17 monuments found
Even the prestigious acclaims and designations, including UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of India, are inadequate to praise the magnificence of Khajuraho Group of Temples. Built by the artists with unparalleled skills under the supervision of Chandela Rulers between 950 and 1150, the temples portray the magnificent art of sculpturing in the most exclusive manner. Divided into Western, Eastern and Southern groups, there are nearly 25 temples (though, more than 80 existed originally) dedicated to the Hindu and Jain deities. The world is familiar with Khajuraho Temples as those depicting the erotic art of lovemaking through sculptures. Couples posing in different Kamasutra postures are indeed the best highlight of these timeless structures. Made of sandstones, the temples boast of exquisite carvings, friezes and sculptures depicting potters, farmers, nymphs, dancers, musicians and people engaged in different categories. Some of the most popular of these temples are Kandariya Mahadeo, Devi Jagdamba, Chaunsath Yogini, Parsvanath, Dulhadev and Chatturbhuj. Standing amidst lavish green lawns, each of these structures is a manmade wonder. The Western Group of Temples hosts two light and sound shows (first in English and second in Hindi) every evening, telling the glorious tales of the place. The ticket costs INR 350 for foreigners (INR 200 for children) and INR 120 for Indians (INR 60 for children). The temples also host the annual Khajuraho Dance Festival in February which is a must-attend event.
Qudsia Begum, better known as Gohar Begum, became the first woman ruler of Bhopal at the tender age of 18. A capable ruler and popular among her subjects, she got Gohar Mahal constructed in the year 1820. The palace is an architectural marvel that blends Hindu and Islamic architecture elements and boasts of a charming appearance even in the present day poor state. Occupying the banks of Upper Lake, the palace is on the way to revive its past glory with the ongoing renovation efforts. The three storey structure is known for its fascinating archways, intricate woodwork, paintings and other remarkable features. Apart from being a heritage treasure of Bhopal, the monument is also a popular venue for organizing handicraft fairs and exhibitions. Beautiful sculptures, carvings and a variety of crafts and artefacts are on constant display at the palace round the year. The views of the lakes from palace’s roofs add to its tourism value.
Mahakaleshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingams and among the \ most famous Shiva temples in the country. Located in the ancient city of Ujjain in the state of Madhya Pradesh, this beautiful temple stands on the banks of the Rudra Sagar Lake. Shiva in the lingam form is believed to be Swayambhu, which originated all by itself unlike other lingams that are ritually established. The idol of Mahakaleshwar, which faces the south is known to be dakshinamurti. The temple is built in five levels one of which is under ground. Located in a sprawling courtyard surrounded by imposing walls, the temple is famous for its intricate carvings and designs. On the day of Maha Shivaratri, a huge fair is held near the temple, and worship goes on through the night
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Omkareshwar Temple near Coorg is well-known for its unusual architecture and amazing peace in its surroundings. The temple was constructed in 1820 by the local king Lingarajendra II to get rid of the sin of killing a Brahmin. Unlike the usual Hindu Temples, it flaunts the blend of Kerala, Islamic and Gothic architectural styles. Red-tiled roofs and golden dome surrounded by four minarets add to the temple’s elegance. Bars made of panchaloha and featuring alphabetic lims are the notable feature of the temple. The main shrine at the temple accommodates a Shiva Lingam which originally belongs to the holy city of Kashi (Varanasi). A beautiful tank with a narrow path leading to a mandapa is an added attraction. It is a firm belief of the devotees that praying at the temple wholeheartedly can fulfil all the wishes.
Also popular as Bhedaghat, Marble Rocks is a gorge, got its shape by the beautiful waterfalls named Dhuandhar. Zooming in gleam ing lustre, the Marble Rock is nestled in the city of Jabalpur unfolded in about 3 km. in length. Dubbed as one of the finest holiday destinations of India, Marble Rocks appears splendid during the dark when the moonlight broadcasts on the rocks. Rising about 100 feet high above the flowing river, the soft and shining marbles are wrapped up with dark green and black volcanic creases making it awesome in appearance. The tranquil environment, holy water of Narmada and magical effects at the night make Marble Rocks truly a paradise on the earth. The beauty of the Marble Rocks can be best explored while taking a boat ride in Narmada River. For the spectacular view and thrilling experience, tourist prefers a cable car ride that takes you through the gorge. The area has many other tourist attractions like Tripur Sundari Devi, Chousat Yogini Temple, Bargi Dam, Dhuandhar waterfall and many others.
Enjoying the designation of the highest point of Satpura Range and also of the state of Madhya Pradesh, Dhoopgarh (or Dhupgarh) is one thing that every tourist to Pachmarhi is recommended. Well-known for its sunrise and sunset views, it is a vantage point with unbound natural splendour spread all over. Visitors to the place enjoy the 360 degree view featuring dense forests, rivers, ravines and valleys. At the height of about 4,429 ft. from the sea level, Dhoopgarh is also known by the name of Harvatsa Kot. Fortunate visitors can enjoy the peak glory of the place when engulfed in thin monsoon fog. It is literally the marvellous experience of standing amidst clouds. Don’t forget to carry a camera to take some memorable shots from the place. A small museum at Dhoopgarh is the added attraction for the visitors.
Enclosed in the rustic Vindhyachal ranges, Bhimbetka Caves and rock shelters portray the earliest signs of human race in South Asia. Designated as World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the caves boast of rock paintings which date back to more than 30,000 years and classified into periods like Upper Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, Chalcolithic, Early Historic and Medieval. The place gets its name from Bhima, one of the five Pandavas who spent some time here during their exile period. More than 240 caves have been located in the region out of which only 15 are open for public viewing. Done in colours like red, white, green and yellow obtained from sources like animal fats, plant leaves, manganese, soft red stone, wooden coal and hematite, the paintings and drawings depict themes like dancing, hunting, childbirth, animal riding, animal fights and numerous animal figures. Surrounded by lavish green forests, these rock canvases are a must-visit to explore the earliest days of human evolution. Warnings Don’t scratch or damage the cave walls exhibiting valuable paintings.
Visitors to the Kanha National Park instantly realize why the protected forest reserve inspired Rudyard Kipling for his magnum opus ‘The Jungle Book’. Spread over 940 sq. km. area, the park was created in 1955 and soon it became a part of the Kanha Tiger Reserve along with other nearby forest reserves. While royal Bengal Tiger is the most spellbinding attraction of Kanha, one can also enjoy exploring the likes of leopards, slothe bear, swamp deer (barasingha), spotted deer, sambar, bison, nilgai, hyena, jungle cat and wild lives of other sorts. Kanha is also famous as a bird watching destination for being home to storks, egrets, pintails, herons, rollers, drongo, kingfishers, finches, green pigeon, woodpeckers and many more. Apart from over 1,000 flowering plants, the park also boasts of sal trees, bamboo forests, huge meadows and the beautiful Indian ghost tree called kullu. Kanha is internationally claimed for its star tigers like Munna which regularly feature in wildlife documentaries. Safari trips to the park are organized twice a day, from sunrise to 11:00 a.m. and from 02:00 p.m. to sunset. Guides (that cost extra) are compulsory for the visitors. Limited numbers of vehicles (18-40) are allowed per shift to the four zones of the park.
The huge Orchha Fort Complex houses the most glittering gem of Bundela Rajput architecture, the Jahangir Mahal. Named after Mughal Emperor Jahangir, the palace was built in 1598 by the local ruler Vir Singh Deo who was a dear friend of the emperor. One can savour the exclusive blend of Rajput and Islamic architectural elements that result into this truly marvellous structure. Alluring hanging balconies, bulbous domes, huge porches and courtyards and over 100 rooms with eye-pleasing decorations bless the structure with soul-touching grandeur. Massive gateways are exquisitely embellished and the front walls are prettified with turquoise tiles. Two gigantic stone elephants with hanging bells welcome the visitors to this outstanding royal spectacle. Overlooking River Betwa, the palace and other attractions within the fort complex make you feel out of this world. The palace is also known as Rani Mahal as it once served as the residence of King Madhukar Singh’s wife. Her room boasts of beautiful paintings depicting scenes form Hindu mythology. A small museum nearby is also worth visiting. The entry ticket is valid to explore the palace as well as other splendid monuments of the fort.
Gwalior fort is the most popular and the biggest fort in the entire state of Madhya Pradesh. It is believed that this fort has witnessed various eras including the Guptas, the Pathans, the Mughals and the English, therefore is rich in history. All the rulers have left their mark on this structure which makes it more interesting to study. The spectacular Hindu and Islamic architecture of this magnificent monument inspires and mesmerizes many artisans and historians. There are several palaces inside the fort each named after the different rulers who ruled the fort. Some temples inside this monument explain many stories of the past. It offers a breathtaking scenic view of the Gwalior city from the top of a small hill. The sound and light show held in the fort is overwhelming and should not be missed.
Established as a national park in 1981 and declared a tiger reserve in 1994, Panna National Park is an award-winning wildlife reserve in the Central India. Mainly popular for royal Bengal tigers, the park is home to many other wild species like leopard, sloth bear, hyena, wild dog, caracal, sambar, chital, chinkara and nilgai. A number of reptiles and birds can also be spotted at the park. Fed by River Ken, the park has a core area of about 543 sq. km. and hosts diverse topography in the form of hills, plateaus, valleys and gorges. It is strategically located at the point which separates the South India’s tropical and subtropical dry forests from the moist deciduous forests of Gangetic Plains. Pandav Fall and Raneh Fall are the must-visit attractions at Panna. Safari trips are possible in private vehicles (jeeps and mini buses) and on elephants. Additional fees must be paid for visiting the falls and also for the guides.
National Chambal Sanctuary, also known as National Chambal Ghariyal Wildlife Sanctuary, is a river sanctuary well-known as the protected area for magnificent but endangered species of ghariyal crocodile, Ganges river dolphin and red-crowned roof turtle. The sanctuary was formed on River Chambal in 1978 and is spread over the tri-junction of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Other key attractions of the sanctuary include mugger crocodile, smooth-coated otter, three-striped roof turtle, narrow-headed soft shell turtle and so on. Tourists also get to explore a variety of mammals like wolf, striped hyena, Bengal fox, golden jackal, mongoose, wild boar, chinkara, civet, porcupine and others. The sanctuary is also an Important Bird Area, featuring more than 300 species of residential and migratory birds. Boat safari is the most stupendous way of exploring the attractions at the sanctuary. Other activities include camel safari, jeep safari, bird-watching and photography.
Lal Baag Palace (or Lal Bagh Palace) is an impressive three storied structure that stands on the banks of River Khan. Famed as one of the spectacular city edifices in the city, the palace was built by Maharaja Shivaji Rao Holkar during 1886-1921. Once considered as the pride of Holkar Dynasty, Lal Baag Palace remains as the symbol of the glorious past of the city. Lal Bagh palace exudes beauty and regal charm in its design. The ornate gates of this palace are exact replica of the gates of Buckingham Palace and were casted in London. The opulence and grandeur of the palace is well augmented by its many beautiful gardens and spectacular architecture. The main attraction of the palace is its elegantly furnished rooms with beautiful carvings on the walls and ceilings. The palace has now been converted into a museum that is open for the common public who can take a peek to the life style of the rulers of the leading dynasty of Indore. It has a collection of many interesting artefacts and historical items.
Bandhavgarh National Park was founded in 1968 and it soon became a wildlife hotspot, mainly because of high tiger density and great chances of spotting the royal beast. Apart from tigers, the park is home to many other wild species including gaur, sloth bear, leopard, bison, striped hyena and many more. The park is no less than a paradise for bird-watchers because of the presence of species like egrets, teals, vultures, eagles, jungle fowls, peafowl, peacock and kingfisher. Jeeps are available for thrilling safari trips and once can also opt for the equally fascinating elephant safari trips. Many other attractions in and around the national park include Baghel Museum, Bandhavgarh Fort, Cheshpur Waterfall and some old temples. Warnings Don’t litter the park and maintain silence.
Once the hunting preserve of the Maharajas of Gwalior, Madhav National Park is one of the ancient protected areas of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. Established as Madhya Bharat National Park in 1955, Madhav National Park got its current name in the year 1959. Spread over an area of 355 sq.km. Madhav National Park is renowned for its monuments related with the Gwalior State as well as its flora and fauna. The park comprises of dry deciduous mixed and dry thorn forest. One can see some of the prominent trees in this national park like khair (acacia catechu), salai, dhawda, tendu and palash etc. Home to migratory birds like pochard, geese, pintail, mallard and teal, Madhav National Park showcases one of the finest attractions - the George Castle, built by JivajiRaoScindia. One can watch the beautiful sunset and gorgeous surroundings from the top of the park. The park has about 227 species of birds. Animal lovers can enjoy the sight of wild animals like deer, nilgai, sambar, blackbuck, leopard and chinkara. Visitors to this national park can also explore nearby attractions like SakhyaSagar Lake, Sailing Club, Madhav Lake, George Castle JalMandir and Siddha Baba.
One of the most gorgeous architectural wonders of Bhopal, Shaukat Mahal is a unique mix of oriental and Hesperianmanner of architecture. Decorated with floral patterns and soaked in white washed marbles, the palace has a sequent of triangular-mouldedarcs. The impressive Shaukat Mahal is lay by Sardar Manzil (serves as a Public Audience Hall) - a red brick building palisaded by lush green lawns. The exteriors of the palace present a wonderful illustration of eco-friendliness. The royal palace is visited by several visitors every year due to its unadulterated beauty and serene atmosphere surrounding the Mahal. Tourists to Shaukat Mahal can explore nearby attractions like Moti Masjid, Jai Masjid, Shamla Hills, Museum of Man, Bharat Bhavan and Udaygiri Caves.
India’s one-of-its kind assemblage of fossils can be explored at Ghughua Fossil National Park, located close to the city of Jabalpur. The specimen discovered at the park have added to the strong belief that there existed Gondwanaland, one of the two super-continents of which India was a part along with Australia, Africa and many other parts. Fossils put on display at the park date back to the period about 65 million years old. Interestingly, the fossils found in the park have their living relatives that can be located in the regions as far as Africa. For example, a eucalyptus fossil of the park has its living counterpart in Australia. Likewise, there are fossils of plants like jamun, palm, aonla, jackfruit and many more. In addition, one can explore the fossils of leaves, fruits, seeds, flowers and climbers at this national park. Because of its invaluable possessions, the place earned the designation of a national park in 1983. Tourists can visit the interpretation centre of the park to obtain detailed information about the fossils.
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