MADHYA PRADESH THE HEART OF INDIA (PART II)

In last month's leisure and travel dispatch, I wrote about our travels to Bhopal, Sanchi, Pachmarhi, Jabalpur, and Kanha National Park. The concluding Part II details the second leg of our journey to Gwalior, Datia, Orchha and Khajuraho

- ANIL THAKORE

Madhya Pradesh (MP, pop. 88 million) is the country's second-largest state by area (after Rajasthan), offering rich history, heritage, and natural splendour. Sprawling across plateaus, riverine valleys, and dense forests, MP presents an excellent mix of architectural grandeur and scenic vistas. From the majestic gorges of Marble Rocks in Bhedaghat to the tranquil expanses of the River Narmada to the tiger-inhabited wilds of Kanha, Bandhavgarh, and Pench national parks, MP is a living canvas of India's diverse geographic landscapes, wildlife and architectural splendour.

Madhya Pradesh, which literally means 'central province', reflects its geographic position at the crossroads of Indian culture and civilization. The state hosts Unesco World Heritage Sites such as the stunning Khajuraho temples, ancient Buddhist monuments of Sanchi, and rock shelters of Bhimbetka. Its cities — Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, and Ujjain — blend old-world charm with modern vibrancy, inviting travelers to experience majestic forts, sacred ghats, handloom traditions, and memorable cuisine.

In last month's leisure and travel dispatch, I wrote about our (a group of like-minded citizens) travels to Bhopal, Sanchi, Pachmarhi, Jabalpur, and Kanha National Park. The concluding Part II details the second leg of our journey to Gwalior, Datia, Orchha and Khajuraho.

Gwalior

The historical city of Gwalior (pop. 1.1 million) seamlessly blends its imposing fort, grand palaces and classical music legacy with contemporary urban life, bustling bazaars and a distinctly old-world charm. The city traces its origins to the 8th century, when, according to a legend Rajput chief Suraj Sen Tomar founded it after being cured of leprosy by the sage Gwalipa, from whom Gwalior takes its name. Over the centuries, the city evolved from a strategic hilltop stronghold into a powerful princely state, shaped successively by the Tomar Rajputs, Mughals, Marathas and the Scindias.