Madhya Pradesh (MP) offers a perfect admixture of Architecture, Nature and Wildlife. Think of regal forts, ancient temples, gushing waterfalls or lush forests – the state has it all. Fondly called the heart of India, it is still less explored and provides fresh views at every corner. And this is exactly why we enjoyed our trip to MP so much.
It took us a fair bit of research to come up with an itinerary for MP. Because it is the 2nd largest state in India and every part of it lures with a different kind of beauty. So here it is, an itinerary for your next trip to Madhya Pradesh including Gwalior, Jabalpur and Bandhavgarh National park.
Detailed Itinerary and other tips
Day 1
Reach Gwalior. Explore Gwalior Fort
This is the day you reach Gwalior. If you reach early, then check into the hotel, freshen up and get ready to explore Gwalior Fort. As we had an afternoon flight from Bangalore, we reached late and spent the evening in the resort. If that is the case with you, you need to add another day to the itinerary. Rest on the day of arrival at your hotel and visit Gwalior Fort the next morning.
Now coming to the Fort, it is sprawled on top of a hill and needs at least half a day to cover. Majority of Gwalior attractions you may find over the internet are actually part of the fort itself. Since it could get tiring exploring this huge fort, we recommend not keeping any other attractions in the list for this day.
Here is a list of all the key points you can visit inside Gwalior Fort.
Maan Singh Mahal
The most striking part of the fort is this almond coloured palace with dashing blue paintings all over. The interiors are as pretty with exquisite courtyards and corridors made of ornate walls and pillars. Enjoy the light and sound show that happens every evening at the amphitheatre near this Mahal and get to know the glorious history of Gwalior.
Other Mahals in the premises (Karan Mahal, Vikram Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, Shahjahan mahal etc.)
Close to the Maan Singh Mahal, there are many other mahals built inside Gwalior Fort. These mahals have a very different charm with their rustic look and are named after the rulers who built them. You can cover all of these mahals in an hour or so.
Saas Bahu Temple
The name of the temple was interesting enough to pique our interest. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple was originally named Sahastrabahu, signifying Lord Vishnu in his 1000 arms form. But with time, the name was finally altered as Saas Bahu, meaning mother-in-law and daughter-in-law. The temple has a grand architecture and is full of intricate carvings that take you back in time. There is also a smaller temple in the compound that is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is equally beautiful.
Teli Ka Mandir
A towering 9th century temple with impressive carvings, Teli Ka Mandir has a very unique architectural design. There is nothing to see inside and also the interior has a very strong smell of bats. But the exterior of this 100 feet tall temple is definitely a visual delight. Read More……
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