When we talk about tourist places in Madhya Pradesh, we talk of some of the most visited and popular tourist attractions and destinations in India. “Heart of India” is the name given to this central state of the country, Madhya Pradesh.
It is a cultural center of the country dotted with spectacular structures like carved temples, forts, palaces and more across the state.
The sacred Stupas at Sanchi, which holds a relic of Lord Buddha is found here and is very significant among the Buddhists.
Hinduism too is celebrated in this state, it is home to two of the twelve sacred shrines or the jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva, attracting a large number of pilgrims throughout the year.
Madhya Pradesh– by virtue of its varied landscape and diverse flora and fauna – is an international hotspot when it comes to wildlife safaris in India. This largest Indian state is home to more than 10 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
With a multitude of tourist places in Madhya Pradesh that you could cover during your holiday, your trip to MP is going to be an experience of a lifetime with a seamless blend of history, mythology, nature and spirituality.
15 Best Tourist Places to visit in Madhya Pradesh That Depict Art, History, and Nature
- Bhopal
- Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka
- Chitrakoot
- Chanderi
- Pachmarhi
- Khajuraho
- Kanha National Park
- Omkareshwar
- Gwalior
- Ujjain
- Bandhavgarh National Park
- Orchha
- Mandu
- Indore
- Sanchi
1. Bhopal- The Blend of Historica Vibe and Contemporary Touch
Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh that has varied landscapes and different contrasts that will blow your mind. You can rekindle your curiosity for tradition and culture, make a better connection with nature, and observe the spirituality in this city.
One side of Bhopal displays the old vibe through its haveli, wide chowks, and bazaars, whereas the other side has the touch of modernity that reflects in high-end restaurants and buildings. The incredibleness lies in its ancient sites that are must-visit places in Madhya Pradesh.
This mesmerizing city offers numerous stunning historical sites that will take you back into the old era. Do not forget to stroll in the vibrant market to collect handicrafts and other beautiful items.
Attractions of Bhopal:
- Birla Museum
- Jama Masjid
- Gohar Mahal
- Van Vihar National Park
- Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalay
- Taj-Ul-Masajid
- Upper & Lower Lake
- State Museum
Best Time to Visit Bhopal
The winter season is the best time to visit Bhopal. During these months, the climate is pleasant and enriches your travel experience. You can enjoy sightseeing in Bhopal in the winter season with a pleasant climate.
How to Reach Bhopal:
- Bhopal Airport is around 13 km far away from the main city.
- Bhopal Junction is around 800 m far away from the main city, and you can cover the distance by walking.
- Bhopal Bus Stand is around 750 m far away from the main city.
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2. Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka- Witness the Historical Side of India
Cave paintings which are 30,00 years old, rock shelters that were home to humans, and rich flora and fauna around, make this place one of the best tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh. No wonder! Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka is a gift to us from the incredible history of India.
This site has earned the honor of the UNESCO World Heritage site. You will be amused and curious by looking at the naturally carved rocks surrounded by forest. It is said that the name Bhimbetka is derived from Bhimbaithka, and its meaning is the sitting place of Bhima, a prominent character from the epic Mahabharata.
Attractions of Bhimbetka:
- Bhojpur
- Hoshangabad
- Painting of a huge red bison attacking a man is visible only when the sun rays fall in the right direction
- Boar Rock
- Zoo Rock
- The Rock Caves
Best Time to Visit Bhimbetka:
July to April is the best time to explore the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka. Throughout these months, you can explore this site with a pleasant atmosphere around you.
How to Reach Bhimbetka:
- Bhopal Airport is around 46 km far away from Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka
- Bhopal Junction is around 45 km far away from this site.
- Bhopal Bus Stand is approximately 46 km far away from this site.
3. Chitrakoot- A town to get the vibe of history, spirituality, and culture
Being mentioned in the epic Ramayana, Chitrakoot is considered a sacred town of Madhya Pradesh. But, it is much more than a religious town. Chitrakoot has an incredible past that you can sense through its historical monuments and wildlife parks.
It is one of the famous tourist places in Madhya Pradesh because one can explore this town from a historical, religious, archaeological, and cultural point of view. This majestic town got its name from the presence of Cheetal (Deer) in the region.
Chitrakoot offers diversity in beauty and never fails to surprise its visitors. You can experience the Indian culture closely in Chitrakoot and create some memories that will remain in your heart forever.
Attractions of Chitrakoot:
- Gupt Godavari Cave
- Raghav Prayag Ghat
- Kalinjar Fort
- Kamadgiri
- Panna National Park
- Valmiki Ashram
- Ram Ghat
- Hanuman Dhara
- Bharat Milap Temple
- Sati Anusuya Ashram
- Janaki Kund
Best Time to Visit Chitrakoot:
The best time to visit Chitrakoot is the winter season (October to March). There are countless places to visit and to relax, and the winter brings a cool breeze and a pleasant climate that will make your travel experience exceptional.
How to Reach Chitrakoot:
The nearest Airport from Chitrakoot is Ahmedabad Airport that is located around 92 km.
Karwi is the closest railway station from Chitrakoot that is situated at a distance of 8 km.
Chitrakoot Dham KArwi railway station is the nearest one that is located around 10 km from the town.
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4. Chanderi- Admire the beauty of architecture and art
When the word Chanderi strikes in our ears, the first impression that our minds create is fabric by the same name. It is completely fine and justified because it is home to amazingly designed Chanderi Sarees.
This 11th century small town of Madhya Pradesh is a melting point of history, grandeur, and art. As per the legends, epic Mahabharata’s Sishupal was once ruled here. You will find here the rich history and loads of heritage sites that will leave you spellbound.
Forts, baolis, heritage sites will polish your knowledge about culture and allow you to explore the depth of history and heritage. No doubt! It is one of the beautiful places in Madhya Pradesh that holds incredible beauty.
Attractions Chanderi:
- Jauhar Kund
- Koshak Mahal
- Badal Mahal Gate
- Jama Masjid
- Chanderi Fort
Best Time to Visit Chanderi:
The winter months are comfy to visit Chanderi as the temperature revolves around 5 to 20 degrees celsius. You can easily walk around the city and enjoy sightseeing without facing any issues like humidity and hotness.
How to Reach Chanderi:
Gwalior Airport is the ideal choice to reach Chanderi by air. It is located around 223 km from Chanderi. Lalitpur is the closest railway station that is around 40 km away from Chanderi. Chanderi Bus Stand is around 2 km away from the main town.
5. Pachmarhi- Mix of natural beauty with ancient vibes
Situated amidst the Satpura Range with a height of 1100 m, Pachmarhi is renowned as the Queen of Satpura. Madhya Pradesh tourist places have shades of beauty that can’t be described in words, and Pachmarhi is one of those. You can feel the beauty of this gem of nature that has rich flora and fauna and the title of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Pachmarhi is home to Pandavas Caves, prime attractions of this town. It is believed that these caves were built by Pandavas who lived here during their exile. You can find spiritual sites, exquisite waterfalls, and British architecture in this town.
You can also enjoy the Jeep Safari in Satpura Tiger reserve and get a close connection with nature. All of these elements make Pachmarhi an ideal spot to celebrate a vacation in so many ways.
Attractions of Pachmarhi:
- Bee Falls
- Pandava Caves
- Jata Shankar Caves
- Handi Khoh
- Dhoopgarh
- Mahadeo Hills
- Bison Lodge
- Rajat Prapat Waterfall
Best Time to Visit Pachmarhi:
You can visit Pachmarhi any time of the year. The climate is pleasurable throughout the year and allows you to enjoy sightseeing and activities.
How to Reach Pachmarhi:
Raja Bhoj Airport is the closest airport from Pachmarhi which is located at a distance of 145 km.
Pipariya Railway Station is the nearest railway junction from Pachmarhi that is around 52 km away from the town. Pachmarhi Bus Stand is the nearest bus stand which is around 1.5 km away from the town.
6. Khajuraho: Of Sense and Sensibilities
This small town of Khajuraho contributes to promoting tourism in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the top tourist places in Madhya Pradesh and famous for a group of Hindu and Jain temples, which are considered as World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO. The intricate figurines, carved on the walls have an erotic representation of the Tantric practices,
believed by the Rajput king, Chandela.
This site, however, attracts a wide range of visitors who are eager to explore the exquisite carvings making it the most popular place to visit in Khajuraho. Originally there were 85 temples built, but only 22 remain now. What makes Khajuraho more appealing, is the background of the Vindhya range that beautifies the view.
Khajuraho is a must-visit site if you are in Madhya Pradesh, you will be enchanted by the intricate details and the fine architecture of the temples. The best time to visit Khajuraho is during the winter season, from October – March, one can enjoy the artifacts at its best in a calm temperature.
Attractions of Khajuraho:
- Chausath yogini Temple
- Dulhadev Temple
- State Museum of Tribal and Folks Art
- Devi Jagadambi Temple
- Jain Museum
- Raneh Falls
- Chaturbhuj Temple
- Shivsagar Lake
- Chausath Yogini Temple
- Kandariya Mahadev Temple
- Beni Sagar Dam
- Laxmi and Varaha Temple
Best Time to Visit Khajuraho:
The ideal time to visit Khajuraho is the winter season (October to March) because you can avoid the scorching heat and enjoy easy-going sightseeing.
How to reach Khajuraho:
Khajuraho has its airport on its name and is located around 3.2 km from the city center.
Mahoba Railway Station is the ideal choice to reach Khajuraho by train that is situated around 63 km from Khajuraho. Khajuraho Bus Stand has located around 2.3 km from the main city center.
3 Days Tour to Khajuraho
Agra with Khajuraho Tour
Golden Triangle with Khajuraho and Wildlife
Gwalior Orchha Khajuraho Tour7. Kanha National Park: The Jungle Book
One of the largest national parks in the state of Madhya Pradesh is the Kanha located in the Maikal Hills and considered one of the top 10 national parks in India.
The park that is said to have inspired Rudyard Kipling to pen down the Jungle Book is one of the most well maintained and the tourists flock in a large number into this wildlife junction. The park is home to several exotic wildlife, like the Barasingha (deer), Cat Tiger and more.
The Sal and bamboo forests and hills of grasslands provide a great view and a sense of tranquility. It is a great pleasure to spot a Tiger moving around with pride.
A safari trip into the jungles of Kanha National Park will be an enthralling experience. The best time to visit the Kanha Tiger Reserve is during the period from mid-October to June end.
Attractions Kanha National Park:
- Kanha Museum
- Kawardha Palace
- Kanha Meadows
- Sonf Meadows
- Shravan Tal
- Sindoor Trees
Best Time to Visit Kanha National Park:
The ideal time to explore the Kanha National Park is between October to April. You can enjoy the safari in the jungle and explore the nearby attraction without facing scorching heat.
How to Reach Kanha National Park:
The nearest airport from Kanha National Park is situated at a distance of 160 km from the park.
Gondia railway station is the nearest railway junction from this national park that is located around 122 km from it. Baihar Bus Stand is the nearest bus stop from Kanha National Park and is located around 15 km away from it.
Splendors of Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho With Tiger Tour
In the Land of Tigers
Madhya Pradesh Wildlife Tour8. Omkareshwar: Immortals of Meluha
The Omkareshwar is a popular Hindu pilgrimage destination as it is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva in India.
It is located on the Northern bank of the Narmada River. The river splits into two and forms an island in the center, Interestingly, the island is in the shape of the Hindu symbol of “Om”.
There are many legends behind the Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga and the culmination of all those makes it a sacred place undeniably. The central Omkareshwar temple is the main tourist attraction in the area, it is built in the North Indian style architecture.
Every day, they have three main prayer services, ‘Puja’. Every Monday, the three-headed golden idol is taken out in a procession on the street. The festivals are celebrated in a grand scale, where a large number of pilgrims visit making Omkareshwar one of the popular tourist destinations in Madhya Pradesh.
Attractions of Omkareshwar:
- Omkareshwar Temple
- Kajal Rani ave
- Peshawar Ghat
- Kedareshwar Temple
- Mamleshwar Temple
- Fanase Ghat
Best Time to Visit Omkareshwar:
October to March is the ideal time to visit Omkareshwar. During these months the cool weather all around makes your visit more pleasant.
How to Reach Omkareshwar:
Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore is the closest airport from Omkareshwar that is around 85 km away from it. Omkareshwar has a railway station that is around 12 km away from the town. Omkareshwar bus stand is the nearest bus stand that is located around 450 m from the main city.
9. Gwalior: Legends of Fall
Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, is a historically significant city of Gwalior. At one point the capital of the Rajput rulers has left a predominant mark in the place. The magnificent Fort is preserved with care and is considered as one of the best in the world. Gwalior is well connected by railway or a roadway.
The legendary Indian musician Tansen is from the city and in his memory, a classical music program along with the Gwalior Trade fair is observed every year.
The history of Gwalior goes like this, the king of the region named Suraj Sen was stricken with a grave disease, but later had been cured by a hermit saint named Gwalipa and to show his gratitude, he named the city Gwalior.
Attractions of Gwalior:
- Sun Temple
- Gwalior Fort
- Tansen Tomb
- Gopachal Parvat
- Man Mandir Palace
- Madhav National Park
- Teli ka Mandir
- Mansingh Palace
- Tigra Dam
Best Time to Visit Gwalior:
The best time to explore the attractions of Gwalior is between October to February.
How to Reach Gwalior:
Gwalior has its airport which is around 11 km away from the main city. Gwalior Railway Station is located around 750m away from its main city. This city has its Bus stand on its name and is located around 4 km away.
3 Days Tour to Gwalior
3 Days Tour to Gwalior and Chanderi10. Ujjain: A Drop from the Churning of the Milk of Ocean
In the Malwa region, Madhya Pradesh, along the Banks of the river Kshipre lies the ancient city of Ujjain. The city is an abode to various temples and religious sites, attracting pilgrims in a large scale from all the corners of the country.
It is one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus and one of the four sites that host Kumbh Mela. Ujjain is mentioned in the text of the Mahabharata and in Buddhist Literature, thus making it a significant site in the mythologies. Also, historically Ujjain holds a great significance.
One of the 12 jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva, the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is located here in this holy city. Other popular tourist places in Ujjain are the Radha Madan Mohan Temple, Pir Matsyendranath, Kal Bhairava, Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir and more. The best time to visit Ujjain is during the winter season.
Attractions of Ujjain:
- Vedh Shala
- Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple
- Ram Ghat
- Gopal Mandir
- Harsiddhi Temple
- Sandipani Ashram
- Kal Bhairav Temple
Best Time to Visit Ujjain:
The ideal time to visit Ujjain is between October and March.
How to Reach Ujjain:
Ujjain has its airport which is located at a distance of 15 km. This city has its railway station which is situated at a distance of 1.8 km. Ujjain Bus stand is around 3.6 km from the city. Read more.
11. Bandhavgarh National Park: Into the Wild
One of the major tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the famous National Parks in India. There was an old Fort in the area, from it comes the name of the park. It is located in the Vindhya ranges. The population of the tiger in this Park is denser than in any other Parks in the country.
The jungle area used to be home for the white tigers but has got no records of it for the past 50 years. This forest area of Bandhavgarh National Park lies between the cliffs and wooded Vindhya Range. You can witness a number of birds in the plains region. It is a self-sustaining jungle with rich flora and fauna, some of the common animals are Nilgai, wild boar, fox, jack and more. The area was once a hunting ground for the Rewa royal members.
The best time to visit Bandhavgarh Park is during the cooler months starting from October. Although the warmer month of April and May are considered the best times for tiger spotting in Bandhavgarh.
Attractions of Bandhavgarh National Park:
- Bandhavgarh Fort
- Shesh Shaiya
- Badi Gufa
- Three Cave Point
- Jwalamukhi Temple
Best Time to Visit Bandhavgarh National Park:
October to March is the perfect time to explore Bandhavgarh National Park
How to Reach Bandhavgarh National Park:
Jabalpur Railway Station is around 210 km from this park. Umaria Railway Station is the closest railway station which is around 34 km away from this park. Umaria Bus Stand has located around 37 km from this park.
Browse through these Bandhavgarh Tour Packages to plan your trip
12. Orchha: Return to Innocence
Along the banks of the beautiful Betwa river is a town of Orchha, Madhya Pradesh and was founded by the Rajput Chieftain, Rudra Pratap in the 16th century. Orchha has hardly undergone changes, the medieval outlook of the place is still dominant. When you enter the city, it seems like the time just stopped.
The ancient structures are scattered all over the place, you can visit these sites like the Old Fort, Ram Raja Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple, Laxminarayan Temple, Jahangir Mahal and more, the architectural usage is proof of different rules that took over. Orchha is vibrant in its nature and dead in its age but gives us the perfect blend of both.
Attractions of Orchha:
- Chhatris of Orchha
- Orchha Fort
- Jahangir Mahal
- Raja Mahal
- Chaturbhuj Temple
- Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time to Visit Orchha:
October and November are ideal months to enjoy the city tour of Orchha.
How to Reach Orchha:
Gwalior Airport is the nearest one from Orchha and is located around 129 km from the city.
Jhansi Junction is the closest railway station from Orchha that is located at a distance of 15 km. Jhansi Bus Stand is the closest bus stand from Orchha that is around 15 km away from the city. More details click here!
2 Days Tour to Orchha
Orchha Khajuraho Tour13. Mandu: The Last Song
In the Dhar district in western Madhya Pradesh, lies the ruined city of Mandu or Madhavgad. The location of this region is pleasant, it is placed on a forested plateau and the city is dotted with several structures of ancient architecture. Mandu was once the capital of the Northern Muslim state and was popular for its magnificent palaces, mosques, tombs and above all the legend of Rani Roopmati and Baz Bahadur.
These beautiful objects now stand on its own ruins over the course of 400 years, releasing its own antique and exotic aura. The main tourist places in Mandu are the Darwaza, Hindola Mahal, Hathi Mahal, Jami Masjid, Jahaz Mahal which means a floating palace. The Roopmati’s Pavilion, from where you can have a great view of the sunset.
The best time to visit Mandu is from July till September making it one of the popular monsoon holiday destinations in India. Mandu could also be visited during winter seasons from November till February as the temperature remains cool making it suitable for local sightseeing.
Attractions of Mandu:
- Mandu Fort
- Rewa Kund
- Jahaz Mahal
- Bagh Caves
- Hoshang Shah’s Tomb
- Hindola Mahal
- Jami Masjid
- Rupayan Museum
Best Time to Visit Mandu:
The winter months are considered the best time to visit Mandu in Madhya Pradesh
How to Reach Mandu:
Indore Airport is the nearest airport from Mandu and is located around 96 km.
The nearest railway junction from Mandu is Indore Junction which is located 89 km from it.
The Indoor Bus stand is the closest bus stand from Mandu and is located 97 km from the city.
Mandu Omkareshwar Tour
Short Escape to Mandu
Madhya Pradesh Classical Tour14. Indore: The Urban Chronicle
The largest city in the state and is located on the Malwa Plateau is Indore is one of the major tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh. It lies on the banks of the River Khan and Saraswati and carries the name of a deity. Indore is famous for its architectural glory and the legends behind this city are narrated out loud by the ancient monuments.
The vibrancy of the place is sure to leave you speechless and offers you a thrilling experience altogether. The rich tourist attractions in Indore are mainly the ancient forts, magnificent palaces and artistic temples. The interesting part about Indore is that it has a different side to it, it is a host to a variety of industries and is very advanced in IT services.
It is home to many institutes and is a business hub of Madhya Pradesh, the telecom automobile and textile industries have a lot of scopes here. You can visit the Indore tourist attractions like the Rajdawa, Khajrana Ganesh Mandir, Chattri Bagh, Lalbagh Palace, Indore museum and more. Are you ready to taste the two sides of the city in one go? If Yes, then Indore awaits you.
Attractions of Indore:
- Rajwada
- Lalbagh Palace
- Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
- Choral Dam
- Indore White Church
- Khajrana Ganesh Temple
- Patalpani Waterfall
- Central Museum of Indore
Best Time to Visit Indore:
The temperature is comfortable in winter to explore the Indore attractions.
How to Reach Indore:
This city has its airport in the name of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, which is located around 6 km from the main city. Indore Railway Junction is the principal junction of this city that is located at a distance of 2.2 km. Bus Stand Rau is located at a distance of 12 km from the main city. To know more about click here!
15. Sanchi: Heart of Wisdom
It is a small village in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India and is a site of great significance among Buddhists. The location has several ancient Buddhist monuments, thus attracting a big number of pilgrims.
However, the famous tourist place in Sanchi is the great stupa which is a UNESCO inscribed World Heritage Site. It is the oldest stone structure in India and its foundation was laid down by king Ashoka in the 3rd century.
The detailing is carved on the gateways and is very noteworthy. Each Toranas that surrounds the Stupa, represents love, peace, courage and trust. The relic of Lord Buddha is honored and sheltered by a symbolic crowning by the Chatra to indicate respect for the high rank. One needs to visit to explore the destination, so holy and beautiful at the same time.
The best time to visit Sanchi would be anytime between October and March. The festival of Chethiyagiri Vihara is celebrated in the month of November and one of the major Buddhist festivals to attend in India.
Attractions of Sanchi:
- Sanchi Stupa
- Udaygiri Caves
- Gupta Temple
- Buddhist Viharas
- Great Bowl
- The Eastern Gateway
- Ashok Pillar
Best Time to Visit Sanchi:
The winter season (November to March) is ideal to visit Sanchi in Madhya Pradesh
How to Reach Sanchi:
The nearest airport from Sanchi is Bhopal Airport which is located around 55 km. Bhopal Railway station is the closest junction from Sanchi that is situated at a distance of 49 km.
The nearest bus stand from Sanchi is the Bhopal Bus stand that is located around 47 km. To know more, click here!
Treasures Madhya Pradesh
Bhopal Pachmarhi Tour
Mesmerizing Madhya PradeshConclusion:
Madhya Pradesh is a heartland of India that is incredible in so many ways. The above list of places to visit in Madhya Pradesh portrays the story of history, wildlife, and the ancient era. You can explore these destinations and unbox the treasure trove of experience that will evoke the storyteller in you. The natural beauty and the preserved cultures and traditions of these tourist places make your vacation fascinating. Mark your destinations and make a connection of your heart with the heart of India.
Related Post:
- Famous National Parks of Madhya Pradesh
- Pilgrimage Sites in Madhya Pradesh
- Top 10 Things to Do in Madhya Pradesh
- Most popular Forts and Palaces in Madhya Pradesh
Nitisha Subba
Nitisha Subba is a travel writer, who love sharing facts about the places she has visited. She is independent and travelling is always on her mind.She writes because she wants you to Experience places through her eyes.
Very nice post and content are really very good. Images are a very impressive collection.
Nice post and amazing collection of beautiful pictures, informative content really good.