We use cookies to improve your website experience and provide more personalized services to you, both on this website and through other media. By continuing to use this website, you agree to our use of cookies as explained in our Cookie Policy. Please read our Cookie Policy for more information on how we use cookies and how you can disable them.
Madhya Pradesh
Magnificent Madhya Pradesh is a land of sepia colored forts, monuments, and caves. The spellbinding architecture reflects ancient religions, powerful kingdoms, and the earliest vestiges of human life. Sprawling sanctuaries provide solitude to the majestic tiger while… read more
Anytime during the year is the best time to visit Madhya Pradesh and the best season to visit Madhya Pradesh
Before talking about the Best time to visit Madhya Pradesh, MP tourist places are wonderful tourist destinations spread in a vast expanse of an area and has dynamic geographical features which impart it slightly varying climatic conditions in various parts of the land. Owing to the extended distances between different areas of the state, the region does not have a single set of weather conditions applicable to each of its parts.
The temperature of places to visit in Madhya Pradesh usually varies from the other, and same goes for the intensity and frequency of rainfall. However, as a general rule, the state has a typically moderate climate which makes it pleasant throughout the year, except for summers which can be a bit too harsh for touring and engaging in the various outdoor activities at some parts of the land. On the whole, the temperature during different seasons in the region stays tolerable and even pleasant, which makes any time the best time to visit Madhya Pradesh.
As is essential for planning a trip to any other tourist destination, it is necessary that you consider the time of the year when planning your vacation in the places to visit in Madhya Pradesh as well. The heart of incredible India has numerous places of interest that you may want to visit MP tourist places. When you design your itinerary depending on these, it would surely be a good idea to also consider the various seasons suitable for exploring those sites, as while the beauty and the ease of one place may be more in winters, it may be amplified in monsoons for another.
Summers in Madhya Pradesh may not be the best season to visit Madhya Pradesh. Owing to the dry topography and being bound by land on all sides, the temperature in Madhya Pradesh summers often rises as high as 45 degrees. This can be too hot for any pleasurable activities, though there are still some places to visit in Madhya Pradesh in this season. Moreover, there are many places offering various indoor activities that can still be pleasurably indulged in during this scorching time.
24 degrees to 45 degrees
The weather during summers in Madhya Pradesh is excruciatingly hot which in most cases, renders this place unsuitable for travelling.
Kumbh Mela celebrated in Ujjain is the most important reason to visit MP in summers. It is held during the summer season, every 12 years and draws in devotees and tourists from different corners of the world to witness the mass bathing ritual in Shipra River and the grand celebration that livens up the whole place.
The low tourist season in summers allows you to enjoy various discounts and offers on hotel accommodations and travel plans to MP tourist places, which can arguably make it the best season to visit MP. It can be good time to visit animal sanctuaries like Pench National Park, Kanha National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park etc. Since the hot weather makes the animals come out of their hiding to brooks and streams to cool themselves down, it gives you a nice opportunity to spot one too many jungle creatures on your safari trips during this season. Pachmarhi located in the state is a hill station that can be best enjoyed in summer seasons only.
It is highly advised to carry breezy and summer apt dresses, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat while visiting MP tourist destinations in summers. Also, if planning to visit wildlife sanctuaries located here, also carry enough water and some snacks.
Monsoon showers feel like a blessing in the parched lands of best season to visit in Madhya Pradesh. Beginning from July, these are usually short-lived seasons but often provide good relief from the summer heat through ample of rainfall in most regions of the state. It is also the best time to visit MP that sees enough tourists walking its corridors and enjoying the refreshing weather of the season. The rainfall in addition to drenching the state, completely transforms the surroundings, making you see plush greenery everywhere you see.
25 degrees to 38 degrees
Monsoon brings with it a refreshing weather. The climate typically lowers down in temperature, though humidity may increase to a good amount of extent.
Places such as Mandu and Satpura look their best seasons to visit in Madhya Pradesh, in the monsoons. With the washed down dirt from the palaces and temples of Mandu and the spectacular backdrop of verdure, it is sheer joy to visit the place at this time. Monsoons also highlight the finest points of Satpura imparting the lush forests an enchanting aura that looks so attractive. Chitrakoot however, should be the biggest reason to visit the region in this season. The Niagra Falls of India, Chitrakoot falls look absolutely stunning with gushing white waters falling from such a staggering height. It is also a shoulder season for tourism in MP which lets you enjoy many discounts and offers on hotel booking and more.
The wet and slippery roads at countryside may make it difficult to traverse remote destinations of the state. While most cities must be avoided during this time due to the heavy rainfall, there are some places which provide the best experience of holidaying in MP in monsoons.
Do not forget to carry an umbrella and waterproof boots. Also, wear light-weight and quick-drying clothes for easy management.
Winters are by far the best seasons to visit Madhya Pradesh. The crisp and fine weather makes it a pleasurable experience to travel around the region and freely and easily explore its various sites. With the end of Monsoons, there is a steady decrease in the temperature that is at its lowest from December to January. Although cold, the climate is fine enough to comfortably indulge in various outdoor activities and visit the many places in the state that are almost unbearable to visit in the summers.
5 degrees to 27 degrees
The weather is upbeat for touring the region, with climate being comfortably cool during winters in MP. The cold winds blowing during this time while can be quite chilly especially during early mornings and night times, it is a welcoming rejuvenation in the daytime. Sun is much milder but its warmth is undeniably comforting which is ideal for sightseeing here.
Numerous festivals and events are held during the winter season in Madhya Pradesh which is surely highly motivating factors to plan your vacations around this time. Some of the most prominent ones among them include Lokrang Festival, Akhil Bhartiya Kalidas Samaroh, Khajuraho Festival, Bhagoria Haat Festival, Dussehra, Diwali, Tansen Samaroh and Pachmarhi Utsav.
The lovely weather is fit to visit most places of interest in the state. Places like Khajuraho that are sweltering in summers are at the epitome of geniality in this season. Since it is also the tourist season in MP, you can enjoy most activities easily. It is also the time for the biggest festivities and a plethora of enjoyable events, which again forms a very good reason best time to visit MP the place in winters.
Since winters are the peak season for tourism here, the bigger towns, cities and tourist spots may seem overcrowded. It may even be difficult to find accommodation on a short notice.
Situated at the banks of Narmada River, Jabalpur is a predominantly industrial town which has recently been recognized for its tourism worthy offerings. Owing to its pristine ghats, milky waterfalls, and subtle tinsel of historical and cultural legacy, Jabalpur has emerged to be a surprising and truly alluring destination on the map of Madhya Pradesh tourism. Apart from its breath-taking sight of Dhuandar waterfalls and the staggering beauty of the Bedaghat marble cliffs, the city is also rich in manmade wonders such as the temple located near Roonath and Madan Mahal.
The naturally scintillating landscape mixed with the British architecture dating back to the colonial times, is what makes Jabalpur one of the finest places to visit in Madhya Pradesh, especially given that it is also central to other attractions such as Kanha National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park.
Location: Jabalpur, MP
Known For: Marble rocks and falls
How to Reach: Jabalpur has its own airport which can be reached from most important airports of the country. It can also be reached via road or rail since it is connected with many important cities and towns of the country.
Approximate Cost: NA
Operating Hours: NA
Type: Landmark.
Situated on the banks of river Betwa, Orccha is a splendid tourist destination featuring a world of historically and culturally significant places of interest. Adorned with ornate palaces, impregnable forts and intricately designed temples from the medieval era, this little town is every tourist and photographer’s paradise. From grand havelies and Hindu temples to classic mural paintings and breath-taking frescoes, Orccha is a great place to visit on your Madhya Pradesh holidays. You can enjoy visiting places such as Chaturbhuj temple, Phool Bagh, Raj Mandir, Jehangir Mahal at Orccha Fort, Lakshmi temple, Ram Raja temple, Dauji ki Haveli, and Chhatris located in this area.
Location: Orccha
Known For: Frescoes, mural paintings and beautiful temples
How to Reach: Along with having a good road network, it easy within easy reach via air and rail too. Nearest airport is located at Gwalior and nearest railway station is at Jhansi (18 km).
Approximate Cost: NA
Operating Hours: NA
Type: Landmark.
Perched on a hilltop of Sanchi Town in Madhya Pradesh, the glorious Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest stone structures in India and poses great importance in the Indian history. Sanchi Stupa is a significant monument in the Indian Architecture and a specimen of the Buddhist architecture, it is also enlisted amongst the other famous monuments in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1989.
6:00 am – 6:30 pm, Daily
Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh 464661
General Admission
|
TICKET TYPE |
PRICE |
|
Adult (16 years and above) |
INR 40 |
|
Foreign Citizens |
INR 500 |
The nearest Airport is the Raja Bhoj airport, Bhopal at approximately 55km away from Sanchi Stupa. From here, you can hire a taxi.
The Sanchi railway station is 1.5km away from Sanchi Stupa and is not as well connected as the Bhopal Junction. It is advisable to take the Bhopal Junction as it is connected to major cities of India.
There are several buses plying from Bhopal bus stand, which is about a kilometre from the Bhopal Junction railway station to Sanchi and it takes approximately an hour.
Sanchi Stupa was commissioned by King Ashoka in the 2nd century BCE. Its center is a huge hemispherical brick dome with an elevated terrace and a balustrade built over the relics of Lord Buddha. It is crowned by the chhatri, an umbrella like structure which symbolises high rank and also was intended to honour and shelter the relics. In the 1st century BCE during the reign of the Satavahanas, four intricately carved gateways and a banister encircling the entire structure of Stupa were added. The Sanchi Stupa built during the Mauryan period was made of bricks. The complex flourished until the 11th century. The construction of the stupa was commissioned in several locations across India in order to spread Buddhism.
During the rule of the Shunga Emperor, the stupa was further expanded with stone slabs to practically double its original size. The dome was flattened and covered by stone slabs. Three superimposed chatras were built to crown the dome. It symbolised the Wheel of Law or ‘dharma’. A high rounded drum that can be reached through a double staircase became the seat of the dome enabling one to circumambulate the sacred dome.
The gateways and balustrades come alive with inscriptions and illustrations narrating the life of Lord Buddha and tales from Aryasura’s Jatakamala. The spectrum of carvings are a symbolic manifestation of the Buddha that have been used in the form of trees and inanimate objects like thrones, wheels or footprints.
The Sanchi Stupa is also the site of the Ashoka Pillar. The polished sandstone pillar stands at the main gateway and is reminiscent of the Greco-Buddhist Architecture. Presently, only bottom half of the erection stands at the site. The upper half is displayed at the Sanchi Archaeological Museum which is close by.
The Sanchi Stupa complex comprises of various other prominent monuments such as:
One of the free standing temples of India, it dates back to the 3rd century BCE and consists of vestiges from three different historic periods, the earliest dating to the Maurya Dynasty with inscriptions suggesting that it was built by King Ashoka’s father Emperor Bindusara.
The Stupa commissioned during the Shunga reign came to be known as the second and third stupas. The magnificently detailed and ornated stupa is monikered as "the oldest extensive stupa decoration in existence" and is in alignment with the theme of stone casing and balustrade. The detailing represents the Buddhist theme and highlights the 4 events that defined the life of Lord Buddha - Nativity, the Enlightenment, the First Sermon and the Decease. The stupa also depicts the Jataka Tales and is considered as the birthplace of the same.
Replete with a staircase and balustrade, this stupa was built slightly after stupa no. 2 and the relics excavated from here confirms this. It comprises of the relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana, the disciples of Lord Buddha.
A gem of the Buddhist art and architecture, the Sanchi Stupa attracts millions of visitors annually and is considered the best conserved ancient stupas .
• The major attraction are the four giant gateways and the large hemispherical dome.
• Immerse in the history of Buddhism along with the Mauryan, Satvanas and the Shagunas empires.
• Marvel at the splendid intricate carvings on the four gateways that depict the life cycle of Lord Buddha.
• The famous Ashoka Pillar that has an Ashokan inscription (Schism Edict) and an inscription in the ornamental Sankha Lipi from the Gupta period.
• The Sanchi Stupa Complex comprises of several other significant monuments that are equally marvelous and significant to the history.
Witness the iconic landmark structure from the Maurya Dynasty and the Ashoka Pillar that defined the emblem of India.
• The Great Stupa of Sanchi underwent a complete reconstruction after malevolent damage was inflicted upon it in the middle of the 2nd BCE. The reconstruction entailed of a stone casing, a terrace with a double flight of steps, balustrades, a paved processional path, and an umbrella and railing.
• In the 20th century, the monument underwent extensive restoration to their present condition under the supervision of Sir John Marshall after it was found in a shamble state by General Henry Taylor who was a British officer.
• The Sanchi Stupa model is 36.5 m in diameter and rises almost 16.5 meters high.
• Sanchi was the birthplace of Emperor Ashoka’s wife Devi.
• Eight stupas have been erected, each comprising the relics of Lord Buddha.
• Most of the Buddha statues and carvings still possess the legendary Mauryan polish that made it gleam like glass.
• The last addition made to the stupa was done during the reign of the Gupta dynasty prior to 450 AD.
• The three ‘parasols,’ set one above the other along the shaft, are located in the uppermost region of Sanchi Stupa. They represent a heavenly hierarchy.
Founded in the year 1955, this enchanting forest turned wildlife sanctuary is the inspiration behind the famous Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. One of the finest animal retreats in the country, Kanha National Park is a famous tiger reserve that is dedicated for inhabiting and protecting the tigers in their natural habitat. Apart from tigers, it is also the home of Royal Bengal Tiger and the rare Swamp Deer. Best visited in the months from November to June, the temperature in the park varies from 23.9 degree at the minimum to 40.6 degree at its maximum. A mixture of serene natural beauty and equally beautiful and versatile wildlife, Kanha National Park is sure one to the best places to visit when on your tour in this state.
Location: SH11, Mangitola Mukki Gate, Mukki
Known For: Tiger Reserve Safari
How to Reach: The park is connected with most major cities of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra by road. You can reach it via state buses or by car as well. The nearest railway heads are located at Gondia (145 km) and Jabalpur (160 km) from where you can reach Kanha via road. The nearest airports are at Jabalpur (160 km), Raipur (250 km) and Nagpur (300 km).
Approximate Cost: Approx. Rs. 300-500 for Indians & Rs.1,500- 2,500 for foreigners
Operating Hours: 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Type: Animal Sanctuary.
This 8th Century architectural marvel is perched upon a hill top in Gwalior city of Madhya Pradesh. Having seen many dynasties conquer and get vanquished throughout the history, while it kept standing, the fort has also been subjected to many changes in design and gone through many renovations. The main structure though, chiefly houses two massive palaces along with several temples and water tanks. Teli ka Mandir and Maan Singh Palace are two most notable of its occupants. While the former is built in an attractive Dravidian style architecture of shrine which features intricately sculpted exteriors, the latter was built in the 15th century by king Man Singh and displays a stunning Architecture of Tomar dynasty. With a façade made up of pretty ceramic tiles in blue, the palace looks dazzling. In addition to these, the magnificent Saas-Bahu temple, Gujari Mahal, Karan Palace, Chaturbhuj Temple, Shahjahan Mahal, Jai Vilas Palace and Jahangir Mahal situated in the fort complex are other buildings worthy of your attention.
Location: Gwalior
Known For: Exemplary architecture
How to Reach: Gwalior can be reached easily by air, road or railway. While Gwalior airport is well connected by most major cities of Madhya Pradesh and Delhi, it can be reached by most major cities of the country through rail or roadways (via interstate buses or by personal vehicle).
Approximate Cost: Approx. Rs. 70-80 for Indians & Rs. 200-300 for foreigners
Operating Hours: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Type: Palace.
Situated at the banks of Narmada River, Jabalpur is a predominantly industrial town which has recently been recognized for its tourism worthy offerings. Owing to its pristine ghats, milky waterfalls, and subtle tinsel of historical and cultural legacy, Jabalpur has emerged to be a surprising and truly alluring destination on the map of Madhya Pradesh tourism. Apart from its breath-taking sight of Dhuandar waterfalls and the staggering beauty of the Bedaghat marble cliffs, the city is also rich in manmade wonders such as the temple located near Roonath and Madan Mahal.
The naturally scintillating landscape mixed with the British architecture dating back to the colonial times, is what makes Jabalpur one of the finest places to visit in Madhya Pradesh, especially given that it is also central to other attractions such as Kanha National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park.
Location: Jabalpur, MP
Known For: Marble rocks and falls
How to Reach: Jabalpur has its own airport which can be reached from most important airports of the country. It can also be reached via road or rail since it is connected with many important cities and towns of the country.
Approximate Cost: NA
Operating Hours: NA
Type: Landmark.
Situated on the banks of river Betwa, Orccha is a splendid tourist destination featuring a world of historically and culturally significant places of interest. Adorned with ornate palaces, impregnable forts and intricately designed temples from the medieval era, this little town is every tourist and photographer’s paradise. From grand havelies and Hindu temples to classic mural paintings and breath-taking frescoes, Orccha is a great place to visit on your Madhya Pradesh holidays. You can enjoy visiting places such as Chaturbhuj temple, Phool Bagh, Raj Mandir, Jehangir Mahal at Orccha Fort, Lakshmi temple, Ram Raja temple, Dauji ki Haveli, and Chhatris located in this area.
Location: Orccha
Known For: Frescoes, mural paintings and beautiful temples
How to Reach: Along with having a good road network, it easy within easy reach via air and rail too. Nearest airport is located at Gwalior and nearest railway station is at Jhansi (18 km).
Approximate Cost: NA
Operating Hours: NA
Type: Landmark.
Perched on a hilltop of Sanchi Town in Madhya Pradesh, the glorious Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest stone structures in India and poses great importance in the Indian history. Sanchi Stupa is a significant monument in the Indian Architecture and a specimen of the Buddhist architecture, it is also enlisted amongst the other famous monuments in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1989.
6:00 am – 6:30 pm, Daily
Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh 464661
General Admission
|
TICKET TYPE |
PRICE |
|
Adult (16 years and above) |
INR 40 |
|
Foreign Citizens |
INR 500 |
The nearest Airport is the Raja Bhoj airport, Bhopal at approximately 55km away from Sanchi Stupa. From here, you can hire a taxi.
The Sanchi railway station is 1.5km away from Sanchi Stupa and is not as well connected as the Bhopal Junction. It is advisable to take the Bhopal Junction as it is connected to major cities of India.
There are several buses plying from Bhopal bus stand, which is about a kilometre from the Bhopal Junction railway station to Sanchi and it takes approximately an hour.
Sanchi Stupa was commissioned by King Ashoka in the 2nd century BCE. Its center is a huge hemispherical brick dome with an elevated terrace and a balustrade built over the relics of Lord Buddha. It is crowned by the chhatri, an umbrella like structure which symbolises high rank and also was intended to honour and shelter the relics. In the 1st century BCE during the reign of the Satavahanas, four intricately carved gateways and a banister encircling the entire structure of Stupa were added. The Sanchi Stupa built during the Mauryan period was made of bricks. The complex flourished until the 11th century. The construction of the stupa was commissioned in several locations across India in order to spread Buddhism.
During the rule of the Shunga Emperor, the stupa was further expanded with stone slabs to practically double its original size. The dome was flattened and covered by stone slabs. Three superimposed chatras were built to crown the dome. It symbolised the Wheel of Law or ‘dharma’. A high rounded drum that can be reached through a double staircase became the seat of the dome enabling one to circumambulate the sacred dome.
The gateways and balustrades come alive with inscriptions and illustrations narrating the life of Lord Buddha and tales from Aryasura’s Jatakamala. The spectrum of carvings are a symbolic manifestation of the Buddha that have been used in the form of trees and inanimate objects like thrones, wheels or footprints.
The Sanchi Stupa is also the site of the Ashoka Pillar. The polished sandstone pillar stands at the main gateway and is reminiscent of the Greco-Buddhist Architecture. Presently, only bottom half of the erection stands at the site. The upper half is displayed at the Sanchi Archaeological Museum which is close by.
The Sanchi Stupa complex comprises of various other prominent monuments such as:
One of the free standing temples of India, it dates back to the 3rd century BCE and consists of vestiges from three different historic periods, the earliest dating to the Maurya Dynasty with inscriptions suggesting that it was built by King Ashoka’s father Emperor Bindusara.
The Stupa commissioned during the Shunga reign came to be known as the second and third stupas. The magnificently detailed and ornated stupa is monikered as "the oldest extensive stupa decoration in existence" and is in alignment with the theme of stone casing and balustrade. The detailing represents the Buddhist theme and highlights the 4 events that defined the life of Lord Buddha - Nativity, the Enlightenment, the First Sermon and the Decease. The stupa also depicts the Jataka Tales and is considered as the birthplace of the same.
Replete with a staircase and balustrade, this stupa was built slightly after stupa no. 2 and the relics excavated from here confirms this. It comprises of the relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana, the disciples of Lord Buddha.
A gem of the Buddhist art and architecture, the Sanchi Stupa attracts millions of visitors annually and is considered the best conserved ancient stupas .
• The major attraction are the four giant gateways and the large hemispherical dome.
• Immerse in the history of Buddhism along with the Mauryan, Satvanas and the Shagunas empires.
• Marvel at the splendid intricate carvings on the four gateways that depict the life cycle of Lord Buddha.
• The famous Ashoka Pillar that has an Ashokan inscription (Schism Edict) and an inscription in the ornamental Sankha Lipi from the Gupta period.
• The Sanchi Stupa Complex comprises of several other significant monuments that are equally marvelous and significant to the history.
Witness the iconic landmark structure from the Maurya Dynasty and the Ashoka Pillar that defined the emblem of India.
• The Great Stupa of Sanchi underwent a complete reconstruction after malevolent damage was inflicted upon it in the middle of the 2nd BCE. The reconstruction entailed of a stone casing, a terrace with a double flight of steps, balustrades, a paved processional path, and an umbrella and railing.
• In the 20th century, the monument underwent extensive restoration to their present condition under the supervision of Sir John Marshall after it was found in a shamble state by General Henry Taylor who was a British officer.
• The Sanchi Stupa model is 36.5 m in diameter and rises almost 16.5 meters high.
• Sanchi was the birthplace of Emperor Ashoka’s wife Devi.
• Eight stupas have been erected, each comprising the relics of Lord Buddha.
• Most of the Buddha statues and carvings still possess the legendary Mauryan polish that made it gleam like glass.
• The last addition made to the stupa was done during the reign of the Gupta dynasty prior to 450 AD.
• The three ‘parasols,’ set one above the other along the shaft, are located in the uppermost region of Sanchi Stupa. They represent a heavenly hierarchy.
Founded in the year 1955, this enchanting forest turned wildlife sanctuary is the inspiration behind the famous Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. One of the finest animal retreats in the country, Kanha National Park is a famous tiger reserve that is dedicated for inhabiting and protecting the tigers in their natural habitat. Apart from tigers, it is also the home of Royal Bengal Tiger and the rare Swamp Deer. Best visited in the months from November to June, the temperature in the park varies from 23.9 degree at the minimum to 40.6 degree at its maximum. A mixture of serene natural beauty and equally beautiful and versatile wildlife, Kanha National Park is sure one to the best places to visit when on your tour in this state.
Location: SH11, Mangitola Mukki Gate, Mukki
Known For: Tiger Reserve Safari
How to Reach: The park is connected with most major cities of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra by road. You can reach it via state buses or by car as well. The nearest railway heads are located at Gondia (145 km) and Jabalpur (160 km) from where you can reach Kanha via road. The nearest airports are at Jabalpur (160 km), Raipur (250 km) and Nagpur (300 km).
Approximate Cost: Approx. Rs. 300-500 for Indians & Rs.1,500- 2,500 for foreigners
Operating Hours: 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Type: Animal Sanctuary.
This 8th Century architectural marvel is perched upon a hill top in Gwalior city of Madhya Pradesh. Having seen many dynasties conquer and get vanquished throughout the history, while it kept standing, the fort has also been subjected to many changes in design and gone through many renovations. The main structure though, chiefly houses two massive palaces along with several temples and water tanks. Teli ka Mandir and Maan Singh Palace are two most notable of its occupants. While the former is built in an attractive Dravidian style architecture of shrine which features intricately sculpted exteriors, the latter was built in the 15th century by king Man Singh and displays a stunning Architecture of Tomar dynasty. With a façade made up of pretty ceramic tiles in blue, the palace looks dazzling. In addition to these, the magnificent Saas-Bahu temple, Gujari Mahal, Karan Palace, Chaturbhuj Temple, Shahjahan Mahal, Jai Vilas Palace and Jahangir Mahal situated in the fort complex are other buildings worthy of your attention.
Location: Gwalior
Known For: Exemplary architecture
How to Reach: Gwalior can be reached easily by air, road or railway. While Gwalior airport is well connected by most major cities of Madhya Pradesh and Delhi, it can be reached by most major cities of the country through rail or roadways (via interstate buses or by personal vehicle).
Approximate Cost: Approx. Rs. 70-80 for Indians & Rs. 200-300 for foreigners
Operating Hours: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
Type: Palace.
Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport is located around 8 km away from Indore. It is the busiest airport in central India and services most of the travellers flying into Madhya Pradesh. The airport was set up by the erstwhile Holkar administration in 1935. It received an international designation in May 2019.
Domestic airlines such as Vistara, Air Asia India, Air India, Alliance Air, Deccan Charters, IndiGo, Star Air and Trujet have regular flights servicing Madhya Pradesh. The airport enjoys good connectivity with following cities around India: Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. It also services Air India’s international flight to and from Dubai.
Once you land, you can hire a taxi to take you into the city. If Indore is not on your travel list, you can directly go to Indore Bus Stand (13 km) or Indore Railway station (11 km) to continue on to your ultimate destination. There are taxis and private buses available from the airport to take you to the bus stand or railway station.
In addition to Indore’s airport, Madhya Pradesh has 4 more airports which connect it with the rest of the country:
Owing to its central location, most of the major trains like Shatabdi, Rajdhani and Garib Rath pass through Madhya Pradesh. The entire state is covered by an extensive railway network and has 20 major railway junctions such as Ratlam, Bhopal, Indore and Gwalior. You can get a direct train from Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru.
Bhopal - Bhopal railway station sits 9 km north of the city centre. You can take a prepaid taxi or auto to get into the city. There’s a bus stand nearby where you can get local as well as an intracity buses. The station itself is well-equipped with a post office, waiting room, restaurant, cloak room and toilets.
Indore - Located merely 1 km away from the city centre, it is easy to get in and around the city from Indore Railway Station. Handling traffic from neighbouring as well as far-off states, it is one of the busiest stations in the state. You can get autorickshaws for short distances or taxis and buses for longer journeys.
After railways, the road is the best way to get around Madhya Pradesh. It has over a 99,000 km-long road network. You can easily drive into the state from any of its neighbouring states such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and more. The roads are reasonably well-maintained and clearly marked with relevant signs. For an unhurried journey, you can hop onto one of the interstate buses to travel into Madhya Pradesh.
NH 3, NH 7, NH 12A, NH 25, NH 26, NH 27, NH 69 and NH 92 are some of the national highways in Madhya Pradesh. The entire state is covered by an extensive network of intrastate buses that run regularly between cities. While taxis will take you short distances, some overnight journeys like Bhopal to Gwalior and Jabalpur to Ratlam will be costlier than a bus journey. You can rent a car in some of the bigger cities, but the facility is not available in smaller towns.
