MADHYA PRADESHAt the heart of India, the magic of Madhya Pradesh lies in its exquisitely carved temples, proud fortresses and variety of wildlife. Most of the state is a high plateau, historically known as the Malwa region. Home to many pre-Aryan tribes such as the Gonds and Bhils, Madhya Pradesh is still overwhelmingly Indo-Aryan with the majority of the people speaking Hindi.Besides, Gwalior city, MP's other attractions are: Udaygiri, an excursion from Bhopal, with notable cave sculptures of religious themes, the medieval city of Orchha with exquisite palaces and cenotaphs, the Khajuraho temples, cave paintings at Bhimbetka, Sanchi, unmatched repository of Buddhist art and architecture, the city of love, Mandu. Capital: Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is a fascinating amalgam of an old historic city, and modern urban planning. It is situated on the 11th century city, Bhojapal, founded by Raja Bhoja but an Afghan soldier, Dost Mohammed, established the present city. Today it presents a multi-faceted profile: the old city with its marketplaces and fine old mosques and palaces still bears the aristocratic imprint of its former rulers, among them the succession of powerful Begums who ruled Bhopal from 1819 to 1926. Equally impressive is the new city with its verdant, exquisitely laid out parks and gardens, broad avenues and streamlined modern edifices. History: The history of Madhya Pradesh goes back to the time of Ashoka, the great Mauryan ruler. To the Chandelas, however, goes the credit of building the fantastic monuments of Eros, Khajuraho, in the north of the state. Between 12th and 16th centuries, the region saw continuing struggles between Hindu and Muslim rulers and invaders. The fortified city of Mandu in the southwest was the scene of frequent battles. Madhya Pradesh finally fell to the Mughals. Culture: The state's cultural lineage is ancient and checkered. Madhya Pradesh occupies a special position in the history of music. The Gwalior gharana is among the most prominent arbiters of style. The rivalry of Tansen and Baiju Bawra is remembered in fantastic detail to this day. In modern times, the legendary Ustad Allaudin Khan, guru of famous satirist Pt. Ravi Shankar and sarod player Ali Akbar Khan accomplished the revival of north Indian classical music. MP also has a rich tribal culture: the bison-horn dance of the Muria tribe in Madhya Pradesh is a dynamic interpretation of nature's mating season. The People: Hindus form the majority of the population, but there are significant minorities of Muslims, Jains, Christians, and Buddhists and a small population of Sikhs. Hindi is the official and most widely spoken language; tribal languages include Bhili and Goni, as well as eastern and western Hindi dialects. The second most important common language is Marathi. Agriculture dominates the Madhya Pradesh economy. MP is also famous for its sari weaving, embroidery and beadwork Tribals: A number of tribes occupy Madhya Pradesh, including the Bhil, Baiga, Gon, Korku, Kamar, Kol, and Maria. Many of the tribal traditions are still vital and strong, although they have been exposed to outside cultural influences. A great deal of tribal mythology and folklore is also preserved; e.g., the Gon bards still sing of the legendary deeds of Ling-pen, the mythical originator of the tribe. All tribes retain myths and legends regarding their origins, and they have songs for the ceremonies of birth and marriage, together with folktales, riddles, and proverbs illustrating their cultural heritage. CLIMATE: The climate is monsoon, with much of the rain falling from June to October. The March-to-May season is hot and dry, and temperatures everywhere are higher than 29º C. Winters are usually pleasant and dry. Generally, rainfall decreases westward and northward; in the east and southeast it averages 60 inches or more, dropping to 40

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inches or less in the west and less than 30 inches in the Chambal River valley to the north. Best time to visit September to February. Population: 74 millionFestivals: Khajuraho dance festival in March; Navaratri in Sept/Oct; The Malwa festival in Indore, Mandu and Ujjain and the Panchmarhi festival.

GWALIORGwalior is named after a saint who cured the local chieftain Suraj Sen from leprosy. History of Gwalior dates back to 8th century. From then onwards Gwalior was to become the cradle of dynasties. The massive fort, which overlooks the city, is a testimony to its glory and grandeur. Warrior kings, poets, musicians and saints contributed in making Gwalior the city it is.Gwalior is one place which was most affected during the Revolt of 1857. It was one of the centers, which experienced fierce encounters between the British and the 'Rebels'. The Maharaja of Gwalior was loyal to the British during the mutiny but his troops sided with the rebels who had laid their hands on the city. Towards the end of mutiny, Gwalior was subject to heavy fighting, after which British gained complete control over India. Among those who laid down their lives here in their attempt to capture the fort were Tatiya Tope and Rani of Jhansi.Gwalior changed hands from the Tomars to Lodhis of Delhi. Then the Mughals ruled it and finally the Marathas laid their hands on this city. Each era and rulers left their impression on this city but what remained unchanged and UN fazed was the imposing fort, which withstood any assault on Gwalior. Even today thick walls and high ramparts of the fort seem invincible. Gwalior is a city where the rich cultural tradition blend with modern life, where the princely past lives in palaces and museums, past mixes CLIMATE: Gwalior has extreme climate. The summers are very hot and winter is cold. There have been frequent deaths reported due to heat wave during the summers so it is better to avoid the summers. Though the winters are cold they are better than summers to visit the city. Best time to visit from October to Marches with present to offer visitor a city of enduring greatness. GETTING THERE: Gwalior is barely 321 kms from Delhi and is well connected by Air, Rail, and Road services. This city has its own airport and the airlines operating in India provide their services to this city. Flights connect Gwalior with the other cities of India. On the railway route Gwalior is major a station with many superfast and express trains having a stoppage at Gwalior station? This beautiful station receives Shatabdi trains and the Royal Palace on Wheels. By road also this city is linked with other cities in India. The state transport and private bus operators have their services not only to the nearby places but also to places outside the state. There are bus services to Chandigarh and Lucknow too.

SIGHTSEEING:The Fort: For over 100 years this fort has been over looking the city of Gwalior. One of the most invincible forts in India, this imposing citadel has changed many hands but has rarely been captured.Jai Vilas Palace: Built in 1809, this palace is located in new city of Gwalior. It is house of the present Maharaja of Gwalior.Tomb of Tansen - Father of Indian classical music and one of the nine Gems in Akbar's court is buried in Gwalior. The memorial of this great singer carriers a very simple tone in itself and is surrounded by gardens on its sides. This monument is a part of Gwalior's cultural heritage. Every year a music festival is organized here. The festival is held in November / December and attracts singers and musicians from all over India. Mausoleum of Ghaus Mohammed: Ghaus Mohammed, whose sand stone mausoleums is laid in the old town of Hazira, was a Afghan Prince turned Sufi saint who

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had helped Babur to win the Gwalior fort. His mausoleum is designed on early Mughal architectural lines. Particularly exquisite are the screens using pierced stone technique. The carvings on these screens are as delicate as lace. Sun Temple: This newly constructed temple is based on the lines of the Konark temple. It is located near the Residency at Morar.Dholpur: On the way to Agra is a small tract of Rajasthan land, which is called Dholpur. It was here that sons of Aurangzeb fought battle for succession. The battle was fought for the control of a declining Mughal empire. The Shergarh fort here is in ruins now. Shah Jahan built the Khanpur Mahal but it was never occupied.Shivpuri: Shivpuri was summer capital of the Scindias and is 122 kms on the Mumbai - Agra highway. Shivpuri has numerous palaces and lakes, which remind of the splendor this place, must have seen during the rein of Scindias. Orchha: Orchha was once the capital of Bundela Rajput and later it came under the Mughals. It is 120 kms on the road to Khajuraho and has not been touched by destructive hands of time. For more information on the Orcha ruins.Datia: A town of the Mahabharata period, Datia is 69 kms from Gwalior on the way to Chennai. Datia is historically very important. The seven-storied palace built in brick and stone by Raja Bir Singh Deo is one of the finest examples of Bundela architecture. This palace was built in 1614. The palace houses some of the fine Bundela paintings. The imposing Gopinath temple is a confluence of cultures with Mughal frescoes adorning the temple. Chanderi: This place is famous for sarees, which have fascinated the Indian lady since ages. Chanderi is 239 kms from Gwalior and is surrounded by forests, hills and lakes. Though the craft from Chanderi is very famous, the architecture of the area is in no way less imposing. The Bundela Rajputs and the Sultan of Malwa influence the architecture here. In 1445 Mohammed Khilji built the Koshak Mahal on lines of Mandu architecture. The Sultans of Malwa built all the Jama Masjid, Shahzadi ka Rouza and Battisi Bandi in the 15th century. Chanderi also came up as pilgrimage center with the coming up of Jain temples in the 9th and 10th century. The picturesque Parameshwa Tal was built by the Bundelas and has a temple complex around it. Narwar: 122 kms from Gwalior is another fort city called Narwar. This city was capital of Raja Nal. His love for Damayanti has been moulded into ballads and stories, which form legends of the region. A fort 500m above the town dominates the town. The fort and palaces of Narwar are built in Rajput style. The flat ceilings, fluted columns and the many arches with interiors decorated with glass beads are typical in construction.Pawaya: The ancient city of Padmawati is fascinating city of ruins. It is 68 kms from Gwalior on the Jhansi road. In the 3rd century Pawaya was the capital of Nag kings. The life size statue of Chaksha Manibhadra dates back to 1 AD the Parmars built the fort and the nearby Dhoomeshwar Mahadeo temple, which are the main attractions of Pawaya.Tiger Dam: A picnic spot, which is 23 kms from the Gwalior City.

FAIRS & FESTIVALS:The Tansen Music Festival: Gwalior has special affinity with the classical music and singing. It has been an influence on the Hindustani classical music. Gwalior has retained the strong musical tradition. Tansen the exponent of Dhrupad style went on to evolve the Gwalior Gharana whose contemporary exponent is the world-renowned Sarod player Amjad Ali Khan. As a tribute to Tansen, the great master of classical music, a festival is organized in the month of November / December every year. Renowned musicians from the country gather to give performance during the festival.POPULATION: About 9 lakh People resides in this city.MAIN LANGUAGES: Hindi and English

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A WORD OF CAUTION: To all tourist - beware of touts, if, new to the place.NEAR BY CITIES

Bhopal: 423 Kms Shiv Puri: 112 KmsChanderi: 122 KmsNarwar: 122 KmsDelhi: 321 KmsAgra: 118 KmsOrchha: 120 KmsKhajuraho: 275 kmsPawaya: 68 KmsSanchi: 381 Kms

KHAJURAHOLocation: 385-Miles Southeast of Delhi, Madhya Pradesh. Name derived from 'Khajur', The Date Palm. Built By: Chandela Rajputs. Built During: 950 AD - 1050 AD.Sensuality Sublimated: Khajuraho, derived from the word 'khajur' meaning the date palm, was a quiet, unknown town till a chance discovery made it a popular tourist destination. Forgotten and unvisited until the mid-1960s, the place is now, after the Taj, India's biggest single tourist attraction. Khajuraho has the largest group of medieval Temples; each studded with countless sculptures of extraordinary grace and delicacy. The temples of Khajuraho are indeed, celebrations of the stylized and refined courtly accomplishments of beauty, love and creative arts.Khajuraho lies about 385 miles (616 kilometers) southeast of Delhi. It was once the religious capital of the Chandela Rajputs, a tribal dynasty who ruled this part of India from the tenth to the twelfth centuries. The Khajuraho temples were built in the short span of a hundred years, from 950-1050 AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity. A wall with eight gates enclosed the whole area; each flanked by two golden palm trees. There were originally over 80 temples, of which only 22 now stand in a reasonable state of preservation, scattered over an area of about eight square miles

MANDUA saga inscribed in stone, Mandu is situated on the edge of the Malwa Plateau. Mandu was dominated successively by Hindu and Muslim rulers. Mandu is also known as the city of joy. It was in the 10th century that Raja Bhoj founded this town as a retreat. It was taken over by the rulers of Delhi in 1304. The Mughals invaded as this place in 1401.The Afghan governor, Dilawar Khan established the kingdom of Mandu and with this started the golden era of this place. But it was not Dilawar Khan rather his son Hoshang Shah who raised it to greatest splendor. When the Mughals had captured it, capital of Malwa was shifted Dhar. Then again Hoshang Shah shifted the capital from Dhar to Mandu. Today Mandu is a ghost town. But it is a ghost town with a difference. Its grandiose and remarkable architecture makes it one of the places having the most impressive collection of Afghan art in India. Mandu is a place where songs describing the love of Poet-prince Baz Bahadur and beautiful singer Roopmati fill the atmosphere. Balladeers sing songs of the romance and the Roopmati Pavilion overlooking the palace of Baz Bahadur stands as testimony to that as well. In the 13th century this place was also called Shahibabad. All over this place are spread ruins of Afghan Architecture. Jahaz and Hindola Mahals, ornamental canals, baths and pavilions, which are till, date as graceful and exquisite as they were then. The monuments of Mandu can be divided into three categories, which includes the

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Royal Enclave, the central group and Rewa Kund group. The royal enclave includes Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal. The central group has Hoshang Shah's tomb, Jami Masjid, Ashrafi Mahal and the Rewa Kund group have Rewa Kund, Baz Bahadur palace, and Roopmati pavilions. Then there are some more monuments, which are not kept in any of the groups this, include Nilkanth shrine and palace. Hathi Mahal, Darya Khan's Tomb, Dai Ka Mahal, Dai ki choti Bahan Ka Mahal and many other such monuments are worth giving a visit.The lohani cave and temples are not far from the Royal enclave area and is associated with history of Mandu. Sunpoint near the caves affords a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Mandu is one of the few places in India where Baobab tree is found. It is the tubby Grey tree that looks as if it has been planted upside down with its roots in the air.SHOPPING: Mandu is basically a historical place, which is surrounded by forests and natural beauty. Being a very small city it does not offer much to purchase and shopping malls are absent. Nevertheless, one can buy some local handicrafts and items made in the region. These items make good souvenirs and decorative pieces. Items made from gold and silver are particularly popular between the tourist as well as the native people. One cans always go for some handloom cloths and some colourful garments. Being part of Vindhya range (Malwa), the influence of Vindhyachal (Malwa) tribal art is clearly visible in on the handicrafts and other items. One can also look for leatherwork. CLIMATE: July to March is the best time to visit this place. But while all other places are closed for tourism during Monsoons, Mandu offers the best time in this period. In fact, Mandu is more of a monsoon resort than anything else is. The natural surroundings are in full bloom during monsoon months.GETTING THERE: The nearest airport is that of Indore which is linked with major cities in the country. There are regular services by various airlines to Indore. From Indore Mandu is 99 kms, which can be covered on a bus or hired taxi. The main railway stations for Mandu are Ratlam (124 kms) and Indore. These railheads are on the Mumbai - Delhi line and all major trains have a stoppage at these stations. Mandu is well connected by roads and is accessible from anywhere in the state. There are regular bus services from all the major cities in the state.Jahaz Mahal: Jahaz Mahal or the ship palace was built by Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din-Khilji to maintain his large Harem (place where the ladies of rulers lived). This palace is in shape of a ship and is locate between Munj Talao and Kapur Talao (pond).Hindola Mahal: The church like Hindola Mahal or the Swinging palace derives its name from the sloping sidewalks. Due to the slopes the walls of this palace seems to be swinging. Hindola Mahal essentially was a meeting place during Ghiyas-ud-din-Khilji's time. Hoshang Shah's Tomb: Magnificently proportioned domes and intricately & delicately done marble latticework are the main features of Hoshang Shah's Tomb. This tomb is one of the best examples of Afghan architecture in India and probably the first marble edifice. Portico courts and towers mark the four corner of the rectangular tomb. It was from this tomb that Ustad Hamid got inspiration for designing Taj Mahal. Many architects were sending by Shah Jahan to study this tomb and then decide the constructing plan of the Taj.Jami Masjid: This huge Mosque stands on high plinth and is adorned by imposing domes. A huge dome and minaret forms the center of this mosque, which derives its inspiration from the great mosque of Damascus. The scale on which this mosque was built and the proportions of the building is just unimaginable. The number of bays and arrangements of pillars and arches rows of domes above all make this mosque very

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pleasing in nature. Particularly from the central court is covered with huge colonnades, which makes it very fascinating. Ashrafi Mahal: This was essentially built as Madras, a place for Islamic teaching. Even today the rooms and cells tell a story of teaching and studying. The name means palace of gold and was build by Muhammad Shah Khilji.Rewa Kund: This pond was build to supply water to Rani Roommate’s palace. Built by Baz Bahadur, the pond is considered very sacred today. Baz Bahadur Palace: Spacious courtyard surrounded by halls and high terraces with an excellent view of the countryside make this palace. Baz Bahadur built the palace for himself in the early 6th century.Roopmati Pavilion: This pavilion was retreat for Roopmati. From the graceful pavilions Roopmati could see the palace of his beloved Baz Bahadur, The Pavilions also give a good view of river Narmada flowing through the Nimar plains. But these pavilions were originally built as army observation posts. Watching the sunset from these pavilions gives maximum pleasure.Nilkanth: This Shiva temple is located on the edge of a steep gorge. The tree shaded courtyards and sacred pond fed by a stream is part of this ancient temple. Pilgrims and devotees come here to worship Lord Shiva.Nilkanth Mahal: Mughal Governor of Mandu, Shah Badgah, built this palace for Akbar's Hindu wife. This Palace is very close to Nilkanth Shrine and it derives its name from the shrine itself. Interestingly the wall of this palace has inscription saying the futility of earthly pomp and glory. This palace became the favorite retreat for Jehangir. Echo Point: Also referred as Delphic Oracle of Mandu. A shout from here reverberates far below and is clearly heard back. Bagh Caves: Bagh caves are 50 kms west of Mandu. The location of these caves is three kms from the main road between Indore and Vadodra. The caves are seven kms from Bagh village. Essentially these caves were carved out during 400 to 700 AD. They are caves carrying Buddhist motifs. When discovered these caves were in vary bad shape and recently restoration works began. These cave are worth giving a look before one proceeds further. FAIRS & FESTIVALS: The Malwa region is known for fun and colourful festival celebrations. Particularly during September / October, when Ganesha Chaturthi is celebrated in with much pomp and fan fair. These celebrations are window to the rich and colourful cultural heritage, which this place inherits. During these festivals and fairs, tribal art and crafts are displayed. Excellent pieces of art & crafts made in clay, wood, metal, bamboo, clothe, leaves etc visual treats and good purchase for decorations and gifts. The Madhya Pradesh tourism development corporations are trying to exploit the tourism potential of this area to its maximum. So, the Malwa festival is organized in Indore, Ujjain and Mandu. A cultural program accompanies this festival, among other things. The traditional art and cultural heritage come to the fore ground. In fact, like the festivals in Khajuraho and Konark there has been an attempt to make this a national festival. The festival is an attempt to link regional art and culture with the national mainstream. And to the delight of the organizers Malwa festival has been receiving attention from the media and tourist inflow to this region has been on a rise.

NEAR BY CITIEBHOPAL: 285 KMSALWAR: 142 KMSMAHESHWAR: 63 KMSBHARATPUR: 176 KMS

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PACHMARHIAt an altitude of 3,555 feet, surrounded by Satpura hills is located the summer capital of Madhya Pradesh- Pachmarhi. As a hill station this place has been untouched and unexplored. The natural beauty of Pachmarhi has remained unexploded and is lesser known to the foreign tourists. Geographically Pachmarhi is a group of waterfalls. Apart from the ancient temples and buildings, this place is known for its natural beauty. Though Pachmarhi has no comparison with the hill stations of the Himalayas still it carries a charm of its own which is unique to this place.SHOPPING: As such there are no shopping Malls in Pachmarhi but one can get good items to purchase from shops around the bus stand. Pachmarhi is famous for items made from jute and marble decorative pieces. ACCOMMODATION: Pachmarhi is not so hot tourist spot so no five star hotels are available here. But there are many small and medium hotels, which provide you with good accommodation. Hotels like Pachmarhi, Saket, Giri Shriangar, Mount View, Hill View, Meghdoot, and Shilpa suit budget of any tourist. Apart from the hotels there are guesthouses, which are good to stay.CLIMATE: Pachmarhi is surrounded by hills so the weather is very pleasant here throughout the year. The temperature is never above 37 degrees during summers and below 7 degrees during winters. The best season to visit this place is between October and June.GETTING THERE: The nearest Airport to Pachmarhi is that of Bhopal where all the major airlines have their flights. Piparya is the nearest railway station, which is on the Howard-Mumbai line, and at Piparya almost all the trains have their stoppage. Piparya is 47 Kms from Pachmarhi. Pachmarhi is well connected by roads from Bhopal, Jabalpur, Nagpur, and Chindwara, from all these places there are regular bus services.Cahuragarh Dhupgarh: These are two separate hills in Pachmarhi. From here one can watch the spectacular Sunrise and Sunset. The ancient Shiva temple of Cahuragarh is also worth seeing. The Sunrise at Dhupgarh leaves one mesmerized. One can also spend one night at Dhupgarh.B-Falls: About 3 kms from Pachmarhi is a very beautiful waterfall called the B Falls. It’s about half a kilometer below Pachmarhi. One gets the feeling that molten silver is being poured from this fall. Falling from a height of 150 feet these falls provide an ideal refuge to the body and mind.Jatashankar: 1.5 kilometer from the bus stand is the natural caves of Jatashankar. These caves display the unique architecture of nature. At Jatashankar there is pool between two rocks and another rock is suspended without any support. This natural spectacle has enthralled the visitor from times immemorable. This place is also very popular between the director and producers of films.Pandav caves: These caves are considered to be carved out during the Buddha period. Mythology supports this version of the historians by saying that during Mahabaharata era the five Pandav brothers had spent few years in exile here. There are five temples made in their honour.Mahadev: This cave is 30 meter long and water is always seeping inside the cave. The source of this water has been traced to a waterfall. In the middle of the cave is a small pool of water. Inside the cave is a Shivaling (Phallus). Here on every Shivratri a fair is held and about 4-5 lakh devotees throng this place. During the first war of Independence Tatiya Tope had reassembled his army here. Near by Mahadev are the caves of Gupt Mahadev.Though nature has provided Pachmarhi with immense beauty and there are many places to go around. Hadi Koh, Richgarh, Apsara Vihar, Daurithi Deep, Rajendra giri,

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Rajat Pratap, roman Catholic Church, Little Fall are some of the places which one should not miss if he goes to Pachmarhi.Tamiya: Tamiya is more beautiful than Pachmarhi and is totally unvisited by tourists. The Sunset point at Tamiya is place where you can sit for hours and enjoy the setting sun. Any other thing cannot match this experience. The stay at almost a century old government rest house and watching the natural beauty of the Satpura hills gives you a feeling that there is nothing than the hills in this world. You are bound to be lost in the scintillating beauty of the Satpura hills here. Tamiya has a good and low budget hotels. The PWD rest house and the forest department guesthouse have good accommodation facility. To reach Tamiya one can hire Jeeps from Pachmarhi but there are private and government bus services for Tamiya.POPULATION: 14,700MAIN LANGUAGES: Hindi and English A WORD OF CAUTION: Though the Pachmarhi is an unexploded tourist destination, one should always keep an eye for the touts. Though the weather here is pleasant one should carry warm cloths during winters and light warm cloths during the summer seasons.

NEAR BY CITIEBhopal: 210 kmsJabalpur: 225 kmsNagpur: 258 KmsMumbai; 630 Kms

SANCHILocated on the foot of a hill-- Sanchi is just 46 kms Bhopal. It is more of a village than a town. Sanchi is a religious place with historical and archaeological significance. Sanchi is a site for the numerous stupas, which were built on a hilltop. The place is related to Buddhism but not directly to the life of Buddha. It is more related to Ashoka than to Buddha. Ashoka built the first stupa and put up many pillars here. The crown of famous Ashoka pillars, with four lions standing back to back, has been adopted as the national emblem of India.Sanchi adopted Buddhism, which replaced the prominent Hinduism. But time took its toll and slowly both the stupas and the place were forgotten. In 1818 Sanchi was rediscovered and it was found that the marvelous pieces of structure were not in good shape. Gradually historical and the religious significance of the place was recognized. Restoration work of the stupas started in 1881 and finally between 1912 and 1919 these were carefully repaired and restored. It was accepted that the structure at Sanchi is the most organized construction, which went into the engineering of temples in the medieval period. The carvings here are done with the precision of Jewelers. Despite the damage and restoration work done Sanchi is the most evocative and attractive Buddhist site in India. Sanchi is primarily a place of Stupas and pillars but the gorgeous gateways add grace to the place. These gateways are beautifully carved and carry scenes from the life of Buddha or Ashoka. These gateways are the finest specimens of early classical art, which formed the seedbed of entire vocabulary of later Indian art. The images carved on the pillars and the stupas tell moving story of the incident form the life of Buddha.CLIMATE: As such the climate of Sanchi is moderate and it can be visited any time of the year. But the summers can prove to be very hot and winters may be biting cold. Nevertheless, it is better to visit the place during he winters. The best season to visit this Buddhist pilgrimage is between October and March

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GETTING THERE: Sanchi is not so hot place on the tourist map and mainly attracts the Buddhist pilgrims. The nearest Airport is that of Bhopal. From Bhopal one can take flights to any place in India. From Bhopal one can hire a taxi or take bus to Sanchi. There is a railway station in Sanchi, which is on the Jhansi-Itarsi section. But the most convenient railhead is that of Vidisha. Sanchi has motorable roads which connects the place from any where in the state and as well as the tourists places in the neighboring states.STUPAS: Sanchi has been famous for the Stupas, which were built on the top of a hill. The purpose of these stupas was mostly religious. The most likely use of the stupas has been said to keep the relics. Some of these stupas have been found containing relics of disciples of Buddha. The stupas date as early as the 3rd century and are built in brick made of stone. Though most of the stupas are in ruins now three remain intact and are of great archaeological value. The designs and the carvings on the walls and gates of these stupas spell a heavenly grace and are very tastefully done.The Four gate Ways: The Four gateways constructed in 35 BC are the best from of Buddhist expression one can find any where in the world. Gateways or Torans as they are called are covered with explicit carving, which depict scenes from the life Buddha, and Jatakas, the stories relating to Buddha and his earlier births. At this stage Buddha was not represented directly but symbols were used to portray him-- The lotus represents his birth, the tree his enlightenment, the wheel, derived from the title of his first sermon, the footprints and throw symbolizing his presence. The carvings on the Torans are done with inspired imagery, which in harmony with the surrounding figures balance the solidity of massive stupas. The Ashoka Pillar - The Ashoka pillars is one many pillar which are scattered in the area some of these are in broken and some in shape. The Ashoka pillar is on the southern entrance. Today here only the shaft stands and the crown is kept in the museum. The crown is the famous four lions, which stand back to back. This figure was adopted as the national Emblem of India. The Ashoka pillars are an excellent example of he Greece-Buddhist style and are known for the aesthetic proportions and the exquisite structural balance. The Buddhist Vihara: The earlier monasteries were made from wood, which was exquisitely carved and tastefully decorated. The present monasteries are not even the shadow of what they were in the past. A few kms from Sanchi are the relics of the Satdhara Stupa. The relics are kept in glass casket, which is placed on the inner sanctum of the modern monastery.The Great Bowl: Sanchi had a huge bowl carved out of single rock. Grain was stored in this bowl and it was distributed among the monks in Sanchi.The Gupta Temple: This temple is now in ruins. But what ever is left tells a saga of greatness and a temple which had no match during its times. The temple was built in 5 the century and is an excellent example of ancient temple architecture in India.The Museum: The archaeological survey of India maintains a museum, which house many items, which were discovered during the excavation of Sanchi area. Most prized possession of the museum is the lion crown from Ashoka pillar. The museum has a sizeable collection of utensils and other items used by the monks who lived here. Videsha: Just 10 kms from Sanchi is a place called Videsha. In ancient times this place was called the Besnagar and was one of the largest town in the area. Raisen: A Malwa fort built in the 13th century adorns this huge and colourful hill. Apart from the fort there are temples, cannons, three palaces, well and tanks. This place very ancient and lively. The Fort of Raisen was under an independent ruler but later it passed under the ruler of Mandu. One can spot ancient painting in the caves around this region. It is 23 kms from Sanchi.

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Gyaraspur: Gyaras is the name of the fair, which is organized, in the 11th month every year. This place is just 51 kms from Sanchi and many temples, tanks and a fort dating to 9th and 10th century. But the main attraction has been the big fair. Udayapur: 90 kms north of Sanchi is a fine example of Indo-Aryan architecture. The structure is the Neelkantheswara temple. This temple was built in the 11th century. The special thing about the architecture of this temple is that rays of the morning sunshines on the presiding deity of the temple. The temple is covered with profusely carved walls and pillars. There are four are prominently decorated bands around the Sikhara of this temple.Sonari: Just 10 kms from the stupas of Sanchi are eight more stupas of which two are very important. Satdhara: Towards the west of Sanchi are two more stupas, which are worth visiting. These stupas are on the banks of river Beas.Andher: This place was discovered after Sanchi. The place has three small stupas but these are well preserved. Andher is eight kms from Sanchi. MAIN LANGUAGES: Hindi & EnglishA WORD OF CAUTION: To all tourist - beware of touts, if, new to the place.

NEAR BY CITIEBhopal: 46 KmsGwalior: 399 KmsPachmarhi; 241 KmsChanderi: 159 KmsIndore: 232 KmsBhimbetka: 92 kms

BhimbetkaLocation: 40 kms from BhopalKnown For: Its historical cave paintingsSurrounded by the northern fringe of the Vindhyan ranges, Bhimbetka lies 40 km south of Bhopal. In this rocky terrain of dense forest and craggy cliffs, over 700 rock shelters were recently discovered, belonging to the Neolithic age. Here, in vivid, panoramic detail, paintings in over 500 caves depict the life of the prehistoric cave dwellers, making the Bhimbetka group an archaeological treasure, an invaluable chronicle in the history of man. Executed mainly in red and white with the occasional use of green and yellow, with themes taken from the every day events of aeons ago, the scenes usually depict hunting, dancing, music, horse and elephant riders, animals fighting, honey collection, decoration of bodies, disguises, masking and household scenes. Animals such as bison’s, tigers, lions, wild boar, elephants, deer, antelopes, dogs, monkeys, lizards, crocodiles etc. have been abundantly depicted. In some caves, popular religious and ritual symbols also occur frequently. The superimposition of paintings shows that different people used the same canvas at different times. The drawings and paintings can be classified under seven different periods: Period I- (Upper Paleolithic): These are linear representations, in green and dark red, of huge figures of animals such as bison’s, bears, tigers, and rhinoceroses. Period II - (Mesolithic): Comparatively smaller in size, the stylized figures in this group show linear decoration on the body. In addition to animals, this group shows human figures and hunting scenes giving a clear picture of the weapons they used: barbed spears, pointed sticks, bows and arrows. The depiction of communal dances, birds, musical instruments, mother and child, pregnant women, men carrying dead animals, drinking and burials appear in rhythmic movement.

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Period III- (Chaleolithic): Similar to the paintings of Chaleolithic pottery, these drawings reveal that during this period the cave dwellers of this area had come in contact with the agricultural communities of the Malwa plains and started exchange of their requirements with each other. Period IV & V - (Early Historic): The figures of this group have a schematic and decorative style, and are painted mainly in red, white and yellow. The association of riders, depiction of religious symbols, tunic-like dresses and the existence of scripts of different periods, classify this group as being within the historical period. The religious beliefs are represented by figures of Yaksha, tree gods and magical sky chariots. Period VI & VII - (Medieval): These paintings are geometric, linear and more schematic but they show degeneration and crudeness in their artistic style, The colors used by the cave dwellers were prepared by a combination of manganese, hematite, soft red stone and wooden coal. Sometimes the fat of animals and extracts of leaves were also used in the mixture. The colors have remained intact for many centuries due to the chemical reaction resulting from the oxide present on the surface of the rocks.

How to ReachBy Air: Bhopal (28 km from Bhojpur, and 40 km from Bhimbetka) is the nearest airport. It is connected with Bombay, Delhi, Indore and Gwalior. By Rail: Bhopal, on the Delhi-Madras and Delhi-Bombay mainline is the most convenient railhead. By Bus: Both Bhojpur and Bhimbetka are connected by bus with Bhopal. Bhopal is also the most convenient base for visiting Sanchi. Best Season: September to March.

OmkareshwarLocation: 77 kms. From IndoreAttractions: Shri Omkar Mandhata Temple, Kajal Rani CaveOmkareshwar, the sacred island, shaped like the holiest of Hindu symbols, 'Om', has drawn hundreds of generations of pilgrims. Here, at the confluence of the rivers Narmada and Kaveri, the devout have gathered to kneel before the Jyotirlinga (one of the twelve throughout India) at the temple of Shri Omkar Mandhata. And here, as in so many of Madhya Pradesh's sacred shrines, the works of Nature complement those of man to provide a setting awe-inspiring in its magnificence.Shri Omkar Mandhata: The temple stands on a one-mile long, half-mile wide island formed by the fork of the Narmada. The soft stone of which it was constructed has lent its pliable surface to a rare degree of detailed work, of which the frieze figures on the upper portion is the most striking. Also intricately carved is the stone roof of the temple. Encircling the shrine is verandah with columns, which are carved in circles, polygons, and squares. Siddhnath Temple: A fine example of early medieval Brahmin architecture. Its unique feature is a frieze of elephants carved upon a stone slab at its outer perimeter. 24 Avatars: A cluster of Hindu and Jain temples, remarkable for their skilful use of varied architectural modes. Satmatrika Temples: 6 km from Omkareshwar, a group of 10th century temples. Kajal Rani Cave: 9 km from Omkareshwar, this is a particularly picturesque scenic spot, with a panoramic view of the broad acres and gently undulating landscape that stretches in unbroken harmony till the horizon.

How to reachBy Air: The nearest airport is Indore (77 km) connected by regular flights with Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal and Gwalior. By Rail: Nearest railhead is Omkareshwar Road (12 km) on the Ratlam-Khandwa section of the Western Railway.

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By Road: Omkareshwar is connected to Indore, Ujjain, Khandwa and Omkareshwar Road by regular bus services. Best Season: July to March.

BhedaghatLocation: 23 kms from JabalpurKnown For: Varied beauty of the RocksOther Attractions: Dhuandhar Falls, Chausat Yogini TempleMarble Rocks at Bhedaghat: Soaring in glittering splendor, the Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat rise to a hundred feet on either side of the Narmada. The serene loveliness of the scene is one of cool quiet; the sunlight sparkling on the marble-white pinnacles and casting dappled shadows on the pellucid waters. In his Highlands of Central India Caption J. Forsythia speaks eloquently about the infinitely varied beauty of the rocks: "The eye never wearies of the ... effect produced by the broken and reflected sunlight, now glancing from a pinnacle of snow-white marble reared against the deep blue of the sky as from a point of silver; touching here and there with bright the prominence to the middle heights; and again losing itself in the soft bluish Grey of their recesses. Here and there the white saccharine limestone is seamed by veins of dark green or black volcanic rock; a contrast which only enhances, like a setting of jet, the purity of the surrounding marble". Marble Rocks: The perpendicular magnesium limestone rocks fringe the crystal clear placid waters of the Narmada providing a fascinating site. Boating facilities are available between Novembers - May. Boating on a moonlit night, when the whole stretch of water is transformed into a sheet of liquid silver is absolutely magical. In the narrow channel of the mighty river, there is a place approached so closely from the opposite banks that the local people have aptly named it the "Monkey's leap" (Bundar Kundi). Dhuandhar Falls: The Narmada, making its way through the Marble Rocks, narrows down and then plunges in water fall known as Dhundhar or the smoke cascade. So powerful is the plunge that its roar is head from a far distance. The falls and the breaking of the volume of water at the crest present an awesome spectacle of nature's power unleashed. Chausat Yogini Temple: Situated stop a hillock and approached by a long flight of steps, the Chausat Yogini Temple commands a singularly beautiful view of the Narmada flowing through the Jagged Marble Rocks. Dedicated to goddess Durga, this 10th century temple has exquisitely carved stone figures of deities belonging to the Kalchuri period. According to a local legend, this ancient temple is connected to the Gond Queen Durgavati's palace through an underground passage. Soapstone Artifacts: The soapstone revealed by the Narmada provides occupation to families of carvers of gods and goddesses, lingas, crosses, Madonnas, ashtrays and trinket boxes. How to ReachBy Air: Jabalpur (23 km) is the nearest airport. By Rail: Jabalpur, on the Mumbai-Howrah via Allahabad main line, is the main railhead. All mail, express and passenger train halt here. By Road: Frequent buses tempos and taxis are available from Jabalpur.

JHANSILocation: Uttar PradeshFamous for: Rani Laxmi BaiMain attractions: Jhansi Fort, Rani MahalLanguages: Hindi, English, and Bundeli

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LAND OF THE GALLANT QUEEN: The gateway to Bundelkhand, Jhansi is a city that is linked still with the legend of its fiery queen, Rani Laxmibai. In the 1857 war against British, she led her troops into battle, striking a blow for Indian independence and laying down her life for the cause. Jhansi is ideally located for various rewarding excursions in the area. Within easy reach are fascinating destinations like Orchha, Shivpuri, Deogarh and Khajuraho. Now adding another dimension to this splendid destination is the Jhansi festival, an annual event scheduled in February/ March each year that displays the arts, crafts and culture of the region.

PRIME ATTRACTIONSJhansi Fort: Raja Bir Singh Ji Deo built The Jhansi Fort, located upon a rocky hill originally, in 1613. Today, it houses a collection of sculpture and provides an excellent insight into the eventful history of Bundelkhand. Rani Mahal: This was the palace of Rani Laxmibai. The Archaeological Survey of India has housed a fine collection of sculptures belonging to the period between 9th and 12th centuries AD here. State Museum: The museum has collections of terracotta, bronzes, sculptures, arms, manuscripts, paintings and coins of gold, silver and copper. Mahavir Swami Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Lalitpur in Uttar Pradesh, the Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 5.4 sq. km. The sanctuary is 125 km from Jhansi, the magnificent gateway to the Bundelkhand region, rendered famous by the legendary Rani Laxmi Bai.Barua Sagar: 24 kms from Jhansi, on the route to Khajuraho, Baruasagar is the historic spot where the battle between the Peshwa’s troops and the Bundelas was fought in 1744 The place is named after the Barua Sagar Taal, a large lake formed about 260 years ago, when an embankment was erected by Raja Udit Singh of Orchha. Kalinjar: Situated at a distance of 280 km from Jhansi, this town and the fort, which have had strategic important since the earliest of times, are located in the ancient land of Jejakbhukti, which is an integral part of Bundelkhand.Parichha: Parichha Dam, built on the river Betwa, is about 25 kms from Jhansi on the Jhansi-Kanpur National Highway No. 25. Its reservoir- a placid stretch of water that runs to Notghat Bridge, 34 km away is ideal for water sports.Todi-Fatehpur: The fort covering an area of 5 acres is built on a hillock and is surrounded by three massive stonewalls. It is divided into 4 main parts- the oldest and the uppermost being Gusain Mahal, the next being ‘Ranwas’, the third, Rajgarh Palace and the fourth, the Rangmahal Palace, which is a splendid four storeyed building, embellished with paintings on the walls and ceilings. Samthar: Samthar lies at a distance of 66 km from Jhansi and 13 km from Moth. Formerly called Samshergarh, it is now known as Samthar. It was an independent principality under the great Gujjar warriors of the 17th and 18th centuries. Chandrabhan Bar Gujar and his grandson Madan Singh, governors of the state of Datia, are credited with the creation of the independent state of Samthar.Orchha (M.P.): 18 km from Jhansi, Orchha is a city, frozen in time. It was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela chieftain, Rudra Pratap Singh, who built this new capital on a large wooded island, on the river Betwa. Today, remains of the fort and palaces speak eloquently of Orchha’s time of glory, of its splendid legacy of art and culture.Shivpuri (M.P.): 101 kms from Jhansi lays Shivpuri, the summer capital of the Scindia rulers of Gwalior. It is located on the main Delhi- Bombay Highway, south of Gwalior. Mughal emperors as their hunting grounds once used Shivpuri’s dense forests. Even today, it is famous for its preserved forests, wild animals and natural surroundings.

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Datia (M.P.): 34 kms from Jhansi, Datia is a railway station on the Delhi-Madras main line. An ancient town, it has been mentioned in the Mahabharat as “Daityavakra”. The main historical monument here is the seven-storeyed palace of Raja Bir Singh Ji Deo built a top a hill, offering a splendid view, over a lake. Sonagiri (M.P.): 45 kms from Jhansi, this sacred Jain hill lays 3 kms to the northwest of Datia. There are some 77 Jain temples, built along the hill and its slopes, which date back to the 17th century. Of these, the temple dedicated to Chhatranatha, the 8th of the 24 Tirthankaras, is the most beautiful.

HOW TO GET THEREAir: Nearest airports are Gwalior (103 km) and Khajuraho (175 km). Rail: A junction along the Mumbai- Delhi route, Jhansi is well linked by rail. Road: Jhansi is situated on National Highway Nos. 25 and 26 and is well connected with the entire country. Local Transport: Tourist taxis, tempos and auto rickshaws that operate on a point-to-point basis.

VIDESHAJust 10 kms from Sanchi is a place called Videsha. In ancient times this place was called the Besnagar and was one of the largest town in the area. It was from that the wife of Ashoka came who later became the mother of Mahendra became messenger of Buddhism and went to Sri Lanka to preach Buddhism. Videsha was an important township during Ashoka's time. In the period that followed Videsha was destroyed three times. In Videsha one can go for the Heliodorus pillar, Udaigiri caves. Heliodorus was a Greek ambassador of Taxila. To celebrate his conversion into Hinduism a pillar was erected which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This pillar is known as the Khamb Baba and is worshipped by the local fishermen. The Udaigiri caves are cut into sand stone hills. There are about 20 such caves shrines, which were carved during the 320 to 606 AD. The caves have some exquisite carving of Vishnu. He is shown in the boar incarnation in the 5th cave, Cave Chandragupta Maurya II for his personal work used seven. There are some caves dedicated to the Jains. 20th cave has Jain carvings. On the top of the hill are ruins of a 6th century Gupta temple.

IndoreLocation: In the Heart of the Malwa plateauBuilt by: Rani Ahilyabai HolkarAttractions: Rajwada, Kanch TempleThis city derives its name from the 18th century Indreshwar temple. Situated in the heart of the Malwa plateau it was the base of the Holkars, former rulers of this and built by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar. Today, it is a throbbing, vibrant city coloured by its brave past. It is a naturally endowed with a beautiful landscape and salubrious climate. Of interest here are numerous monuments associated with the Holkars. Rajwada: Two Hundred year ago, this seven storeyed historical building formed the nerve center of all trading activities. Even today it stands proud in the market place, a silent tribute to the craftsmanship of unknown artisans of centuries ago. Kanch Mandir: The Place of Mirrors is a quaint Jain Shrine, close to Rajwada. The attraction of this palace, as the name indicates, is in the myriad mirrors studded on the walls and the ceiling in which one's reflection can be seen. Lal Baugh Place: Currently this is the residence of Usha Raje, direct descendent of the Holkars, whose ancestral palace it used to be. Exquisitely constructed with great detailing, it reflects the royal taste of the Holkars. Chhatri Baugh: Across Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh the tradition of erecting chhatris or cenotaphs was rather prevalent. An example of this can be seen here at

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Chhatri Baugh where the cenotaphs were erected in memory of the Holkar rulers and their family. Kasturba Gram: Situated about 8 kms. From Indore on the Khandwa Road, Mahatma Gandhi founded the Kasturba Gandhi National Memorial Trust. The headquarters of this trust were shifted from Wardha to Indore in 1950. Mhow: 22 kms. From Indore, you will find the old military ambience at picturesque Mhow. Now a small city, it was an old British Cantonment and Military Headquarters of War. Mandu: (99 Kms. from Indore) Perched along the Vindhyan ranges, at an altitude of 2000 feet, Mandu, with its natural defenses, was originally the fort capital of the Paramara rulers of Malwa. Later towards the end of the 13th century, it came under the Sultans of Malwa, one of who renamed it as Shadiabad - the city of joy. Some of the structures worth seeing in the fort complex are the tomb of Hoshang Shah, Jami Masjid, Ashrafi Mahal, Jahaz Mahal, Roommate’s Pavilion, Baz Bahadur's Palace and Hindola Mahal. Omkareshwar: (78 kms. from Indore) Situated at the confluence of the Narmada and Kaveri are temples built in the medieval Brahmin style. Omkaseshwar has one of the 12 Jyotirlingas enshrined at the temple of Shri Onkar Mandhata, set in picturesque surroundings. Patal Pani: Another scenic spot towards Mhow, Patal Pani is famous for its waterfall. The water falls from a height of 150 ft. into a Kund whose depth, till date, remains unfathomable. Hence the name Patal Pani. Dhar: Dhar is 47 Kms. away from Indore and it used to be the capital of the former Paramara kings. Famous among them is Raja Bhoj. Earlier, Dhar boasted of an exquisite image of Goddess Saraswati at the Bhojsala temple. The same image is now displayed in the British Museum London. Bawangaja: About 175 kms. Away from Indore, you can see a 72 feet high stunted hewn from one rock, at Bawangaja. It is also an important Jain pilgrimage center belonging to the 15th century. Anant Chaudas: On the night of Anant Chaudas, large processions are taken out and idols of Lord Ganesha are immersed in water. The festival takes place around September. Rangpanchami: Another festival of colours follows the original festival of colours, Holi. Just five days after Holi, this festival takes place but instead of colours, it is the colours of music that fill the air. It is a traditional festival, which was celebrated during the Holkar reign. The spirit of the festival continues even today. Ahilya Utsav: The death anniversary of Rani Ahilya Bai is observed annually. Shopping: Indore is famous for its glass bangles and leather toys. Tribes using the wax method of casting mostly make the handicrafts. This is now a rare; lost art, which you will net, find anywhere else.

JabalpurHistory: Capital of Gond Kings during 12th centuryAttractions: Madan Mahal Fort, Rani Durgavati Memorial and MuseumPleasure resort and capital of the Gond kings during the 12th century, Jabalpur was later the seat of the Kalchuri dynasty. The Marathas held sway over Jabalpur until 1817, when the British wrested it from them and left their impression on the spacious cantonment with its colonial residences and barracks. Today Jabalpur is an important administrative center, abustle with commercial activity. Madan Mahal Fort: Built by the Gond ruler, Raja Madan Shah, in 1116 atop a rocky hill, the fort dominates the skyline and provides a panoramic view of the town and the countryside around it.

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Sangram Sagar and Bajnamath: the famous Good king, Sangram Shah, between 1480-1540, built these medieval constructions. Rani Durgavati Memorial and Museum: Dedicated to the memory of the great Queen Durgawati is her memorial and a museum, which houses a fine collection of sculptures, and inscriptions and prehistoric relics. Tilwara Ghat, from where mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed in the Narmada, and venue of the open session of the Tripuri Congress in 1939; the 12th century Mala Devi Mandir; Pisan Hari Jain Temples, and Roopnath are some of the other places in and around Jabalpur which merit a visit. En route Kanha and Bandhavgarh: Jabalpur is the most convenient base for visits to the famous Kanha (165 km) and Bandhavgarh (164 km) National Parks.

UjjainLocation: Right Bank of River ShipraOriginal Name: AvantikaAttractions: Kumbh Mela, Mahakaleshwara TempleUjjain is situated on the Right Bank of Riverbank or River Shipra. It is a very holy city for the Hindus a site for the triennial Kumbh Mela. According to Hindu scriptures, it was originally called Avantika. There is an interesting tale behind the sanctity of the city. Its origin is ascribed to the mythological legend of Sagar Manbthan (churning of the primordial ocean to discover the pot of nectar). The story goes that after the nectar was discovered, there was a chase between the gods and the demons to have the nectar first and thus attain immortality. During this chase a drop of nectar spilled and fell on Ujjain, thus making the city sacred. Apart from mythological legends, the city has a long and distinguished history. It was governed by the likes of Vikramaditya and Ashoka. Kalidas wrote his soul stirring poetry here. Today, Ujjain represents an interesting blend of an age-old legacy and the modern day lifestyle. Mahakaleshwara: This temple of Lord Shiva with its lingam is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. It is also known as the shrine of Mahakaleshwara. The temple has an idol of Omkareshwara Shiva consecrated in the sanctum above the Mahakal Shrine. The temple also mages of Ganesh, Parvati, Kartikeya and Shiva's Bull, Nandi. Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir: There is a sculpted image of Lord Ganesh, ion this temple, close to the tank near Mahakaleshwar. Chintamani Ganesh: A temple of considerable antiquity and a popular place of pilgrimage, the idol here is believed to be self-formed. Bhartrihari Caves: According to legend, the caves on the banks of the river Shipra near Gadkalika Temple are where the great scholar-poet Bhartrihari lived and meditated. Harsiddhi Temple: Another Important shrine with the image of Goddess Annapurna. Kal Bhairava: The specialty of this temple is its intricate paintings in the Malwa style. Observatory: The stars and the skies seemed fascinating in the 17th century too. That would perhaps explain the number of observatories that we have in India. Even this 17th century observatory has a planetarium and a telescope. Vikram Kirti Mandir: This Mandir has the Scindia Oriental Research Institute, an archaeological museum and an art gallery. Actually, a cultural center, it is dedicated to the memory of King Vikramaditya - the much honored King of Ujjain. Gopal Mandir: A sanctum inlaid with marble and silver plated doors constitute the main attraction of this temple. Navagraha Mandir: The ruling planets have always had an important place in the Indian rituals and tradition. This temple is dedicated to the nine ruling planets (Navagraha means nine planets) It is located on the Triveni Ghat of the Shipra river.

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Mahashivratri: Having one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, obviously, Mahashivratri is a big event here. Thousand of pilgrims flock to the fair grounds near the famous Mahakaleshwar temple and fast and worship throughout the night. Simhastha Kumbh Mela: It is a mammoth fair, held once in twelve years at Simhastha. The magnificence and awesome spectacle of the bathing ritual defies description.

BhojpurLocation: 28 kms from BhopalFounded By: Raja BhojFounded by the legendary Parmar king of Dhar, Raja Bhoj (1010-53), and named after him, Bhojpur, 28 km from Bhopal, is renowned for the remains of its magnificent Shiva temple and cyclopean dam. The temple, which has earned the nomenclature of the Somnath of the East, is known as the Bhojeshwar Temple. In plan a simple square, with an exterior dimension of 66 feet, it is devoid of the re-entrant angles usual in such buildings. The richly carved dome, though incomplete, has a magnificent, soaring strength of line and is supported by four pillars. These, like the dome, have been conceived on a massive scale; yet retain a remarkable elegance because of their tapering form. Divided into three sections, the lowest is an octagon, with facets of 2.12 feet, from which springs a 24-faced section. Richly carved above, the doorway is plain below, throwing into sharp relief the two exquisitely sculpted figures that stand on either side. On the other three sides of the structure do massive brackets and four intricately carved pillars support balconies, each? The lingam in the sanctum rises to an awe-inspiring height of 7.5 feet with a circumference of 17.8 feet. Set upon a massive platform 21.5 feet square, and composed of three superimposed limestone blocks, the architectural harmony of lingam and platform creates a superb synthesis of solidity and lightness. The temple was never completed, and the earthen ramp used to raise stones to dome-level still stands. Had it been completed, it would have had few rivals. As it is, even with the ravages that time has worked upon it, it remains one of the most magnificent examples of temple architecture of the 12th and 13th centuries. Also incomplete and with a similar stone-raising ramp is a Jain shrine that stands close to the Bhojeshwar temple. Three figures of the Tirthankaras are contained within, one being a colossal statue of Mahavira, 20 feet high, and the other two of Parsvanath. Rectangular in plan, this temple belongs probably to the same period as the Bhojeshwar. West of Bhojpur once lay a vast lake, but nothing remains except the ruins of the magnificent old clams by which its waters were contained. The site was chosen with great skill, as a natural wall of hills enclosed the whole area except for two gaps, in width 100 yards and 500 yards respectively. These were closed by gigantic earthen dams, faced on both sides with enormous blocks of sandstone, many being 4 feet long by 3 feet broad and 2.5 feet thick, set without mortar. The smaller dam is 44 feet high and 300 feet thick at the base, the larger dam 24 feet high with a flat top 100 feet broad. These embankments held up an expanse of water of about 250 square miles. This great work is ascribed to Raja Bhoj, but it may possibly be of earlier date. The lake was destroyed by Hoshang Shah of Malwa (1405-34), who cut through the lesser dam, and thus, either intentionally or in a fit of destructive passion, added an enormous area of the highest fertility to his possessions. According to a Gond legend, it took an army of them three months to cut through the dam, and the lake took three years to empty, while its bed was not habitable for thirty years afterwards. The climate of Malwa is said to have been considerably altered by the removal of this vast sheet of water.

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MaheshwarLocation: 91 kms. From IndoreAttractions: Rajgaddi and Rajwada, TemplesFamous for: Maheshwari SareesMaheshwar was a glorious city at the dawn of Indian civilization when it was Mahishmati, capital of King Kartivarjun. This temple town on the banks of the river Narmada finds mention in the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Revived to its ancient position of importance by the Holkar queen Rani Ahilyabai of Indore. Maheshwar's temples and mighty fort-complex stand in quiet beauty, mirrored in the river below. Rajgaddi and Rajwada: A life-size statue of Rani Ahilyabai sits on a throne in the Rajgaddi within the Fort Complex. This is the right place to begin a tour of Maheshwar, for this pious and wise queen was the architect of its revived importance. Other fascinating relice and heirlooms of the Holkar dynasty can be seen in other rooms, which are open to the public. Within the complex is an exquisite, small shrine, which is the starting point of the ancient Dussehra ceremony, which is the starting point of the ancient Dussehra ceremony, which is the starting point of the ancient Dussehra ceremony, which is carried out even today. The image on this day is installed reverently in a splendid palanquin and carried down the steep fort road to the town below to receive the yearly homage of the people of Maheshwar. Ghats; Peshwar Ghat, Fanase Ghat and Ahilya Ghat line the river Narmada, flights of steps lead down from the sandy banks of the river, and through the day a kaleidoscope of rural Indian can be seen here, in the pilgrims and holy men who sit here in the ferry loads of villagers who cross and recross these surging waters. Lining the blanks, too, are poignant memorials in stone to the satis of Maheshwar, who perished on the funeral pyres of their husbands? Temples: With their soaring spires, the many - tiered temples of Maheshwar are distinguished by their carved overhanging balconies and their intricately worked doorways. Temples to see are Kaleshwar; Rajarajeshwara, Vithaleshwara and Ahileshwar. Maheshwari Sarees; Introduced into Maheshwar 250 years ago by Rani Ahilyabai, the sarees are renowned throughout India for their unique weave. Woven mostly in cotton, the typical Maheshwari saree has a plain body and sometimes stripes or checks in several variations. The mat border designs have a wide range in leaf and floral patterns. The pallu is particularly distinctive with five stripes, three coloured and two white alternating, running along its width. Maheshwari has a reversible border, known as bugdi.

How to ReachBy Air: Nearest airport in Indore (91 km), connected with Mumbai, Delhi, Bhopal and Gwalior. By Rail: Nearest railheads are Barwaha (39 km), Khandwa (110 km), Indore (91 km) and Mhow on the Western Railway. By Road: Regular buses are available from Barwaha, Khandwa, Dhar and Dhamnod.Best Season: July to March.

OrchhaLocation: 16 kms from JhansiAttractions: Jehangir Mahal, Laxminarayana TempleOrchha's grandeur has been captured in stone, frozen in time; a rich legacy to the ages. For on this medieval city, the hand of time has rested lightly and the places and temples built by its Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries retain much of their pristine perfection.

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Orchha was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput chieftain Rudra Pratap who chose this stretch of land along the Betwa River as an ideal site for his capital. Of the succeeding rulers, the most notable was Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo who built the exquisite Jehangir Mahal, a tiered palace crowned by graceful chhatries. From here the view of soaring temple spires and cenotaphs is spectacular. Complementing the noble proportions of their exteriors and interiors, which represent the finest flowering of the Bundela School of painting. In the Laxminarayan Temple, Vibrant Murals encompassing a variety of religious and secular themes, bring the walls and ceiling to rich life. Strewn around the area are little shrines and memorials, each with its own poignant history, each contributing to the nostalgic beauty is Orchha. Orchha's fort complex, approaches by a multi-arched bridge, has three palaces set in an open quadrangle. The most spectacular of thee are: Jehangir Mahal: Built by Raja Bir Singh Ju Deo in the 17th century to commemorate the visit of Emperor Jehangir to Orchha. Its strong lines are counterbalanced by delicate chhatries and treillies work, the whole conveying an effect of extraordinary richness. Raj Mahal: Situated to the right of the quadrangle, this palace was built by Madhukar Shah, the deeply religious predecessor of Bir Singh Ju Deo. The plain exteriors, crowned by Charities, give way to interiors with exquisite murals, boldly colourful, on a variety of religious themes. Rai Praveen Mahal: Poetess and musician, Rai Praveen was the beautiful paramour of Raja Indramani (1672-76), and was sent to Delhi on the orders of Emperor Akbar, who was captivated by her. She so impressed the Great Mughal with the purity of her love for Indramani that he sent here back to Orchha. The palace built for her is a low, two storeyed brick structure, designed to match the height of the trees in the surrounding, beautifully landscaped gardens of Anand Mahal, with its octagonal flowerbeds and elaborate water supply system. Skillfully carved niches allow light into the Mahal, which has a main hall and smaller chambers. Ram Raja Temple: This palace - turned - temple has a charming legend attached to it. Following the dream visitation of Lord Rama, Madhukar Shah's wife, Ganesh Kunawari brought a statue of the god from Ayodha to Orcha. While the king was a worshipper of Lord Krishna, the Queen was devotee of Lord Krishna; the queen was a devotee of lord Rama. The image was placed in a palace prior to its installation in a temple. When the idol proved impossible to move, the queen recalled, too late the deity's edict that the image would remain in the place where it was first installed. Today, with its soaring spires and palatial architecture, the temple is surely one of the most unusual in India. It is also the only in the country where Rama is worshipped as a king (Raja). Chaturbhuj Temple: Built upon a massive stone platform and reached by a steep flight of steps. The temple was specially constructed to enshrine the image of Ram that remained in the Ram Raja Temple. Lotus emblems and other symbols of religious significance provide the delicate exterior ornamentation. Within, the sanctum is chastely plain with high, vaulted walls emphasizing its deep sanctity. Laxminarayana temple: A flagstone path links this temple with the Ram Raja Temple. The style is an interesting synthesis of fort and temple moulds. The interiors covering the walls and ceiling of three halls, these murals are vibrant compositions and cover a variety of spiritual and secular subjects. They are in an excellent state of preservation, with the colours retaining their vivid quality. Phool Bagh: Laid out as a formal garden, this complex testifies to the refined aesthetic qualities of the Bundelas. A central row of fountains culminates in an eight-pillared palace-pavilion. A subterranean structure below was the cool summer retreat of the Orchha kings. An ingenious systems of water ventilation connected the under ground

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palace with Chandan Katora, a bow-like structure from whose fountains droplets of water filtered through to the roof, simulating rainfall. Dinman Hardaul's Palace: Hardaul was a son of Bir Singh Ju Deo, and died to prove his innocence to his elder brother Jhujhar who cast doubts on his relationship with his (Jhujhar's) consort. This saintly prince was, after his martyrdom, worshipped as a god, and even today, the villages of Bundelkhand contain platform -like shrines where Hardaul is worshipped. Sunder Mahal: This small palace, almost in ruins today, is still a place of pilgrimage for Muslims Dhurjban, son of Jhujhar, embraced Islam when he wed a Muslim girl at Delhi. He spent the latter part of his life in prayer and meditation and came to be revered as a saint. Chhatries (Cenotaphs): There are fourteen 'Chatries' or memorials to the rulers of Orchha, grouped along the Kanchana Ghat of the river Betwa. Shahid Smarak: Commemorates the great freedom fighter Chandrashekhar Azad who lived and worked in hiding in Orchha during 1926 and '27Other places worth seeing in Orchha are the shrines of Siddh Baba Ka Sthan, Jugal Kishore, the Janki Mandir and the Hanuman Mandir at Ohharedwara.

How to ReachBy Rail: Nearest railhead at Jhansi (16 km), on the Mumbai - Delhi and Delhi - Madras main lines, Al major mail and express trains stop at Jhansi. By Road: Orchha lies on the Jhansi - Khajuraho Road. Regular bus service connects Orchha with Jhansi.

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