Madhya Pradesh Tour Packages

1. About Madhya Pradesh
2. Tidbits
3. Essential Tips To Know Before Travelling To Madhya Pradesh
4. Madhya Pradesh At A Glance
5. Top Reasons To Visit Madhya Pradesh
6. Best Time To Visit Madhya Pradesh
7. Top Cities to Visit In Madhya Pradesh
8. Top Things To Do In Madhya Pradesh
9. Shopping In Madhya Pradesh
10. Dos and Don’ts For Indian Travellers
11. Foods To Try Out In Madhya Pradesh
12. Art And Culture In Madhya Pradesh

Before India achieved independence, most of the state area of Madhya Pradesh was a part of the Central Provinces and Berar. This was a huge region that comprised the entire state of Chhattisgarh, parts of Madhya Pradesh, and also certain parts of Odisha. Nagpur was the region’s capital at that time, and the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve also belonged to this region during that period. This is when the areas we now know as Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, Rewa, and so on were individual kingdoms that had close ties with the British imperial system. After the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, Madhya Pradesh was established as a state in November of that year.

The backbone of the economy of Madhya Pradesh is agriculture. Some of the main regions in the state that are fertile or where cultivation takes place include the Narmada Valley and the Malwa and Rewa plateaus. The major crops grown in Madhya Pradesh are rice, corn, sorghum, wheat, and pulses. Since the eastern region of the state experiences more rainfall, this is where rice is mainly grown. Sorghum and wheat are the principal crops grown in the western and central areas of Madhya Pradesh. It’s one of the largest producers of soybeans in the country. In the hilly regions of Madhya Pradesh, some of the crops that are cultivated include cotton, sugarcane, sesame, and linseed. Two other sectors that contribute to the state’s economy are poultry farming and livestock.

• The city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh is one of the locations of the revered Kumbh Mela.
• The Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is one of the 12 holy Jyotirlingas in India.
• Madhya Pradesh has three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Sanchi Stupa, and the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka.
• Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest state in the country by area.
• When Madhya Pradesh was a part of the Central Provinces and Berar, the capital city was Nagpur.
• Madhya Pradesh achieved statehood in November 1956.
• The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka in Madhya Pradesh are one of the largest and oldest complexes of prehistoric rock art in the world.
• Madhya Pradesh is the birthplace of several famous individuals and legends, including Chandra Shekhar Azad, Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Arjun Rampal, and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
• Madhya Pradesh is said to have the largest tribal population in India.
• The Pench National Park of Madhya Pradesh was the inspiration behind the beloved tale, The Jungle Book, written by Rudyard Kipling.
• The Gwalior Gharana, which is a prominent part of Hindustani classical music, was born in the city of Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh.

• Don’t drink tap water or consume street food from stalls that have unsanitary conditions.
• Carry bottled water whenever you go out, as it helps you stay hydrated and also because consuming water from unknown places could be unsafe.
• The Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar International Airport (IDR) in Indore is the busiest airport in Madhya Pradesh.
• Only go for licensed taxi services and avoid going for unlicensed taxis.
• If you’re opting for long-distance travel within the state, trains are a good option.
• In order to stay hydrated and energised, carry electrolyte powders or ORS, especially during the peak summer months.
• Avoid roaming around alone at night, especially in the remote regions and the forest zones.
• Remember that some of the remote areas of the state could have poor network coverage.
• In the remote regions, you may not come across too many ATMs or stores that accept credit cards or debit cards.

Here are some of the top reasons to book our Madhya Pradesh tour packages immediately:

The rich cultural heritage of Madhya Pradesh shines brightly and vividly in numerous ways. This includes its architecture, temples, forts, royal history, and intricate arts and crafts. The several places of religious and spiritual significance add to the state’s cultural allure, including the Khajuraho temple complex, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Omkareshwar Temple, and so on. You will come across unique and important architectural gems within the state, such as the Gwalior Fort, Orchha Fort, Sanchi Stupa, Jai Vilas Palace, and Jahangir Mahal.

The cuisine of Madhya Pradesh is as diverse as its culture. Staying true to its title of ‘the heart of India’, the state’s cuisine is not only influenced by Mughal traditions, but also the cuisine of some of its neighbouring states, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. The royal lineage of nawabs and maharajas is evident through the many regal dishes you will get to try with our Madhya Pradesh tour packages. On one hand are the delicious non-vegetarian preparations, such as seekh kebabs and Bhopali gosht korma, and on the other hand, you will find unique and nutritious vegetarian delights, such as poha, dal bafla, and palak puri.

One of the best reasons to book GT Holidays’ Madhya Pradesh tour packages is that it will give you the chance to witness the diverse wildlife of the state. This is particularly fun for the families travelling with children, as it provides them with the opportunity to see rare and endangered species in their natural habitat. It’s called the ‘tiger state of India’ because of the high density of tigers that reside within the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Madhya Pradesh. This is especially evident through the Bandhavgarh National Park, which, as per the reports from 2022, housed 135 tigers. Such is the iconic nature of the wildlife of the state that the Pench National Park of Madhya Pradesh inspired the beloved tale, The Jungle Book, written by Rudyard Kipling.

There is not a dull day you will experience in Madhya Pradesh because the state is brimming with cities that have something for everyone. There is Ujjain with its plethora of temples that give you the most divine and spiritually enriching experience. There is Gwalior with its rich musical history and majestic forts. If you’re looking to explore a city that has received accolades for its cleanliness and for being a smart city, then Indore is the place to go to. There is, of course, the capital city of Bhopal, with its lakes, natural beauty, and fascinating culture.

Madhya Pradesh has a subtropical climate. The summers are hot and dry, and the winters are relatively dry and cool. The state receives an average rainfall of approximately 1,370 mm, with the intensity decreasing from the eastern region to the western region. While the southeastern districts of Madhya Pradesh witness the maximum amount of rainfall, the northwestern and western districts receive comparatively less rainfall. Let’s take a look at what each season in Madhya Pradesh brings about so you can accordingly decide when to book our Madhya Pradesh tour packages:

During the summer season, the temperature in Madhya Pradesh oscillates between 25 degrees Celsius and 45 degrees Celsius. The weather is pretty hot and unfavourable at this time, which is why it’s not really possible to opt for outdoor activities. This is, however, the ideal time to explore the national parks of the state, such as the Kanha Tiger Reserve and Bandhavgarh National Park. Tourists can also visit the hill station known as Pachmarhi during the summer months. Since this is the off-season, you can get our Madhya Pradesh tour packages at discounted rates. Make sure to pack light and breezy summer clothes and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

The temperature range during the monsoon season in Madhya Pradesh fluctuates between 24 degrees Celsius and 37 degrees Celsius. The weather is pretty wet and humid at this time, with the range of humidity oscillating between 50% and 85%. Thus, the uncomfortable and sweaty weather often discourages people from visiting the state during the monsoon months. The landscape does transform into one of lush greenery, enveloping Madhya Pradesh with waterfalls, streams, and thick vegetation. This is when you can try visiting spots, such as Chitrakoot, Mandu, and the Satpura Range. It could be difficult to visit the remote regions during this season because of the slippery roads. Remember to carry quick-drying clothes, waterproof boots, and umbrellas.

As winter sets in, you can expect the temperature in Madhya Pradesh to oscillate between 5 degrees Celsius and 27 degrees Celsius. The days are pleasant with a comfortable level of sunshine, and the nights are mildly chilly. This is the ideal time to engage in outdoor activities and explore the flora and fauna of the state. Since it’s the peak tourist season, make sure to book our Madhya Pradesh tour packages in advance. Some of the festivals that take place at this time include Dussehra, Diwali, Lokrang Festival, Tansen Samaroh, Pachmarhi Utsav, and the Khajuraho Dance Festival.

Bhopal is the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. It’s popularly known as the ‘city of lakes’ due to the many natural and artificial lakes located both in and around the city. Visit the Upper Lake (also known as Bhojtal), the literal as well as metaphorical heart of the city, serving as one of the primary sources of drinking water for the residents of Bhopal. The city is home to Taj-ul-Masajid, which is renowned as one of the largest mosques in Asia. Some of the other popular tourist attractions to explore in Bhopal with our Madhya Pradesh tour packages include the Van Vihar National Park, Rani Kamlapati Palace, Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum, and Sanchi Stupa.

Indore is the largest city in Madhya Pradesh and also its most populous city. It has been voted the cleanest city in India eight times in a row as of now, and is also recognised as one of the fastest-growing smart cities in the country. The name of the city is derived from the Indreshwar Temple in Indore, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to the Swachh Survekshan 2021, Indore was declared the first ‘water plus’ city of India, thereby adding to its existing accolades. The city is home to numerous alluring attractions you can experience with GT Holidays’ Madhya Pradesh tour packages, such as the Annapurna Temple, Rajwada Palace, Kanch Mandir, Lal Bagh Palace, Patalpani Waterfall, and Kamla Nehru Zoo.

Gwalior is known as the ‘city of music’ because of its historical and rich musical heritage and the immense contributions it has made to the world of Indian classical music, especially through the Gwalior gharana. In fact, it was designated a UNESCO City of Music in November 2023. The city is also associated with the famous musician, Tansen, who was one of the ‘nine gems’ in the court of the Mughal Emperor Akbar. As you unravel Gwalior’s intriguing history with our Madhya Pradesh tour packages, remember to visit the Gwalior Fort, Sas-Bahu Temple, Tomb of Tansen, Sun Temple, and Gujari Mahal.

Ujjain is known as the ‘city of temples’ due to the many pilgrimage sites and sacred temples it is home to. It’s also one of the four locations of the popular Kumbh Mela, which attracts millions and millions of people each time it’s held. Interestingly, the ancient Indian prime meridian, known as Madhya Rekha, passed through Ujjain, which is why the city has been given the title of the ‘Greenwich of India’. Pay a visit to the revered Mahakaleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is where you can witness the sacred Bhasma aarti, wherein holy ash is offered to the presiding deity, signifying the transience of life and the ultimate truth of death. Other spots to visit in Ujjain with our Madhya Pradesh tour packages include the Kal Bhairav Temple, ISKCON Temple, Harsiddhi Temple, Kaliadeh Palace, and Ram Ghat.

When you book our Madhya Pradesh tour packages, you get to explore the state’s many popular tourist attractions and participate in the numerous outdoor adventures it offers tourists. Some of those attractions and activities are as follows:

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is made up of a collection of Hindu and Jain temples that were built during the rule of the Chandela dynasty. This architectural marvel was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. By the 12th century, the site had 85 temples, of which somewhere between 20 and 25 have survived. Among these temples, the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is considered to be the largest of them all. With the name of the temple translating to ‘the Great God of the Cave’, it’s dedicated to Lord Shiva and is decorated with intricate craftsmanship, detailed sculptures, and symbolism.

The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka are situated approximately 45 km south-east of Bhopal, in the foothills of the Vindhya Range. These five clusters of natural rock shelters are made up of seven hills and more than 750 rock shelters that are spread over an area of 10 km. These were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. The complex was discovered in 1957 and is renowned for being one of the greatest collections of prehistoric art in India. Legend has it that the name ‘Bhimbetka’ is a reference to the Mahabharata, indicating the sitting place of Bhima during the exile of the Pandavas in the forest.

The Sanchi Stupa is a group of Buddhist monuments and is one of the oldest stone structures in the country. Situated on a hilltop, approximately 46 km from Bhopal, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989. The Buddhist complex is made up of monasteries, temples, and stupas. The Great Stupa at Sanchi was commissioned to be built in the 3rd century BCE by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. The ornate doorways of the Sanchi Stupa are embellished with stories of Lord Buddha’s life and teachings from the Buddhist Jataka tales.

The Kanha Tiger Reserve, also known as the Kanha National Park, is the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh. In 1879, it was declared a reserve forest, after which it was reclassified as a wildlife sanctuary in 1933. Its status was promoted to that of a national park in 1955. Sprawled over an area of 940 sq km, this national park is home to diverse kinds of wildlife, such as tigers, leopards, jackals, wild dogs, sloth bears, sambar deer, and swamp deer.

The Gwalior Fort is located on a steep and isolated sandstone hill, perched about 300 feet above the ground. Often called the ‘Gibraltar of India’ because of its magnificence, it towers over the city of Gwalior, standing as a testament to its rich past. The Mughal emperor Babur gave the Gwalior Fort the title of ‘the pearl amongst fortresses of Hind’. The outer walls of this fort stand 35 feet high and are two miles long. The construction of Gwalior Fort was started by Raja Suraj Sen during the 3rd century, and it was later developed during the 15th century by Raja Man Singh Tomar.

The Bandhavgarh National Park is situated in the Vindhya Hills of the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh. The park is known to have one of the highest densities of tigers not only in India, but also in the world. Back in the day, the location was said to be the former hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa. The region of Rewa is also said to be the place where white tigers were first discovered. Apart from tigers, the other animals you will witness at the Bandhavgarh National Park include barking deer, sambar deer, wild pigs, leopards, wolves, jackals, and jungle cats.

The Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple of Ujjain is one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, a unique feature of this temple is that the Shiva Lingam is said to be self-manifested. It’s called Swayambhu as it’s known to draw its powers from within. Another distinctive feature is that it’s the only Jyotirlinga that faces south, which is why it’s called dakshinamukhi (or south-facing). This is because the south is associated with death, signifying Lord Shiva, who is known to be the vanquisher of death and the lord of time. The name of the temple, as well as the form ‘Mahakal’ of Lord Shiva, is derived from the Sanskrit words ‘maha’, meaning ‘great’, and ‘kaal’, meaning ‘time’ and ‘death’.

Orchha is a historic town located in the state’s Bundelkhand region. It once served as the capital of the Bundela dynasty and was founded in the 16th century by Rudra Pratap Singh, the Bundela Rajput chief. The Betwa River, which flows through this town, is said to split into seven channels, known as the Satdhara. As per legend, this is in honour of the seven former chiefs of Orchha. When you visit the town with our Madhya Pradesh tour packages, make sure to explore the Orchha Fort, Ram Raja Temple, Jahangir Mahal, and Raja Mahal.

• Wildlife safari at Bandhavgarh National Park
• River rafting in the Betwa River
• Trekking with the Kanha Trek, Pachmarhi Trek, and Amarkantak Trek
• Rock climbing in Pachmarhi
• Parasailing and paragliding in Pachmarhi
• Speed boating at Upper Lake

The markets of Madhya Pradesh offer a vibrant shopping scene to its visitors. Following are the best things to buy from the state and the best places to shop from with our Madhya Pradesh tour packages:

• Sarees and fabrics: Madhya Pradesh is known for its chanderi and Maheshwari sarees. Maheshwari sarees usually feature floral patterns, checks, and stripes. Chanderi sarees are known to be a mix of luxury and lightweight. Fabrics, too, are coveted souvenirs in the state. Some of the different kinds to explore include zari zardozi, tie dye, and batik.
• Jewellery: Tribal jewellery is one of the most unique things you can buy from Madhya Pradesh. These are colourful and feature distinctive designs and materials. Some of the different kinds of tribal jewellery you can look for in the state include beaded jewellery, earrings, bracelets, and silver and metal jewellery.
• Leather objects: The skilled local artisans of Madhya Pradesh are known to produce high-quality leather items that you must get your hands on. These items include bags, shoes, sandals, clothes, and toys.
• Handicrafts: The traditional handicrafts of Madhya Pradesh are a pride of the state’s cultural heritage. These handicrafts serve as perfect souvenirs that can be gifted to your loved ones. The ones to pick from include wooden objects, bamboo crafts, marble and stone crafts, and bamboo items.

• Sarafa Bazaar (Indore): For jewellery and street food.
• Chowk (Bhopal): For jewellery, bags, clothes, handloom.
• Bittan Market (Bhopal): For clothes, bags, footwear, accessories.
• Mrignayani Emporium (Bhopal): For sarees and handicrafts.
• Patankar Bazaar (Gwalior): For handicrafts, handloom, jewellery, dolls.

• While the bigger stores and markets accept UPI payments and debit and credit cards, it’s better to carry cash while shopping in the remote regions and at the smaller shops.
• Bargaining is common in the markets of Madhya Pradesh. However, remember to negotiate politely till you arrive at a price that suits both parties.
• While buying handicrafts, it’s better to purchase from the government emporia and certified shops.
• Support the local artisans by buying from them so you can contribute to the state’s economy.

• Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.
• Dress modestly while visiting spiritual or religious places.
• Try to carry a scarf or shawl when going to pilgrimage sites like Ujjain, in case you’re asked to cover yourself up.
• Remember to take off your shoes before going inside a temple or any other holy spot.
• Always ask for permission before clicking someone’s photograph, especially that of a woman.
• Certain areas require tourists and visitors to obtain permission before taking photographs, which could include the historical monuments, military areas, and sensitive regions.
• When you visit a national park or any place that contains wildlife, make sure to stay quiet and observe the animals from afar.
• When you’re on a wildlife safari, remember not to make loud noises, stay within your jeep, and don’t feed the animals.
• Although the tribal communities are warm and welcoming, remember to always respect their cultural integrity and privacy.
• Don’t stray away from the designated trails.
• Use recyclable items whenever possible.
• Don’t pluck flowers or disturb the vegetation or natural setting in any manner.
• Don’t litter and make sure to keep the surroundings clean. If there is anything you need to throw away, do so only when you spot a garbage bin.

Madhya Pradesh has rightfully earned the title of the ‘heart of India’, not only because of its geographical location, but also because its cuisine proudly showcases the diverse culinary traditions of the country. Having Mughal influences, the food of Madhya Pradesh draws heavily from its neighbouring states, including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The deep history of the presence of royalty in Madhya Pradesh, such as the nawabs and maharajas, explains the usage of spices and rich oil in the state’s cuisine. Every region brings in something distinctive to the kitchens of Madhya Pradesh, all of which you can taste during your trip with our Madhya Pradesh tour packages. Let’s take a look at some of the scrumptious dishes you must try out in Madhya Pradesh:

Poha is one of those dishes of Madhya Pradesh that’s a classic mix of healthy and delicious. Made using flattened rice, some of the other ingredients that go into preparing poha are onions, tomatoes, mustard seeds, curry leaves, coriander, and green chillies. Topping it off with lemon juice gives it an extra zest. If you ever have poha in Indore, you will notice additional flavours as Indori poha also makes use of pomegranate and sev, adding sweetness and crunch, respectively, to the overall taste.

Dal bafla is often considered Madhya Pradesh’s version of the popular Rajasthani dish dal baati churma. Baflas refer to wheat flour dumplings that are boiled, fried, or baked until the exterior turns golden brown. The dumplings are dipped in ghee, thereby lending them a rich and buttery taste. It’s usually served alongside spicy lentil soup. The dish is particularly comforting to have during the winter months.

The seekh kebabs found in Madhya Pradesh are a testament to the Mughal influence on the state’s cuisine. These flavourful and succulent skewers are created using minced meat, which could be chicken or mutton. The mixture needed to make these kebabs also includes onions, herbs, and a blend of spices. After being shaped into skewers, they are either cooked or grilled over an open flame. The resulting dish is smoky kebabs that melt in your mouth. They are often served along with onions, chutneys, and rumali rotis or naans.

Chakki ki shak is one of those traditional dishes of Madhya Pradesh that’s influenced by Rajasthan. The dish consists of wheat dough cakes. After kneading the wheat flour dough, it is then steamed and ultimately cut into small pieces. The pieces of dough are cooked in a tangy and spicy gravy made using a blend of spices, gram flour, and yoghurt. It can be served with both rice and roti.

The lovers of non-veg food will be in for a treat with the delectable Bhopali gosht korma. It’s yet another example of the Mughal influence on the cuisine of Madhya Pradesh. Associated with the princes and maharajas back in the day, this dish is particularly a favourite during parties, gatherings, and special occasions. It consists of mutton or goat meat that is slow-cooked till it turns tender. The rich and creamy gravy is made using onions, yoghurt, cream, and various spices, such as cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. It can be consumed both with rice and naan.

Palak puri is not only a popular breakfast food in Madhya Pradesh, but it’s also a fine example of how vegetables can be used in an interesting manner in a dish. Serving the right amount of nutrition and deliciousness, it’s made of a whole wheat flour dough. Spinach or palak is chopped finely and mixed into the dough, which also contains carom seeds and cumin. It’s then deep-fried till it puffs up and turns crispy and golden brown. Palak puris can be served alongside pickles, yoghurt, and potato curry.

When you’re in the mood for something sweet, you can’t go wrong with malpua. Popular as the Indian version of pancakes, it’s made with milk, sugar, and flour. Cardamom is added for a distinct flavour, and it’s fried till the exterior turns golden brown. It’s dipped in sugar syrup to give it an extra layer of sweetness, with the interior remaining soft and fluffy. These are particularly popular during festivals such as Diwali and Holi.

Bhutte ka kees is a popular street food in Madhya Pradesh, particularly in the Malwa region. Made using corn, the other ingredients that go into this dish are milk, mustard seeds, green chillies, and spices. The mildness of the spices and the sweetness and creaminess that come from the milk make this a wholesome dish to consume.

The rich cultural heritage of Madhya Pradesh is evident in numerous ways, including the state’s handicrafts, most of which are available as souvenirs for tourists to explore. This includes its handloom sarees, such as the chanderi sarees and Maheshwari sarees. The textiles of Madhya Pradesh, too, are noteworthy, such as batik print and nandana printing. Other handicrafts of the state include stone carvings, wooden crafts, leather goods, and marble art. Check out the Gond paintings, which originated from the Gond tribe of Madhya Pradesh.

The culture of Madhya Pradesh is also visible through the numerous vibrant festivals that take place in the state throughout the year. There is the Lokrang Festival, which is organised by the Adivasi Lok Kala Academy. Held every year in January, the festival features various kinds of music, folk dances, tribal dances, and performing arts. The aim of the festival is to preserve the state’s culture and promote unity. Another popular festival is the Akhil Bhartiya Kalidas Samaroh, which is a seven-day event that is held in Ujjain, usually during the winter season. The roots of the festival can be traced back to 1958, featuring story readings, poetry recitations, and classical drama performances. Some of the other festivals that shine bright in the state are the Khajuraho Festival, Bhagoria Haat Festival, Ujjain Kumbh Mela, Malwa Utsav, Mandu Festival, and Gair Festival.

The folk music of Madhya Pradesh makes use of various instruments, including dholak, sarangi, harmonium, and mandar. The roots of the state’s folk music can be traced back to ancient times, where the way to preserve a region’s culture and history was through oral traditions. Owing to Madhya Pradesh’s central location, the musical history of the state also includes diverse influences from the other regions of the country. The rich musical landscape of Madhya Pradesh has had contributions from its rural population, local artisans, and tribal communities. Originating from the state’s Nimar region are the Nimari songs with powerful lyrics that reflect the emotions of the local community. The themes of these songs are usually based on love, longing, and separation. The other kinds of folk music of the state include the Bundeli songs, Malwi songs, and bhola geet.