Last Updated: November 14, 2019 Nidhi Singh
There is no doubt that Madhya Pradesh is the land of paradoxes. Be it history, nature or culture, this state contributes equally or sometimes even more in making India a unique destination. Narrating tales of bravery, sacrifice and wisdom, monuments of Madhya Pradesh offer a perfect silhouette. The vast and lush jungles here make incredible shelters for variety of animals. Towns that are situated on the bank of the rivers offer scenic places to escape to and the temples and religious edifices add an unusual charm to the state. Therefore, taking circuit tours in Madhya Pradesh seems like a good idea. In such tours, one has the opportunity to visit diverse places and get travel experience like never before. Here are some of the best circuit tours in Madhya Pradesh for you.
Gwalior – Shivpuri – Orchha – Khajuraho
Of all the circuits of tourism in Madhya Pradesh, this particular one holds great importance. Offering a profound insight on the architectural grandeur and rich history of Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior-Shivpuri-Orchha-Khajuraho circuit is an ideal expedition plan.
Beginning from the Gwalior which is prominently known for its palaces, old temples and impressive fort is the perfect way to start the tour. Each wall and alley in Gwalior speaks of architecture excellence that is seen rarely anywhere else.
Situated about 116kms from Gwalior is an ancient town Shivpuri, which finds its mention in Hindu sacred text of Ramayana. It is believed King Dasaratha (father of Lord Rama) got married here in Shivpuri, also it is said that Lord Rama, his consort Sita and his brother Lakshman also spent a major part of their exile here. The forests of Shivpuri of which a part has been converted into a wildlife sanctuary (Madhav Wildlife Sanctuary) have been the hunting ground of Mughal King Akbar and the Scindia dynasty. So, taking a trip down to Shivpuri is an absolute delight for those who take interest in Indian history.
Orchha on the other hand in Madhya Pradesh is the reflection of the fervour of art in Bundela rulers. The town certainly have a beautiful silhouette all staged on the bank of Betwa. The sky-kissing temples with colourful mosaic paintings, the serene bank of Betwa can win over several hearts.
The last of the circuit Khajuraho, needs no introduction, somewhere around 170kms from Orchha, it is not only the famous place in Madhya Pradesh but in India. Known for its erotic sculptures that are carved on 9th century AD temples, the city is an ideal place to end an exhilarating sojourn. Enjoy the beauty of multi-streak Raneh Falls and visit the neighbouring Panna National Park to add more flavours to the journey.
Indore – Ujjain – Maheshwar – Omkareshware – Mandu
Taking one on a spiritual sojourn in Madhya Pradesh, this circuit is of utmost importance. The five destination of this circuit offer an insight on the imperishable faith that people have on God. Most of the destinations in this circuit are referred to as ‘temple towns’ and have a peculiar divinity that cannot be seen anywhere else.
Starting from a place that is de facto the gateway to the ‘Temple Towns’ of Madhya Pradesh, Indore is a place where one can reload. Indore reflects the rich heritage contributed majorly by Holkar dynasty. The city keeps its coffee culture alive and offer visitors some really cool cafés to chill at before taking up a tour of this religious circuit in Madhya Pradesh.
Somewhere around 54kms from Indore is the famed ‘Temple City’ called Ujjain. Situated on the bank of River Kshipra, Ujjain is the hub for Shaivites, Vaishnavites and followers of Shakta. The city also narrates the tales of Avanti and Ujjaini kingdoms that were once prospered here. The serene ghats make ideal places to visit to attain peace of mind and rejuvenation of soul. Dotted with temples, Ujjain certainly gives one the feel of divine intervention at some point of the journey.
Situated on the bank of River Narmada, Maheshwar is a small yet beautiful land of paradoxes. The town is the reflection of golden period of Holkar dynasty that flourished in architecture during the reign of Ahilyabai Holkar. It has also been the handloom weaving centre and is known for Maheshwari Sarees. Since it has a long held spiritual significance, a lot of sadhus and sages visit here. Dotted with temples, ghats, palaces and wooden houses with overhanging balconies, Maheshwar guarantees to take one back in time. Click here to read more about Maheshwar.
One of the most revered places in India; Omkareshwar is also an important destination in the religious circuit in Madhya Pradesh. Reckoned to be amongst the 12 Jyotirlingas, Omakareshwar that is situated on the confluence of River Narmada and Kaveri is definitely a must see in the state. Spirituality comes natural to this place and the utter peace of mind that one attains by visiting here is indeed a gift for lifetime.
Lying luxuriously on a thinly forested plateau, Mandu is indeed the perfect destination to end a tour that has brought much peace to your mind and rejuvenated the entire being. This beautiful town is the best specimen of Afghan architecture. Sitting besides the ravine and lake are its palaces, tombs and other monuments; a decent population of Baobab Trees is also the beauty enhancer.
Jabalpur – Bhedaghat – Mandla – Kanha – Bandhavgarh
This particular circuit takes you on a joy ride in Madhya Pradesh. Experience the thrills of being in the deepest woods with hundred types of animals, watching the majestically cascading waterfalls and some of the surreal locations. This circuit tour in Madhya Pradesh takes one closer to nature and help in complete rejuvenation of oneself.
The circuit tour begins from a perfect destination that is dearly known as the gateway to wild sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh. Dubbed as the cultural capital of the state, Jabalpur is door to locations like Dhuandhar Falls, Bhedaghat and Chausat Yogini Temple. The scenic beauty of the place is such that any nature lover shall fall in the love with it.
Situated at a short distance of 26kms is the second destination of the circuit which is called Bhedaghat. Popular for its waterfall (Dhuandhar Falls) and temple (Chausat Yogini Temple), Bhedaghat is an ideal destination for both nature lovers and religious souls. Here in this small beautiful place is where you can achieve spiritual bliss and rejuvenation.
Ideally located on the bank of Narmada River, Mandla is another destination in the circuit that offers a good mix of history and nature to the visitors. Once, the capital of Gond dynasty who has built a fort and a palace here, the city is a delightful place to contemplate one self. Infact there are several ghats along River Narmada that are indeed ideal to sit and spend some quiet time at.
At a short distance from Mandla is the famed Kanha National Park. Amongst the most popular national parks in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha is home to a decent population of tigers in India. A lush sal and bamboo forest, this national park is also the refuge of many wild species. Those who visit here enjoy witnessing variety of animals, birds and flora here.
Dubbed as the best place to spot tigers in India, Bandhavgarh National Park is the last destination of the circuit. Like the best is always kept for the last, Bandhavgarh has also been decided to be kept at the end of the tour so that the excitement does not cease at any point. Enriched with variety of flora and fauna and most importantly a large population of tigers, this national park is haven for wildlife lovers. The fort built inside the park always creates curiosity amongst travellers and the ruins there take one back in the time.
Sanchi – Bhopal – Bhojpur – Bhimbetka – Pachmarhi
If you have set out with an intention to witness all the colours of Madhya Pradesh, this particular circuit in Madhya Tourism is perfect then. This circuit let one sail through the glorious history of India; take one to the places that have excellent blend of history and nature and to a far off land that is simply surreal and ideal for a romantic getaway.
Taking one to a place with India’s oldest Buddhist structure, this circuit tour begins at Sanchi. This town is a reminiscence of the penance of the great king Ashoka, who built the famed Sanchi Stupa in order to repent for the war of Kalinga that witnessed excessive bloodshed. Sanchi flourished immensely in different ruling periods of different dynasties, thus it makes an interesting place to visit in Madhya Pradesh.
A short distance away from Sanchi is Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. Reckoned to be the home of a dense population Muslims, Bhopal is a land of contrasts and paradoxes. Mostly known for its monuments and mosques, the city is a great hub for those seeking to gorge on some delicious non-vegetarian delights.
About 28kms from Bhopal is Bhojpur, which is said to hold great religious and historic importance in Madhya Pradesh. And after spending time in a rushed city like Bhopal, Bhojpur makes an ideal place to clear one’s mind and attain complete rejuvenation. The town is situated on the bank of River Betwa and thus offers the visitors a beautiful site to witness. What adds to the delight of travelling here are its beautiful temples, quarries and rock drawings, caves and royal palace.
From temples to caves, your journey in Madhya Pradesh is promised to be exciting at every turn. Bhimbetka, which is a small distance from Bhojpur is known for its ancient natural caves. An interesting place where a lot can be learned about the ancient Indian civilizations, Bhimbetka has the traces of some Stone Age rock paintings, which are said to be about 30,000 years old around here. Also, the evidences of dance are also found in the cave.
After the great plunge into the pool of history and religion, Pachmarhi comes as an escape to unprecedented bliss. Reckoned to be the only hill station in Madhy Pradesh, Pachmarhi is a getaway that can take down all the stress and anxiety. Nestled amidst the hills and surrounded by waterfalls, natural caves and dense Satpura forests. It is one of those place with which a nature lover can fall in love instantly. Hiking and cycling are the best ways to explore this beautiful destination.
We hope one of these circuit tours must have intrigued you, if you think more circuit tours can be added to this list, then please send us your suggestions in the comment box below. Also, if any of these circuit tours really caught your eyes and you are thinking how to go about it, then allow us to help you.
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Published: 29 Oct, 2015
From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.