Unveiling the Heart of India: A 11-Day Madhya Pradesh Itinerary

Madhya Pradesh, often referred to as the “Heart of India,” is a state that epitomizes the rich cultural and historical heritage of India. From the stunning architectural marvels of Khajuraho to the wild expanses of Bandhavgarh, this central Indian state offers a mosaic of experiences. The following 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary is meticulously crafted by me to introduce you to the diverse attractions of the state. I have ensured that you plan a journey that blends adventure, history, and spirituality.

My 11-Day Madhya Pradesh Itinerary

Day 1 & 2: Bhopal Arrival and Sanchi Exploration

Day 1: Arrival in Bhopal

Irrespective of the city of your origin, make sure to reach Bhopal on the first day morning of your 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary. When you do this, you can freshen up at your accommodation and prepare for the day’s exploration. 

Where to Stay in Bhopal?

Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some popular areas and hotels you might consider:

Areas to Stay:

• MP Nagar: The commercial hub of Bhopal, ideal for business travellers. It has many hotels, restaurants, and shopping options.
• New Market: A bustling area with lots of shops and eateries. It’s close to many tourist attractions.
• Shyamla Hills: A peaceful and scenic area near the Upper Lake, suitable for those looking for a quieter stay.
• Arera Colony: A residential area with good hotels, parks, and easy access to various parts of the city.

Recommended Hotels:

Based on your budget to stay in Bhopal, here are some recommendations based on different categories:

Luxury Hotels:

• Jehan Numa Palace Hotel: A heritage hotel with excellent amenities, located on Shyamla Hills.
• Courtyard by Marriott Bhopal: Situated in MP Nagar, offering modern amenities and great service.
• Taj Lakefront Bhopal: Located near the Upper Lake, offering luxurious stays with stunning views.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Noor-Us-Sabah Palace: A beautiful heritage hotel offering comfortable stays with a royal touch.
• Hotel Amer Palace: Located in MP Nagar, known for its good service and comfortable rooms.
• Hotel Shagun Residency: A well-rated hotel in New Market with good amenities.

Budget Hotels:

• Hotel Shree Vatika: Located in MP Nagar, offering basic amenities at affordable prices.
• Treebo Trend Kamal Regency: A budget-friendly hotel near the railway station with decent facilities.
• Hotel Adarsh Palace: An economical option in the city centre, providing basic amenities.

So, after you check in at one of the accommodations mentioned above in Bhopal, you will have to freshen up and have your breakfast. Most accommodations have a complimentary breakfast facility available. So, you can finish your breakfast possibly at your accommodation itself. Thereafter, you can head to Laxmi Narayana Temple.

Morning: Laxmi Narayan Temple

In the morning, this temple will be open from 6 am to 12 noon. So, you can plan your visit accordingly to this temple also called Birla Mandir. This spiritual place will also offer you stunning views of the entire Bhopal City. After finishing your darshan, you can head to the Historical Museum in the city.

Afternoon: Bhopal’s Historical Museums

Spend your afternoon delving into history at the State Museum of Madhya Pradesh, which houses a vast collection of artefacts that narrate the state’s history and culture. Follow this with a visit to the Tribal Museum, a contemporary space celebrating the rich tribal heritage of the region through art and exhibits.

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Evening: Boat Ride on Upper Lake

Conclude your day with a relaxing boat ride on Upper Lake, the largest artificial lake in Asia, offering picturesque sunset views. Enjoy dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants, sampling local delicacies. 

Where To Eat in Bhopal?

Bhopal is known for its rich culinary heritage, offering a variety of delicious dishes ranging from traditional Mughlai cuisine to contemporary delicacies. Here are some of the best restaurants in Bhopal:

For Fine Dining:

• Za-Aiqa:
  • Location: Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, Shyamla Hills
  • Highlights: Authentic Mughlai and Awadhi cuisine with a royal ambience.
• Under the Mango Tree:
  • Location: Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, Shyamla Hills
  • Highlights: Al fresco dining with a serene setting, serving North Indian and Continental dishes.
• Tattenham Corner:
  • Location: Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, Shyamla Hills
  • Highlights: Known for its elegant atmosphere and an extensive menu featuring Indian and international cuisine.

For Casual Dining:

• Manohar Dairy & Restaurant:
  • Location: Hamidia Road and 10 Number Market
  • Highlights: Famous for its vegetarian snacks, sweets, and North Indian dishes.
• Sagar Gaire Fast Food:
  • Location: Multiple locations including MP Nagar and New Market
  • Highlights: Popular for fast food, sandwiches, and a variety of quick bites.
• Bapu Ki Kutia:
  • Location: New Market
  • Highlights: Vegetarian restaurant known for its simple yet delicious North Indian food.

Cafés:

• Indian Coffee House:
  • Location: New Market
  • Highlights: An iconic café offering affordable South Indian and North Indian snacks and beverages.
• Sharma and Vishnu Chinese & Indian Fast Food:
  • Location: New Market
  • Highlights: A popular spot for Indian-style Chinese food and fast food.
• Café Chokolade:
  • Location: MP Nagar
  • Highlights: Known for its chocolate-based desserts and a variety of beverages.

Speciality Cuisine:

• Al-Beik:
  • Location: New Market
  • Highlights: Famous for its Middle Eastern and Arabian dishes, especially Shawarma and Kebabs.
• Hakeem’s Restaurant:
  • Location: Multiple locations including New Market and MP Nagar
  • Highlights: Known for its Mughlai cuisine, especially Biryani and Kebabs.
• Zam Zam Fast Food:
  • Location: Peer Gate Area
  • Highlights: Popular for its delectable non-vegetarian fast food, including Biryani and Rolls.

Street Food:

• Chatori Gali:
  • Location: Near New Market
  • Highlights: A food street offering a variety of street food like Chaat, Pani Puri, and more.

• Jama Masjid Road Stalls:
  • Location: Near Jama Masjid
  • Highlights: Numerous stalls offering local street food, especially in the evenings.

Desserts and Sweets:

• Raju Tea Stall:
  • Location: MP Nagar
  • Highlights: Famous for its special tea and various snacks.

• Top ‘n’ Town:
  • Location: Multiple locations including New Market
  • Highlights: Popular ice cream parlour offering a wide range of flavours.

These restaurants and eateries offer a diverse range of culinary experiences, ensuring that you enjoy the best of Bhopal’s food scene. You can choose one of these restaurants on the first day of your MP trip to finish your dinner before you get back to your accommodation.

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Day 2: Sanchi 

Sanchi Stupa

On day 1, you were busy the whole day exploring the Laxmi Narayan Temple, Historical Museums and Upper Lake. So, on the second day of our 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary, we shall keep things simple. You can drive to Sanchi Stupa from Bhopal after you finish your breakfast. The distance is around 50 km. So, you might need around 2 and a half hours to drive.

The Sanchi Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient Buddhist monument, commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, is one of the oldest stone structures in India and a testament to the spread of Buddhism. You can spend around 4-5 hours in Sanchi Stupa.

After spending time at this historical place, you should finish your lunch near Sanchi Stupa before driving back to your accommodation in Bhopal.

Where to Eat Near Sanchi Stupa?

Near Sanchi Stupa, options for dining are somewhat limited but still offer some good choices for visitors. 

• The Gateway Retreat, operated by MP Tourism, is a popular choice offering Indian and Continental dishes with a pleasant ambience. 
• New Jaiswal Restaurant in Sanchi serves simple but delicious Indian food, perfect for a quick meal. 
• For a more local experience, Sai Kripa Restaurant offers traditional Indian cuisine at reasonable prices. 
• In nearby Vidisha, Hotel Sambodhi has a restaurant known for its variety of Indian dishes. 

These options provide convenient and enjoyable dining experiences close to the historic site.

Evening: Return to Bhopal

Return to Bhopal by evening. Spend your night exploring the local markets, where you can shop for crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Also, during this exploration, you can finish your dinner.

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Day 3 & 4: Ujjain and Drive to Mandu

Day 3: Ujjain

Mahakaleshwar Temple Darshan

On the third day, embark on a 3-hour drive to Ujjain, one of Hinduism’s seven sacred cities. Begin with a visit to the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. If you are a spiritual person, you will love this trip for sure. Remember that the temple darshan will be possible only between 5 am and 12 noon. So, start from Bhopal accordingly so that you can finish your darshan early. 

At times, it might take longer to get the darshan of the lord if the temple is crowded. So, after you finish your darshan based on the time, you can finish your lunch in Ujjain and spend the night in an accommodation in this place.

Where to Stay in Ujjain?

In Ujjain, there are several good places to stay catering to different budgets. Here are a few options to consider:

• Hotel Anjushree offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms, making it a top choice for visitors. 
• Hotel Mittal Avenue & Paradise is another excellent option, known for its spacious rooms and convenient location. 
• For budget travellers, Hotel Abika Elite provides affordable yet comfortable accommodations. 
• Hotel Grand Tower is well-located near major attractions, offering a pleasant stay. 
• For a unique experience, consider MPT Shipra Residency by MP Tourism, which combines convenience with good service. 

These options ensure a comfortable stay while exploring the holy city of Ujjain.

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Day 4: Drive to Mandu

Morning: Drive to Mandu

The next destination is Mandu, about a 4-hour drive from Ujjain. This fortified city is famed for its Afghan architectural heritage and romantic legends. You can finish your breakfast at your accommodation in Ujjain before you start your drive to Mandu.

Where to Stay in Mandu?

Check in to your accommodation after reaching Mandu. In Mandu, there are several charming accommodations. Here are a few:

• Malwa Resort, operated by MP Tourism, offers comfortable cottages with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. 
• Hotel Rupmati is a budget-friendly option, providing basic amenities and a convenient location near key attractions. 
• For a heritage experience, Jhira Bagh Palace offers a luxurious stay in a restored palace with elegant rooms and fine dining.
• MPT Malwa Retreat is another good choice, featuring cosy cottages and a peaceful ambience. 

These options provide a range of comfortable stays, allowing you to fully enjoy the historical and scenic beauty of Mandu.

You can stay at one of these accommodations. Based on your time of arrival, you can complete your lunch and take a rest for a few hours before you head to Rupman’s Pavilion to view the sunset.

Evening: Sunset at Rupmati’s Pavilion

End your day at Rupmati’s Pavilion, an elevated structure offering breathtaking views of the sunset over the Narmada River valley. The pavilion is associated with a tragic love story that adds to its mystique.

Do not forget to check out my post on 7-day Lakshadweep itinerary.

Day 5 & 6: Maheshwar and Omkareshwar

Day 5: Maheshwar

Drive to Maheshwar, a temple town on the banks of the Narmada River, famous for its handwoven Maheshwari sarees. Explore the fort complex and riverside temples, immersing yourself in the town’s spiritual and cultural ambience. From Mandav, you can reach this religious spot within an hour’s drive. It will not take more than 2 hours if you finish your breakfast in the middle of your journey from Mandav to Maheshwar.

Where to Stay in Maheshwar?

Maheshwar offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences. 

• Ahilya Fort, a heritage property, provides a luxurious experience with stunning river views and historical charm. 
• For a more budget-friendly option, Labboo’z Café and Lodge offers comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. 
• Narmada Retreat, managed by MP Tourism, provides modern amenities and scenic views of the Narmada River.
•  For a unique stay, consider Hansa Heritage, which combines traditional architecture with modern comforts. 

Each of these options ensures a pleasant and memorable stay in the culturally rich town of Maheshwar.

Where to Eat in Maheshwar?

Maheshwar offers diverse dining options. Here are a few:

• Ahilya Fort’s restaurant is renowned for its delicious Indian and international cuisine, served in a historic setting. 
• Labboo’z Café and Lodge provides a cosy atmosphere with a variety of local and continental dishes. 
• For authentic local flavours, Gurukripa Restaurant is a popular choice, known for its traditional Indian thalis. 
• If you prefer vegetarian fare, Hotel Raj Palace serves tasty and affordable meals. 
• Additionally, street food vendors near the Maheshwar Ghats offer a chance to savour local snacks and sweets. 

Each dining spot in Maheshwar ensures a delightful culinary experience. So, choose one of these spots each for your lunch and dinner.

Spend the night at your accommodation in Maheshar. The next day in your 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary is dedicated to exploring Omkareshwar.

Evening: Narmada Aarti

Participate in the evening Narmada Aarti, a spiritual ceremony at the ghats, offering a deeply moving experience as you watch the flickering lamps float on the river, accompanied by chants and hymns. Spend your night in Omkareshwar. You will get a different experience for sure. 

Day 6: Omkareshwar

You can reach Omkareshwar from Maheshwar within around 2 2-hour drive. Possibly start your journey as early as possible after a coffee. Before visiting the Omkareshwar temple, perform a ritual bath in the Narmada River at the ghats near the temple. Many pilgrims believe that a dip in the sacred river can cleanse sins.

Visit the Omkareshwar Temple

This ancient temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on an island shaped like the Hindu symbol ‘Om’ in the Narmada River. After you finish your darshan, based on the time available, finish your lunch in one of the nearby restaurants before starting back to Maheswar to reach your accommodation to spend the 6th day night of your 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary. 

Day 7 & 8: Indore 

Day 7: Travel to Indore

As you spent the 6th day mostly travelling, you can start from Maheswar late to drive to Indore. Make sure to finish your breakfast in Maheswar in one of the best restaurants mentioned above. After that check-out for your accommodation. A drive from Maheswar to Indore will take around 2 hours in general. However, you can drive slowly with some stops in the middle. So, it might take around 3-4 hours to reach Indore. 

Where to Stay in Indore?

Indore offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. 

• For luxury, consider Radisson Blu Hotel or Marriott Hotel Indore, both known for their upscale amenities and central locations. 
• For mid-range options, Lemon Tree Hotel and Sayaji Hotel provide comfortable stays with good services. 
• Budget travellers might prefer Hotel Ambassador or Hotel Crown Palace, offering essential amenities at reasonable rates. 
• For a unique experience, Chokhi Dhani offers a cultural stay with Rajasthani-themed accommodations. My post on 8-day Rajasthan itinerary might help you.

Each of these options provides a convenient base for exploring Indore’s attractions and enjoying its vibrant food scene.

After you check in to your accommodation, finish your lunch in one of the nearby restaurants. If your accommodation has a restaurant attached, you can finish your lunch there. Rest for a few hours to explore the Sarafa Bazaar and finish your dinner:

Evening: Sarafa Bazaar

Image Source: savaari

Spend your evening at Sarafa Bazaar, a unique market that transforms from a jewellery market by day to a street food hub by night. Indore is renowned for its culinary scene, and Sarafa Bazaar offers the perfect opportunity to taste local specialities like poha-jalebi, Bhutto ka kees, and a variety of chaats.

Day 8: Rajwada Palace and Lal Bagh Palace

On the 8th day of your 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary, you can plan your visit to the Lal Bagh Palace and Chhatris after you finish your breakfast. 

What to Eat in Indore?

Indore is a food lover’s paradise with a variety of street foods and local delicacies. 

• Start with Poha Jalebi, a sweet and savoury breakfast combination. 
• Don’t miss the spicy Chaat varieties at Chappan Dukan. 
• Try the Indori Bhutte ka Kees, made from grated corn. 
• For a hearty meal, have Dal Bafla, a traditional dish similar to Dal Bati from Rajasthan. 
• The Sabudana Khichdi is a light and tasty snack, especially popular during fasting periods. 
• Finish your food journey with Shikanji, a rich, creamy drink, or the famous Gulab Jamun and Rabdi at Sarafa Bazaar

Rajwada Palace

After you finish your breakfast, you can visit the Rajwada Palace, a seven-story structure blending Mughal, French, and Maratha architectural styles, showcasing the grandeur of the Holkar dynasty.

Lal Bagh Palace and Chhatris

After lunch, explore the Lal Bagh Palace, which reflects the opulence of the Holkars with its European-inspired architecture and well-maintained gardens. Later, visit the Chhatris, cenotaphs built in memory of the Holkar rulers, situated along the banks of the Khan River. These structures are admired for their fine craftsmanship and the beautiful reflection they cast in the waters below.

After you finish your dinner, you can reach back to your accommodation for a restful night’s sleep.

Day 9 & 10: Travel to Pachmarhi and Pachmarhi Exploration.

Day 9: Travel to Pachmarhi

Early on the 9th day of your 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary, you can start your drive to Pachmarhi. The distance from Indore to this hill station is around 400 km. So, you will spend your entire 9th day travelling from Pachmarhi. You will start after finishing your breakfast in Indore. On your route, you can finish your lunch. It will take evening or even night to reach Pachmarhi.

Where to Stay in Pachmarhi?

Pachmarhi, a beautiful hill station in Madhya Pradesh, offers a variety of accommodation options. 

• For a luxurious stay, consider WelcomHeritage Golf View, known for its colonial charm and beautiful gardens. 
• Jehan Numa Palace provides a blend of luxury and heritage with modern amenities. 
• For mid-range options, Hotel Pandav and Hotel Misty Meadows offer comfortable stays with good facilities and scenic views. 
• Budget travellers can opt for MPT Champak Bungalow or MPT Devdaru Bungalow, which offers basic amenities at reasonable rates. 

Each of these accommodations provides a great base to explore the natural beauty and attractions of Pachmarhi.

Where to Eat in Pachmarhi?

In Pachmarhi, you can enjoy a variety of dining experiences. 

• For authentic local cuisine, Jalaram Bhojanalaya is highly recommended for its delicious vegetarian thalis. 
• Hotel New Punjab offers excellent North Indian dishes, including tasty kebabs and curries. 
• If you’re craving Chinese or South Indian food, Maheshwari Restaurant provides a diverse menu. 
• Raja Bhoj Restaurant is another popular choice for traditional Indian meals with a scenic view.
• For snacks and street food, head to Badal Bhoi Restaurant, known for its samosas and jalebis.

Each of these places offers a unique taste of Pachmarhi’s culinary delights, ensuring a memorable dining experience. You can choose one of these restaurants for your dinner before you get back to your accommodation for a restful sleep.

Day 10: Exploring Pachmarhi

After you finish your breakfast, you can explore Pachmarhi by visiting some places:

• Visit the Bee Falls for a rejuvenating dip, 
• If possible, visit the Mahadeo Hill for ancient Shiva temples, and the Pandava Caves, believed to have provided shelter to the Pandavas during their exile.

What to Eat in Pachmarhi?

In Pachmarhi, you can savour a variety of delicious local and regional dishes. 

• Start with Bhutte ki Kees, a unique dish made from grated corn. 
• Poha, a flattened rice dish often served with jalebi, is a popular breakfast option. 
• Enjoy traditional Madhya Pradesh thalis at local eateries like Jalaram Bhojanalaya. 
• For something spicy, try the Dal Bafla, a regional variant of the Rajasthani dal bati. 
• Street food lovers should not miss out on Samosas and Aloo Tikki at the local stalls. 
• Finally, treat yourself to sweet delights like Jalebi and Rabri from local sweet shops​.

Spend the rest of the day in your accommodation for departure to your hometown the next morning.

If time permits, you can plan a visit to Kanha National Park as well.

Day 11: Departure to your Hometown

The nearest airport to Pachmarhi is Raja Bhoj Airport. This airport is around 200 km away. otherwise, you can plan to reach Dumma Airport in Jabalpur, which is about 250 km away from Pachmahri. Make sure to book flight tickets to your hometown accordingly. 

If you plan to travel by train to your hometown, you can book tickets to your hometown from the nearest railway station to Pachmarhi. It is Pipariya Railway Station. It is located within 50 km from Pachmarhi. So, you can easily reach.

This 11-day Madhya Pradesh itinerary offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of experiences that Madhya Pradesh provides, from its historic sites and spiritual centres to natural beauty and culinary delights. Each destination has been chosen to offer a deep dive into the essence of India’s heartland, ensuring travellers an unforgettable journey through time, culture, and nature. Madhya Pradesh’s warm hospitality, coupled with its unparalleled heritage, makes it a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the depths of India’s soul.

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