17 Things To Know Before Travelling to Madhya Pradesh, India
1. Destination Overview of Madhya Pradesh:
Madhya Pradesh is one of the largest states in India, located in the heart of the country. It’s known for its ancient Hindu and Buddhist monuments, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sanchi. It’s also known for its rich culture and history, with many famous forts, palaces, and temples scattered throughout the state. The state is home to many wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and other protected areas, and is a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
2. Top Activities to do in Madhya Pradesh:
• Sightseeing at historical monuments such as the Sanchi Stupa, Udaygiri Caves, and Bhimbetka Caves
• Exploring the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters and Mandu Fort
• Visiting the Panna National Park and Kanha National Park to spot tigers and other wild animals
• Trekking and camping in Pachmarhi Hill Station
• Enjoying the serenity of the Chhatri of Bundela Rajputs
• Taking a boat ride on the Narmada River
• Going on a spiritual journey to Omkareshwar and Ujjain
• Shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs in Bhopal
• Trying out the local cuisine of the region
3. Best Places To Stay in Madhya Pradesh:
• Luxury Places: The Oberoi Vanyavilas, Radisson Blu Hotel, Udaipur, Taj Exotica Udaipur
• Mid Range: Treehouse Hideaway, Udaigarh Palace, Vindhya Resort
• Budget Friendly: The Chhoti Haveli, Hotel Ambika Palace, Hotel Grand Palace
4. How to Travel to Madhya Pradesh?:
Madhya Pradesh is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The closest international airports are in Indore and Bhopal. The state is also served by numerous domestic airports and railway stations. By road, there are regular buses to and from cities in the state and other parts of India.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Madhya Pradesh:
• Korma: A rich and creamy curry made with a variety of spices and herbs.
• Bhutte Ka Kees: A sweetcorn dish made with grated coconut and spices.
• Bafla: A dish made with lentils, wheat and spices.
• Dal Bafla: A dish made with lentils, wheat, spices and dumplings.
• Jalebi: A sweet dish made from flour, sugar and saffron.
• Malpua: A deep fried pancake made with flour, sugar and spices.
• Sev Tamatar: A dish made with potato, tomato, spices and sev.
• Poha: A popular breakfast dish made with flattened rice.
• Lassi: A yogurt based drink which is served chilled.
• Chai: A popular beverage made with milk and spices.
6. Best Places to Eat in Madhya Pradesh:
• The Royal Retreat: A multi-cuisine restaurant with a wide range of dishes from Indian to Continental.
• Annapurna: A popular vegetarian restaurant serving a variety of North Indian dishes.
• Hotel Maurya: A restaurant serving traditional, home-style cooking.
• Jai Hind Dhaba: A popular eatery serving authentic, local cuisine.
• The Grand Maratha: A popular fine dining restaurant serving North Indian dishes.
7. Weather and Climate:
Madhya Pradesh has a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit the state is from October to March when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. June to September is the monsoon season, so it is best to avoid travelling during this time.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Madhya Pradesh:
Madhya Pradesh is a conservative state and visitors are expected to dress modestly, especially in religious places. It is considered rude to touch people with your feet, so it is best to remove your shoes before entering a local home. Greeting people with a namaste is always appreciated.
9. Popular Scams in Madhya Pradesh:
• Fake guides posing as ‘official guides’, who offer their services for a fee.
• Taxi drivers overcharging for their services.
• Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
• Unofficial money changers offering lower rates.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
A minimum of 7-10 days is recommended to explore the best of Madhya Pradesh.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
Stay: INR 1000-3000 per night
Food: INR 500-1000 per day
Activities: INR 500-2000 per activity
Tickets: INR 500-1500 per ticket
12. NearBy Cities:
• Indore: 86 km
• Bhopal: 190 km
• Ujjain: 192 km
• Jabalpur: 280 km
• Gwalior: 380 km
13. Local Language and Communication in Madhya Pradesh:
The official language of Madhya Pradesh is Hindi. English is also widely spoken in the cities. English speaking guides are available in most tourist destinations and usually charge a fee for their services.
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The local currency in Madhya Pradesh is the Indian Rupee (INR). Major credit cards are widely accepted in the cities, but it is best to carry some cash for smaller purchases. Tipping is not mandatory, but appreciated.
15. Health and Medical Information:
It is recommended that travellers visiting Madhya Pradesh get vaccinated against common diseases such as hepatitis A and measles. The state has good medical facilities in the cities and all major tourist destinations.
16. Packing Tips for Madhya Pradesh:
• Comfortable clothing, such as cotton shirts and trousers
• A lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A hat or scarf to protect from the sun
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
17. To sum up:
Madhya Pradesh is a beautiful state in India, known for its ancient monuments, wildlife sanctuaries, and serene temples. It is best to visit from October to March for the best weather and a chance to explore the state’s culture and history.