wives of the nawabs. As a result, Bhopal is separated into two cities by a collection of lakes.
Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh, India, and the second-largest city of the state after Indore. Bhopal is also dubbed the City of Lakes. It is the seat of Bhopal District. It is in the central part of India.
Major Attractions of Bhopal
- Upper Lake (Bada Talab)
- Lower Lake (Chhota Talab)
- Taj-ul-Masajid
- Van Vihar National Park
- Bhopal City Mosque
- Bharat Bhavan
- Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya
- State Museum of Bhopal
- Gohar Mahal
- Shaukat Mahal
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Activities to do:
- Discover the rich history and culture of the UNESCO-listed Bhimbetka Rock-Shelter.
- Visit the beautiful Taj-ul-Masajid, one of Indias largest Mosques.
- Discover the rich flora and fauna of Van Vihar National Park.
- Explore the bustling markets of Chowk and New Market for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Take a leisurely stroll around the tranquil Upper Lake or go boating.
How to reach there?
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By Air: About 15 kilometers from the City Center, Raja Bhoj Airport has connections to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
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By Road: Buses and Cabs are available from surrounding towns like Indore, Nagpur and Jaipur, and the area is well connected by national roads.
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By Train: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other major cities have direct trains that stop at Bhopal Junction, a significant railway station.
7. Sanchi Stupa
One of the earliest stone buildings in India and a significant piece of Indian architectural history is the Great Stupa at Sanchi. In the third century BCE, Ashoka the Great, the Mauryan monarch, ordered its construction.
The basic hemispherical brick building that served as its foundation was placed over the Buddha’s relics.
The stupas, temples, viharas, and stambha at Sanchi in central India are among the most ancient and accomplished instances of iconography and free-standing construction that completely trace the development of Buddhism.
Major Attractions of Sanchi Stupa
- Great Stupa
- Ashoka Pillar
- Eastern Gateway of Stupa
- Western Gateway of Stupa
- Northern Gateway of Stupa
- Southern Gateway of Stupa
- Monasteries (Viharas)
- Ashoka’s Stone Inscriptions
- Buddhist Sculptures and Artifacts
- Archaeological Museum
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Activities to do:
- Marvel at the historic Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about its fascinating history.
- Explore the beautifully carved Gateways (toranas), which illustrate Stories from Buddhas life.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum to view objects excavated from the site.
- Take a relaxing tour around the well-preserved remains and beautiful environs.
- Attend the annual Sanchi Festival to enjoy cultural performances and activities.
How to reach there?
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By Air: Bhopal, which is around 50 Kilometers away, has the closest Airport. From the Airport, Taxis can be hired to take you to Sanchi Stupa.
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By Road: The area is well connected, and neighboring cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Vidisha are the Hub for Buses and Taxis.
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By Train: The closest Railhead is Vidisha Railway Station, which is around 10 km distant. Shatabdi Express trains offer connectivity to key cities.
8. Jabalpur
The city was formerly known as Tripuri Kingdom, and after the Gonds conquered it, it became a part of Gondwana Kingdom. The next group to control Jabalpur was the Mughals.
Over time, the city’s rocky terrain began to captivate the Marathas as well, and they made the decision to settle there.
A significant commercial, industrial, and administrative hub in Madhya Pradesh is Jabalpur. It serves as Madhya Pradesh’s seat of justice under the name The Madhya Pradesh.
Major Attractions of Jabalpur
- Dhuandhar Falls
- Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat
- Madan Mahal Fort
- Rani Durgavati Museum
- Chausath Yogini Temple
- Balancing Rock (Madan Mahal Fort)
- Tilwara Ghat
- Bargi Dam
- Pisan Hari Jain Temple
- Dumna Nature Reserve Park
Best Time to Visit:
- October to February
Activities to do:
Experience the beautiful Dhuandhar Falls on the Narmada River.
Take a boat ride through the marble-rocks in Bhedaghat.
Explore the Old Madan Mahal Fort to get panoramic views of Jabalpur.
Visit the Rani Durgavati Museum to learn about local history and culture.
Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Narmada Rivers banks in Gwarighat.
How to Reach There?
- By Air: About 20 kilometers from the city center, Jabalpur Airport is connected to major cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
- By Road: Buses and Cabs are available from neighboring cities like Bhopal, Nagpur and Indore, and the area is well connected by national roads.
- By Train: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and other important cities have direct trains, that stop at Jabalpur Junction, a significant railway station.
9. Maheshwar
Major Attractions of Maheshwar
- Maheshwar Fort
- Ahilya Bai Temple
- Narmada Ghat
- Rajwada Palace
- Ahilyeshwar Temple
- Rehwa Society Handloom Weaving Center
- Pandharinath Temple
- Kashivishwanath Temple
- Queen’s Fort
- Chhatri of Malhar Rao Holkar
Best Time to Visit:
- October to March
Activities to do:
Explore the beautiful Ahilya Fort, which overlooks the Narmada River.
Take a boat ride on the sacred Narmada River and experience the breathtaking sunset.
Visit finely carved temples such as Rajrajeshwara Temple.
Explore the colorful Maheshwar Fort Complex and its architectural marvels.
Local Markets sell classic Maheshwari sarees and handloom goods
How to reach there?
- By Air: Indore, which is around 91 Kilometers distant, has the closest Airport. To go to Maheshwar, Taxis are available for hiring at the airport.
By Road: The area is well connected, and neighboring cities like Indore, Ujjain, and Bhopal are the source of buses and cabs.
By Train: The closest Railhead is Barwaha Railway Station, which is around 39 km distant. Major cities can be accessed using trains such as the Avantika Express.
10. Satpura National Park
The Satpura Tiger Reserve (STR), also known as Satpura National Park, is situated in Madhya Pradesh’s Narmadapuram District.
The fauna of Satpura National Park is abundant. Leopard, sambar, chital, Indian muntjac, nilgai, four-horned antelope, Chinkara, wild boar, bear, black buck, fox, porcupine, flying squirrel, mouse deer, and Indian giant squirrel are among the inhabitants of this area.
It is a special park in M.P. where activities like biking, canoeing, and hiking are permitted without causing pollution. A tiger reserve in Satpura The forest of the Satpura mountains, which is south of the Narmada river, is home to numerous endangered species and is incredibly diverse.
Major Attractions of Satpura National Park
- Wildlife Safari
- Denwa River
- Dhupgarh Peak
- Satpura Tiger Reserve
- Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve
- Handi Khoh
- Rajat Prapat (Silver Falls)
- Bison Lodge Museum
- Duchess Fall
- Bee Falls
Best Time to Visit:
- October to June
Activities to do:
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Embark on thrilling wildlife excursions to see tigers, leopards, and other uncommon animals.
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Explore the various ecosystems, such as dense forests, grasslands and meadows.
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Enjoy birding among the Park’s abundant Birdpopulation.
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Take guided nature-hikes to learn about the flora and fauna.
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Experience eco-friendly lodging and camping amidst natures calm.
How to reach there?
- By Air: Bhopal, about 210 km distant, has the closest Airport. To go to Satpura National Park, you can rent a taxi at the airport.
- By Road: The area is well connected, and neighboring cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Nagpur provide buses and cabs.
- By Train: The closest Railhead is Pipariya Railway Station, which is around 50 miles distant. Hazrat Nizamuddin Express and other trains in Jabalpur offer connections to significant cities.
Frequently Asked Questions on Madhya Pradesh Tourists
What are the must-visit destinations in Madhya Pradesh?
Discover well-known locations such as Sanchi Stupa, Bandhavgarh National Park, and Khajuraho Temples.
How is the weather in Madhya Pradesh?
The weather of Madhya Pradesh is varied, with scorching Summers and chilly Winters. Considering the Season of your Stay, make appropriate Plans.
What are the transportation options within Madhya Pradesh?
By road, you can go anywhere in buses, taxis, or rented automobiles. In addition, the state boasts well-connected airports and train systems in important cities like Indore, Bhopal and Jabalpur.
What are the famous cuisines of Madhya Pradesh?
Savor traditional delicacies that showcase the state’s rich culinary heritage, such as Poha, Bhutte Ka Kees, Dal Bafla, and Chakki ki Shaak.
Are there any specific cultural events or festivals in Madhya Pradesh?
Experience colorful events that highlight the region’s rich cultural legacy, such as the Tansen Samaroh, Malwa Utsav, and the Khajuraho Dance Festival.
What safety precautions should tourists take while exploring Madhya Pradesh?
Be cautious in congested regions, refrain from traveling alone to isolated areas, and familiarize yourself with local laws and safety protocols, particularly when it comes to animal reserves.
Is it necessary to book accommodations in advance?
To guarantee availability and your first pick of accommodations, it’s best to make reservations well in advance, particularly during the busiest travel seasons.