Central India Tours: A Journey Through Heartland
Of course, the northern and southern parts of India are incredibly amazing in terms of tourism. However, Central India is not far behind. A region steeped in history, culture, and abundance of natural resources and beauty—the central region of India has a different charm that never fails to steal the heart of travelers.
No matter what you want to see, what your interests are, when you want to come—whether you are a history buff, you are a nature lover, you want to experience the thrills of exploring dense jungle, or you to explore majestic forts, temples, and vibrant festivals—Central India has it all and won’t disappoint you.
Central India as the name suggests is located in the middle of the country and sometimes also referred to as the heart of India. The region comprises states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. The region offers an abundance of sightseeing and tourism opportunities with popular destinations like Khajuraho, Orchha, Gwalior, Sanchi, Panchmarhi, and Shivpuri. For wildlife lovers and adventure enthusiasts, there are Kanha National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, and Pench National Park.
Due to lots of attractions and destinations, it is easier to get confused about which destinations or places you should explore on your tours in Central India. This is why we at Shakti India Tours have designed a comprehensive range of Central India tour packages. Our tour packages covering prominent destinations of Central India will let you explore the best of the region with ease. We have designed our packages for Central India tours based on various themes with the aim to cater to different interests of people.
If you are a cultural and heritage enthusiast, we have packages or can customize packages based on your needs that will let you explore the best cultural and heritage attractions of the region. Khajuraho Group of Monuments (known for erotic arts and carvings), Sanchi Stupa, Gwalior Fort, Orchha Fort Complex, Raja Ram Temple, Jhansi Fort, and Rajwada Palace Indore are the most popular heritage attractions that you can visit with our Central India tour packages.
If your interests are different. For example, if you are a nature admirer and want to spend your time with nature in peaceful surroundings, we can offer you tour packages in Central India covering destinations like Panchmarhi, Bhopal, Shivpuri, Jabalpur, and various national parks like Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, and Panna.
Needless to say, these wildlife destinations are very popular among adventure enthusiasts. Our Central India wildlife tour packages will be the right choice for you in this case. In short, Central India is a treasure trove for travelers seeking authentic experiences and a glimpse into India′s rich heritage, and rich flora and fauna.
Exploring Madhya Pradesh: The Heart of Central India
Madhya Pradesh, abbreviated as MP, is the main and largest state situated in Central India. It is often referred to as the “Heart of India” due to its central location and cultural significance. Most central tour packages are centered around popular destinations of MP. On your Central India tours, you will have a wonderful opportunity to explore various heritage and cultural attractions along with nature abundance places, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks. The major destinations to explore in Madhya Pradesh on Central India tours are as follows:
Bhopal: The City of Lakes
Bhopal is not only the capital of Madhya Pradesh but also a major tourist destination. The city is known for its lakes, museums, temples, and sites of cultural significance. There are numerous tourist places in and around Bhopal that grab domestic as well as international tourists. Popular attractions in and around the city include Moti Masjid, Bhojeshwar Temple, Laxminarayan Temple, Bharat Bhawan Museum, Upper Lake (Bhojtal or Bada Talaab), Lower Lake (Chhota Talaab), Taj Mahal Palace, and Taj-ul-Masjid.
Bhimbetka Rock Shelters (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Situated in the Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh, Bhimbetka is an archaeological site and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Central India. Situated around 45 kms from Bhopal, it is known for rock shelters and has some of the oldest cave paintings in the world.
Sanchi Stupa (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Sanchi, situated around 46 kms from Bhopal, Sanchi is famous among tourists for its huge Buddhist Stupa, also called Sanchi Stupa, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gwalior: UNESCO City of Music
Gwalior is a historic city in MP, Central India. The major tourist attractions in this historic city include Gwalior Fort, Jai Vilas Palace, Gujari Mahal (State Archaeological Museum), Man Mandir Palace, Teli Ka Mandir, Sas Bahu Temple, Scindia Museum, Tansen Tomb, and Sun Temple.
Orchha: City of Forts, Palaces, and Temples
Orchha is a beautiful medieval town in MP, Central India which is known for its majestic forts, palaces, and temples showcasing the grandeur of the Bundela dynasty. The major attractions in Orchha include the Orchha Fort Complex, Ram Raja Temple, Jahangir Mahal, Chaturbhuj Temple, Lakshmi Temple, and Chhatris (Cenotaphs).
Khajuraho Group of Monuments (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Khajuraho is an internationally famous tourist destination in MP. It is a major destination in most Central India tour packages. The destination is known for the Khajuraho Group of Monuments (Temples)—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex is renowned for its spectacular carvings and erotic sculptures showcasing the artistic brilliance of ancient India.
Kanha Tiger Reserve
Kanha Tiger Reserve or Kanha National Park is one of the tiger reserves of India. The park is known for its rich flora and fauna. It is home to over 1000 species of flowering plants which draws the attention of nature lovers. It also hosts a good number of wild animals like Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, barasingha (swamp deer), Indian jackals, Bengal foxes, and dholes. In addition, the reserve also hosts around 300 species of birds. Having a wildlife safari in Kanha National Park as a part of a Central India Tour will be a unique experience of a lifetime.
Bandhavgarh National Park
Bandhavgarh National Park is another wildlife destination in MP, Central India, that you can explore on your Central India Tours. The park is known for its large biodiversity and is home to a good number of animals and birds. Tigers, leopards, barking deer, hanuman langurs, Indian bison (gaur), nilgais, striped hyenas, and chitals (spotted deer) are major attractions here. However, the biggest attraction of the national park is the Bengal tiger. The park is known for its high density of tigers within its jungles. Safari rides are organized here that let you watch the activities of wild animals in their natural surroundings.
Pench National Park
Pench National Park is also a popular wildlife destination on Central India tours. The national park has rich flora and fauna and offers an opportunity to see many wild animals. The main wildlife attractions at the park include Bengal tiger, wild boar, Indian leopard, Indian wolf, sloth bear, Rhesus monkey, striped hyena, four-horned antelope, barking deer, chital, sambar, dhole, and golden jackal. Besides, the park is also home to over 210 bird species which makes it a perfect destination for birdwatchers.
Panna National Park
Panna National Park is another popular national park and tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh, Central India. It is one of the most sought-after destinations on many Central India tour packages. Wildlife attractions in this reserve are the Bengal tiger, Indian leopard, spotted deer, nilgai, sambar deer, sloth bear, chinkara, Asian palm civet, and over 200 species of birds including Indian vulture, plum-headed parakeet, bar-headed goose, and red-headed vulture.
Mandu: Mahal ka Shahar
Mandu is an ancient city in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, Central India. It is lovingly known as Mahal Ka Shahar because of its magnificent palaces. Palaces, lakes, and gardens are the main attractions here that depict the rich history of the Mughals. The places of interest include Roopmati Pavilion, Baz Bahadur Palace, Rewa Kund, Darya Khan Tomb Complex, Shri Mandavagadh Teerth, Jami Masjid, Hoshang Shah′s Tomb (India′s first marble structure), Jahaz Mahal (Ship Palace), Hindola Mahal, Sonegarh Fort, Sunset Point, and Sagar Talab (a beautiful man-made lake inside the fort).
Panchmarhi: Queen of Satpura
Panchmarhi is a beautiful hill station located in a valley of the Satpura Range and is also called the Satpura Ki Rani (Queen of Satpura). There are several hilltop caves here which are the main reason behind the name of this picturesque hill station. The name “Panchmarhi” is made of two Hindi words Panch (Five) and Marhi (Caves). As per legend, the Pandavas of the Mahabharat era constructed these caves of this hill station during the thirteenth year of exile. The hill station is known for its pleasant climate and waterfalls. Rajat Pratap (a large waterfall), Bee Fall, Apsara Falls, Dutchess Fall, Pansy Pool, Little Fall, Draupadi Kund, Twynham Pool, Mount Rosa, Sunset Point, Panchmarhi Hill, Lady Robertson′s View, Waters Meet, Handi Khoh (Deep Valley), Gupt Mahadev, and Bada Mahadev are major attractions here.
Shivpuri (Earlier Known as Sipri)
Shivpuri, the former summer capital of the Scindia family, is a historic city and tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh, Central India. It is known for its greenery, forests, waterfalls, and lakes. It is also famous for graceful, intricately embellished marble chhatris erected by Scindia rulers. The major attractions here include Chattris, George Castle, Mahadev National Park, Waterfalls (Bhura Kho and Tunda Bharkha Kho), and lakes (Chandpatha Jheel and Jadhav Sagar Jheel)
Exploring Chhattisgarh: The Underrated Gem
Chhattisgarh is not as popular as Madhya Pradesh. However, the state hosts a number of tourist destinations and attractions. Popular tourist destinations in Chhattisgarh include:
Raipur: The Capital City
There are many places of tourist interest in and around Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh. Popular ones are Mahant Ghasi Das Museum, Rajiv Smriti Van, Rajkumar College, Vivekananda Ashram, Nagar Clock, Solar Energy Park, Purkhauti Muktangan, Town Hall, Vivekananda Sarovar, Dudhadhari Temple, and Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple.
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve
Achanakmar Tiger Reserve is a wildlife sanctuary and a tiger reserve in the state of Chhattisgarh. The reserve hosts tigers, leopards, and many other animals and bird species. It can be an ideal destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and wildlife adventure enthusiasts.
Sirpur (City of Wealth)
Sirpur, located at the bank of the holy Mahanadi River, is an ancient town in the state of Chhattisgarh. It is popular among tourists because of its archaeological monuments and its rich traditional and cultural heritage. Here you can see a number of monumental marvels and well-preserved ruins of temples and palaces. Lakshmana Temple is one of the main attractions in Sirpur which is one of the finest examples of temple architecture in India. Surang Tila complex is another popular attraction here which is known for Buddhist stupas and monasteries.
Kanger Valley National Park
Kanger Valley National Park is one of the most prominent national parks in Chhattisgarh. The park is famous for lush greenery, waterfalls, caves, and diverse flora and fauna. This is not all. You can also see here the rare Kanger River Crocodile which is the main attraction.
Experiencing Central India′s Cultural Heritage
The central part of India is a reservoir of history and diversity. It presents the cultural melting pot of many dynasties, religions, and tribes. It amply portrays this basic blend of influences through the architectural, artistic, linguistic, musical, and traditional mixture.
From old Hindu temples at Khajuraho to the middle Islamic monuments of Mandu, the coexistence of all the differently nurtured phases of cultures can be seen in Central India. This rich cultural heritage, represented in mosaic by the tribal groups Gond, Bhil, and Korku, has added so much richness to the region. Central India, therefore, poses an enthralling destination for travel explorers eager to explore the depths and intricacy of Indian civilization.
- Festivals: Experience the vibrant colors and festivities of Central India with Shakti India Tours. The major festivals celebrated here include Holi, Diwali, Gordhan, Cherchera, Gana Gour, and the tribal dances.
- Cuisine: Central India cuisines include dishes like poha, jalebi, malpua, and various vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies.
- Art and Crafts: Explore the rich artistic traditions of Central India, including pottery, textiles, metalwork, and traditional paintings.
- Tribal Culture: Immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the various tribal communities inhabiting the region.
Best Time to Visit Central India
The best time to visit Central India is between October and March. During this period, the weather is usually pleasant and comfortable. However, each region has its own ideal time for visiting, depending on the specific attractions and activities you plan to enjoy.
Tips for Planning the Perfect Central India Tour
Here are a few tips that you should consider when planning your Central India Tour.
- Plan your Central India tour from a few days to several weeks depending on your interests and time constraints.
- Choose the most suitable mode of transportation, such as flights, trains, or buses, based on your budget and preferences.
- Select accommodations that suit your budget and preferences. Budget-friendly hotels to luxury hotels are available in Central India.
- Set a realistic budget for your trip, considering transportation, accommodation, food, activities, and other expenses.
- Select the best-matched Central India Tour package covering destinations of your interest. We at Shakti India Tours can customize tour packages catering to your special interests and budget.
Popular Central India Tour Packages
We at Shakti India Tours are committed to providing you with the best travel experience in India. If you are looking for the perfect Central India tour package, we can perfectly cater to your needs. We have designed several tour packages centered around popular destinations like Khajuraho, Sanchi, Bhopal, Gwalior, Orchha, Jhansi, Indore, Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, and Pench National Park. Our popular Central India tour packages are as follows:
Central India Train Tour
Itinerary: Delhi – Agra & Fatehpur Sikri – Gwalior – Jhansi & Orchha – Bhopal & Sanchi – Indore & Ujjain – Delhi
On this tour, you will have a wonderful opportunity to explore the attractions and destinations of both the North and Central parts of the country. You will mainly commute from one destination to another by train, which will be a unique experience as well.
Classical India Tour
Itinerary: Delhi – Jaipur – Agra - Khajuraho – Varanasi
The classical India tour package will take you through the exciting journey of Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Khajuraho, and Varanasi. Needless to say, these destinations are among India’s top destinations attracting a large number of tourists from all around the world. Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, Amer Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal, Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and a boat ride of Ganges River are the highlights of this tour.
Khajuraho and Temple Tour
Itinerary: Delhi – Khajuraho – Bandhavgarh National Park – Kanha National Park – Pench National Park – Nagpur – Delhi
This is an exclusive tour package we have designed for tourists who want to marvel at architectural brilliance and experience wildlife thrills. On this tour, you will visit the Khajuraho Group of Monuments known for erotic sculptures and carvings. Also, you will have a wonderful wildlife expedition experience by exploring famous national parks and tiger reserves like Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench. As your tour will start from Delhi and end in Delhi, you will also have the opportunity to explore heritage attractions like Red Fort, Qutub Minar, Humayun’s Tomb, and India Gate.
Taj Mahal, Temples, and Tigers Tour
Itinerary: Delhi – Jaipur – Ranthambore – Agra – Khajuraho – Bandhavgarh – Delhi
We have designed this tour package a perfect mix of destinations which are widely acclaimed for unique attractions. On this tour, you will have a wonderful opportunity to explore cultural heritage sites, terrific temples, and famous national parks. The Taj Mahal, Khajuraho Group of Monuments (Erotic Temples), Ranthambore National Park, and Bandhavgarh National Park are the main attractions of this tour package.
If these tour packages do not suit your interest or choice of destinations, please let us know. We can design a Central India tour package specifically for you. We can also customize our existing tour package to cater to your preferences.
