The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary For Madhya Pradesh

Waquar Habib

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh offers a diverse culture, history, and natural beauty. It has ancient cave paintings, grand forts, national parks like Kanha and Bandhavgarh, and pilgrim sites like Omkareshwar and Ujjain. Bhedaghat's marble gorges and lively festivals add to the charm.

A view of Bhopal | Shutterstock

Day 1: Bhopal Exploration

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Taj-ul-Masajid, one of the largest mosques in India, located in Bhopal. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, trying dishes like Poha (flattened rice) or Jalebi (sweet fried batter).

Taj-ul-Masajid | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Visit Bharat Bhavan, an artistic complex showcasing contemporary & folk art. Later, enjoy Bhopali cuisine at a local restaurant, including Bhopali Gosht Korma and Biryani.

Bharat Bhavan | Shutterstock

Evening

For a relaxing boat ride and breathtaking sunset, visit Upper Lake (Bada Talab). Afterwards, explore vibrant markets in Bhopal, like Chowk Bazaar, for local snacks such as Chole Tikki and Bun Maska.

Statue of king Raja Bhoj in Upper Lake ,Bhopal | Shutterstock

Day 2: Sanchi and Udaygiri Caves

Morning

Travel to Sanchi, home to the renowned Sanchi Stupa - a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venture through the intricately carved stupas, monasteries, and pillars dating back to the Mauryan period.

Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Enjoy regional specialities like Dal Bafla and Bafla Bati for lunch at a local restaurant near Sanchi, followed by a visit to the ancient Buddhist site of Udaygiri Caves, renowned for its rock-cut caves and sculptures.

Udaygiri Caves | Shutterstock

Evening

After returning to Bhopal, you can spend the evening relaxing at your hotel or exploring local eateries for dinner. Make sure to try the Barfi Rasmalai, a renowned sweet dish in Bhopal.

A market in Bhopal | Shutterstock

Day 3: Bhimbetka and Bhojpur

Morning

Depart early for Bhimbetka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its prehistoric cave paintings dating back to the Paleolithic era. Explore the rock shelters and learn about the ancient history depicted in the paintings.

Bhimbetka | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural surroundings of Bhimbetka. Proceed to Bhojpur and visit the impressive Bhojesvar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its massive lingam and unfinished architectural marvels.

Bhojesvar Temple | Shutterstock

Evening

Return to Bhopal and spend the evening exploring local markets or dining at your restaurant. Check out the handloom sarees, fabrics, jewellery, handicrafts, and Chanderi and Maheshwari silk.

A shopkeeper shows Maheshwari silk | Shutterstock

Day 4: Indore City Tour

Morning

Depart to Indore, the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh, and visit Rajwada, the historic palace of the Holkar dynasty, renowned for its blend of Maratha, Mughal, and French architectural styles.

Rajwada, Indore | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Have lunch at Sarafa Bazaar, a famous street food market in Indore, offering a variety of delicious snacks and desserts.

An offering of the Sarafa Bazaar | Shutterstock

Evening

Explore the lively streets of Indore and indulge in shopping at Khajuri Bazaar or MT Cloth Market. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and savour Indore's specialities like Poha Jalebi and Indori Bhutte Ka Kees.

Bhutte Ka Kees | Shutterstock

Day 5: Maheshwar and Omkareshwar

Morning

Depart for Maheshwar, a historic town on the banks of Narmada River. Explore the Maheshwar Fort's architecture and panoramic river views.

Temple inside Maheshwar Fort | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant in serene Maheshwar. Then, visit Omkareshwar, a shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva on an island in the Narmada River.

Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh | Shutterstock

Evening

Experience a mesmerising spiritual ceremony by taking a boat ride on the Narmada River and witnessing the evening aarti at Omkareshwar Temple.

Ghat at Omkareshwar Temple | Shutterstock

Day 6: Jabalpur Excursion

Morning

Depart for Jabalpur, renowned for its natural beauty and historical landmarks. Visit Dhuandhar Falls, an iconic waterfall where the Narmada River cascades down the rocks, creating a smoky mist-like effect.

Dhuandhar Falls | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby restaurant and try local delicacies such as Bhutte Ka Kees and Sabudana Khichdi.

Sabudana Khichdi | Shutterstock

Evening

Discover the beauty of Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat, a stunning gorge on the Narmada River known for its picturesque marble cliffs and sunset boat rides.

Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat | Shutterstock

Day 7: Gwalior Heritage Tour

Morning

Depart for Gwalior, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical monuments. Visit the magnificent Gwalior Fort, one of the largest forts in India, which houses palaces, temples, and other monuments.

Gwalior Fort | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Enjoy Gwalior's specialities like Kachori Sabzi and Bedai at a local restaurant near the fort during lunchtime.

Kachori Sabzi | Shutterstock

Evening

Discover Jai Vilas Palace, a stunning fusion of European and Indian architecture from the 19th century. While you're there, don't miss the Scindia Museum located within the palace complex.

Jai Vilas Palace | Shutterstock

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