Madhya Pradesh

Hot, dusty Madhya Pradesh is a vast landlocked expanse of scrub-covered hills, sun-parched plains and dense tree cover that accounts for one third of India's forests. Stretching from beyond the headwaters of the mighty River Narmada, at the borders of Orissa and Bihar, to the fringes of the Western Ghats, it's a transitional zone between the Gangetic lowlands in the north and the high dry Deccan plateau to the south.

Despite its diverse array of exceptional attractions, ranging from ancient temples and hilltop forts to isolated wildlife reserves, Madhya Pradesh receives only a fraction of the tourist traffic that pours between Delhi, Agra and Varanasi, and the South. For those that do make the effort, this gem of a state is both culturally rewarding and largely hassle-free - a welcome break after Rajasthan. While interest from tour groups is rising, the only place you're likely to meet more than a handful of tourists is the palace at Orchha and at Khajuraho, one of India's most celebrated temple sites.

Famous Cities in Madhya Pradesh

Highlights of Madhya Pradesh

Sanchi : A finely restored Buddhist stupa complex, complete with intricately carved gateways.

Pachmarhi : The only hill station in central India, where you can trek to the top of a sacred Shiva peak, hunt out prehistoric rock art or just relax in the cool air.

Orchha : Central India at its most exotic: crumbling riverside tombs and ornate Rajput palaces amid lush, tranquil countryside.

Khajuraho : Two groups of temples swathed in blatantly erotic sculpture, lost for centuries in thick jungle but now beautifully restored.

Kanha and Bandhavgarh national parks : Archetypal Kipling country, teeming with wildlife, including tigers and leopards.

Mandu : A Mughal fort, atop a plateau where the emperor got down to serious pleasure-seeking in his vast harem, theater, steam baths and pavilions.

Accommodation in Madhya Pradesh

Deluxe Hotels

Luxury Hotels

Budget Accommoation

How to reach Madhya Pradesh

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