With rugged topography, rivers, waterfalls, caves, and forests, Madhya Pradesh plays a pivotal role in Indian literature and ancient history. The state is etched with monuments and temples highlighting the rich history of Jainism, Buddhism and Hinduism devotees.

To make your voyage to India's heartland wholesome, here are some of the famous tourist places in Madhya Pradesh.

1. Rajwada Palace

The seven-storeyed Rajwada Palace narrates the tales of Marathas' rule here. The Holkars, around 200 years ago, constructed this palace. The well-maintained royal gardens, artificial waterfalls and the statue of Ahilya Bai Holkar attract history lovers to the Rajwada palace. Its unique Indo-Saracenic architectural design adds to Madhya Pradesh's rich heritage.

• Entry Fee - ₹10 (Entry fees)
• Best Time to Visit: October-March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Khajrana Ganesh Temple, Lalbagh Palace, Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, and Choral Dam
• Things to Do: Venture to the palace, gardens and museums, Visit temples nearby and try authentic cuisines.

How to Reach:

• By Road: You can board state-run buses from any city in Madhya Pradesh.
• By Train:  Indore Junction is a railway station located near Rajwada Palace.
• By Air: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore is the closest airport.

2. Sarafa Bazaar

Any vacation is incomplete without market hopping. And shopping is mandatory when you visit a destination like Sarafa Bazar. It is one of the best places to visit in Indore for foodies. The market turns into a lively fair at night with arrays of street food stalls. From spicy Golgappa to sweet falooda, you are sure to find everything your tastebuds crave for.

• Entry Fee - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Gandhi Hall, Lalbagh Palace, and Kamala Nehru Prani Sangrahalaya.
• Things to Do: Relish delicacies like Garadu, Bhutta kees with lime, and coriander chutney, visit nearby temples and spend time at the Indore Zoo.

How to Reach:

• By Road: State-run buses ply from other cities to Indore. You can also rent a cab from other cities to get here.
• By Train: Indore Junction is the nearest railway station to Sarafa Bazaar.
• By Air: Hire a taxi from Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport to reach the Sarafa market.

3. Patalpani Falls

Literally translating to “Waters to Hell,” Patalpani Waterfall is a breathtaking sight. Locals believe that its water pours to the ‘Patal’ via a pit, hence the name. Trekking to Patalpani Falls to view water gushing down from approximately 300 feet is a passion for many solo travellers. The scenic beauty of Patalpani waterfalls is at its best during monsoons. Many locals and tourists visit this place for camping and picnics.

• Entry Fee - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: June to October
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Choral dam, Kushalgarh Fort, Annapurna Temple and Pipliyapala Regional Park.
• Things to Do: hike in forests, click pictures here, know stories related to the spot, and enjoy the view.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Rent a cab or taxi from Indore or nearby cities to Gangwal Bus Stand.
• By Train: Indore Station is the nearest railway station to Patalpani.
• By Air: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport is nearest to this location.

4. Sanchi Stupa

King Asoka had this historic monument built in the 3rd century AD. Today, UNESCO recognises Sanchi Stupa as a World Heritage Site. Its large dome, which is 50 ft high, holds many important Buddist relicsand and it's one of the best tourist places in mp. Sanchi hosts many ancient stupas and our national emblem- the Asoka Pillar. One of the most famous Buddhist pilgrimage sites, it is said to serve as a burial mound of Lord Buddha.

• Entry Fee  - ₹10 (Entry fee for an Indian adult), ₹250 (Entry fee for foreigners of all age)
• Best Time to Visit: July to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Asoka Pillar, Udaygiri caves, The Great Bowl, and Sanchi Museum.
• Things to Do: Visit ancient monasteries and Hindu and Buddhist temples, and explore historical temples’ relics.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Take a bus or taxi from Bhopal or Indore to Nadra Bus Stand.
• By Train: Board trains to Bhopal Junction or Sanchi railway station.
• By Air: Fly to Bhopal Airport and rent a cab from there to Sanchi.

5. Taj-ul-Masjid

This is one of the most elegant mosques in India. Taj-ul-Masjid in Urdu means "Crown of all Mosques." White massive minarets, marble flooring, stately courtyards, and remarkably broad pink façade represent the elegance of Mughal architecture. Its brilliant architecture and annual congregation make it a famous tourist place in Madhya Pradesh.

• Entry Fee  - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Lower Lake, Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum, Sadar Manzil Gate, Gohar Mahal and Rani Kamlapati Palace.
• Things to Do: Explore Bhopal, try street foods, pay reverence to mosques, and explore museums.

How to Reach:

• By Road: State-run buses connect Bhopal to all major cities of Madhya Pradesh.
• By Train: Bhopal Junction is only a few kilometres away.
• By Air: Raja Bhoj International Airport is the nearest airport.

6. Bhimbetka Caves

UNESCO crowns the archaeological site of Bhimbetka Caves as a World Heritage Site. These caves mark the earliest human existence in the Indian subcontinent. The paintings and carvings here date back more than 30,000 years to the palaeolithic period. Located in Raisen, Bhembetka caves house 7 hills and 750 cave shelters. This famous tourist place in Madhya Pradesh is also one of the oldest remains of human civilization.

• Entry Fee  - ₹10 (Entry fee for Indians), ₹100 (Entry fee for foreigners)
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration:  1 day
• Places to Visit: Amargarh Waterfalls, Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhojpur Temples, Keri ka Mahadev, and Ginnorgarh Falls. 
• Things to Do: Explore the caves, look at the age-old paintings, know what they mean, and visit waterfalls and ancient temples nearby.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Private and state-run buses frequently travel to and fro from major cities nearby Bhimbetka.
• By Train: Bhopal Junction is the closest railway station to  Bhimbetka Caves.
• By Air: Raja Bhoj International Airport in Bhopal connects Bhimbetka Caves to other cities in India.

7. Khajuraho Temple

Located in Bundelkhand, the Khajuraho Temples were built by the Chandela dynasty. UNESCO recognises Khajuraho as a World Heritage Site for its architectural brilliance. The temple walls are carved with sculptures depicting erotic images, dance, meditation, and spirituality.

These art forms reflect Hindu and Jain views on love and the ascendence of beings to spirituality from materialism. Its stunning designs bring to light a new definition of medieval Indian culture as opposed to today's mainstream knowledge.

• Entry Fee - ₹10 (Entry fee for Indians), ₹250 (Entry fee for foreigners)
• Best Time to Visit: July to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Places to Visit: Parsvanath Temple, Ajaigarh Fort, Viswanath Temple, Lakshman Temple and Kandariya Mahadev Temple.
• Things to Do: Visit the Hindu and Jain temples, try local delicacies, go to museums and explore the old town.

How to Reach:

• By Road: Rent a taxi or cab from nearby cities like Satna, Jhansi, or Bhopal.
• By Train: Reach Khajuraho Railway station to visit the temple complex.
• By Air: Khajuraho Airport is located in this city.

8. Gwalior Fort

The impenetrable fort of Gwalior was built in the 16th century by Emperor Babur. Standing high as a pearl of all fortresses in India, Gwalior fort is one of the famous tourist places in Madhya Pradesh. Gwalior fort complex, situated atop a high rocky mountain, comprises many Hindu and Jain temples. Man Singh Mahal, Suraj Kund, and Man Mandir Palace are a few interesting structures within the fortress.

• Entry Fee - ₹75 (Entry fee for Indians), ₹250 (Entry fee for foreigners)
• Best Time to Visit: July to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1-2 days
• Places to Visit: Teli ka Mandir, Tomb of Tansen, Chaturbhuj Temple, Gujari Mahal and Man Singh Palace.
• Things to Do: Visit temples and palaces, explore the fort, go to the Gwalior Zoo and try street foods.

How to Reach

• By Road: You can board a bus or rent a cab from nearby cities like Jhansi, Agra, Firozabad, and other Madhya Pradesh cities.
• By Train: Gwalior Railway Station is located here in Gwalior.
• By Air: Gwalior Airport is the nearest airport here.

9. Kanha National Park

Located in the Satpura hills, Kanha National park is a renowned reserve for tigers in Asia. Kanha National park was the muse of Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. Kanha National Park is home to Barasinha, Royal Bengal Tigers, and various other species of birds and animals. Taking a jeep safari through this forest to watch wild animals in their natural habitats is a thrilling experience.

• Entry Fee  - ₹1000 per person for elephant safari, ₹500 per child (5-12 years of age), ₹250 per person for jeep safari (single seat), ₹480 guide charge, ₹1500 per person for jeep safari (full vehicle)
• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Bandhavgarh National Park, Karwadha Palace, Bamni Dadar, and Pachmarhi
• Things to Do: Take a jeep safari or a night safari in the National Park, spot exotic birds, opt for a sightseeing tour of Jabalpur and visit the Kanha Museum.

How to Reach

• By Road: Reach Mandla town and board a local bus from here.
• By Train: Nainpur Railway Station is nearest to Kanha National Park.
• By Air: Jabalpur Airport is the nearest airport to reach here.

10. Upper Lake

Bhojtal, or Upper Lake, is one of the popular tourist places in Madhya Pradesh for its historical significance. As per the folklore, Raja Bhoj constructed this lake to cure himself from skin disease back in the 11th century. Locals also refer to Upper lake as Bada Talab. Upper Lake is the first artificial lake built in India. Thereby, the name Bhojtal where ‘tal’ means lake. This huge lake holds approximately 30 million gallons of water.

• Entry Fee  - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: June to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Sair Sapata, Van Vihar, Madhai, Archeological Museum and Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya.
• Things to Do: Stroll past the royal garden, take a boat or kayak ride, stroll through the royal garden and visit local museums.

How to Reach

• By Road: Access buses or rent cabs from nearby cities to reach Bhopal.
• By Train:  Bhopal Junction is within the vicinity of Upper Lake.
• By Air: Raja Bhoj International Airport is nearest to this location.

11. Marble Rocks

One of the famous places to visit in Madhya Pradesh is the Marble Rocks of Jabalpur. These Marble Rocks date back to pre-historic times. Located on the banks of River Narmada, you can witness these rocks changing colours throughout the day. A boat ride here on a moonlit night is a spell-bounding experience for any tourist.

• Entry Fee  - ₹300 (Entry fees)
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Bargi dam, Bhedaghat, Madan Mohan Fort and Dhuandhar Falls
• Things to Do: Boatride on the Narmada river, witness waterfalls, venture into nearby temples, take a holy dip in Narmada and pay a visit to nearby gurudwaras.

How to Reach

• By Road: Rent a cab from nearby cities. Jabalpur has well-established highways connecting other states and cities.
• By Train: The Jabalpur Railway Station is nearest to here.
• By Air: Jabalpur Airport is the nearest to Marble Rocks.

12. Sas Bahu Temple

Originally named Sahastrabahu, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Sahastrabahu in English means 'a thousand hands'. In due course, the name changed to "Sas Bahu" owing to mispronunciation. The striking architecture and carvings on its sandstone walls attract pilgrims and tourists from all over India.

• Entry Fee  - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Man Singh Palace, Karn Mahal, Teli Ka Mandir, Gwalior Fort and Tomb of Tansen.
• Things to Do: Explore palaces, tombs, rock-cut sculptures, temples, and forts around Gwalior, try street foods, relax on river banks, and shop for Madhubani paintings.

How to Reach

• By Road: State-run buses ply from Gwalior Station to Sas Bahu Temple. You can also rent a taxi to get here.
• By Train: Gwalior Railway Station is nearest to the temple.
• By Air: Gwalior Airport is situated in the city itself.

13. Gopachal Parvat

This is a rock-cut sculpture representing Jain Tirthankaras sitting in Padmasana. The sculptures are the remains of the glorious outreach of Jain teaching nationwide. Gopalachal Parvat is a place that not only Jains but tourists worldwide visit. The mountain is full of rock-cut sculptures with beautiful designs and figures.

• Entry Fee  - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Gwalior Fort, Sun Mandir, Jai Vilas Palace, Suraj Kund and Gujari Mahal
• Things to Do: Explore forts, palaces, temples, and royal baths, look at ancient paintings and sculptures inscribed on walls, learn folktales from local guides and visit royal gardens.

How to Reach

• By Road: Go to Gwalior Bus Stand from any nearby city.
• By Train:  Gwalior Railway Station is the nearest to this place.
• By Air: Gwalior Airport is the nearest Airport to Gopalachal Parvat.

14. Mandu

Also known as Manavgad or Mandav, this old town reiterates the love story of Prince Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. This old town is home to many pleasure palaces, beautiful lakes, and rock-cut caves that adds to its beauty. Hathi Mahal standing high amidst the forest, is one such desolated pleasure palace here.

• Entry Fee - ₹5 (Entry fee for foreigners), ₹100 (Entry fee for foreigners), ₹25 (Camera permit)
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 days
• Places to Visit: Jahaz Mahal, Hathi Mahal, Rani Roopmati’s Pavillion, Baz Bahadur’s Palace, and Jain Temple.
• Things to Do: View sunset, explore the ancient city, and know the prevalent folklores of Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati.

How to Reach

• By Road: You can board buses or taxis from any major city in Madhya Pradesh.
• By Train: Mhow Railway Station is the closest to Mandu.
• By Air: Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore is the nearest airport.

15. Pandav Caves

The Pandav Caves is one of the best places to visit in Madhya Pradesh for mythology lovers. According to Mahabharata, the five Pandav brothers resided in these caves during their exile. There are numerous stories surrounding the origin of these caves and their residents. The cave complex comprises a cluster of temples chiselled out of rocks.

• Entry Fee - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: October to June 
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to visit: Jata Shankar Temple, Silver Falls, Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, Mahadeo Hill and Apsara Vihar
• Things to do: Explore caves, relax near waterfalls, learn local stories, trek on nearby hills and enjoy the natural beauty.

How to Reach

• By Road: Board a state-run bus or rent a cab to reach here from any city in the state.
• By Train: Pipariya Railway Station is nearest to Pandava caves.
• By Air: Raja Bhoj International Airport in Bhopal is the nearest Airport to Panchmarhi.

16. Chanderi

Also known as the ‘village of looms’, the historical city of Chanderi dates back to the 11th century. Nestled in the lush green valleys of the Vindhyas, Chanderi has more than 350 historical sites to visit. Magnificent hills, pristine lakes, and River Betwa flowing nearby provide a scenic bliss. The historical significance and natural beauty make Chanderi a must-visit for explorers. Chanderi silk sarees are a part of this city’s authenticity.

• Entry Fee  - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: October to April
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 days
• Places to Visit: Jauhar Kund, Chanderi Fort, Jain Temple, Shehzadi ka Rauza, and Kati Ghati Gateway
• Things to Do: Learn about the history of Chanderi, listen to tales of war and Jauhar, buy Chanderi silk sarees and go for an evening stroll across palaces and ghats.

How to Reach

• By Road: Rent any cab from major cities like Bhopal, Delhi, Indore, or Gwalior to reach Chanderi.
• By Train: Lalitpur Junction is the closest railway station.
• By Air: Gwalior Airport is the closest Airport to Chanderi

17. Madan Mahal Fort

The ruler of Gond, Raja Madan Shah, built the Madan Mahal Fort in 1116 AD. Located atop a rocky hill, this fort acted as a watchtower. The enticing city view, royal corridors, rooms, stables, and secret passages make Madan Mahal fort a must-visit in Madhya Pradesh. The fort has an imposing view of the skyline, as seen from the city of Jabalpur. There are also a number of shrines nearby to visit.

• Entry Fee  - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Rani Durgawati Fort, Ganga Sagar Lake, Ghanta Ghar and Dashmesh Dwar
• Things to Do: Click pictures from the watch tower and explore palaces and temples.

How to Reach

• By Road: You can reach Madan Mahal Fort from any nearby city via cabs.
• By Train: Jabalpur Railway Station is the nearest station to travel. Rent a taxi or rickshaw from here to reach the fort.
• By Air: Jabalpur Airport is the closest from here.

18. Amarkantak

Also known as Teerthraj, Amarkantak is one of the most frequented tourist places in Madhya Pradesh. This hill station is of both spiritual and geographical importance to people. The Narmada River originates from Amarkantak and flows west to reach the Arabian Sea. In addition, the three ranges of Vindhya, Satpura, and Maikal meet here. Amarkantak is also the confluence point of the Narmada, Sone, and Johila rivers.

• Entry Fee  - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 2 days
• Places to Visit: Kapil Dhara, Trimukhi Temple, Narmadakund, Sri Yantra Mandir, and ancient temples of Kalachuri
• Things to Do: Visit holy temples, and explore the natural beauty of hill stations in madhya pradesh, waterfalls, and rivers.

How to Reach

• By Road: You can reach here via state-run bus or rented cabs from Pendra Road or Bilaspur.
• By Train: Pendra Road Railway Station is nearest to Amarkantak.
• By Air: Jabalpur Airport is the nearest airport to this spot. You can rent cabs from the airport to get here.

19. Rajat Pratap Falls

Located in Pachmarhi, Rajat Pratap Falls is also popularly known as the Silver falls. Flowing down 350 feet, this stream looks like silver beads pouring down from a great height.

The waterfall is a sight to behold during monsoons. It is also a great picnic spot all year round. If you wish to embrace nature at its best, add Rajat Pratap Falls to your bucket list.

• Entry Fee  - ₹660 
• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Satpura National Park, Dutchess Falls, Bee Falls, Apsara Vihar and Panchuli Kund
• Things to Do: Click pictures, take a stroll and explore the surroundings.

How to Reach

• By Road: State-run buses ply between nearby cities to Rajat Pratap Falls. You can also rent cabs to reach here.
• By Train: Pipariya Railway Station is the nearest railway station to this spot.
• By Air: Raja Bhoj International Airport is the nearest airport to here. Book a cab to reach Rajat Pratap Waterfalls from the airport.

20. Dhuandhar Falls

Here, you will see the river Narmada meandering between Marble Rocks and flowing down 30 metres with roars and mist. Its gushing waters form a great amount of mist, giving the place its name. For its great scenic beauty, Dhuandhar Falls is nature lovers’ favourite tourist place in Madhya Pradesh. The beauty of Dhuandhar Falls enhances during sunset as the marble changes colour.

• Entry Fee - Free entry
• Best Time to Visit: September to March
• Ideal Vacation Duration: 1 day
• Places to Visit: Marble Rocks, Chausath Yogini Temple, and Pisanhari ki Madiya.
• Things to Do: Cable car ride, boat ride, Picnic, and view the waterfall from viewpoint.

How to Reach

• By Road: State-run buses from nearby cities ply to Jabalpur. You can take rikshaws from here to reach Dhuandhar Falls.
• By Train: Jabalpur Railway Station is nearest here.
• By Air:  Jabalpur Airport is closest to Dhuandhar Falls.