Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh is called the "heart of India" not only because of its location in the centre of the country, but has been home to the cultural heritage of Hindhuism, 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 offering a unique and exciting panorama of wildlife in sylvan surroundings.

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Madhya Pradesh

The Bandhavgarh National Park, lying in the heart of the Vindhya Mountain Range in Central India, is a small and compact National Park, yet full of game. The density of the tiger population at Bandhavgarh is the highest known in India.

The centre of the park is dominated by the majestic Bandhavgarh Fort, around which are numerous caves containing shrines and ancient Sanskrit inscriptions.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Area : 448 Sq. Km
Altitude : 440 to 811 Mts.
Temperature : Summer Max: 42°C. Min: 24°C.
Winter Max: 24°C. Min: 04°C.
Rainfall : 1174 Mm.
Best Season : November to June. The park is closed from 1st July to 31st Oct.

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION
Air : Khajuraho (203 Km) is the most convenient airport connected with Agra, Delhi, Varanasi.
Fare : Mumbai-Khajuraho (via Delhi): Rs.10275/-(Y), Rs.13265/- (J).
Rail : The nearest railhead is Umaria (30 Km) on the Katni-Bilaspur line, but the convenient railheads are Satna (117 Km), Jabalpur (164 Km) and Katni (100 Km) on the Central Railway.
Fare : Mumbai - Satna: IInd A/c: Rs.1601/- ; IInd class: Rs.373/-.
Road : Bandhavgarh is situated on the Satna-Umaria and Rewa- Umaria highway and is connected by road with Jabalpur 164 Km, Kanha 250 Km,Rewa 115 Km, Khajuraho via Satna 203 Km, Varanasi via Rewa 340 Km

ENTRANCE & CAMERA FEE

Entry Fee : Foreigners: Rs.200/- Indians: Rs.25/-
Vehicle Charges : Mini Bus: Rs.100/- (up to 15 pax); Gypsy: Rs.50/-
Camera Fee : Cine Film: Rs.10000/- per day; Tele Film: Rs.5000/- per day
Documentary Film: Rs.2000/- per day
Video Camera: Rs.200/-per day; Still Camera: Rs.25/- per day

Accommodation

WHAT TO SEE

The Fort

Though no records remain to show when the Bandhavgarh Fort was constructed, it is believed to be 2000 years old. Various dynasties have ruled the fort - the Maghas, Vakatakas, Sengars & the Kalachuris. In the 13th century the Baghels took over, ruling from Bandhavgarh until 1617 when Maharaja Vikramaditya Singh moved his capital to Rewa. The last inhabitants deserted the fort in 1935.

Flora and Fauna

The Forest of Bandhavgarh can be classified as moist deciduous and the National Park holds all those animal species, which are typical of this habitat in Central India. Certain areas in the Park are drier in character and hold such species as the Nilgai and the Chinkara. Sal Forest occurs throughout the valleys, giving way to mixed forest on the upper hill slopes, on rocky outcrops and in the South and West.

Wildlife

There are more than 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds in the Park. Wildlife that can be spotted here are the Rhesus Macaque, Asiatic Jackal, Bengal Fox, Sloth Bear, Grey Mongoose, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Leopard, Tiger, Sambar, Chausingha, Nilgai, Chinkara and Gaur or Indian Bison.

Birds

The vegetation along the streams and marshes in the Park is rich in birdlife. The commonly seen species are the Little Grebe, Egret, Lesser Adjutant, Black Vulture, Egyptian Vulture, Common Peafowl, Red Jungle Fowl, Parakeet, King Fisher, Indian Roller, Sarus Crane, Black Kite and Crested Serpent Eagle.

Reptiles

Reptilian Fauna include the cobra, krait, viper, rat snake, python, turtle and a number of lizard varieties including varanus.

Wildlife Viewing

There are two main ways of getting about in the park, in a motor vehicle or on elephant back. Jeep safaris are best undertaken from dawn till about 10 a.m. and from 4 p.m. till dusk as the animals are most active during this period. Elephants are used every morning by the Forest Department for tiger tracking.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

The Manager,
White Tiger Forest Lodge,
Bandhavgarh,
Tel: (07627) 265308

The Divisional Forest Officer,
Bandhavgarh National Park,
Umaria,
Tel:(07653) 222214

M.P.S.T.D.C.,
World Trade Centre,
Cuffe Parade,
Mumbai.
Tel: 22187603

Bhopal

The picturesque city of Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is set around a lake and is famous for its archaeological wealth. It is situated on the site of the 11th century city Bhojapal, named after Raja Bhoj. The founder of the existing city was, however, an Afghan soldier, Dost Mohammed. Bhopal today presents a multi-faceted profile - the old city with its teeming market places and fine old palaces and mosques and equally impressive, the new city with it's verdant, exquisitely laid out parks and gardens, broad avenues and streamlined modern edifices.
Bhopal GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 75 Sq. Km

Altitude : 572 Meters

Temperature : Summer : Max: 47.7°C. Min: 24.9°C.

Winter : Max: 24.5°C. Min: 9.1°C.

Rainfall : 124 cm

Best Season : October to March

STD Code : 0755

Bhopal TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : Indian Airlines and private airlines connect Bhopal with Delhi, Gwalior, Indore,Jabalpur,Mumbai, and Raipur.

Rail : Bhopal on the main Central Railway line is connected by rail with major cities.

Road : Motorable roads connect Bhopal with Agra 523 Km, Ahmedabad 571 Km, Khajuraho 387 Km,Aurangabad 588 Km, Mandu 290 Km, Delhi 728 Km, Mumbai 789 Km, Gwalior 422 Km, Pachmarhi 195 Km,
Indore 187 Km, Sanchi 46 Km, Jabalpur 295 Km, Ujjain 189 Km

Accommodation

Bhopal PLACES OF INTEREST

Bharat Bhawan : Designed by the renowned architect, Charles Correa, it is a unique center for the visual and performing arts. It houses Roopankar, a museum of tribal and folk art, an art gallery, a workshop for fine art, a repertory theatre, library, auditoria and a rehearsal room.

Telephone No: 540353
Timings: 1400 to 2000 hrs (February to October)
1300 - 1900 hrs (November to Janua)
Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Rs.5/-

Chowk : In the heart of the old city, the chowk is lined with old mosques and havelis.

Gandhi Bhavan : Housed here is an exhibition of Mahatma Gandhi's photographs and a Gandhi museum.

Gohar Mahal : An architectural gem built by Kudasia Begum and a fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture.

Jama Masjid : Gold spikes crown the minarets of this beautiful mosque, built by Kudasia Begum.

Laxmi Narayan Temple : This beautiful temple on the Arera hills has the Birla Museum attached to it, which houses a collection of sculptures from the Raisen, Sehore, Mandsaur and Shahdol districts of Madhya Pradesh.
The Museum is open from 0900 hrs - 1700 hrs, on all days except Mondays.

Moti Masjid : Architecturally akin to Delhi's Jama Masjid.

Neori : An ancient Shiva temple on a hillock.

Shamla and Idgah Hills : These hills command some of the best views of Bhopal. High on Shamla hills is the Sophia Masjid.

Shaukat Mahal & Sadar Manzil : Situated in the heart of the city, Shaukat Mahal was designed by a French Architect. Post-renaissance and gothic styles are combined to charming effect here. Nearby is the elegant Sadar Manzil, Hall of Public Audience of the former rulers of Bhopal.

Taj-ul-Masjid
Taj-ul-Masjid : One of the largest mosques in Asia, built by Shahjahan Begum.

Tribal Habitat : An open-air exhibition of tribal house types located on Shyamla Hills.
Timings: 1000 hrs to 1800 hrs
Closed on Mondays and National Holidays

Upper and Lower Lakes : MPSTDC's Yatch Club on the Upper Lake provides facilities for paddle, sail and motor boats. The Upper Lake is divided from the Lower Lake by an over bridge.

Van Vihar : This Safari park is located on a hill adjacent to the Upper Lake with an area of 445 hectares. A variety of herbivorous and carnivorous species can be seen here in natural surroundings.
Timings: 0700 1100 hrs and 1500 to 1730 hrs
Closed on Tuesdays
Entry Fee: Rs.5/- for Indians & Rs.100/- for Foreigners

Bhopal MUSEUMS

Birla Museum-- Tel: 511503.
Timings: 0900 hrs - 1700 hrs
Closed on Mondays

Govt. Archaeological Museum
Timings: 1000 hrs -1700 hrs
Closed on Mondays

Regional Science Centre
Timings: 1030 hrs - 1830 hrs
Closed on Mondays

Tribal Arts Museum
Timings: 1000 hrs - 1800 hrs
Closed on Mondays & National Holidays

Bhopal EXCURSIONS

Hathaikhera (10 Km) : An ideal fishing and angling spot.

Islamnagar (11 Km) : It was the palace of the Afghan rulers in Bhopal that was built by Dost Mohammed Khan. Formal gardens surround the Palace and Pavilion. Other monuments to see here are the Hamam of the Chaman Mahal and the double storied Rani Mahal.

Bhojpur (28 Km) : Founded by the legendary Parmar King, Raja Bhoj, Bhojpur is renowned for the remains of the magnificent Bhojeshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The lingam in the sanctum sanctorum rises to a height of 7.5 feet with a circumference of 17.8 feet. The temple was never completed, but had it been completed it would have had very few rivals. Even with the ravages of time, it is still one of the best examples of temple architecture of the 12th and 13th centuries.
Close to the Bhojeshwar Temple, there is a Jain shrine containing 2 figures of Parsvanath and a colossal statue of Mahavira, 20 feet high.

Chiklod (45 Km) : Chiklod was a summer resort of the former ruler, Nawab Hamidulla Khan. A lake and a beautiful garden here are ideal picnic spots.

Raisen (45 Km) : Once a fortress of strategic importance in Malwa, Raisen at the top of a hill has nine gateways and three palaces - Badal Mahal, Raja Rohati Ka Mahal and Isrardar Ka Mahal.

Bhimbetka (46 Km) : Surrounded by the northern fringe of the Vindhya Range, Bhimbetka is an archaeological treasure which is an UNESCO declared World Heritage Site. In this rocky terrain of dense forest and craggy cliffs, there are over 700 rock shelters belonging to the Neolithic age. Paintings in over 500 caves depict the life of prehistoric cave dwellers. Executed mainly in red and white with the occasional use of green and yellow, these paintings usually depict hunting, dancing, music, animal fighting and household scenes. Animals such as bison, tigers, lions, wild boar, elephants, antelopes, dogs, lizard, etc. have been abundantly depicted in some caves.

Vidisha (56 Km) : Vidisha or Besnagar as it is called in the Pali scriptures was once the prosperous capital of the Sungas. Situated in the fork of the Betwa and Bes rivers, Vidisha was an important trade centre and a bustling city under the Nagas, Satvahanas and Guptas. Places of interest at Vidisha include the ruins of a Brahmanical shrine - dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the first known example of the use of cement in India and the Vidisha Museum which has a collection of the area's earliest antiquities, sculptures and terracotta objects. The Gumbaz-Ka-Maqbara and Bijamandal Mosque standing on the foundations of a temple are also worth visiting. Close to these ruins is the Heliodorus Pillar (Khambha Baba), a monolithic freestanding column with an inscription stating that it was a Garuda Pillar, raised in honour of Vasudeva by Heliodorus, a Greek resident of Taxila. The contents of the inscription, dates the pillar back to 140 B.C.

Delawadi (62 Km) : Situated in the midst of a lovely forest glade, Dhelawadi is a picturesque picnic spot.

Ginnorgarh Fort (63 Km) : This historical fort, 3 Km from Delawadi was once a stronghold of the Gond tribals.

Sanchi

The history of Sanchi goes back as early as 3rd century B.C. when Buddhism was at its peak during the reign of the Emperor Ashoka. Sanchi has the singular distinction of having specimens of almost all kinds of Buddhist architectural forms, Stupas, Chaityas, Temples and Monastries and the finest examples of Buddhist creative art and sculpture in the country. The architectural pieces and sculptures displayed here include the Ashoka pillar and images of Buddha and Kushan.

Sanchi TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : The nearest airport is Bhopal 46 Km

Rail : Sanchi lies on the Jhansi-Itarsi section of the Central Railway. However Bhopal is the convenient railhead, linked with major cities and towns.

Road : Good motorable roads connect Sanchi with Bhopal 46 Km, Indore 232 Km and Vidisha 10 Km

STD Code : 07482

Central Reservations,
Tour Division, M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
4th floor, Gangotri,
T.T. Nagar, Bhopal-462 003
Tel: (0755) 2778383, 2774340 / 42 / 43
Fax: 2772384, 2774289

Sanchi PLACES OF INTEREST

Great Stupa No.1 : The oldest stone structure in India, 36.5 meters in diameter and 16.4 meters high, with a massive hemispherical dome. Begun by Emperor Ashoka, the Stupa was completed by his successors in the 3rd and 2nd centuries B.C. A balustrade encircles the entire structure which has four magnificent torana - style gateways as points of access.

Stupa No. 2 : This stupa stands at the very edge of the hill and it's most striking feature is the stone balustrade that rings it.

Stupa No.3 : Situated close to the Great Stupa, this structure has been dated between 150 - 140 B.C. The relics of Sariputta and Mahamogallena, two of the Buddha's earliest disciples were found in the innermost chamber here.

Ashoka Pillar : This 3rd century B.C. column lies close to the Southern gateway of the Great Stupa and is one of the finest examples of the Ashokan Pillar.

Buddhist Vihara : The sacred relics of the Satdhara Stupa, a few km away from Sanchi have been enshrined in a glass casket on a platform in the inner sanctum of this modern temple monastery.

The Great Bowl : Carved out of one block of stone, this mammoth bowl was carved to contain food that was distributed amongst the monks of Sanchi.

Gupta Temple : In ruins now, this 4th century A.D. temple is one of the earliest known examples of temple architecture in India.
Entry Fee for Sanchi Monuments: Rs.10/- (Indians), US$ 5 or Rs.250/- (Foreigners)

Museum : The Archaeological Survey of India maintains a site museum at Sanchi.
Timings: 1000 hrs -1700 hrs
Entry Fee: Rs.5/-

Sanchi TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

M.P.S.T.D.C.Ltd.,
4th Floor, Gangotri,
T.T. Nagar,
Bhopal
Tel: 2778383, 2774340
Fax: 2772384

M.P.S.T.D.C.Ltd.,
Regional Office,
Hotel Palash,
Near 45 Bungalows,
Bhopal
Tel: 2553066, 2553006, 2577440-41
Telefax: 2553076

Madhya Pradesh Tourist Information Counter,
Bhopal Airport,
Tel: 2521524, 2521333

Madhya Pradesh Tourist Information Counter,
Bhopal Railway Station,
Tel: 2746827

MPSTDC Traveller's Lodge,
Near Bus Stand,
Sanchi.
Tel: 2662723

M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
World Trade Centre,
Cuffe Parade,
Mumbai.
Tel: 22187603

Gwalior

The ancient city of Gwalior is steeped in its past splendour. A multitude of reigning dynasties, the Pratiharas, Kachwahas and Tomars have left imprints of their rule, in this city of palaces, temples and monuments.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 82.22 Sq. Km

Altitude : 212.4 Meters

Temperature : Summer : Max: 46°C. Min: 21°C.

Winter : Max: 22°C. Min: 06°C.

Rainfall : 88.9 cm

Best Season : October to March

STD Code : 0751

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : There are presently no flights to Gwalior airport. However, the nearest airport is Agra (118 kms).

Rail : Gwalior, a railway station on the Central Line, is connected with all major cities.

Road : Gwalior is well connected by road with Agra 118 Km. Bhopal 420 Km. Mumbai 1086 Km. Delhi 318 Km.
Sanchi 344 Km. Indore 486 Km. Shivpuri 112 Km. Khajuraho 280 Km

Accommodation

PLACES OF INTEREST

Gwalior Fort : The Fort dominates the city and is its most magnificent monument. A steep road winds upwards to the Fort, flanked by statues of Jain tirthankaras carved into the rock face. Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture :

(i) Gujari Mahal
Timings: 1000-1700 hrs - closed on Mondays
(ii) Man Temple Palace - a Son-et-Lumeire Show is held here every evening.
(iii) Suraj Kund
(iv) Teli Ka Temple and Sas Bahu Ka Temple.

Entry Fee for Gwalior Fort: Rs.5/- (Indians) US$ 2 or Rs.100/- (Foreigners)

Ghaus Mohammed's Tomb : A sandstone mausoleum, designed on early Mughal Lines.

Gwalior Fort
Gwalior Zoo : Open from 0800 -1500 hrs, the zoo has some rare species of Indian wildlife.

Jai Vilas Palace and Museum : The Jai Vilas Palace is the current residence of the Scindia family. 35 rooms in the palace have been converted into the Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum.
Timings: 1000 to 1700 hrs
Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee: Rs.20/- (Indians) Rs.100/- (Foreigners).

Kala Vithika : A treasure house of the arts. It remains closed on Sundays and public holidays.

Memorials : The earliest freedom fighters, Tatya Tope and the indomitable Rani of Jhansi as well as the Scindia Kings and Queens are commemorated in memorials in Gwalior city.

Municipal Museum : It has a very fine natural history section. Open on all days except Mondays.

Sun Temple : This newly constructed Temple takes its inspiration from the Konark Sun Temple.

Tansen's Tomb : More than a monument, this tomb is a part of Gwalior's living cultural heritage.

It is the venue of a music festival on a national level held annually in November-December.

EXCURSIONS

Tigra Dam (23 Km) : A picturesque setting for recreation and a popular picnic spot.

Ghategaon Sanctuary (30 Km) : This sanctuary is 512 Sq. Km in area, famous for the Chinkara, Blue Bull, Sambar and the Great Indian Bustard.

Pawaya (68 Km) : Archaeological ruins dating back to the 1st - 8th centuries can be seen here.

Datia (69 Km) : 34 Km from Jhansi, it is mentioned in the Mahabharata as 'Daityavakra'. The main monuments here are the 7 storied palace of Raja Bir Singh Deo & Gopeshwar Temple.

Accommodation :

Tourist Motel (MPSTDC)
Tariff: A/c Rs.550/- Non A/c Rs.300/-
Tel: (07522) 238125

Kuno - Palpur Sanctuary (86 Km) : Located in Morena district, it is 345 Sq. Km in area. The wildlife that can be seen here are the Tiger, Panther, Sambar, Nilgai, Chinkara & Black buck.

Chambal and Ghariyal Sanctuaries (104 Km) : Famous for the Crocodile, Ghariyal, Turtle and a variety of Migratory birds, Chambal is in Morena district and Sone Ghariyal in Sidhi district.

Shivpuri (112 Km) : Once the summer capital of the Scindias of Gwalior.

Orchha (120 Km) : It was one of the most powerful kingdoms of Central India, in the 16th cent.

Narwar (128 Km) : It was the traditional capital of Raja Nal of Naisadha, whose love for Damyanti is legendary. The architecture of the fort and palaces here is Rajput in style.

Shivpuri

Once the summer capital of the Scindias of Gwalior, Shivpuri's royal ambience lives on in its exquisite palaces and hunting lodges and the graceful intricately embellished marble chhatris erected by the Scindia princes. Shivpuri is also famous for the Madhav National Park.

Shivpuri GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 156 Sq. Km

Altitude : 490 Mts.

Temperature : Summer : Max: 39.3°C. Min: 31.8°C.

Winter : Max: 25.5°C. Min: 21.6°C.

Best Season : April to June

STD Code : 07492

Shivpuri TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : The nearest airport is Agra 230 Km

Rail : The nearest railheads are Gwalior 112 Km and Jhansi 100 Km

Road : Shivpuri is connected by good motorable roads with Chanderi 127 Km,
Datia 121 Km
Indore 375 Km
Gwalior 112 Km
Jhansi 100 Km

Transport in the Park : Tourists can move around the forest in their own transport or can hire the Forest Department transport.

Accommodation

Reservations :

Central Reservations,
Tour Division,
M.P. State Tourism Developement Corporation Ltd.
4th floor, Gangotri,
T.T. Nagar,
Bhopal.
Tel: (0755) 2778383, 2774340/ 42 / 43
Fax: 2772384

Sakhya Sagar, Boat Club.
Reservation :
Divisional Forest Officer,
Shivpuri.

Shivpuri PLACES OF INTEREST

Chhatris : Set in a formal Mughal garden is the complex in which the cenotaphs of the Scindias are set, synthesizing the architectural idioms of Hindu and Islamic styles.

George Castle : Deep within the forests of the park, on its highest point, is the turreted George Castle built by Jiyaji Rao Scindia, which commands an unparalleled view of the lake.

Madhav National Park : 156 Sq. Km in area, the park is open throughout the year. With a varied terrain of wooded hills with dry, mixed and deciduous forests, it offers abundant opportunities for sighting variety of wildlife. The species commonly found in the park are Chinkara, the Indian gazelle, chital, nilgai, sambar, charsingha, blackbuck, sloth bear and leopard. The Park is equally rich in avifauna and the artificial lake Chandpata is the winter home of migratory geese, pochard, pintail, teal, mallard and gadwall.

Madhav Vilas Palace : The summer palace of the Scindias, built in truly royal proportions.

Sakhya Sagar Boat Club : Habitat of a variety of reptiles. Species that can be seen here are the Marsh Crocodile, Indian Python and the monitor lizard. There is also a Boat Club here.

Shivpuri EXCURSIONS

Surwaya (21 Km) : The remains of a fort within which are housed three Hindu temples, a monastery and a step-well can be seen here. The three temples are dedicated to Vishnu.

Narwar (41 Km) : The capital of Raja Nal of Naisadha, whose love for Damyanti is legendary.

Karera Bird Sanctuary (45 Km) : A sanctuary is for the protection of the Great Indian Bustard.

Pichhore (78 Km) : Famous for the fort build by the Bundela ruler Rajaveer Vrashabh Dev Singh.

Kadwaha (100 Km) : It is renowned for the remains of fourteen Brahmanical temples.

Chanderi (127 Km) : Surrounded by hills, lakes and forests, there are several monuments including a Fort of the Bundela Rajputs and Malwa Sultans.

Orchha

Orchha was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Cheiftan, Rudra Pratap, who chose this stretch of land along the river Betwa as an ideal site for his capital.

Orchha GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 40 Sq.Km

Altitude : 490 Mts.

Temperature : Summer : Max: 47°C. Min: 21°C.

Winter : Max: 32°C. Min: 4°C.

Best Season : October to March

STD Code : 07680

Orchha TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : The nearest airport is Khajuraho 178 Km

Rail : The nearest railhead is Jhansi 19 Km, a major railway junction.

Road : Orchha lies on the Jhansi - Khajuraho road and is linked by motorable roads with Gwalior 120 Km, Jhansi 19 Km and Khajuraho 178 Km

Reservations :

Central Reservations,
Tour Division, M.P. State Tourism Developement Corporation Ltd,
4th floor, Gangotri,
T.T. Nagar,
Bhopal -462 003.
Tel: (0755) 2778383, 2774340/ 42/43
Fax: 2772384

Other Accommodation

Hotel Mansarovar (SADA)

Hotel Palki Mahal (SADA)

Sattar Yatri Niwas (SADA)

Orchha PLACES OF INTEREST

Jehangir Mahal Chhatris or memorials to the rulers of Orchha

Rai Parveen Mahal Dinman Hardaul's Palace

Raj Mahal, Chaturbhuj Temple The shrines of Siddh Baba Ka Sthan

Lakshmi Narayan Temple Jugal Kishor

Phool Bagh Janki Temple

Ram Raja Temple Hanuman Temple at Ohharedwara.

Sunder Mahal

Orchha EXCURSIONS

Deogarh (139 Km) : Deogarh has great antiquarian, epigraphic and archaeological importance and figured in the history of the Guptas, the Gurjara Pratiharas, the Gonds, etc.

Orchha TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

M.P.S.T.D.C.Ltd.,
C/o Hotel Tansen,
6, Gandhi Road,
Gwalior.
Tel: (0751) 2340370, 2342606

M.P. Tourist Office,
Railway Station,
Gwalior.
Tel: 2540777

Manager,
Chinkara Motel,
M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
Agra - Mumbai Road,
Shivpuri.
Tel: (07492) 221297

Manager,
Tourist Village,
M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
Near Bhadaiya Kund,
Shivpuri.
Tel: 223760

The Manager,
Betwa Cottages (MPSTDC),
Orchha.
Tel: (07680) 252618

M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
Railway Station,
Jhansi.
Tel: (0517) 2442622

M.P.S.T.D.C.,
World Trade Centre,
Cuffe Parade,
Mumbai.
Tel: 22187603
Telefax: 22160614

Indore

Situated on the banks of the Rivers Saraswati and Khan, Indore was planned and founded by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar and derives its name from the 18th C. Indreshwar Temple. Indore, today, presents a happy blend of a historical past and a modern flourishing industrial city.

Indore GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 66 Sq. Km

Altitude : 5645 Meters

Temperature : Summer : Max: 44°C. Min: 24°C.

Winter : Max: 24°C. Min: 06°C.

Rainfall : 110 Cm (July to September)

Best Season : October to March

STD Code : 0731

Indore TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : Indore is linked by air directly with Mumbai, Delhi, Bhopal and Gwalior.

Rail : Indore, on the Western Railway is linked by rail with major cities in India.

Road : Indore is connected by motorable roads with Agra 605 Km, Ahmedabad 456 Km, Gwalior 486 Km Mandu 105 Km,Barwani 150 Kms, Khandwa 128 Km.Mumbai: 602 Km Bhopal 187 Km, Khargone 150 Km .Omkareshwar 78 Km.Delhi 809 Km. Khajuraho 574 Km .Ujjain 53 Km .Dewas 35 Km. Maheshwar 90 Km .Dhar 64 Km .Maksi 70 Km.

Accommodation

Indore PLACES OF INTEREST

Annapurna Temple Kamala Nehru Park (Zoo)

Bada Ganapati Kanch Temple
(Timings: 1000 to 1700 hrs)

Bijasen Tekri Kasturbagram

Chhatri Baug Khajrana

Deoguradia Lalbaug Palace

Gita Bhawan Meghdoot Upavan

Gomatgiri Nehru Park

Gopal Temple Rajwada

Hahar Sayed Dargah Town (Gandhi) Hall

Indore Museum Khajarana

Indore MUSEUMS

Archaeological Museum,
A.B. Road,
Tel: 2495417.
Timings: 1100 hrs to 1800 hrs
Closed on Mondays and Gazetted Holidays

Lal Baug Palace Museum,
Near RTO Office,
Tel: 2473264
Timings: 1100 hrs to 1800 hrs
Entry Fee: Rs.2/-

AMUSEMENT, CULTURE & WATER PARK

Choukhi Dhani,
9th Mile Stone,
Khandwa Road,
Datoda Fata,
Tel: (95-7324) 236449, 2528800

Nakhrali Dhani,
A.B. Road,
Tel: 2534247, 2538617, 2856554

Mayank Water Park,
Bicholi Mardana,
Kandwa Road,
Tel: 5084259

Indore EXCURSIONS

Mhow (23 Km) : (Military Headquarters of War). It was the War Management Centre of the British during the World War. Presently, it is one of the military training establishments.

Dewas (36 Km) : The name is derived from a hill in the vicinity known as Devi-Vashini on which is perched a temple of its presiding deity Devi Chamunda.

Patal Pani (36 Km) : A popular picnic spot, famous for its scenic waterfall.

Ujjain (53 Km) : One of the seven sacred cities of India situated on the banks of river Kshipra.

Dhar (64 Km) : The capital of the Parmar Kings among whom Raja Bhoj was the most prominent. In the monuments here one can see the combination of Hindu, Afghan and Mughal architecture.

Mandu (105 Km) : Popularly known as the "City of Joy", Mandu has many historical monuments.

Nemawar (128 Km) : Situated on the banks of the river Narmada, it was here that Jamdagni, the father of Parasuram meditated.

Oon (154 Km) : It is an important place of Jain Pilgrimage.

Bagh Caves (160 Km) : The Bagh Caves were excavated by master craftsmen out of the perpendicular rock face of a hill. The murals were executed between the 5th and 7th centuries A.D. In all, there are nine caves of which only five have survived, all of them are 'Viharas'. Entry Fee: Rs.5/- (Indians), USD 2 or Rs.100/- (Foreigners).

Bawangaja (170 Km) : An important Jain Pilgrim Centre.

Makshi (193 Km) : This place is famous for its Jain Temples.

Ujjain

One of the greatest cities of ancient India, Ujjain's links with it's glorious past have endured into the present day, making it a city still renowned for it's traditions of spirituality, learning and culture. Situated on the banks of the river Shipra, Ujjain is one of the venues of the Kumbh Mela held every twelve years.

Ujjain GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 14 Sq.Km

Altitude : 492 Mts.

Temperature : Summer : Max: 42°C. Min: 28°C.

Winter : Max: 20°C. Min: 10°C.

Rainfall : September to March

STD Code : 0734

Ujjain TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : The nearest airport is Indore (53 Km).

Rail : Ujjain is connected by rail with important cities/towns.

Road : Motorable roads connect Ujjain with Ahmedabad 402 Km Bhopal 183 Km Indore 53 Km Delhi 774 Km
Khandwa Khajuraho 570 Km Dewas 37 Kms Maksi 39 Kms Km Dhar 117 Kms Mumbai 655 Km Gwalior 451 Km

Accommodation

Ujjain PLACES OF INTEREST

Bade Ganeshji Ka Temple Kalidas Academy

Bhartrihari Caves Mahakaleshwar

Chintaman Ganesh Mangalnath

Durgadas Ki Chhatri Navagraha Temple (Triveni)

Chardwar Pir Matsyendranath

Gadkalika Sandipani Ashram

Gopal Temple Siddhavat

Harsiddhi Temple Veda Shala (Observatory)

Kal Bhairava Vikram Kirti Temple

Kaliadeh Palace Vikram University.

Ujjain EXCURSIONS

Devas (37 Km) : Famous for its hill-top temple of Devi Chamunda.

Maksi (39 Km) : Famous for Jain Temples.

Nagda (60 Km) : An industrial town with ancient temples.

Agar (66 Km) : An ancient archaeological site.

Sailana (126 Km) : Famous for its cactus garden with over 1,200 species of cacti, perhaps the biggest collection in Asia.

Mandsaur (154 Km) : Famous for the Ashtamukhi Pashupatinath Temple.

Central Reservation for booking of MPSTDC accommodation

Central Reservations,
Tour Division, M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
4th floor, Gangotri,
T.T. Nagar,
Bhopal-462 003.
Tel: (0755) 2778383, 2774340 / 42 / 43
Fax: 2772384, 2774289
E-mail: info@mptourism.com
Website: www.mptourism.com

Ujjain TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

M.P.S.T.D.C.Ltd.,
Regional Office,
Behind Ravindra Natyagriha,
Indore,
Tel: (0731) 2541818

M.P.S.T.D.C Ltd.,
Tourist Complex,
Omkareshwar,
Tel: (07280) 271455

M.P.S.T.D.C.Ltd.,
Tourist Cottages & Travellers Lodge,
Mandu,
Tel: (07292) 263235

M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
Shipra Hotel,
University Road,
Ujjain,
Tel: (0734)2551495/6, 2563941

M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
World Trade Centre,
Cuffe Parade,
Mumbai.
Tel: 22187603

Jabalpur

Among the larger cities of Madhya Pradesh, Jabalpur has enjoyed considerable importance from the 4th century B.C. onwards. Its scenic beauty made it the pleasure resort of the Gond Kings. At present, the divisional headquarters, Jabalpur is a city of growing commercial importance, though it is more renowned for it's scenic charms, in particular the magnificent Marble Rocks.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 135 Sq. Km

Altitude : 393 Meters

Temperature : Summer : Max: 42°C. Min: 21°C.

Winter : Max: 28.5°C. Min: 07.7°C.

Rainfall : 150 cm (July to September.)

Best Season : October to March

STD Code : 0761

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : There are presently no flights to Jabalpur airport. However, the nearest airport is Khajuraho (270 kms.)

Rail : Jabalpur is a railway station on the Mumbai-Howrah line, connected with Allahabad, Bhopal, Calcutta, Delhi, Gwalior, Indore, Mumbai and Varanasi.

Road : Jabalpur is connected by motorable roads with Agra 596 Km,Bhopal 337 Km Khajuraho 270 Km Delhi 800 Km Mumbai 1126 Km Gwalior 477 Km Nagpur 249 Km Indore 523 Km Pachmarhi 235 Km Kanha 177 Km Varanasi 249 Km

Accommodation

PLACES OF INTEREST

Gwarighat

Madan Mahal Fort

Mala Devi Temple

Pisan Hari Jain Temples

Sangram Sagar and Bajnamath

Tilwara GhatRani Durgavati Memorial and Museum -- Timings: 1000 hrs to 1700 hrs
Closed on Mondays

EXCURSIONS

Roopnath (12 Km) : Famous for a lingam placed in a cleft of a rock dedicated to Shiva.

Marble Rocks (Bhedaghat) (23 Km) : The Marble Rocks rise on either side of a mile-long gorge, through which the Narmada flows. The gleaming, jagged cliffs of limestone are more than a hundred feet high. Boating facilities are available from November to May. Other places of interest include the 10th century Chausath Yogini Temple, dedicated to goddess Durga and the waterfalls at the far end of the marble gorge.
Accommodation :
Motel Marble Rocks (MPSTDC),
Tariff: Rs.450/-
Tel: (0760) 2830-424

Bilhari (64 Km) : Many pieces of ancient sculpture have been found at Bilhari indicating it's past importance. Among these are images of the Hindu gods Brahma, Shiva and Surya.

Nohta (81 Km) : Nohta lies at the confluence of a small stream, Guriaya and the river Berma. A few Jain temples can be seen here and 2 Km away is a Shiva Temple where a Kartik fair is held annually.

National Fossils Park (87 Km) : Famous for the plant fossils in Mandla district.

Mandla & Ramnagar (95 Km) : Mandla is known for its 17th century fort situated in a loop of the Narmada River which protects it on three sides. About 15 Km away is Ramnagar with a ruined three-storied palace overlooking the river Narmada.

Maihar (162 Km) : On the Jabalpur-Satna road, Maihar is famous for its Sharda Devi Temple built on a hill-top and it is also an important centre for Indian classical music.
Accommodation :
Café Surbahar (MPSTDC),
Tariff: Rs.190/-
Tel: (076764) 233362

Rookhad (163 Km) : Rookhad is wildlife sanctuary adjacent to the Pench National Park and a charming retreat. It is 101 Km from Nagpur on national highway no. 7 and 26 Km from Seoni.
Accommodation:
Bison Retreat (MPSTDC),
Tariff: Rs.325-350/-
Tel: (07695) 63429

Amarkantak (256 Km) : An important pilgrim center for Hindus, it is the source of two great rivers Narmada and Sone and is situated at an altitude of 1065 m.
Accommodation:
Holiday Homes (MPSTDC),
Tariff:
" Non A/c Suite Rs.490/-
" Non A/c Rs.325/-
" Dormitory Rs.60/- (per bed)
Tel: 269416

Central Reservation for booking of MPSTDC accommodation

Central Reservations,
Tour Division, M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
4th floor, Gangotri,
T.T. Nagar,
Bhopal-462 003.
Tel: (0755) 2778383, 2774340 / 42 / 43
Fax: 2772384, 2774289
E-mail: info@mptourism.com
Website: www.mptourism.com

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

Regional Office,
M.P.S.T.D.C.Ltd.,
Railway Station,
Jabalpur.
Tel: 322111
Telefax: 2321490

The Field Director,
Project Tiger,
Kanha Tiger Reserve,
Mandla - 481661.
Tel: (07642) 250760

Kanha

Kanha's sal and bamboo forests, rolling grasslands and meandering streams stretch over 940 sq. Km in dramatic natural splendour. This is original Kipling country, of which he wrote so vividly in the Jungle Book. The Kanha National Park, forms the core of the Kanha Tiger Reserve created in 1974 under Project Tiger. This park is also the only habitat of the rare hard ground Barasingha.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Area: 939.94 Sq. Km
Altitude: 450-900 Mts.
Temperature: Summer Max: 40.6 Deg.C. Min: 23.9 Deg.C.
Winter Max: 23.9 Deg.C. Min: 1.1 Deg.C.
Best Season April to June and November to January.
The park is closed during the monsoons from 1st July to 31st October

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air: Jabalpur (169 Km) is the nearest airport to visit Kanha.
Rail: Jabalpur (169 Km) is the most convenient railhead to visit Kanha.
Road: Kanha National Park is connected by road with Jabalpur 169 Km,
Khajuraho - 445 Km, Nagpur - 266 Km
Rookhad - 192 Km, Raipur - 219 Km
Distances within the park are
Koshi-Kanha: 9 Km Kisli-Katia: 4 Km Kisli-Mukki: 32 Km

Local Transport: MPSTDC operates a Jeep service for visitors to go around in the park. Booking can be made through the
Manager,
MPSTDC,
Baghira Log Huts,
Kisli and Kanha Safari Lodge,
Mukki.

Wild Chalet Resorts at village Mocha can also arrange for local sightseeing.

Entry And Camera Fee

Entry Fee: Indians: Rs.20/-, Foreigners: Rs.200/-.

Free Entry on Following Days
26th Jan. -Republic Day
21st March -World Forestry Day
5th June -World Environment Day
1st Nov. - M.P. State Foundation Day
29th Dec. -World Bio-diversity Day

Vehicle Charges:
Mini Bus: Rs.100/- (upto 15 pax) Gypsy: Rs.50/-

Camera Fee:

Other Accommodation

Baghira Log Huts (MPSTDC),
Tariff: Rs.690-890/-
Kisli,
Tel: (07649) 277227

Tourist Hostel (MPSTDC),
Tariff: Rs.300/- per person (with full vegetarian meal).
Kisli,

Forest Department Accommodation:
Rest Houses at Kisli and Mukki
Hutments at Khatia
Reservation:
Field Director, Project Tiger,
Kanha Tiger Reserve,
Mandla.
Tel: (07642) 250760
Fax: 251266


WHAT TO SEE

Forest Department guides accompany visitors around the Park on mapped out circuits, which enable viewers to see a good cross-section of Kanha's wildlife.

Wildlife in the Park: Kanha has some 22 species of mammals. Those that are most easily spotted are the palm squirrel, common langur, jackal, wild pig, chital, barasingha, sambar and black buck. Less commonly seen species include the tiger, wild dog, barking deer, bison, sloth bear, striped hyena, jungle cat and the chausingha. Very rarely seen are the wolf, the chinkara, Indian otter and the small Indian civet.

Bird species in the Park: Kanha has over 200 species of birds. Commonly seen species include the cattle egret, pond heron, black ibis, common peafowl, crested serpent, hawk eagle, red wattled lapwing, flycatcher, woodpecker, pigeon, dove, parakeet, kingfisher and grey hornbill.

Bamni Dadar: Known as Sunset Point, this is one of the most beautiful areas of the park from where a spectacular sunset can be viewed.

Museum: It depicts various aspects of the park and tribal culture. Closed on Wednesdays.


Central Reservation for booking of MPSTDC accommodation

Central Reservations,
Tour Division, M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
4th floor, Gangotri,
T.T. Nagar,
Bhopal-462 003.
Tel: (0755) 2778383, 2774340 / 42 / 43
Fax: 2772384, 2774289
E-mail: info@mptourism.com
Website: www.mptourism.com


TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

Regional Office,
M.P.S.T.D.C.Ltd.,
Railway Station,
Jabalpur.
Tel: 322111
Telefax: 2321490

The Field Director,
Project Tiger,
Kanha Tiger Reserve,
Mandla - 481661.
Tel: (07642) 250760

M.P.S.T.D.C. Ltd.,
World Trade Centre,
Cuffe Parade,
Mumbai.
Tel: 22187603

Khajuraho

The capital of the Chandela Kings, Khajuraho is famous for its magnificent temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and the Jain Tirthankaras. These temples were built between 950 A.D. & 1050 A.D. and represent some of the most exquisite specimens of art and architecture in medieval India. Only 22 temples of the original 85 now survive.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Area : 21 Sq. Km

Altitude : 280 Meters

Temperature : Summer : Max: 47°C. Min: 21°C.

Winter : Max: 32°C. Min: 04°C.

Rainfall : 14 cm (July - August)

Best Season : September to March

STD Code : 07686

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

Air : Khauraho is connected by air with Delhi, Agra and Varanasi.

Rail : Jhansi 175 Km and Satna 120 Km are the two convenient railheads.

Road : Khajuraho is connected by motorable roads with Agra 395 Km Allahabad 285 Km Bandhavgarh 250 Km
Bhopal 340 Km Chitrakoot 175 Km Jabalpur 296 Km Mumbai 1250 Km Delhi 596 Km Lucknow 287 Km Rewa 176 Km Gwalior 276 Km Varanasi 415 Km Indore 575 Km Mahoba 65 Km

Accommodation

PLACES OF INTEREST

The temples of Khajuraho are divided into 3 geographical groups: Western, Eastern & Southern.

Western Group of Temples :

Kandariya Mahadeo Temple

Chausat Yogini Temple

Chitragupta Temple

Vishvanath Temple

Lakshmana Temple

Matangeshwara Temple

A Son-et-Lumiere show is presented in English and Hindi at 1830 hrs at the Western Group of Temples.
Charges: Rs.50/- (Indians), Rs.200/- (Foreigners).

Eastern Group of Temples :

Jain Temples : Parsvanath Temple, Ghantai Temple and Adinath Temple.

Hindu Temples : Brahma Temple, Vamana Temple and Javari Temple.

Southern Group of Temples : Situated about 5 Km from Khajuraho, the southern group consists of two surviving temples- Duladeo Temple and Chaturbhuj Temple

Entry Fee for Khajuraho Group of Monuments :

Rs.10/- (Indians) US$ 5 or Rs.250/- (Foreigners)

Archaeological Museum : Situated near the Western Group of Temples, this museum has a collection of sculptures, inscriptions, architectural panels and friezes dating back to the 10th and 12th centuries.
Timings: 1000 hrs to 1700 hrs
Closed on Fridays

EXCURSIONS

Beni Sagar Lake (7 Km) : A picnic spot.

Raneh Water Falls (20 Km) : A beautiful picnic spot famous for its granite rock formations.

Ken Ghariyal Sanctury (25 Km) : A natural house for the long snouted Ghariyals (alligators).

Ken Natural Trail (25 Km) : A little jungle track along the beautiful river Ken.

Rajgarh Palace (25 Km) : A picturesque 150 years old palace.

Ranguan Lake (25 Km) : An ideal angling and boating spot.

Panna National Park (32 Km) : Situated in a large dense forest belt forming the northern fringe of the natural teak forest, the park provides an ideal habitat for the tiger. Other rare species that can be seen are the panther, wolf and gharial.

Gangau Dam (34 Km) : A natural dam at the confluence of rivers Ken and Simri.

Pandav Falls (34 Km) : A beautiful picnic spot.

Panna (44 Km) : The capital of Chhatrasal, founder of the Bundela Kingdom.

Diamond Mines, Majhgawan (56 Km) : The only working mines in India and the largest in Asia, under the control of the National Mineral Development Corporation Ltd. (NMDC).

Dhubela Museum (57 Km) : Located on the banks of a Lake, the Museum houses a wide variety of Shakti Cult sculptures.
Timings: 1000 to 1700 hrs
Closed on Mondays

Ajaygarh Fort (80 Km) : An old fort, it was the capital of the Chandelas.

Kalinjar Fort (100 Km) : The fort stands on an isolated hill of the Vindhya Range and was built during the period of the Guptas.

Nachna (100 Km) : A famous city of the Gupta Empire, it was known for the Chaturmukha Mahadeva Temple.

Satna (120 Km) : An upcoming industrial town, famous for it's cement factory.
Accommodation :
Hotel Bharhut (MPSTDC),
Tariff: A/c Rs.490-590/- Non A/c Rs.290-350/-
Civil Lines,
Tel: (07672) 226071

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES

Indiatourism,
Opp. Western Group of Temples,
Khajuraho,
Telephone: 272347-48

Regional Office,
M.P.S.T.D.C.Ltd.,
Chandela Cultural Complex,
Khajuraho,
Telephone: 274051

MPSTDC Information Counter,
Bus Stand,
Khajuraho,
Tel: 274163