Madhya Pradesh, popular as the heart of “Incredible India” for all the right reasons is highly revered by the backpackers and explorers throughout the country. Set right at the centre of the country, it is a large state that is surrounded by other states from all sides. Abundant with nature and home to some very old cities, it is a state that is equipped with all.
Still rustic in a majority of the areas, Madhya Pradesh oozes the essence of old world. The beautiful natural landscapes, various wildlife sanctuaries, far off villages, long tradition of art, culture, dance, music, food and hospitality, etc. offer a relaxing respite from the congested and chaotic cities of India of the present time. However, that being said, it doesn’t mean that the state is totally underdeveloped with no sign of modernization anywhere within its province. Bhopal, Jabalpur, Indore, Gwalior, Ujjain, etc. are the state’s take on modernity. They are the fastest developing cities in the state and sufficiently equipped with all necessary parameters of modernization.
As a tourist destination, it is until recent decades that Madhya Pradesh was neglected. However, with the government taking good endeavors and the development of tourism in the country, there is certainly a growth in the state’s tourism. In fact, Madhya Pradesh houses a feast for enthusiasts who love old temples, pre-historic paintings, religious erotica, historic forts, or the culture and life of the tribes. If you are thinking of visiting the state for a short holiday trip, it is ideal that you give away the thought because two to three days are simply insufficient for relishing the state as a whole. Still, here is a list of some significant places that are worth visiting when you are in the state.
Indore
Crowded, busy bazaars, food drenched in spices, imprudent modernization coexisting with some very old monuments are what that constitute the description of Indore. The once capital of the Holkar, today is regarded as the commercial capital of the state. For a tourist there is certainly a plethora of attractions and allures. Hire a Ujjain to Indore taxi; it takes a little more than 1 hour to cover the distance. Through its entire lifespan, it exchanged hands with different kingdoms and rulers. Rajwada , Sukh Niwas, and Lal Baug Palace stand testimonies to the glorious past. The city is also home to the 3rd oldest stock exchange in the country. Besides, the place has a long tradition of producing Maheshwari and Chanderi saris, which are today the other chief allures of the city.
Khajuraho
This one is a well-known destination in India. The reason behind the fact is that it is the place where exist the centuries old temples that exhibit erotica to the fullest. From voluptuous nymphs to men having orgies, sculptures depicting different Kamasutra postures to the ones that display the daily life, it seems that the place houses all. However, with the passage of time a majority of these temples and sculptures were damaged and lost. The entire site has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site, which explains the historic significance of the place. Being here simply feels like you have somehow traveled back in time. Take out the cameras and develop some photography skills as the place offers you with multiple photo-ops.
That were the two must visit places in Madhya Pradesh and it is obvious that there are certain more. Pick a favorable time and destination, avail one of the tour packages, book trains, and get going for a memorable holiday.