MADHYA PRADESH

6 N / 7 D

Day 1: Arrival in Bhopal & Local Sightseeing

• Arrive at Bhopal Airport/Railway Station.

• Visit Taj-ul-Masajid, one of the largest mosques in India.

• Explore Upper Lake & Lower Lake for boating.

• Visit Bharat Bhavan, an art and culture center.

• Explore Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (Tribal Museum).

• Overnight stay in Bhopal.

Day 2: Excursion to Sanchi & Bhimbetka

• Drive to Sanchi Stupa (50 km, 1.5 hours, UNESCO site).

• Explore Great Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and Buddhist monasteries.

• Visit Bhimbetka Rock Shelters (50 km from Sanchi, UNESCO site).

• Return to Bhopal and explore local markets.

• Overnight stay in Bhopal.

Day 3: Bhopal to Pachmarhi – Queen of Satpura

• Drive to Pachmarhi (200 km, 5 hours).

• Visit Jata Shankar Caves & Handi Khoh Viewpoint.

• Explore Bee Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Pachmarhi.

• Visit Priyadarshini Point for a stunning sunset view.

• Overnight stay in Pachmarhi.

Day 4: Pachmarhi to Kanha National Park

• Drive to Kanha National Park (350 km, 7-8 hours).

• Check-in at a jungle resort and relax.

• Enjoy an evening nature walk in the forest.

• Overnight stay at Kanha.

Day 5: Jungle Safari & Kanha to Jabalpur

• Early morning jungle safari in Kanha National Park (Tiger Reserve).

• Spot Bengal tigers, barasingha, leopards, and more.

• Drive to Jabalpur (130 km, 3 hours).

• Visit Dhuandhar Waterfalls & Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat.

• Enjoy a boat ride on the Narmada River.

• Overnight stay in Jabalpur.

Day 6: Jabalpur to Khajuraho – Temples & Heritage

• Drive to Khajuraho (250 km, 5-6 hours).

• Visit Western Group of Temples (UNESCO site).

• Explore Kandariya Mahadev, Lakshmana Temple, and more.

• Enjoy the Khajuraho Light & Sound Show in the evening.

• Overnight stay in Khajuraho.

Day 7: Panna National Park & Departure

• Visit Panna National Park (50 km, 1 hour) for a morning safari.

• Explore Raneh Falls & Pandav Falls nearby.

• Return to Khajuraho and fly/train to your next destination.

Best Time to Visit Madhya Pradesh

✅ October to March – Best for wildlife, heritage, and comfortable weather.
✅ July to September – Ideal for lush greenery & waterfalls (Pachmarhi, Jabalpur).

Would you like a shorter itinerary or one focused on wildlife, adventure, or heritage sites? 😊

Madhya Pradesh, located in central India, is a state rich in history, culture, wildlife, and architectural marvels. From ancient temples and forts to national parks and vibrant cities, Madhya Pradesh offers a wealth of experiences. If you're planning a tour of Madhya Pradesh without a fixed itinerary, here are some of the top destinations and experiences you can explore at your own pace:

Cultural and Historical Sites

1. Bhopal

   • Taj-ul-Masjid: One of the largest mosques in India, known for its beautiful architecture and grandeur.

   • Bhopal Lake: A picturesque lake surrounded by scenic landscapes, perfect for boating or simply relaxing by the water.

   • Upper Lake and Lower Lake: These two lakes are prominent attractions in Bhopal, ideal for water sports, photography, and sightseeing.

   • Sanchi Stupa: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sanchi is an ancient Buddhist complex known for its stupas, pillars, and temples.

2. Khajuraho

   • Khajuraho Temples: Famous for their stunningly intricate sculptures and erotic carvings, the temples of Khajuraho are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These temples, dating back to the Chandela dynasty, are one of India’s most iconic architectural masterpieces.

3. Gwalior

   • Gwalior Fort: One of the most formidable and beautiful forts in India, Gwalior Fort has a rich history and offers impressive views over the surrounding city.

   • Sas Bahu Ka Mandir: An architectural gem with exquisite carvings and a serene atmosphere.

   • Jai Vilas Palace: A historical palace that is now a museum, showcasing the grandeur of the Maratha dynasty.

4. Orchha

   • Orchha Fort: A medieval fort complex with temples, palaces, and gardens. It’s one of the most beautiful historical sites in the state.

   • Chaturbhuj Temple: Known for its magnificent structure and intricate carvings, the temple is an excellent example of architectural beauty in Orchha.

   • Jahangir Mahal: A palace within the Orchha Fort, offering spectacular views of the surrounding region.

5. Ujjain

   • Mahakaleshwar Temple: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, the Mahakaleshwar Temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.

   • Kaal Bhairav Temple: Another sacred temple in Ujjain, dedicated to Lord Bhairav, one of the most revered deities in the region.

   • Siddhavat: A sacred banyan tree near the Mahakaleshwar Temple, with religious significance in the city’s history.

Nature and Adventure

1. Kanha National Park

   • Known for its dense forests and rich biodiversity, Kanha is one of the largest and most famous wildlife reserves in India. It is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian leopards, Sloth bears, and a wide variety of other animals.

   • Safari Tours: The park offers jeep safaris to spot tigers and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

2. Bandhavgarh National Park

   • Famous for having one of the highest populations of tigers in India, Bandhavgarh is a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

   • Tiger Safari: Embark on jeep safaris to spot tigers and explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

3. Pachmarhi

   • The only hill station in Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi is known for its pleasant climate, scenic beauty, and waterfalls.

   • Bee Falls: A popular waterfall where you can take a dip or enjoy the serene atmosphere.

   • Dhoopgarh: The highest point in Madhya Pradesh, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

4. Satpura National Park

   • A lesser-known gem, Satpura National Park is ideal for wildlife lovers, offering safaris through its rich forests, home to tigers, leopards, and a variety of bird species.

   • Trekking and Boating: The park also offers opportunities for trekking and boating on the Denwa River.

Tribal Culture and Villages

1. Chhindwara

   • Chhindwara is known for its tribal population and cultural diversity. The area is home to many indigenous tribes, and you can explore their way of life, crafts, and traditional art forms.

   • Chaurai: A village near Chhindwara where you can explore tribal settlements and experience local customs.

2. Mandla

   • Mandla is a tribal region surrounded by forests and hills, providing a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of tribal communities.

   • Mandla Fort: A historical fort that offers beautiful views of the Narmada River.

3. Kanha Tiger Reserve

   • Besides being famous for its wildlife, Kanha is also home to the Baiga tribe. The tribe’s unique culture and lifestyle are fascinating, and you can explore their way of life by visiting nearby villages.

Festivals and Events

1. Khajuraho Dance Festival (February-March)

   • Held annually in Khajuraho, this festival celebrates classical Indian dance forms against the backdrop of the ancient temples. Performances include Bharatnatyam, Odissi, Kathak, and more.

2. Ujjain Simhastha (Kumbh Mela)

   • Held every 12 years in Ujjain, the Simhastha Kumbh Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in India, attracting millions of pilgrims from across the country.

3. Tansen Music Festival (November-December)

   • Held in Gwalior, this festival celebrates the legacy of the famous classical musician Tansen. The festival features performances by some of the best classical musicians in India.

4. Baisakhi (April)

   • Celebrated in many parts of Madhya Pradesh, Baisakhi marks the harvest season and is accompanied by fairs, folk dances, and cultural performances.

Local Cuisine

1. Poha

   • A popular breakfast dish in Madhya Pradesh, Poha is made from flattened rice and served with sev (crunchy noodles) and fresh coriander.

2. Sabudana Khichdi

   • A dish made from tapioca pearls, commonly eaten during fasting periods, flavored with spices, peanuts, and potatoes.

3. Dal Bafla

   • A traditional dish from the region, similar to dal baati from Rajasthan, it consists of wheat dough balls served with a spicy dal (lentil soup).

4. Bhutte Ka Kees

   • A unique dish from Indore, made from grated corn cooked with spices and served as a savory snack.

5. Mawa Baati

   • A sweet made from condensed milk, ghee, and flour, fried and served hot with sugar syrup.

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: The best time to visit Madhya Pradesh is during the cooler months, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing, wildlife safaris, and outdoor activities.

• April to June: While the summer months can be hot, they are a good time to visit the wildlife parks as animals are easier to spot around waterholes.

• Monsoon (July to September): The state receives moderate rainfall, which makes it a great time for nature lovers, especially for visiting the lush green hill stations like Pachmarhi.

Madhya Pradesh offers a rich diversity of experiences that will appeal to history buffs, nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you are exploring ancient temples, embarking on wildlife safaris, or experiencing the vibrant local culture, Madhya Pradesh has something for everyone.