Posted 07 July 2023 in Travel wanderlust
Madhya Pradesh is an incredible state with a rich heritage, plethora of serene pilgrimages, and fascinating wildlife. It is a treasure trove of majestic cities that have natural wonders like dense forests and caves; man-made structures like forts, stupas, and dams; and sites for art and history-lovers.
Madhya Pradesh offers a perfect mix of heritage, wildlife, and spirituality. Home to the Kumbh Mela and various world heritage sites, this state is a kaleidoscope of rich culture to anyone who visits. Apart from all this, Madhya Pradesh is home to five UNESCO World Sites. The scenic beauty of this state can be well seen in its cascading waterfalls, mysterious caves, and gigantic rocks.
Read more - Twelve stunning waterfalls in Madhya Pradesh that will have you under a spell
Bhopal is known as the “City of Lakes". It is split by the old and the new, owing to the rustic bazaars and enchanting havelis on one side to exquisite malls on the other. It also boasts of lush greenery, along with its many artificial and natural lakes.
Read more - Here’s why Bhopal should be your next travel destination
Famous for its sumptuous savoury poha and immarti, the city of Indore is one of the most interesting places to visit in Madhya Pradesh. It is the perfect blend of rich heritage, urbanisation, and a prominent educational hub. Ranked as the cleanest city in India, it is the only place in the world to have a World Cup Square. The gem of this city is the Lord Ganesha idol, which at an astounding height of 8 metres, is the world's largest.
Famous as the city of temples, Ujjain is located beside the Kshipra River. It is a major attraction for devotees owing to its religious significance. Having been mentioned in the epic Mahabharata, this city is ranked as one of the seven holy cities in India. The ornate architecture and the divinity of the temples make it a blissful place to visit.
Khajuraho is an architectural masterpiece that mesmerises its visitors. It is a must-visit for any art and history enthusiast. Intricate carvings and sculptures highlight the fine craftsmanship, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site. Charismatic in its nature, the city of Khajuraho, located in Madhya Pradesh, garners a lot of tourists all year round.
Read more - Fifteen UNESCO World Heritage sites in India you should visit at least once
Situated on the banks of the Narmada River, Jabalpur is an industrial city that is adorned with splendid historical structures and boasts extravagant marble art. The Dhuandhar Falls, which cascades through a height of 98 feet, is the primary attraction and makes it a must-visit place in Madhya Pradesh. The other marvels include Chausath Yogini Temple and Bandar Kudini, a sight to behold as monkeys hop from one spot to another owing to the short distance between the cliffs.
Read more - Everything worth doing when you travel to Jabalpur, in Madhya Pradesh
Often called "Mini Varanasi", Omkarehwar derives its name from 'Omkara' and is in the shape of the Hindu symbol 'Om.' The symbol is formed due to the integration of two valleys and River Narmada. The holy city of Omkareshwar is an abode to one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas and is famous for its natural beauty. The two religious shrines, Omkareshwar and Mahakaleshwar, make it a must-visit for pilgrims travelling from all over the world.
Read more - Twenty famous temples in Madhya Pradesh that are worth paying a visit to
A majestic city located in Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior is an abode to numerous palaces and spectacular forts. Boasting of a glorious past, the great Indian musician Tansen was born in Gwalior. TThe city hosts the very famous Tansen Festival of Music, where various musicians perform on the stage near the tomb to give tribute to the great musician. It is also popular for the hilltop fort that is a delight for history buffs.
Read more - 20 best places and foods to eat while in Gwalior
Famous for the highest density of Bengal tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park boasts of a topography that is diverse in nature. From dense forests and rocky hills to sharp vertical ridges, this park is home to numerous species of mammals, birds, and butterflies along with having the highest sightings of royal tigers. This is a must-visit for all wildlife enthusiasts.
Read more - Wildlife Tourism: Fifteen best National parks in India for a memorable wildlife experience
Sanchi, the land of stupas, is popular for the oldest stone structures. A World Heritage UNESCO site, the Great Sanchi Stupa, was initiated by Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. Buddhist art and architecture have been well-depicted in the sculptures present at the site. Based on a hilltop, the Stupa is 46 km from Bhopal. It is a must-visit for Buddhist pilgrims. In honour of Lord Buddha and other Buddhist relics, the Stupa was constructed to serve as a sacred burial site for Lord Buddha.
"The diamond city," Panna is located in Madhya Pradesh and is of utmost historical importance. An old Gond settlement, this city is in the heart of the nation and boasts of its diamond reserves.
A world heritage site, Panna is known for its contribution to wildlife conservation at the Panna National Park. This city is a haven for devotees who come and take blessings at the temple of Padmavatipuri Dham.
Situated at the highest point of Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi is the only hill station and is often known as "Satpura ki Rani". Standing at an altitude of 1,067 metres, this small quaint town is a part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Madhya Pradesh promises an exceptional experience and satisfies the wanderlust of all those who visit the state. From wildlife parks and opulent structures to architectural masterpieces, there is a cornucopia of places to visit in Madhya Pradesh,a haven for nature and art buffs. This state promises not to disappoint anyone entering the periphery. Exquisitely carved temples, picturesque hill stations, medieval forts, enthralling number of monuments, and Buddhist stupas located in this state will make your jaw drop.