7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Madhya Pradesh

Tuesday, August 8: Bhopal

Start your trip in the capital city of Bhopal. In the morning, visit the majestic Taj-ul-Masajid, one of the largest mosques in India. In the afternoon, explore the stunning architecture of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bhimbetka Caves. As the evening sets in, take a walk around the scenic Upper Lake.

• Taj-ul-Masajid: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Bhimbetka Caves: Estimated Cost - INR 30 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Upper Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, August 9: Sanchi

On day 2, head to Sanchi to explore the famous Sanchi Stupa. In the morning, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel at the ancient Buddhist architecture. In the afternoon, visit the Sanchi Archaeological Museum to learn more about the history of the region. As the evening approaches, enjoy a peaceful walk around the serene Buddhist monasteries.

• Sanchi Stupa: Estimated Cost - INR 30 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Sanchi Archaeological Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 5 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Buddhist Monasteries: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, August 10: Ujjain

On day 3, travel to the holy city of Ujjain. Begin your morning with a visit to the historic Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. In the afternoon, explore the ancient observatory of Jantar Mantar. As the evening sets in, take a serene boat ride on the Shipra River and witness the evening aarti at Ram Ghat.

• Mahakaleshwar Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Jantar Mantar: Estimated Cost - INR 10 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on Shipra River: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, August 11: Khajuraho

On day 4, travel to the enchanting city of Khajuraho. In the morning, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho Temples, known for their intricate sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the rich history of the region. As the evening approaches, witness the captivating light and sound show at the Western Group of Temples.

• Khajuraho Temples: Estimated Cost - INR 30 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Archaeological Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 10 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Light and Sound Show: Estimated Cost - INR 250 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, August 12: Orchha

On day 5, visit the historical town of Orchha. Start your morning with a visit to the magnificent Orchha Fort, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the afternoon, explore the beautifully preserved Chaturbhuj Temple. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Betwa River and witness the sunset from the banks.

• Orchha Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 10 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chaturbhuj Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Boat Ride on Betwa River: Estimated Cost - INR 150 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, August 13: Gwalior

On day 6, explore the historic city of Gwalior. In the morning, visit the magnificent Gwalior Fort, known for its stunning architecture. In the afternoon, explore the opulent Jai Vilas Palace and Museum. As the evening approaches, witness the mesmerizing sound and light show at the fort.

• Gwalior Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 75 for Indians, INR 250 for foreigners, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Jai Vilas Palace and Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 100 for Indians, INR 600 for foreigners, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Sound and Light Show: Estimated Cost - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, August 14: Indore

On the final day of your trip, visit the bustling city of Indore. In the morning, explore the stunning architecture of the Rajwada Palace. In the afternoon, visit the Central Museum to delve into the history and art of the region. As the evening sets in, indulge in some shopping at the vibrant Sarafa Bazaar and savor the delicious street food.

• Rajwada Palace: Estimated Cost - INR 10 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Central Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 10 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Sarafa Bazaar: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast in Indore, head to Chappan Dukan, a famous food street known for its diverse range of snacks and sweets. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 100 per person.
• If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try Hotel Shreemaya, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Indian cuisine and comfortable ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, visit Nafees Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Mughlai and North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Madhya Pradesh, don't miss the off the beaten path attractions and places loved by the locals. Head to Mandu to experience the romantic ruins and architectural marvels of the Mandu Fort. Explore the charming town of Chanderi, known for its handwoven sarees and historical monuments. Lastly, visit the serene town of Omkareshwar, famous for its sacred Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple and the scenic beauty of the Narmada River.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.