Madhya Pradesh

The state of Madhya Pradesh is quite literally the heart of India. It occupies one of the oldest parts of the Indian subcontinent—Gondwanaland. Madhya Pradesh is known for its religious centres associated with Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and Islam. It is also renowned for its immense natural beauty, with landscapes shaped by plateaus, hills, rivers and forests. The state is primarily rural, and its largely tribal economy is sustained through agriculture and forest produce. Madhya Pradesh is also celebrated for its art, craft, music and dance.

Main Attractions

Khajuraho
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khajuraho is a must-visit attraction. Of the original 75 temples, only 22 remain today. These temples are famous for their architectural brilliance, intricate carvings and erotic sculptures. The creators of Khajuraho claimed descent from the moon. The temple complex is divided into three zones—Western, Eastern and Southern. The largest and most magnificent temple is the iconic Kandariya Mahadeva.

Gwalior
A historic city, Gwalior is named after the saint Gwalipa, who is said to have cured the king’s deadly illness. It is also the birthplace of the legendary musician Tansen. The city is famous for the magnificent Gwalior Fort, one of the largest of its kind. Other major attractions include the Sas Bahu Temples, Man Singh Palace, Suraj Kund, Teli ka Mandir, Tansen’s Tomb and several more.

Ujjain
Ujjain is one of the ancient cities of India and one of the seven sacred places to attain Moksha. It is an important pilgrimage destination as it is home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. According to legend, during the Sagar Manthan, a drop of nectar fell on Earth at Ujjain. The city is famous for the Mahakaleshwar Temple, where the revered Swayambhu Lingam is enshrined. Ujjain also hosts the grand Kumbh Mela. Other major attractions include Gomti Kund, Bhartruhari Caves, Kalideh Palace and many more.

Sanchi
Sanchi is renowned for its Buddhist Stupas and monuments. The stupas were originally built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. The Great Stupa is considered one of the oldest stone structures in India and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Major attractions include the Sanchi Gateways, Buddhist Viharas, the Great Bowl, Gupta Temple and several other ancient structures.

Hotels in Madhya Pradesh

• The Lalit Temple View
• Ramada Hotel
• Samdariya Inn
• Lake View Ashok
• Malwa Resort
• Narmada Retreat

Connectivity

Air: The major airports of Madhya Pradesh are located in Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior and Jabalpur.
Rail: The state has an extensive rail network, with Bhopal serving as a key railway junction.
Road: Madhya Pradesh is well-connected through a strategic network of state and national highways. NH 3, NH 7, NH 12, NH 12A, NH 25, NH 26, NH 26A, NH 27, NH 59, NH 69, NH 75, NH 76, NH 78, NH 79, NH 86 and NH 92 link the state to various parts of India.