Historical Places in Madhya Pradesh
Khajuraho Erotic Temples -
If you want proof that the Kama Sutra originated in India, Khajuraho is the place to see. There are over 20 temples abounding in erotic sculptures. However, more than that, they show a celebration of love, life and worship. The Khajuraho erotic temples are rated as one of the top historical destinations in India. Khajuraho is a heritage site in Madhya Pradesh. The place is one of the must-visit destinations of the state. It is famous for its ancient temples that were built during the reign of the Chandela Kings in central India. The place is famous for temple architecture. Khajuraho once had about 83 temples, which were built in a span of 100 years i.e. 950 AD TO 1050 AD. Only 22 temples have survived the tests of time.
Mandu :
Mandu is a resplendent location placed on the projection of the Vindhyas Mountains. It is surrounded by plateau with a deep ravine separating the same with the valley. The place is marked by crystal clear lakes and sparkling ponds. Nature lovers will surely love this place.
Gwalior :
Gwalior is a vibrant city, which is bustling with life. Rajput clans such as Tomars, Kacchwahas, Pratiharas have left a rich historical heritage in the city. This includes palaces, temples and artistic monuments in the city.
Bandhavgarh National Park :
Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will love to visit Bandhavgarh National Park. It has the highest collection of tigers in the country. Madhya Pradesh is also known for its wonderful white tigers. These were mostly found in Rewa. The last white tiger was captivated by Maharaja Martand Singh in the year 1951. There is a stuffed white tiger reminding of the capture, which was named as Mohun in the palace of Rewa.
Pench Tiger Reserve :
Popular as the "Land of Kipling" or the place where Mowgli lived, Pench Tiger Reserve is a splendid place to visit when in Madhya Pradesh. This place inspired Rudyard Kipling with the world renowned "The Jungle Book". This place in India did actually have a small boy who was nurtured by the wolves in the jungle. This incident was actually penned down in "Camp Life of Seoni" by Col. William Sleeman who along with Leut. John Moor captured the boy from the wolves. Rudyard Kipling drew inspiration from this book and published the unique "Jungle Book". Kipling was awarded Nobel Prize for the same.
Sanchi :
When it comes to monasteries, stupas, magnificent pillars and ancient temples, Sanchi is the place to visit. These monuments belong from 3rd century BC and 12th century AD. Sanchi Stupa is the most famous monument here. This was built under the reign of Emperor Ashoka from the Maurya dynasty. It is an ancient heritage, well preserved on the soil of Sanchi.
Ujjain :
Ujjain is a major attraction for devotees from all over the world. The place has some of the most artistic temples such as Mahakaleshwara. It is an ancient temple, which has one of the 12 important Jyotirlingas. The temple is said to be one of the abodes of Lord Shiva. It also has huge shrine of the Lord facing the south as pet tantric traditions. Mahakaleshwar temple is thus an important pilgrim attraction in Ujjain. Visitors can also check out city attractions such as Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, Bhartrihari Caves, Vikram Kirti Mandir, Kaliadeh Palace, Chintaman Ganesh, Durgadas Ki Chhatri and Kal Bhairava.
Orchha :
Another destination with traces of the rich historical past in Madhya Pradesh is Orchha. It is located at a distance of about 75 kilometers from Gwalior. This place has been a seat of administration for the Bundela Rajputs. The place was developed by one of the cheieftains of the clan, Rudra Pratap in the 16th century. Orchha boasts of excellent palaces depicting the typical architectural designs of the Bundela Rajputs. The Jehangir Mahal, Raj Mahal and the Ram Raja Temple are among the best attractions to visit in Madhya Pradesh.
Bhopal :
Bhopal stands strongly as the state capital. It has two artificial lakes to flaunt. The city was initially known as Bhojpal. The name was derived from the ruler Raja Bhoj who created the beautiful city, dam and the artificial lakes surrounding the city. Places to visit in Bhopal are Upper Lake, Lakshmi Narayan Temple and Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka.
Indore :
Indore has two sparkling rivers flowing across the city namely Khan and Saraswati. There is small and artistic temple in the centre of the city, which belongs to the 18th century. Visitors can check out Chhatris, Chokni Dhani, Kanch Mandir, Lal Baag Palace, Nehru Park, Mahatma Gandhi Hall and Rajwada.
Chitrakoot :
Chitrakoot is a significant location for Hindus. The place is known for its resplendent surroundings. This is the place that was visited by Lord Rama and Sita during the exile of 14 years. Some of the attractions to visit in this pious destination of Madhya Pradesh are- Hanuman Dhara, Janki Kund, Bharat Milap Temple and Sage Atri Shrines.