A Journey to the Lesser known India, Madhya Pradesh

Heyya! Heritage Lovers!

It's time to add one more state for the love of Heritage!

Come on! Buckle up!

Let me take you on a virtual journey to Land of Heritage, Madhya Pradesh.

When I was planning my trip to Madhyapradesh, I remembered people asking "What is there in MP?"

Sorry guys! Madhya Pradesh is no ordinary place!

It holds many surprises; be it the amazing landscapes or the preserved heritages or the stunning national parks. This state has got everything you can ask for.

For those of you who had asked, here's the post for you to experience MP through my eyes. 

Bhopal

Popularly known as the city of lakes, the capital of Madhyapradesh has more to offer than just lake. You can find many interesting touristy places in and around Bhopal itself(Well within 20 kms). 

Manuabhan Tekri
Our first stop of the trip was Manuabhan Tekri, just 9 kms from Bhopal. To reach this Jain temple atop a hill, you need to take a cable car ride.

Interesting isn't it? Being the highest point of Bhopal, this temple offers a vantage point for the picturesque view of Bhopal city below.

National Musuem of Mankind

It's a cultural oasis at a twenty minutes drive from Bhopal. The indoor and outdoor galleries carry exhibitions based on art, culture and history.

I am sure if you are a kind who loves Musuem (Just like me), you would have an interesting time learning about the different cultures depicted in the musuem. 

Tribal Museum

Though Tribal Museum is a part of Manav Sangrahalaya(National Museum of Mankind), this requires a special mention as it carries information not only about Madhyapradesh but also about various other tribes of India giving a glimpse of their livelihood. (Look out for a detailed post on this Manav Sangrahalaya in my blog soon)

Van Vihar
A national park situated adjacent to the upper lake gives you some unparalleled view of the lake.

Rent a cycle and go on a memorable ride on the roads of Van Vihar sighting animals kept on a natural habitat.

Lake of Bhopal

From Ferry rides to water sports, this place has got much to offer.

Spend your time watching the sun go down in the lake sipping a hot chai(Tea). Take a walk in the Bridge for a better perspective of sunset. 

Khajuraho

Absolutely this UNESCO World Heritage site doesn't need an introduction. 

These wonderfully preserved group of temple complexes are a celebration of craftsmanship of bygone eras. 

These temples built by Chandel rulers to commemorate the pinnacles achieved by Chandel dynasty in wars is an embodiment of glorious era.

Head on over here for treating yourself with this historical wonder which stands the test of time. (Also Read about my solo venture to Khajuraho)

Pachmarhi

When the temperature in Bhopal hit 45 degrees, the not-so-heard-of hill station(Atleast for south indians), Pachmarhi came to our rescue.

From it's spine chilling waterfalls to numerous caves, Pachmarhi has got so many hidden gems. Two days are too less a time to experience Pachmarhi completely.

Can u spot me here?

Want to know what all we did in Pachmarhi in the measly two days? Read here.

I could only see MP in bits and pieces, so few more visits to Madhya pradesh is mandate for a complete experience.

All this and more at the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh. I can't wait to embark on my next journey to MP. 

What are you waiting for? Book your flights to Madhyapradesh this winter! 

Pro Tips 

Best time to get around is during winters. Though I traveled during peak summer, I was drained of energy every time I was out. 

Most of the sign boards are in Hindi. So atleast learn Hindi letters before going. Or reach out to friendly locals for help.

Don't forget to savour appealing cuisine of Madhya Pradesh. (Tada! Need to plan a food trip to MP pretty soon)

A hill station in the heart of India, Pachmarhi

Pachmarhi, a hill station which many south indians may have never heard of, was a pure surprise to us during this MP trip.

When temperature in MP went as high as 45 degree, we took solace at the only hill station in MP.

We boarded our train in Bhopal to head to Pipariya from where we hired a Jeep to Queen of Satpura, Pachmarhi.

While driving from Pipariya to Pachmarhi, the climate was so awesome that made us instantly fall in love with this hillstation. 

Our time in Pachmarhi was one awesome experience. We did from Hiking to Waterfalls hopping to Cave hunting in Pachmarhi. 

Here's a glimpse on what all you can do too.

Walk down the steps and then through a jungle to treat yourself with various view points.

Wow! The valley below

And further trek to the Apsara Vihar or Silver falls.

Spend your time learning swimming in the pool formed by the Silver falls or Jump in Joy into the spine chilling pool of water.

Apsara Vihar

Climb up the well laid steps of Pandav caves to take in the pleasure of aerial view of the valley and well maintained garden.

The legend has that these carved caves are of 1000 years ago, which had been the residence of Pandavas during their exile.

Aerial view from Pandav caves

Take the steps down to a cave where a naturally formed Stalgamite Linga(Calcium deposit spurned in the form of Linga) is worshipped.

Another Interesting part of the cave is that it get submerged during heavy monsoons.

Janta Shankar Cave

Shower your soul wet in the highest waterfall of Madhya Pradesh. Here's MP presenting to you Bee Fall. Water in the falls is terribly cold even in extreme summer.

Explore a secluded cave on your own. When you start trekking down the cave, you will be treated with some excellent flora and fauna.  Go after closing time for treating yourself to a creepy cave. 

Grand Canyon of India!

Such interesting view point? Loved this frame with half moon night scene from the view point.

Bored of High rise temples?? Temples inside the caves of Pachmarhi will give you a different perspective.

Cross the narrow passage of the cave (Just enough to walk sideways for one person at a time) to offer prayers to Gupt Mahadev (The Hidden Lord Shiva).

Hidden Lord Shiva inside a cave

Go on a Creepy walk along the Begum Palace. The then palace, now a ruin. Such is life.

Palace? Ruin?

Treat yourself to the impressive view of 300 feet gorge accompanied by the sounds of gushing water below.

Handi Khoh

From waterfalls hopping to caves hunting, the time we spent in Pachmarhi was so surreal.

The Queen of satpura was indeed splendid.

This hill station is definitely on my upcoming monsoon travels. I want to see this hill station adorning the freshly painted green after rain flicks it's magic wand on this paradise.

Tips -

Best way to get around in Pachmarhi is by using a shared Gypsy

Every hotel has a package for hiring Gypsy. (Don't forget to negotiate the gypsy price)

Carry warm clothes as it gets colder by night.