Main Info
The Central region of India gives you a peek into the splendid wildlife, rich heritage and architectural splendours of the country. Covering the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh, Central India spreads over an area of 443, 439 Sq Km. These contiguous states hold enough pilgrimage spots, wildlife sanctuaries, ancient monuments, mountain ranges and remote forests to attract travellers of different tastes. At the heart of India, in Madhya Pradesh, lies Narmada river with two hill ranges – the Vindhya and the Satpura. It is also an intriguing landscape of plateaus, rivers valleys, rolling hills and forests. From the prehistoric site of Bhimbetka to ancient Hindu and Buddhist monuments at Khajuraho, Orchha, and Sanchi, the finest of ancient civilisation is found here.
For wildlife lovers, the tiger-rich forests of Bandhavgarh and Kanha are a major attraction. The region also encapsulates the hilly town of Mandu and the contemplative towns of Maheshwar, Omkareshwar and Amarkantak by the Narmada. In Chhattisgarh, a large part of the population is tribal. Over 40 percent of the state is covered under forest, or is noted for its mineral wealth. The main attractions here include no less than three national parks and 11 wildlife sanctuaries. Raipur, Bilaspur, and Jagdalpur are the main hubs for tourists providing a wealth of fabulous temples, royal palaces, Buddhist monuments and natural wonders to explore. Central India is undoubtedly the Hindi heartland of the country. Various dialects of Hindi such as Bundeli, Malvi, Nimadi, and Bagheli are spoken here followed by Dakshin Kosali and some tribal languages. It also imbibes the best of food culture from its neighbouring states.
1. Orchha, Madhya Pradesh – The Hidden Treasure
Known For : Jehangir Mahal, Orchha Fort Ram Raja Temple Raja Mahal, Orchha Fort
Known for its grand palaces, intricately carved temples and striking forts, situated on banks of river Betwa Orchha is a city with a lot of historical significance and a photographers’ paradise.
Best Time: July to March
2. Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh – The Land of the Marble Rocks.
Known For : Marble Rocks Dhuandhar Falls Chausath Yogini Temple
Also regarded as the Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat, this small town has earned a reputation for the 100 ft tall resplendent rocks on either sides of Narmada in not only India, but all across the world. Bhedaghat is in close proximity of one of the major cities of Madhya Pradesh of Jabalpur.
Best Time: November to March
3. Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh – The Tiger’s Den
Formerly a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Rewa, this National Park is world-renowned as a tiger reserve.
Best Time: October to June
4. Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh – The land of Jungle Book
A delightful town situated in the district of Mandla, Kanha National park is the haven of an exceptionally wide variety of wild animals, including the majestic creature tiger.
Best Time: October to June
