Monday, August 19, 2024 Madhya Pradesh is a state brimming with a rich tapestry of unique and diverse experiences. Our connectivity is seamless, being located in the heart of India. Even within the State, travel is comfortable and quick.
Our market edge comes from curating innovative and memorable experiences for our discerning tourists to take back. Madhya Pradesh has therefore earned itself the reputation of being an offbeat multispecialty destination of first choice. This clean, green, and safe State has a plethora of Archaeological and Geological marvels.
According to Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla Principal Secretary, Tourism & Culture Govt of M.P. and Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board , “Our State is kaleidoscope of rich cultural experiences- Madhya Pradesh is also a deep treasure trove for history enthusiasts and has everything from ancient temples and forts to grand palaces and monuments.
Our focus has always been on experiential tourism, and there are many niche and unique experiences that we offer including authentic historical heritage where you feel transported back in time, and experience a retelling of stories of the past” Currently, Madhya Pradesh is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 11 tentative heritage sites. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites include the Khajuraho temple complex, Bhimbetka Caves, and Sanchi Stupa. The state is actively pursuing World Heritage status for other iconic sites, such as Gwalior Fort, Khooni Bhandara in Burhanpur, the Rock Art Sites of the Chambal Valley, Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple at Bhojpur, the Gond monuments of Ramnagar in Mandla, the historic ensemble of Dhamnar, Group of Monuments at Mandu, the historic ensemble of Orchha, Bhedaghat-Lametaghat in the Narmada Valley, Satpura Tiger Reserve, and the Chanderi Saree Weaving Clusters.
Madhya Pradesh offers a treasure trove of attractions for history enthusiasts. Among the remarkable historical sites, the rock shelters of Bhimbetka reveal some of the earliest traces of human life on the Indian subcontinent. These caves showcase evidence of Paleolithic settlements in what is now Madhya Pradesh.
Additionally, Stone Age tools have been discovered in various locations along the Narmada River Valley. The Great Stupa of Sanchi, envisioned by Emperor Ashoka, is another stunning landmark. This sacred monument, with its towering hemispherical dome, is surrounded by an elegant railing and adorned with four grand gateways, representing timeless artistry.
Every year on Buddha Purnima, the relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana are displayed at Sanchi, attracting Buddhist devotees from around the world to this World Heritage site. The Khajuraho Temple complex, an enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site, features 25 stunning stone structures that house both Hindu and Jain temples. These temples, built between 950 and 1050 by the Chandela Dynasty, display intricate Nagara-style architecture, a testament to ancient craftsmanship.
Although originally part of a larger ensemble of 85 temples spread across 20 square kilometers, only 25 temples remain, scattered over a 6-kilometer area, inviting visitors to explore their timeless secrets. The Gwalior Fort, dating back to the 6th century, is another magnificent historical site in Madhya Pradesh. Its towering walls, reaching up to 35 feet, exude grandeur and strength, making it one of India’s most formidable structures.
Emperor Babur famously described it as the “pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind.” The fort, one of the largest in India, contains several temples and significant monuments, including Gujari Mahal, Man Mandir Palace, and Teli ka Mandir, all adorned with stunning sculptures that exemplify architectural beauty. Madhya Pradesh has become one of India’s most popular travel destinations, setting a record in 2023 with tourism footfalls tripling compared to 2022.
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