Heavily forested and hosting an entertaining tribal culture, Central India is a treasure trove of unusual tourist attractions. The region consists of the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh that boast of sprawling wildlife reserves, historical fort cities, architectural marvels and some stupendous natural vistas. Here’s a list of handpicked and the best places to visit in Central India that you must explore at least once.
- Gwalior
Several dynasties ruled from the colossal Gwalior Fort which dominates the entire canvas of this historical city in Madhya Pradesh. Consequently, Gwalior’s profile is rich in stupendous structures like palaces, temples, rock-cut sculptures, tombs and cenotaphs, brilliantly representing the splendor of different eras.
Top Sites: Gwalior Fort, Jal Vilas Palace, Ghaus’s Tomb, Jain temples, Koteshwar Temple, Sun Temple
How to Reach: The city has excellent connectivity by air (Gwalior Airport), rail and road (NH 3, 75 and 92).
Best Time: October-March
Similar Destinations: Orchha, Mandu and Bhopal
- Bandhavgarh National Park
Featured in acclaimed wildlife documentaries, thanks to its celebrity Bengal tigers, the national park is named after the historical hill fort which rests on park’s highest peak. Counted among the 5 top national parks in Central India, it has thrilling safari trails revealing huge biodiversity as well as historical structures and caves.
Top Sites: Tala Zone, Badi Gufa, Bandhavgarh Fort, Shesh-Shaiya, Three Cave Pint, Cheshpur Waterfalls
How to Reach: NH 7 connects the park to Jabalpur which also has the closest airport, while the closest railway station is at Umaria. Nagpur to Jabalpur taxi services can be used to enjoy the road trip before getting into wild trip.
Best Time: November-February (pleasant weather), March-May (frequent wildlife spotting).
Similar Destinations: National Parks of Kanha, Pench and Satpura
- Khajuraho
Probably the most amazing destination of Central India tourism is the Group of Monuments at Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an assemblage of Hindu and Jain Temples with marvelous sculptures depicting eroticism aesthetically. The place is no less than an open-air gallery standing peacefully amidst lavish greenery.
Top Sites: Temples of Chausath Yogini, Lakshmana, Parshvanath, Kandariya Mahadev, Devi Jagadambi and Duladeo. Khajuraho Dance Festival (usually in February)
How to Reach: Khajuraho has its own airport and railway station as well as impressive road connectivity in all directions.
Best Time: October-March
Similar Destinations: Bhoramdeo Temple and Bhimbetka Rock Shelters
- Sanchi
In search of heart-warming peace and mysticism, you must visit the holy town of Sanchi. Blessed with Buddhist Monuments, another World Heritage Site in the region, the place is like a refuge for those seeking respite and revival. It is also the opportunity to witness the wealth of rich carvings.
Top Sites: Sanchi Stupa, a number of other stupas, monasteries and temples, Ashoka Pillar and Sanchi Museum
How to Reach: Due to its close proximity with Madhya Pradesh capital Bhopal, the place is conveniently accessible by road, rail and air.
Best Time: October-March
Similar Destinations: Ujjain, Omkareshwar and Raipur
- Chitrakoot Waterfalls
Aptly called the Niagra Falls of India, this majestic vista falls from a height of about 29 m. to create a grand spectacle. It is acclaimed as India’s widest waterfall and is surrounded by natural grandeur. Formed by River Indravati, the entire gorge resembles a horseshoe and presents great visual delight to the eyes.
Top Sites: Sunset views, swimming and boating, numerous Shiva Lingams
How to Reach: Buses, autos and cabs are available from the nearest city called Jagdalpur.
Best Time: Throughout the year (prefer during monsoons from July to September)
Similar Destinations: Waterfalls of Raipuri and Tirathgarh and hill station of Panchmarhi which can be reached easily using the best Bhopal to Pachmarhi taxi services.
Top tourist places in Central India cater to diverse holiday moods. Choose the one that meet your preferences and get set for a fulfilling holiday.