It is in the middle of India, and Madhya Pradesh is all about history, culture, and natural beauty: temples of antiquity, forests in wilderness, tranquil waterfalls, and forts of resistance. This beautiful state is one of a kind for a traveler who wants to do some sightseeing outdoors. In this article, we will walk you through the top 5 tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh that one must visit.
Khajuraho – A Stunning World Heritage Site
Khajuraho is known not only all around the country but also worldwide for its wonderful temples and unique sculptures all over the world. These temples were built by the Chandela kings a little over a thousand years ago. What makes these temples different and special is the unbelievably wonderful stone carvings on these walls depicting gods, people, animals, and everyday activities. Several boldly portray love and beauty.
There are two main kinds of temples at Khajuraho: Hindu and Jain temples. The largest and popular temple is the Kandariya Mahadev Temple. This is a brilliant piece of art and design. Visitors can enjoy a light and sound show that narrates the story of Khajuraho every evening.
Why Visit Khajuraho?
- Gaze at the Kandariya Mahadev Temple.
- Visit the eastern group of Jain Temples.
- Celebrate the Khajuraho Dance Festival.
- Watch the evening sound and light show.
- Explore the temple carvings and the surrounding history.
Bandhavgarh National Park – Home of the Royal Bengal Tiger
If one loves the greens and loves nature, then that place must be Bandhavgarh National Park in Madhya Pradesh. Its forests, hills, and valleys make it what it is. The park is famous for having many Royal Bengal Tigers. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best spots to watch a tiger in the wild in India.
The park has zones of Tala, Magadhi, and Khitauli. The Tala zone is the most popular for tigers. One can raid the jungle on a safari in a jeep or on an elephant. Bandhavgarh also has leopards, different kinds of deer, wild boar, and over 250 species of birds.
What to See in Bandhavgarh National Park?
- The jeep safari in the Tala zone is an exciting one.
- It entails spotting tigers and other wild animals.
- The Bandhavgarh Fort is a place worth visiting.
- The Shesh Shaiya statue of Lord Vishnu is also a must-see.
- Enjoy the nature walks and the bird-watching spine.
Ujjain – The Sacred City of Temples
Ujjain was one of the oldest and most sacred cities in India. Located on the banks of the Shipra River, it has become a key place for Hindu pilgrims. The main attraction is the Mahakaleshwar Temple, which has one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
One of the unique experiences in Ujjain is the Bhasma Aarti, a special prayer that takes place during the early hours of the morning. This magical ceremony attracts people from all walks of life. Ujjain’s name is also associated with the Kumbh Mela, perhaps the largest event in the religious calendar and a larger-than-life phenomenon that occurs approximately every 12 years.
What to Explore in Ujjain?
- Attend the Bhasma arati at Mahakaleshwar Temple
- Take a walk at the Shipra River, visiting Ram Ghat.
- Explore Kal Bhairav Temple and Harsiddhi Temple
- Visit the ancient Vedh Shala (observatory)
- Experience the spiritual energy of the city.
Pachmarhi – The Queen of the Satpura Hills
Madhya Pradesh is the only state in India that has a hill station called Pachmarhi. It is a highly green place, where trees and waterfalls give a cool breeze during the hot season. Nestled among Satpura hills, Pachmarhi is also a soothing place amidst the crowded cities. Being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it is also well protected for its rare flora and fauna.
Has caves, temples, fiends, waterfalls, and picturesque places. Legends say that the Pandava Caves belonged to the five brothers of the Mahabharata. Bee Falls and Duchess Falls are very popular sites for resting and photography. The highest peak in Madhya Pradesh, Dhupgarh, is also found here.
Top Things to Do in Pachmarhi
- Go to the ancient caves of Pandava
- See Bee falls, Apsara falls, Duchess Falls.
- Watch the setting sun from the hemispherical at Dhupgarh.
- Visit Jata Shankar Caves.
- Experience nature walking in the Satpura wilderness.
Gwalior – A Royal City of Forts and Music
Gwalior, a city of forts, palaces, and music, was a royal city with many monuments of fame. The city is known for the Gwalior Fort, often referred to as the “Gibraltar of India” for its impregnable walls and lofty position.
Man Singh Palace, Sas Bahu Temples, and Teli Ka Mandir are found inside the fort area. The city is also famous for music, for it is the birthplace of Tansen, one of the greatest musicians in the court of Emperor Akbar. Each year, Tansen Music Festival commemorates him.
Must-Visit Places in Gwalior
- Uncover the grandeur and the aura of Gwalior Fort.
- Walk into the well-preserved halls of Man Singh Palace.
- Delight in the aesthetic, Sas Bahu Tempies.
- Experience the historical hinterland at Jai Vilas Palace Museum.
- Relish the Tansen Music Festival.
Conclusion
Madhya Pradesh is indeed the heart of India and has all that one desires as a traveler, starting right from the carvings of Khajuraho to the tigers of Bandhavgarh and from the holy city of Ujjain to the calm hills of Pachmarhi, along with the royal legacy of Gwalior. This state gives a perfectly blended nature, culture, and history.
Each of the top tourist places in Madhya Pradesh has its perfect little tale, striking beauty, and magic. They are easily accessible and full of things to see and do. If you are passionate about art, animals, prayer, hills, or palaces, your destination is Madhya Pradesh.
Also Read: Okhla Bird Sanctuary – A Place Full of Birds and Nature
