Madhya Pradesh ("MP") is a state in central India.
It was originally the largest state in India. Its capital is Bhopal.
Madhya Pradesh is the second largest Indian state in size with an area of
308,000 sq. kms
Madhya Pradesh is called the "heart of India" only because of its
location in the centre of the country. It has been home to the cultural heritage
of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam. Innumerable monuments, exquisitely
carved temples, stupas, forts and palaces are dotted all over the State. The
natural beauty of Madhya Pradesh is equally varied. Consisting largely of a
plateau, the State has everything. Spectacular mountain ranges, meandering
rivers and miles and miles of dense forests. In fact, one third of the State is
forested, offering a unique and exciting panorama of wildlife in sylvan
surroundings.
About 500 caves have rock paintings, which depict the life of
pre-historic cave-dwellers. Sanchi in Raisen district is a world renowned
Buddhist centre known for its stupas, monuments, temples and pillars.
The most famous Sanchi stupa was built by
the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, then governor of Ujjain. Bhojpur, in the same
district is famous for its incomplete but marvelous Shiva temple, built by
legendary Parmar King of Dhar, Raja Bhoj. Khajuraho in Chhatarpur
district is renowned the world over for its unique temples. Built by Chandela
rulers from 950-1050 A.D., in a truly inspired burst of creativity these temples
are a unique gift to the world.
Madhya Pradesh has a number of important pilgrimage centres.
When visiting mosques or temples shorts or sleeveless tops are not to be worn.
Smoking and the holding of hands, the touching of carvings or statues and the
touching of someone's head is not permitted. Removal of shoes prior to entry.
These apply to both men and women. In some mosques you will be required to cover
your head.
Never point the soles of your feet to another person or statue.
The right hand should be used for all occassions. The left is considered
dirty.When swimming nudity is not allowed, even in remote areas. Women should wear
a sarong if they are in public view. Some animals are considered sacred, please check with local authorities.
Extreme climate, warm inland from April to mid-June falling to almost
freezing at night in winter, between November and February. Summers are hot with
monsoons between June and September. The climate is pleasant between October and
March, blast-furnace hot between April and June, and dripping with humidity
between July and September.
Required clothing: Lightweight cottons and linens in summer with warmer
clothes in winter and on cooler evenings. Waterproofing is essential during
monsoons. Monsoon rains occur in most regions in summer between June and
September.
Air Tickets Online -
