10 Reasons Why Madhya Pradesh Sightseeing Should Be on Top Of Every Indian Travellers' Bucket List!

In India, the Tropic of Cancer passes through the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Ancient Indian astrologers declared long ago that the line dividing the northern part above the equator passes through the ancient city of Ujjain. The point of Tropic of Cancer is marked by the Madhya Pradesh government and can be easily found.

The only remaining hammam in India is located in the city of Bhopal. This 300-year-old hammam was built in the 1700s during the era of Gonds, but after the Mughals took over, the area was gifted to Hajjam Hammu Khalida from the Nawabs.

The cave paintings at Bhimbetka exhibit the beginning of the South Asian Stone Age. Located inside the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhimbetka is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some shelters are known to be inhabited some 100,000 years ago, whereas the paintings, which give the first representation of dancing date back to 30,000 years. Bhimbetka is a must for anyone interested in the history of civilisation in India. Bhimbetka is easily one of the best experiences when it comes to Madhya Pradesh sightseeing.

Mandu is a strategically located city and was an important military outpost. This can be gauged through the long 37 km-wall that protected the city. Within these walls lie many palaces, Jain temples, 14th century structures and reservoirs (kunds). Given that all sights in Mandu are within 5 km or less, it is ideal to be explored on a bicycle.

Named after the Pench River that flows through the forest, Pench National Park is located in the areas of Seoni and Chhindwara districts. The tiger reserve is also known for offering rafting adventures that are offered within. You can even stay inside the Pench National Park, as there are some really stunning properties and tree houses that offer accommodation at decent prices.

Known as the Varanasi of Central India, Maheswar is of great significance in Hindu mythology and history. Mentioned in many sacred texts as 'Mahishmati', Maheshwar was apparently liberated from the bonds of marriage by the God of Fire (Agni). In the Aryavarta, women of Mahishmati were known to enjoy a freedom unheard of. Naturally, the city is home to many temples, which are symbolic of its rich history and architecture. You can take a long and exhaustive tour of temples in Maheshwar if ancient Hindu architecture and mythology are of any interest to you.

The Sanchi Stupa is the oldest rock structure in India, which dates back to 3rd century BCE. Commissioned by emperor Ashoka, this architectural brilliance is built over the relics of Buddha himself. Across centuries, more kingdoms and Buddhist rulers were built around the original Sanchi Stupa adding ornamental gateways and monasteries. The complex now is beautiful and spiritual for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat, whereas for Buddhists it is a major pilgrimage.

Chitrakoot occupies a highly relevant place in Hindu mythology – it has been mentioned fervently in the Ramayana and also in the poetry of Tulsidas and Kalidas. The beautiful forest where Lord Ram went to live in exile with Sita and Laxman is known to be the abode of monkeys, great sages, bears and unique flora and fauna. Given its historical importance, there are many temples and holy structures in Chitrakoot which can be visited.

The Dhuandhar Falls are a sight to behold as you travel through the famous Marble Rocks and end up at a 30 meters high waterfall. The name 'dhuandhar' comes from the smoky effect water creates on falling from that height. The Dhuandhar Falls are best visited during Sharad Purnima, when the white marble shine spectacularly in the moonlight, giving it a silver appearance.

Bhopal has seen the reign of Hindu rulers for many centuries, but from early 18th century till independence, it propspered as a Mughal kingdom. There is a huge community of Muslims living in Bhopal and their culture can best be observed through a walk to the city's most revered mosques. Built in 1844, Taj-ul-Masjid is one of the biggest mosques in India and Moti Masjid is known to be constructed by Begum Shah Jahan, who would challenge notions by worshiping there dressed as a man.