Currency: Indian Rupees

Official languages: Hindi

The history of the Indian state Madhya Pradesh is divided into three periods - the ancient period, the medieval period and the modern period. During the ancient period, the region was dominated by the Nanda Empire, the Maurya Empire, and the Gupta Empire. The medieval period saw the rise of Rajput clans including the Paramara and Chandela clans, the latter is known for constructing the temples of Khajuraho. The Malwa Sultanate also ruled during this period. The modern period in Madhya Pradesh saw the rise of the Mughal and Maratha empires, and later, the British Empire. The British princely states of Gwalior, Indore, and Bhopal, were a part of modern Madhya Pradesh. The British rule continued until the middle of the 20th century, when India gained independence in 1947. The state of Madhya Pradesh was formed in 1956, and Chhattisgarh was carved out from the state in 2000.

Madhya Pradesh is the heart of India. Originally known as Malwa, the place has nurtured some epic rulers and warriors as well, like Emperor Ashoka, Chandragupta, Vikramaditya, Harsha Vardhan, Raja Bohoj and many others. A long, revealing history forged by these great men is preserved in book and ink. The place has a subtropical climate, much like North India. The state has intact connectivity with railway and airways; tourist would not find travel distress of any sorts. The fine artworks, hurled right from the heart of the nation endure a worldwide audience. This innate talent helps in producing handicrafts like - Woven cotton or silk sarees, fabrics with block prints, stuffed toys, floor coverings, bamboo work, cane work, jute work, woodcraft, iron craft, stone craft, metal craft, terra cotta, zari work, folk paintings, ornaments, dolls and papier-mache. Apart from the above, it is much known for the uncanny work of Gond painting and the traditional carpets of Gwalior.  The other crafts like bamboo and jute work are widely traded in the local bazaars.

Madhya Pradesh has a subtropical climate with a hot dry summer (April–June), followed by monsoon rains (July–September) and a cool and relatively dry winter. The average rainfall is about 1,194 mm (47.0 in).

Citizens of most countries, including the United States, need a visa to visit India which should be arranged in advance. Full details can be found at The Government of India website (http://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/). Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a visa, while some nationalities may get them upon arrival.

Madhya Pradesh tourism runs deluxe coaches and luxury buses, which connect all major tourist destinations on Madhya Pradesh. An excellent network of railways also links various cities of the state. Taxis, auto rickshaws, tempos are some other modes of transport which offer short distance services within the city.

Before you leave on your holiday, there are at least four health-related things you should do. Please check the handbook for specifics, but for now, here’s the short list:

Step 1: Check with the CDC for their recommendations for the countries you’ll be visiting.

Step 2: Have a medical checkup with your doctor.

Step 3: Pick up any necessary medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

Step 4: Have a dental and/or eye checkup. (Recommended, but less important than steps 1-3.)

We recommend avoiding packing any plastic bags in your luggage before flying to Kenya. You should also remove any items purchased at departure airports from their bags before boarding. Double check your luggage before disembarking in Kenya and leave any plastic bags on the plane.

Experience the Greatness of Nature.

Visit the Religious Landmarks.

Tryst with the History.

Witness the Cascading Beauties of Madhya Pradesh.

Get High on Festivities-Be a Part of Awesome Celebrations.

See the Art of the Past.

Rendezvous with Marble Rocks.