Smack-dab in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh—which roughly translates to “central region”—might lack the superstar attractions of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh (hello, Taj Mahal), but it’s no less brimming with amazing things to do. The forested state’s countless national parks, nature reserves, and renowned Bengali sanctuaries make it the ideal place to safari. Closer to town sit four UNESCO World Heritage sites, none more celebrated than the erotic stone carvings of the Jain and Hindu temples in Khajuraho.
After the humid, unbearably hot summer (March to June) and the monsoon season (July to September), winter in Madhya Pradesh brings comfortable weather, and is therefore the best time to visit. The Khajuraho Dance Festival takes place in February, and involves a week of classical Indian dances at the Khajuraho temples. Monsoon season is the second-best time to visit but there’s a high chance of torrential downpours, especially in July.
Madhya Pradesh is India’s second-largest state and is well-connected by bus, rail, and plane. You’ll find international airports in Indore and Bhopal, the capital. Bhopal Junction station, the state’s major railway station, connects to hundreds of other stations in the state and beyond. Public state-run and private buses run routes all over the state, though public buses tend to be less expensive. As in most of India, rickshaws, shared cars, and taxis are widely available—with ride-sharing growing in popularity in recent years.
The Khajuraho Temples, officially called the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, are worth visiting, but there’s more to see and do nearby. When you visit Khajuraho, which is relatively small, make time for a bike ride in the countryside. The best route is out to Raneh Falls: You’ll need about 4–6 hours to make the 28-mile (46 kilometer) round-trip, but the "Grand Canyon of India" is a must-see sight.
