Madhya Pradesh, the centralmost state of India is the land of captivating natural beauty, formidable forts, opulent palaces, pre-historic caves, spirituality, a deep-rooted culture, relishable cuisine, and a lot many spectacular attractions that make this state a popular tourist destination. The mammoth ruinous walls of Mandu Fort, Gwalior Fort, Jahaz Mahal, Bhimbetka Rock Shelters and the Great Sanchi Stupa have a lot of intriguing tales to narrate if only you care to listen; the banks of holy Shipra in Ujjain are graced with most venerable Hindu temples and shrines of Mahakaleshwara, Omkareshwara, Amarkantak and Chaturbhuj Temple. An honourable mention should be made of the illustrative temples and palaces of Orchha and the exotic sensuality of the Khajuraho group of monuments. All these glorious spectacles are a testimony to Madhya Pradesh’s potential as an incredible tourist destination.
The heart of India, Madhya Pradesh is home to pilgrims and historically significant sites, exotic flora and fauna as well as rich culture and traditions. The state of Madhya Pradesh has splendid natural scenery of hilly terrain with meandering streams, plateau regions, and dense forests.
Welcome to your 'Classical Madhya Pradesh' tour! Upon arrival at a railway station in Agra, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. On arrival, check in to your hotel.
Later, visit the famous Taj Mahal (closed on Friday), built by emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century as a mausoleum for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, a masterpiece in marble and one of the world's most famous landmarks. Explore the massive red sandstone - Agra Fort, a hilltop citadel with fabulous courtyards, fountains, and gates, and Dayal Bagh. Return to the hotel after sightseeing.
Overnight stay in Agra.
After breakfast, proceed to the historical city of Gwalior.
The city and the fortress have served as the center of several historic northern Indian kingdoms. On arrival, check in to your hotel.
Later, proceed to see the Gwalior Fort - built by Raja Man Singh Tomar in the 15th century. The Gwalior fort encloses three temples, six palaces, and numerous water tanks. At one time in history, the Gwalior fort was regarded as North and Central India's most invincible fortress.
Overnight stay in Gwalior.
Today, after breakfast, visit the 9th century Teli Ka Mandir - It is touted as the oldest surviving structure within the Gwalior Fort, visit Sas Bahu ka Mandir - considered to be one of the greatest architectural marvels situated at the Gwalior Fort. Later, drive to Orchha, en route visit the Phool Mahal - The beautiful well-kept garden built by the royal rulers of the Bundelkhand dynasty, Sunder Mahal - The place of pilgrimage for followers of Islam and the cenotaphs at Kanchana Ghat - built in the memory of the rulers of Orchha. On arrival at Orchha, check in to your hotel.
Later, visit Jahangir Mahal, built by Raja Bir Singh Judeao. The Jahangir Mahal houses domes built according to Timurid customs with halls huge enough to accommodate war elephants. Visit the Raj Mahal - also referred to as 'Raja Mahal' and is touted as the princely accommodation of the former kings of Orchha and Chaturbhuj temple.
Overnight stay in Orchha.
After breakfast, proceed to Khajuraho. Khajuraho is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It has the largest group of medieval Hindu and Jain temples, famous for their erotic sculptures. On arrival, check in to your hotel.
Later, visit the Kandariya Mahadeva Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also, see the temples in the Eastern and Southern groups. In this cluster of temples in the Eastern region of Khajuraho, you will be visiting the Parsvanath Temple, the Ghantai Temple, and the Adinath Temple. The temples located in the Southern part of the city of Kahjuraho, are the Chaturbhuj Temple and the Dulhadev Temple.
Overnight stay in Khajuraho.
After breakfast, proceed to Panna National Park, near the Ken River - home to some of the best wildlife species in India and one of the most famous Tiger Reserves in the country. If you are lucky you can spot tigers and panthers along with herds of chinkara, sambar, and several other wildlife species.
Note: Jungle safari can be done on a direct payment basis.
The rest of the day is at leisure for independent activities.
Overnight stay in Khajuraho.
Today, bid farewell to your 'Classical Madhya Pradesh' tour as you are transferred to the airport in Khajuraho or the railway station in Jhansi for your onward journey.
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