Unexplored India: Timeless Traditions, Royal Flavours and the Wild Side of Madhya Pradesh

Appropriately the name ‘Madhya Pradesh’ literally means “The Central State” as Madhya Pradesh and neighbouring Chhattisgarh make up the geographic heart of India. From exquisitely carved stone temples, rich tribal heritage, mighty rivers, jungles teeming with wildlife and character laden cities, the state is sure to enthrall you!
Historically, this state is home to some of the country’s most enduring cultural symbols. In the capital city Bhopal, experience the remains of a glorious Nawabi past. Marvel at paintings on the rock surfaces of the Bhimbetka caves dating back thousands of years. Don’t miss the Great Stupa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) at Sanchi – the premier seat of India’s Buddhist stupas – which was commissioned by Emperor Asoka in the 3 rd  century BC.
In Gwalior, be ready to be swept off your feet as you set eyes on the magnificent- Gwalior Fort, known as the ‘pearl among fortresses in India’. Next, stop at Khajuraho to visit the stunning temples that have survived the ravages of time and depict a celebration of religion, love, joy and creativity. Against the backdrop of these beautifully carved temples, ghunghroos resonate as leading classical dancers from India and the world over perform during the Khajuraho Festival of Dance. The atmospheric ruins of Mandu which rightly deserves to be listed on the 40 most beautiful abandoned cities of the world – should be on every traveller’s list.
The forests of Madhya Pradesh were the inspiration behind Rudyard Kipling’s “Jungle Book”, and are considered to be the last home of the Bengal tiger. Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench and Satpura National Parks have large open meadows where chances of spotting wildlife, including tigers, are high. It's not hard to imagine Mowgli striding through the grass, on the lookout for Sher Khan.
Further along is Maheshwar, an absolutely charming city set on the banks of one of the scared rivers, Narmada. Besides being a city noted for its religious importance it also has a bustling handloom industry.  Yes, this is where you buy the gorgeous Maheshwari saris woven with silk and cotton fibres, straight from the weavers’ village! And last but not the least, this city was also home to the benevolent queen, Ahilya Bai Holkar considered by many as a goddess.
For the history buff’s – not far away is the small town of Burhanpur. It is said that Begam Mumtaz Mahal (Taj Mahal was made in her loving memory) died here while giving birth to her fourteenth child before her body was moved to the final resting place – The Taj Mahal in Agra.
The state’s cuisine has its own set of treats unique to certain places.  The credit for such a diverse and rich culinary heritage of the state goes to where it all began- the imperial city of the Holkars.
Hot tip- a stop at the Chatori Gali (Eat Street), buzzing with food stalls selling kebabs and paaya (trotter soup) in Bhopal, is a must for all food enthusiasts.

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