From prehistoric caves to Rajputs to Guptas to Marathas to Mughals, the terrain of Madhya Pradesh is a map representing the passage of time, darned with anecdotes of the first humans, huge empires, and traditional relics.
Following are some of the tourist places in Madhya Pradesh that are not to be missed:
Govindgarh Palace
It is a majestic structure constructed by Maharaja Vishvanath Singh of Rewa on the shore of a gorgeous lake. It is also where the first-ever White Tiger sighting occurred.
Best time to visit- October to March
Keoti Waterfall
It drops 130 metres from a height of natural origin. When standing at the edge of the vantage point, you can observe the water flowing in the other direction due to its great pressure. It is where the river Mahana descends from the Rewa plateau.
Best time to visit- October to March
Satpura National park
The National Park encompasses an area of 524 square kilometres. It is the perfect haven for wildlife watchers, with its breathtaking hilly terrains, tranquil rainforest, deep gorges, streams, and untouched forest places, among others.
Best time to visit- October to June
Chausath Yogini Temple
The Temple of 64 Yoginis was established by the Kalchuri dynasty. The temple’s construction from granite and sandstone exemplifies the era’s architectural accuracy.
Best time to visit- October to March
Patalpani Fall
The Patalpani Waterfall, generated by the Choral River, is approximately 300 feet tall. The depths of the pond that forms at the base of the waterfall are unclear, but locals humorously claim that it reaches “patal” (hell) levels.
Best time to visit- June to October
Holkar Fort
It was the lavish palace of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar hence also known as the Queen’s Fort. This fort was also the managerial headquarter of Rani Ahilyabai during her rule and currently, it has been converted into a guesthouse. The fort is the peak of Maratha architecture.
Best time to visit- October to March
Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
The Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh’s oldest sanctuary, is a delight for wildlife and avian lovers alike. A variety of wildlife can be spotted in Ralamandal, such as leopards, blue bulls, peacocks, deer, jackals, hares, and exotic birds.
Best Time to Visit- July to March
Sanchi Stupa
The famous hemispherical structure of the Sanchi Stupa, symbolizes a distinctive architectural heritage and history. It represents the three jewels of Buddhism: The Buddha, the Dharma (Teachings), and the Sangha (Community).
Best time to visit- July to March
Khajuraho Temples
Constructed by the Chandela Dynasty between 950 and 1050 AD in what is now the Chattarpur area, and is a model of architectural brilliance and artistic grace. These Nagara-styled temples were constructed as artistic representations of numerous subjects related to meditation, community interactions, spiritual knowledge, as well as human relationships.
Best time to visit- July to March
Ram Ghat
It is a popular site close to the Shipra River. It is one of the ancient bathing ghats and a popular location for the Kumbh Mela.
Best time to Visit- July to March
Amarkantak
Commonly known as “Teerthraj,” It is situated between the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges. It is a hill station that provides visitors with some of the most gorgeous temples imaginable. The Narmada, one of India’s Sacred Rivers, begins here making this location unique.
Best time to visit- October to March
Taj-ul Masjid
Taj-ul-Masajid, with its impressive architecture featuring a pink façade adorned by two massive white-domed minarets, offers a stunning view of the beautiful city of Bhopal.
Best time to visit- October to March
Chakla Baoli
One of Chanderi’s largest step-wells is a rectangular-shaped baoli built under Khilji’s reign. According to the inscription near the entrance, this baoli was designed for the use of aristocratic women.
Best time to visit- November to January
Mandu
Mandu, with its gorgeous architecture and rich history, is a mesmerising destination for tourists from around the world. Mandu’s monuments are fascinating, but it’s the beautiful vistas from the palaces and pavilions that will make you fall in love with the city.
Best time to visit- October to March
Upper Lake
The lake was constructed by King Bhoj in the eleventh century, and according to a famous urban legend, he did so to cure himself of a skin problem.
Best time to visit- July to March
Ratapani Wildlife sanctuary
It is one of the most fascinating habitats for an abundance of species, including tigers, leopards, hyenas, spotted and barking deer, sloth bears, and others.
Best time to visit- October to April
Tomb of Maharaja Chatrasal
He was an Indian warrior of the Middle Ages who battled against Aurangzeb, the Mughal era emperor and formed his kingdom in Bundelkhand, becoming a Maharaja. The octagonal tomb was constructed in the 18th century A.D.
Best time to visit- October to March
Bhimbetka rock shelter
The Rock Shelters are an archaeological gem spanning the Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods. Several of the natural caves at Bhimbetka include well-preserved prehistoric cave paintings, the oldest of which date back approximately 10,000 years.
Best time to visit- October to April
Udayagiri Caves
These caves are a collection of twenty Hindu and Jain caverns constructed during the Gupta dynasty in the fourth century AD. They are partially carved into the rock and structure. Historic inscriptions of Chandragupta II and Kumara Gupta are located in the caverns.
Best time to visit- October to March
Lalbagh Palace
One of the most luxurious structures of the Holkar dynasty. The palace is a blend of Renaissance, Palladian, and Baroque architectural components and has enormous chandeliers, luxurious Persian carpets, Indian works of art and stuffed athletic trophies.
Best time to visit Lalbagh Palace– September to March
Madhya Pradesh is an ancient land of wonders whose heart conceals numerous tales, myths as well as secrets. But, those who know how to decipher its luring hints will find their way. Such natural, as well as architectural marvels, dot the state’s enormous landscape, making it a film and intellectual treat for art and history fans.
