‘Heart of India’ – Madhya Pradesh is considered to be the most ancient state in the Indian subcontinent known as Gondwana. The state’s rich history is evident in the stunning architecture of the past. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the “Heart of India”. So, let us look at the background and also the best Places to See in Madhya Pradesh.
History
Madhya Pradesh’s name implies—Madhya means “central” and Pradesh means “region” or “state”. It is located in the heart of the country. The state has no coastline or international border. It is bordered in the northeast by the states of Uttar Pradesh, southeast by Chhattisgarh, south by Maharashtra, southwest by Gujarat, and northwest by Rajasthan. Its capital is Bhopal.
Places to Visit
Khajuraho Erotic Temples
Khajuraho erotic temples are one of India’s most popular historical destinations. If you want proof that the Kama Sutra is from India, Khajuraho is the place to visit. Erotic sculptures include over 20 temples. But in addition, they show a celebration of love, life, and worship.
Best time to visit: July to March
Bandhavgarh National Park
Although Bandhavgarh is relatively difficult to reach and expensive to visit, it is the best place to see tigers in the wild in India. The park has dense green valleys and rocky hilly terrain with an ancient fortress. In addition to tigers, the park is home to numerous wildlife, including lazy bears, deer, leopards, jackals, and birds.
Best time to visit: February to June
Kanha National Park
Kanha National Park is honored to be inspired by Rudyard Kipling’s classic novel Jungle Book. It is rich in lush grass and bamboo forests, lakes, streams, and open grasslands. In addition to tigers, the park is rich in barasingha (swamp deer) and various other animals and birds.
Best time to visit: October to June
Gwalior
The main attraction of Gwalior is the massive city hill towering over the city. Known as one of the most invincible castles in India, its history goes back over 1000 years. Within the walls of the castle are a number of palaces and temples, the Man Mandir Palace being highlighted. At the bottom of the castle is Gwalior Old Town, which is full of history and beautiful examples of Mughal architecture, such as the tomb of Tansen. The Tansen Music Festival takes place in the tomb every December.
Best time to visit: July to March
Orchha
It is another relatively peaceful place full of well-preserved palaces and temples with distinctly medieval charm. Three main palaces are closed in the fortified walls of Orchha. Jahangir Mahal is the largest and most impressive, with some stunning panoramic views from its higher levels. Staying at Sheesh Mahal Jahangir Mahal completes the experience.
Best time to visit: July to March
Bhopal
Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh and has two main attractions — mosques and museums. Particularly fascinating is the Tribal Museum, which introduces the tribes of the area and their lives. Taj ul Masjid, Jama Masjid, and Moti Masjid are fine examples of the city’s rich Islamic heritage. There are also two large lakes within the city, the Upper Lake and the Lower Lake.
Best time to visit: July to March
Maheshwar
Maheshwar resembles Varanasi of Central India, which is a small holy city dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located on the banks of the Narmada River, it is said that only Shiva, where the Narmada flows, is worshiped because he is the only God with inner peace to soothe him.
Best time to visit: October to March
Indore
Indore, the largest city of Madhya Pradesh on the banks of the Khan and Sarawati Rivers, is famous for its outstanding architecture. The earth is a refreshment of the modern world, but a visit to Indore makes you feel that you are in another part of the world and in the ancient world.
Best time to visit: July to March
Delectable dishes of Madhya Pradesh
- Poha
- Daal Bafla
- Seekh Kebabs
- Bhutte Ka Kees
- Bhopali Gosht Korma
- Palak Puri
- Chakki ki Shak
- Malpua
- Jalebi
- Mawa Bati
- Khasta Kachori
- Ghujiya
- Kaju Barfi
- Imarti
- Kopra Patties
Best Places to Eat
- Under the Mango Tree
- Sarafa Bazar
- Mediterra
- Malaya Cafe
- Mr Beans
- Raja Cafe
- Silver Saloon
- Vijay Chat House
- Shree Ganga
- Jharokha Restaurant
- Rasoi
- Nafees
- Moti Mahal Delux
- Mediterraneo
- Amar Mahal Restaurant
- Zam Zam
- Damaru Wala
- Meghdoot
- Guru Kripa Restaurant
HOTELS
Budget
- Hotel Harmony
- Riddhi Siddhi Hotel
- Motel Chandan
- Hotel Roopali
Average
- Lemon Tree Hotel
- Ginger Indore
- Ramada by Wyndham Khajuraho
- Orchha Palace and Convention Centre
Luxury
- The Lalit Temple View Khajuraho
- Sayaji Hotel
- Jehan Numa Palace Hotel
- Radisson Jass Hotel Khajuraho
- Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal
