Explore the heart of India by visiting the most amazing tourist places in Madhya Pradesh. Famously referred to as the “Heart of India”, Madhya Pradesh is the second largest state in India. Madhya Pradesh draws visitors with well-preserved remnants of its compelling history. The rich history of the state is evident from the stunning architecture of the bygone era. To have an insight into the history and marvel at the skills of the artisans of the past, you need to travel the length and breadth of Madhya Pradesh. Here are the top 10 must to visit places in Madhya Pradesh.

Serene Pachmarhi

Pachmarhi, popularly known as ‘Satpura ki Rani’ (Queen of Satpura), sits beautifully, embellished by nature and history, amidst the Satpura range. Legend says the Pandava brothers visited Pachmarhi during their exile.

This Charming unexplored hill stations in Madhya Pradesh is perfect to hang out for a short break. The beautiful mountains, the alluring waterfalls, and the beautiful cave art are things that attract the tourists here.

This most popular hill station of Madhya Pradesh is a treasure with ancient caves of the Buddhist era residing in harmony with serene waterfalls.

Pachmarhi is sure to make you feel calm, the way you felt when you put your bare feet on the garden grass for the first time, as a child.

Key attractions: Bee Fall, Dhupgarh (the highest peak of the Satpuras and Madhya Pradesh), Handi Khoh (deep valley), Rajat Prapat (large waterfall), Chauragarh (Shiv devotees come here in huge numbers during Mahashivratri), Bada Mahadev, Gupt Mahadev, Jatashankar (stalagmite-filled cave in a deep ravine), Duchess Fall, Reechgarh

Graceful Khajuraho

The Khajuraho erotic temples are one of the top historical destinations in India. Khajuraho is famous for its ancient temples that depict some of the finest art in the world.

These temples depict various forms like meditation, spiritual teachings, kinship, wrestling, royalty and most significantly, erotic art. The temples consist of stunning displays of fine sculptures and exceptional architectural skill, making them one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Whether you’re a history buff or not, the intricate details of the sculptures and carvings present at these temples are worth noticing.

Beautiful, intricate and expressive, the sculptures of the Khajuraho temples will leave you in awe and wonder.

Key attractions: Kandariya Mahadev Temple, Lakshmana Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, Ajaigarh Fort, Panna National Park, Beni Sagar Dam, Duladeo Temple, Light and Sound Show

Sanchi Stupa

Sanchi is one of the popular historical & spiritual places on the tourist map of Madhya Pradesh. It was built by Emperor Ashoka in 262 BC after he embraced Buddhism and nonviolence.

The area is made up of a number of other stupas, monasteries, temples, pillars and relics. Sanchi Stupa, a day trip from Bhopal, is one of India’s oldest Buddhist pilgrimage centre and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A visit to Sanchi will bring alive the awe you felt as a child as you listened to the tales of Ashoka.

Key attractions: Sanchi Stupa, Toranas, Monasteries, Ashoka Pillars, Buddhist Vihara, Gupta Temple, and Sanchi Museum

Majestic Orchha

The historic town of Orchha, nestled on the banks of river Betwa, was the capital of one of the most powerful dynasties to ever rule in India- the Bundelas. Founded in 1501 by Bundela Rajput Chief, Orcha literally means ‘a hidden place’.

Orchha has some amazing forts & temples that reflect the immaculate Rajputana architecture. You can attend a glorious evening aarti at Raja Ram Temple or enjoy a photogenic sunset over Betwa; the choice is yours. You can also stay in camp near river and enjoy many water activities including water rafting.

In orchha you will find some of the most fascinating temples and palaces that will help you realise a childhood fantasy – travelling back in time!

Orchha is world-renowned for its classic mural paintings, frescos and the cenotaphs known as chhatris that were constructed to commemorate the Bundela rulers. One can soak in the rich cultural heritage of the city or try their hand at rafting in the Betwa River. The medieval architecture of palaces and temples is a visual delight for photographers.

Key attractions: Orchha Fort, Raja Ram Temple, Raja Mahal, Chaturbhuj Temple, Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary, Palki Mahal, and Dinman Hardaul’s Palace

Magical Mandu

If a small and picturesque town is in your mind, Mandu is the place to be. Perched on a cliff, Mandu – or Mandavgad – is a history lover’s paradise and is known for some amazing architectural splendours. Mandu’s crumbling buildings, encircled by a long 45 kilometer stretch of wall with 12 gateways, still hint of its magnificent past. Floating over it’s own reflection, the Jahaz Mahal in Mandu looks like a ship that’s about to sail. The grand palaces are still alive with royal romance while the ‘darwazas’ (gateways) speak of a history of imperial conquests. A walk through Mandu will leave you awe-struck, the way you used to be listening to stories from grandparents.

Exploring the majestic temples or discovering the impeccable artwork of ancient temples are some of the must-do things here.

Key attractions: Ship Palace, Hindola Mahal, Rupmati’s Pavilion, Nilkanth’s Palace, Rewa Kund, Bagh Caves, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb, and Rupayan Museum

Breathtaking Bhedaghat

It’s a spellbinding experience to see the marble rocks accompany the graceful Narmada river in Bedaghat, Jabalpur. These tall mountains, are known to magically change shapes as you sail along the river.

The calm Narmada throws in a beautiful surprise as she descends a massive 98 ft. creating the spectacular Dhuandhar falls. While nature flaunts its beauty, the magnificent Chaunsath Yogini Temple, dedicated to the goddess Durga, will take you back in time with its inimitable artistry.

Apart from Dhuadhar and Bedaghat, the cultural capital of madhya pradesh, Jabalpur is overloaded with natural splendrous. It is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Madhya Pradesh. Located by the river Narmada, the city boasts of a mesmerising natural beauty that is surrounded by granite & sandstone hillocks. From marvellous waterfalls to marble rocky outcrops and from majestic forts to dams; the list has it all.

The beautiful sights of Bhedaghat will definitely put a smile on your face, brining alive the child in you.

Key attractions: Dhuandhar Waterfall, Bhedaghat, Marble Rocks, Bargi Dam, Madan Mahal Fort, Dumna Nature Reserve, Rani Durgavati Memorial & Museum, and Pisan Hari Jain Temple

Ancient City Ujjain

Located by the Shipra River, Ujjain is one of the fascinating towns of Madhya Pradesh. Ujjain is one of Hinduism’s seven sacred cities, and one of the four locations of the Kumbh Mela,  The most famous Hindu pilgrimage centre is aptly known as the ‘temple town of Madhya Pradesh’. The place boasts of amazing temples depicting Bundela art and architecture. People mostly explore this place to attain solemn peace and serenity.

Ujjain’s spiritual charm is undeniable. The famous poet, Kalidas, described it as ‘The town fallen from Heaven to bring Heaven to Earth’. The many temples give you glimpses of a glorious past. Most importantly, it’s home to the Mahabaleshwar Temple, which has one of India’s 12 sacred Jyotirlingams

This is one city that will take you back to your childhood history books.

Key attractions: Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ram Ghat, Kal Bhairav Temple, Jantar Mantar, Kalideh Palace, and Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum

Spiritual Omkareshwar

A haven for religious people and history enthusiasts, Omkareshwar is one of the popular destinations in Madhya Pradesh. It can only be termed as a blessing, by Lords and mother nature, that Omkareshwar, the sacred island, is shaped like Om – the holiest symbol of Hinduism.

Not surprising then that this serene town is also one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines in India. Pilgrims in unimaginable numbers visit the shrine every year, seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva.

The ancient temples here reflect serenity and peace. Omkareshwar is a perfect place to spend some lone time and immerse in in-depth sanctity.

The beauty and divinity that reside in this town work like a magic spell, transporting you back to childhood moments of sheer wonder.

Key attractions: Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga & Temple, Mamleshwar Temple, Kajal Rani Cave, Siddhant Temple, and idols of 24 Avatars

Royal Bandhavgarh

Bandhavgarh is one of the popular places to visit in Madhya Pradesh, especially for adventure lovers and photography buffs. It is the best place to see tigers in the wild in India.  Spread over 450 sq km, this biodiversity reserve and national park is home to tigers, numerous birds, reptiles, and other mammals.

Bandhavgarh is also a place of mythological and legendary significance. The ancient Bandhavgarh Fort is of great importance as it is believed to have been gifted by Lord Rama to his younger brother Lakshmana. Bandhavgarh dates back to 2000 years ago and you will find several man made caves with inscriptions and rock paintings.

The sight of the majestic tiger will trigger a sense of awe in you.

Key attractions: Tree House Hideaway Resort, jeep safari, elephant safari

Kahna National Park

Spread across 940 sq.km, Kanha National Park is one of the largest parks in Madhya Pradesh where the majestic royal Bengal tigers are found in good numbers. It also houses rare and nearly extinct animal species, such as Barasingha and Swamp deer.

The Park is respected globally for saving the Barasingha from near extinction. Among the best tourist places in Madhya Pradesh for the nature lovers, the forest area comprising of Sal & Mahua trees is known for spotting tigers, deer, and blackbuck. People who love thrill & adventure can head out for night safaris, stay in homestays, and try the local liquor – Mahua.

Kanha National Park has the honor of providing the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s classic novel, The Jungle Book.

A safari in Kanha will surely get you thrilled, the way you were on your first trip to the zoo, as a child.

Key attractions: Jeep safari, wildlife resort, and night safari

Raja Bhoj’s Bhopal

Bhopal – the city of lakes – is one of the most interesting tourist places in Madhya Pradesh. The long list of numerous lakes, incredible museums, wildlife, and historical palaces, and many other places to visit in bhopal make the capital city a must-visit destination.

One of India’s little-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Bhimbetka rock shelters, is situated about an hour from Bhopal inside Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary. There are more than ancient 700 rock shelters there, dating all the way back to the Paleolithic age. Many of them have paintings on the walls.

The city has two main attractions — mosques and museums. A particularly fascinating museum is the Tribal Museum, which showcases the tribes of the region and their lives. The Taj ul Masjid, Jama Masjid, and Moti Masjid are fine examples of the city’s rich Islamic heritage. There are also two large lakes, the Upper Lake and Lower Lake, inside the city limits.

Key attractions: Upper Lake, Lower Lake, Bhimbetka, Bhojpur, Tribal Museum, State Museum, Birla Museum, Gohar Mahal, Taj ul Masjid, and Van Vihar

Yummy Indore

Cleanest city of India, Indore is one of the largest cities of the state and one of the important names on the Madhya Pradesh tourism facet. Located by the bank of River Saraswati, this city boasts of its rich heritage, historical monuments, and their incredible architecture. It also happens to be the financial capital of Madhya Pradesh.

Today, Indore, the state’s largest city, offers a spectacle of majestic palaces co-existing with commercial centres. It is also known for mouth-watering culinary experience.

Indore, with its abundance, will make you ask for more, like you did as a child for your favourite dish.

Key attractions: Lal Bagh Palace, Central Museum, Patalpani Waterfall, Tincha Waterfall and Indore White Church

Melodic Gwalior

Only two hour drive from Agra and the Taj Mahal, Gwalior is one of the most famous tourist destinations of Madhya Pradesh. Gwalior is rich in art, culture, and history. Gwalior is best known for its imposing hilltop fort, which was famously described as ‘the pearl amongst fortresses in India’. The city is an eminent part of Madhya Pradesh tourism and showcases a perfect blend of architectural wonders and historical milestones. The most popular tourist attraction of the city – Gwalior Fort – is ranked among the best forts in India.

Gwalior also holds an unparalleled reputation in Sangeet, and has retained Indian traditions and the wealth of music intact over the years. Legendary musicians like Tansen and Baiju Bawara belonged to Gwalior.

Key attractions: Gwalior Fort, Mansingh Palace, Tansen Tomb, Tighra Dam, Sun Temple, Sas Bahu Temples, Jai Vilas Palace, Scindia Museum and Gopachal Parvat