Highlights Of Central India

[Drifter]

I notice that this section of the regional forums has the fewest discussions, which made me wonder - does Central India have less to offer the traveller? What would the highlights of this region be?

 

[Aja]

I think you will find that in most countries, tourists tend to mostly flock to the coasts, where there is water. Or they flock to where they know they will find other tourists. It's rare when they travel off into unexplored territories.

 

[Drifter]

You're not wrong - people do love a beach! I can't spend too long in that kind of environment myself though, I'm not sure why - perhaps because of the denser tourist population. I will freely admit that I am happiest spending time on my own so I'm always drawn to the more remote areas. Has anyone experienced Central India?

 

[Aja]

Don't get me wrong - I love the beach! But I prefer to find those out of the way places that are not full of people. I can't see how people can enjoy the crowds while on vacation.

 

[Mindy]

I also enjoy travelling inland. There is much more to see than coasts and tourists. I have always equated India with the desert, and I believe that is something you can't just see anywhere. Therefore, I definitely want to see one when I visit.

 

[Drifter]

I agree Mindy - the desert is certainly an experience you can't find on just any holiday. To many of us it's as unusual as going to another planet! I suppose a person's preference must be influenced by where they grew up to a certain extent. For example, a person who's always lived in somewhere like Dubai might think going to see a desert would be boring, while someone who grew up on a farm might hate the idea of spending time visiting a tea plantation.

 

[amelia88]

I think you will find that in most countries, tourists tend to mostly flock to the coasts, where there is water. Or they flock to where they know they will find other tourists. It's rare when they travel off into unexplored territories.

That's a good point. Pretty much every time I've visited a new country, I've gone somewhere coastal, or at least there's been a beach in nearby proximity. I think that does factor into people's travel plans - plus, in a lot of places, larger cities are by bodies of water and less often are big cities inland - I guess that's just by virtue of the fact that we need a big water source in order to survive!

 

[Aja]

I can understand the attraction, because living in a big city, you really miss the beach. However, I can pretty much visit a beach in my own country, even if it is a bit of a drive. When travelling to a different country, I would much rather see some native sites. Who knows when I will ever have that opportunity again?

 

[Mindy]

The deserts of India are supposed to be some of the most beautiful. There is no way I would travel all the way there to just hang out at a beach! Although, a vacation is a vacation, and I would manage to get a little beach and sun time in, for sure.

 

[caycee]

There is a lot to discover in India. I won't limit my visit by going to the beaches alone. I believe, once you're on the ground the fun begins. Make sure you're on the right track and followed what's on your plan.

 

[Aja]

As beautiful as the beaches are, if I go to India, I want to check out other things. You can see beaches anywhere. Chances are, you can take a day trip from wherever you currently live and visit a beach. I want to visit India to see temples and eat authentic Indian food.

 

[Sammie]

There is City of Pearls in Central India that features bazaars and shopping. You can spend the morning walking through the shops looking at the jewelry, spice and art shops. It is supposed to be a lively and colorful place to visit.

 

[KAREN MARTIN]

Some of the major differences in the Central part of India are the time zone, the geography, the languages that are spoken, the currencies, the attitudes and the drinking laws! All of these factors are what make the Central part of India different from the North and South part of India!

 

[katiejean990]

So, from the information presented here, I'd assume that Central India is mostly desert, correct? Is it temperate? Are some times of the year better than others for visiting this area? I'd always heard that deserts are cool at night, so I'm wondering just how cool they can get or if temperatures are milder during winter. Thanks!

 

[katiejean990]

There is City of Pearls in Central India that features bazaars and shopping. You can spend the morning walking through the shops looking at the jewelry, spice and art shops. It is supposed to be a lively and colorful place to visit.

Ah, I didn't see this post before posting my own! That sounds like a fantastic place to go! I remember reading Burnett's works that mention the spices of India, and I'd love to cook with such raw spices! I'm wondering if there's significance to the name, "City of Pearls."

 

[briannagodess]

Hello there!

Central India consists of two states:

• Madhya Pradesh
• Chhattisgarh

For the most part, the Khajuraho Temples are known to be tourist attraction in this region. However, unlike its neighbouring states, these two states are not as explored or visited by tourists. That doesn't mean that the region has nothing to offer to tourists. In fact, the tiger reserves here offer plenty of chances for a visitor to spot a Royal Bengal tiger. Aside from that, the cities here are blessed with palaces, forts and monuments as architecturally wonderful as the other structures in more popular states.

In Madhya Pradesh alone, you can take a glimpse into the past with its abandoned cities and many ruins. For the tourists who are tired of the crowds, hustle and bustle of the city or the commercialism, then consider travelling to Madhya Pradesh. I'm sure you're going to find it quite a relaxing break from the congested aura of bigger cities. One of its differences from other states? It's one of the few states in India where it doesn't have a border with another country nor a coastline. Explore the following cities:

1. Bhopal. This is the capital of Madhya Pradesh. Another name for this is the "Capital of Lakes" as it has a number of natural and artificial lakes. Some attractions here are:

• Bhimbetka Rock Shelters - It was Dr. Vishnu Wakankar who discovered this place in 1957. You can see paintings here dating as far back as 150,000 years ago. The colours used for the paintings were vegetable colours. Luckily, they survived the test of time because they were located in the inner parts of the caves. These paintings consist of drawings from the Palaeolithic to the Medieval periods.

• National Museum of Mankind - Also known by the name Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, this showcases the evolution of man in relation to India. Here, you can find the history and information about all the tribes in India.

• State Museum of Madhya Pradesh - Just nearby the National Museum of Mankind, this museum focuses on preserving the artefacts excavated in the region. Various items like manuscripts, fossils, sculptures and even coins can be found here.

• Upper Lake - This is considered as the largest lake in the city. You can try boating in here of different varieties: paddle boat, row boat and speed boat. It is also believed that the water from this lake can heal diseases once you take a dip in it.

• Van Vihar National Park - They have two classifications of animals here: Captives and Herbivores. Herbivores can roam freely around the park. Captives are kept in enclosures to ensure the safety of tourists. It is closed during Fridays though so time your visit accordingly.

• Gohar Mahal - This was built by Gohar Begum, the first woman ruler of Bhopal. This palace is a combination of Mughal and Hindu architecture.

• Raisen Fort - This fort is situated on top of a hill. Inside, it has temples, palaces, lakes and ponds. Unfortunately, many of the bodies of water here have dried up already. There are still about 15 of them but it used to be over 84. The Shrine of Hazrat Peer Fatehullah Shah Baba can also be found inside the fort.

2. Indore. This is the largest city in Madhya Pradesh. It is located on the banks of two rivers: River Khan and River Sarawati. Some attractions here are:

• Lal Baag Palace - This was built by Maharaja Shivaji Rao Holkar and reflects the lifestyle of the Holkar Rulers. Now, it houses various collections of coins and prehistoric artefacts. The interiors of the palace are extravagant as well, with chandeliers, Persian carpets, stained glass windows and Italian wall paintings.

• Patal Pani Waterfalls - At about 300 feet in height, the water from the falls cascade beautifully especially after the monsoon season. Be wary though, it's not safe to visit the waterfalls during heavy rains.

• Rajwada Palace - There are two Rajwada Palaces, one in the old town and the other in the new town. The old palace is a combination of Mughal, Maratha and French architectural styles.

3. Gwalior. This city had a huge part in the 1857 uprising. Prior to that, strong and mighty rulers have conquered the city as well. Some attractions here are:

• Gwalior Fort - This was built by Man Singh Tomar. Inside the fort, there are two palaces: Gurjari Mahal and Man Mandir. Different rulers have conquered the fort: Pal Dynasty, Tomar Dynasty and Mughal Dynasty are just some of them.

• Sun Temple - This was built by GD Birla and it does resemble the original Sun Temple in Konark. Apart from that, the gardens here are worth taking a stroll to as they are wonderfully designed and landscaped.

• Jai Vilas Palace Museum - This was built by Maharaja Jiyaji Rao Scindia. This is still the residence of the Maratha Scindia descendants. As Maharaja Jiyaji Rao Scindia was fond of collecting furnitures, he did so in this palace as well. The largest chandeliers in Asia can be found in this palace.

4. Jabalpur. The Kalchuri and Gond Dynasties once reigned on this city. You can see tons of attractions here highlighting the city's past like:

• Madan Mahal Fort - It was Madan Shah who built this fort. It's not as strong or a big as other forts but it served its purpose well enough. It provides a great view of Jabalpur.

• Bandar Kodini - This is best visited during the night in a boat ride. The marble rocks on the side of the Narmada River glisten along with the moonlight.

• Dhuandhar Falls- As the name suggests, the water creates an impact as it falls, hence it's called "Dhuan" or smoke. The other name for the falls, "Smoke Cascade" is also appropriate.

• Dumna Nature Park - Wild boars, porcupines and chitals can be seen here. There's also a restaurant and a children's park inside.

Chhattisgarh, on the other hand, is the 10th largest state in India. It is also a major producer of steel in the country. It was a part of Madhya Pradesh but it was separated from the state in the year of 2000. This is also the home for many tribes in India, even the oldest existing one in the country. It is also one of the fastest developing states in India. Unlike other cities though, its transportation and tourist infrastructures aren't that developed. However, do not cross this state out of your list because it has lots more to offer in terms of nature and culture. Some places to visit here are:

1. Raipur. This is the capital of Chhattisgarh. Agriculturally, this is one of the biggest producers of rice in the country, hence it is fondly known as the "Rice Bowl of Chhattisgarh." Some attractions here are:

• Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum - Built by Mahant Gasidas, this houses several artefacts over 5,000 years old already like swords, guns, sculptures and cooking tools. You would also find a library here with a wide collection of books.

• Doodhadhari Monastery and Temple - The monastery is dedicated to Swami Balbhadra Das who was believed to have survived only on milk or "dood." The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama which was built by King Jaitsingh.

• Budhapara Lake - This was built by King Brahmadei and it's a popular tourist spot in the city.

2. Surajpur. There are a lot of tribes in here which makes this city quite rich in culture and tradition. Some of the attractions here are:

• Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary - So named after the Tamor and the Pingla Hills, this sanctuary is bounded by the Moran River and the Rihand River. There are also about 20 villages inside the sanctuary. Elephants, tigers and bears are just some of the most sighted animals here.

• Rakasganda Falls - The descent of the water from the top creates a strong pressure. It's a great place to relax and just marvel at the natural power of the falls.

• Tattapani Hot Springs - Some believe that the water here can heal certain diseases. You can also do some water activities here.

• Jogimara and Sita Bengra Caves - Believed to have been the residence of Sita, this attracts visitors all over the country. Some of the paintings here date as far back as the 1st Century AD. There's also the Hatipal, a tunnel here which elephants can pass through, hence the name.

There you go. I hope these places give you enough glimpse of the historical importance and beauty of the central region in India. I think them being uncrowded and unexplored are all the more reasons to visit them.