UNESCO World Heritage Sites in
Madhya Pradesh, India
Madhya Pradesh is a state located
in central India, with a rich cultural heritage and historical monuments that
have been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as World Heritage Sites. There are six such
sites in Madhya Pradesh, each with its own unique history and significance.
The Khajuraho Group of Monuments
is a collection of Hindu and Jain temples in Khajuraho, which is known for its
intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various aspects of life, love, and
spirituality. The temples were built between 950 and 1050 AD, during the
Chandela dynasty, and are a fine example of the Nagara style of architecture.
The temples were rediscovered in the 19th century, and since then, they have
attracted tourists from all over the world.
The temples are divided into
three groups, each with its own set of temples. The Western group is the
largest and most well-known, consisting of 14 temples. The Eastern group
consists of three temples, and the Southern group consists of two temples.
The temples are famous for their
intricate carvings and sculptures, which depict various deities, celestial
beings, animals, and human figures engaged in various activities. Some of the
most famous temples include the Kandariya Mahadeva temple, the Chausath Yogini
temple, and the Lakshmana temple.
2)Sanchi
Stupa :-
The Sanchi Stupa is in the town
of Sanchi and is one of the oldest stone structures in India. It was built by
the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC and is considered one of the
most important Buddhist monuments in the world. The stupa consists of a
hemispherical dome that is surrounded by four gateways, each with elaborate
carvings and sculptures.
The stupa also has several other
structures, including monasteries, temples, and pillars, that were added over
the centuries. The stupa is famous for its Ashoka Pillar, which has four lions
on top and is now the national emblem of India.
The stupa is an important
pilgrimage site for Buddhists and attracts tourists from all over the world. It
is also a fine example of ancient Indian architecture and art.
The Bhimbetka Rock Shelters are a
group of prehistoric rock shelters located in the Raisen district of Madhya
Pradesh. The shelters have cave paintings that date back to the Paleolithic era
and depict hunting scenes, dancing figures, and animals. The paintings are
believed to be more than 30,000 years old and are some of the oldest known
examples of prehistoric art in the world.
The rock shelters were discovered
in 1957 by a team of archaeologists, and since then, they have been studied
extensively. The shelters also have evidence of human habitation, including
stone tools and other artifacts.
The rock shelters are now a
UNESCO World Heritage Site and are an important site for the study of human
evolution and prehistoric art.
The Chhatris of Orchha are a
group of 14 cenotaphs or memorial tombs that were built for the Bundela kings
of Orchha. The chhatris are situated on the banks of the Betwa River and are
known for their architectural beauty and intricate carvings.
The chhatris were built between
the 16th and 17th centuries and are made of sandstone and marble. Each chhatri
has a dome-shaped roof that is supported by pillars and has elaborate carvings
and sculptures.
The chhatris are an important
example of medieval Indian architecture and art and attract tourists from all
over the world.
These UNESCO World Heritage Sites
in Madhya Pradesh are not only significant in terms of their historical and
cultural value but also attract a large number of tourists from all over the
world.
1.Kal
Bhairav Templeis a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Kal Bhairav,
who is regarded as a manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple is in the city of
Ujjain in the state of Madhya Pradesh, India. It is one of the most important
temples in Ujjain and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
The temple is believed to be one
of the 84 ancient Shiva temples in India and is said to have been built by the Maratha
ruler, Srimant Ranoji Scindia, in the 18th century. The temple has a unique
architecture and is known for its intricate carvings and designs.
Lord Kal Bhairav is known as the
'Kotwal' or the guardian of the city and is believed to protect the devotees
from evil forces. The temple is also associated with the tantric tradition of
Hinduism and is believed to be a powerful center for spiritual energy.
The temple is open to devotees
every day, and special rituals and prayers are performed during festivals such
as Mahashivratri and Navratri. The temple is also popular among tourists who
come to witness the grandeur and beauty of this ancient temple.
In conclusion, Kal Bhairav Temple
is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord
2.Kaliadeh
Palaceis a historical palace located on the banks of the Shipra River
in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is believed to have been built during the
reign of the Scandia dynasty in the early 20th century.
The palace is named after the
Kaliadeh Island, which is located near the palace and is a sacred site in Hindu
mythology. According to legend, the island was created by Lord Vishnu when he
turned the wheel of the universe.
The Kaliadeh Palace is now a
popular tourist destination and is known for its beautiful architecture and
scenic location. The palace features a large garden with fountains, a small
museum showcasing the history of the region, and a boat ride on the Shipra
River.
Visitors to the palace can also
enjoy a panoramic view of Ujjain and the surrounding hills from the top of the
palace. The Kaliadeh Palace is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in
history, architecture, and natural beauty.
3.Shri Mangalnath
Temple is a Hindu temple located in the city of Ujjain in the Indian
state of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the oldest and most revered temples in
Ujjain and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
According to Hindu mythology, the
temple is built on the spot where Lord Shiva performed his Tandava dance. The
temple is situated on a hill called Mangalnath, which is believed to be the
birthplace of Mars (Mangal) according to Indian astrology.
The temple's architecture is
impressive, with a beautiful shikhar (spire) that rises to a height of 25
meters. The temple also has a Kund (tank) called Mangal Kund, which is believed
to have medicinal properties.
The temple attracts many
devotees, especially on Mahashivratri, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm
in the temple premises. Many devotees also visit the temple to perform various
religious rituals, such as offering milk and water to the Shiva Linga.
Overall, Shree Mangalnath Temple
is a must-visit for anyone visiting Ujjain and is an important pilgrimage site
for Lord Shiva's devotees. The temple's tranquil surroundings and beautiful
architecture make it a peaceful and serene place to spend time in.
4.Gad
Kalika Temple is a Hindu temple located in the city of Ujjain in the
Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is dedicated to Goddess Kalika, who is an
incarnation of Goddess Kali.
The temple is situated on the top
of a hill called Chamunda Hill, and it offers a panoramic view of the city. The
temple's architecture is impressive, with a beautiful stone structure that is
believed to have been built in the 18th century.
The temple is also known as the
Gadkalika Temple and is believed to be one of the 84 Shakti Peethas in India.
According to Hindu mythology, it is said that the left wrist of Goddess Sati fell
at this spot, and the temple was built here to honor her.
5.Sandipani
Ashramis a famous Hindu ashram located in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh,
India. It is a holy place and a center for spiritual learning and practice.
According to Hindu mythology,
Lord Krishna and his friend Sudama studied at this ashram under the guidance of
their teacher, Sandipani Muni. The ashram is believed to be the place where
Lord Krishna learned various subjects, including scriptures, archery, and
warfare.
The ashram is open to visitors
and pilgrims, and it offers courses in Vedic studies, Sanskrit language, yoga,
and meditation. The ashram also has a library that houses ancient Vedic texts
and scriptures.
Sandipani Ashram is a popular
destination for tourists and devotees who want to explore the rich spiritual
heritage of India and learn about Hindu philosophy and culture.
The ashram is believed to have
been established by Adi Shankaracharya, a famous philosopher and saint who
lived in the 8th century CE. The ashram is known for its Vedic teachings and is
considered to be a center for learning and spiritual growth.
According to legend, Lord Krishna
and Balarama spent several years at the Sandipani Ashram, where they received
education and training in various subjects, including warfare, music, and
philosophy. The ashram is also said to have been the site of several important
events in Hindu mythology, such as the marriage of Lord Krishna and Rukmini.
Today, the Sandipani Ashram is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and
tourists visiting Ujjain.
The ashram is located on the
banks of the Shipra River and is considered to be a holy site for Hindus. It
has been renovated and reconstructed several times over the years and now
includes a temple, a meditation hall, a library, and a school for
underprivileged children.
The ashram is open to visitors,
and people come from all over India and abroad to learn about the ancient
teachings and practices of Hinduism. It is also a popular destination for
spiritual seekers and those interested in meditation and yoga.
Mandu is a stone celebration of lifestyle and pleasure, as well as poet-prince Baz Bahadur's love for his stunning consort, Rani Roopmati. Mandu, located at an elevation of 2,000 feet along the Vindhya stages, has eclectic creations combining the captivating declaration of the Afghan mode with the notable cultural heritage of the Turkish people.
Each of Mandu's structures is an architectural gem, such as the massive Jami Masjid and Hoshang Shah's Tomb, which is thought to have inspired the Taj Mahal's master builders.
The Jahaz Mahal in Mandu appears to be a ship about to sail in its reflection. However, for hundreds of years, this delivery made of stone and mortar did not. Instead, it floated over the two lakes, bearing silent witness to Mandu's long, rich, and varied history.
The grand palaces are still alive with royal romance, while the gateways (Darwaza) tell the story of imperial conquests.
The Roopmati Pavilion and Rewa Kund were built as a result of the mythical love story of Baz Bahadur and Roopmati. The abandoned ruins of Hathi Mahal and Ashrafi Mahal have fascinating stories about their lives. The fascinating Bagh caves site has the ability to bridge the events of previous centuries.
There are numerous places to visit in Mandu, including forts, palaces, gateways, and temples. Mandu is a town adorned with breathtaking architectural jewels, and a stroll through the gallery of those monuments will leave you speechless.
Meals YOU need to try IN MANDU
Mandu ka Dal Paniya" is a must-try nearby delicacy while exploring the mediaeval capital of Malwa.
Dal Paniya is easily available in most restaurants and hotels and is also popular in other parts of Madhya Pradesh.
Maize flour, salt, sugar powder, milk, and lukewarm water are used to make those paniyas. Paniya dough is divided into small balls, which are then barely flattened (like bati). The paniyas are then cooked in a tandoor, which gives them a smoky flavour when dipped in the dal. If you enjoy highly spiced meals, you should try this traditional Malva dish because it is very flavorful.
The city of pleasure is also home to massive Baobab bushes (Baobab is a tangy fruit), which originated in Africa and whose seeds were gifted by the Caliphs of Egypt to the Sultans of Mandu in the 14th century. It is known as Khorasani Imli in the region and is used to add tang to dals and curries. In addition, when the gourd-like fruit ripens in February, the companies in Mandu promote it.
Places TO visit IN MANDU
Roopmati's Pavilion
The pavilion was initially designed as a navy commentary post. This swish shape with its two pavilions became a retreat for the lovely queen from its hilltop perch, from which she could see Baz Bahadur's palace and the Narmada flowing through the Nimar plains far beneath.
Jahaz Mahal
This fashionable two-story palace is a hundred and twenty-meter-long 'Jahaz Mahal' built between synthetic lakes Munj Talao and Kapur Talao. Jahaz Mahal is an innovative activity in stones of a royal pride craft, with its open pavilions, balconies overhanging the water, and open terrace.
Hindola Mahal
The name "swinging palace" comes from the sloping sidewalls of this audience hall. Its ornamental facade, delicate trellis paintings in sandstone, and beautifully moulded columns all display excellent and modern techniques.
Ashrafi Mahal
Built by Hoshang Shah's successor, Mahmud Shah Khilji, this 'palace of gold money', which runs through the Jami Masjid, was intended as an educational institution (madrassa). Within the same complex, he constructed a seven-story tower to commemorate his victory over Rana Khumba of Mewar, of which only one storey has survived. The tomb, which was intended to be Mandu's largest structure but collapsed due to hurried and faulty construction, is also in ruins.
Baz Bahadur Palace
The palace, built by Baz Bahadur in the early sixteenth century, is notable for its spacious courtyard surrounded by halls and high terraces with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Darwazas (Gateways)
The 45-kilometer-long parapet of partitions that encircle Mandu is punctuated by 12 gateways. The most impressive of these is Delhi Darwaza, the main entrance to the castle city, which is reached via a series of gateways including Alamgir and Bhangi Darwaza, through which the current street passes.
Hoshang Shah's Tomb
It is India's first marble edifice, with a magnificently proportioned dome, marble lattice work, porticoed courts, and towers at each of the rectangle's four corners. Shah Jehan dispatched four of his brilliant architects to examine the tomb's design and make recommendations.
Jami Masjid
Inspired by Damascus' magnificent mosque, the Jami Masjid was designed on a grand scale, with a high plinth and a large domed porch. The enormousness of the building's proportions strikes one, and the mosque is surrounded on all sides by large arcades with a rich and appealing range in preparations of arches, pillars, range of bays, and rows of the dome above.
Nilkanth Mahal
This Mughal-era palace, located near the Nilkanth shrine (the sacred Shiva shrine), was built by Shah Badgah Khan for Emperor Akbar's Hindu spouse. On the walls here are some inscriptions from Akbar's reign that refer to the futility of earthly glory.
Shriram Mandir :
Excursions FROM MANDU
A trip to Mandu, which is undoubtedly magical in and of itself, can be made even more interesting by planning a tour to one of the many nearby destinations.
A 90-kilometer journey to the 6th-century rock-cut Bagh caves, a 140-kilometer journey to the district of Jhabua, known for its colourful Bhagoriya pageant, the mediaeval metropolis of Dhar, which is also the district headquarters, and Burhanpur, the historical gateway to south India, 220 kilometres from Mandu.
A spiritual path can also be followed to the temple towns of Maheshwar and Omkareshwar (45 km and 155 km, respectively), which are located scenically along the Narmada River.
Things to do IN MANDU
If you plan a trip to the town of pleasure in December for the duration of the Mandu festival, you will hear, see, taste, and experience Mandu like never before.
The Mandu festival, a five-day celebration of art, craft, track, food, and adventure, includes live live shows, journey sports activities, biking expeditions, glamping, hot air ballooning, and a lot more. It will undoubtedly be an experience like no other!
Pleasant TIME TO go to MANDU
The best time to visit Mandu is between July and March, when the average temperature ranges between 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit) and 30 degrees Celsius (86 ranges Fahrenheit).
Summers are hot, with temperatures reaching as high as 46 degrees Celsius (one hundred fifteen degrees Fahrenheit), whereas winters can drop to under 5 degrees Celsius (41 ranges Fahrenheit).
Monsoons arrive in the first week of July, following the scorching heat, and the rainy season lasts until mid-September. Mandu takes on a fresh green sheen during the rains, and clouds lazily flow inside and out of lush valleys.
The way to reach MANDU
By means of Air:
The nearest
airport is Ahilyabai Holkar Airport at Indore (95 km), which is linked by using
regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Pune, Jaipur, Hyderabad, Bhopal, Ahmedabad,
Nagpur, Raipur, Kolkata, and so forth.
With the aid of Rail:
The nearest
railhead is positioned at Ratlam, one hundred thirty km from Mandu. Essential
mail and express trains stop right here. As a substitute you can still
disembark at Indore, which is well-linked to Delhi and Mumbai via rail.
By means of road:
Mandu is
nicely-connected with ordinary bus offerings from Indore and Dhar (40 km). From
Indore, there are direct buses to Mandu from Gangwal Bus Stand and Sarawate Bus
Stand. The adventure commonly takes around 3 hours. Buses to Dhar are available
regularly from the 2 bus stands. From Dhar, possible both take a bus or lease a
automobile.
The fort is quite old. The remains of a Microlithic man were discovered here. There are numerous references to Harishchandragad in ancient works such as the Matsya Purana, Agni Purana, and Skanda Purana.
Its history begins in the sixth century, during the reign of the Kalachuri dynasty. During this time, the fort was constructed. Several caves could have been carved in the 11th century.
There are statues of King Vishnu in these caves. Despite the names Tamarat and Rohidas, the cliffs have nothing to do with Ayodhya. Changdev (author of the epic Tatvasaar) meditated here frequently in the 14th century.
Most notable places you are
interested in
Saptatirtha Pushkarni :-
To the east of the temple is "Saptatirtha," a well-constructed lake. There are temple-like structures on its bank with statues of King Vishnu.
These statues have recently been transformed into caves near the Harishchandreshwar temple.
Many pedestrians face the arduous pain of the place these days, as they dump plastic waste and other items into the lake. Swimming is also an option.
(However, in the summer, the water is so cold that you almost feel like you're standing in the refrigerator compartment.)
Kedareshwar Cave:-
A local legend
says that when the fourth pillar breaks, the earth will end.
A large cave to the right of the Harishchandreshwar temple in Kedareshwar contains a large Shiva Linga that is completely surrounded by water. The water reaches the waist and rises 15 feet [5 m] above the ground.
The water is extremely cold, making access to Shiva Linga difficult. The cave contains sculptures. Getting to the cave during the rainy season is impossible because a large stream flows across the road. This is the Mangalganga River's headwaters.
There is a large rock above Shiva Linga. To support the cave, four pillars were built around Shiva Linga.
Another intriguing feature of this area is that water enters the temple every day through four walls.
And because the water is so cold, it's difficult to get back inside. Water flows continuously throughout the year. During the rainy season, the water level in the cave is nearly at its maximum.
Kokankada:-
several times. From this point, a round rainbow (Broken spectre phenomenon) can be seen on occasion.
It is only visible when there is a slight fog in the valley and the sun is behind the person viewing it.
A vertical cloud mass is a phenomenon that can be seen in this area, in which clouds near a cliff enter a hole that falls below and are thrown into the sky at a distance of more than 15 metres, creating the image of a wall rising straight at the edge of the cliff without entering the earth's surface.
If you visit in April or May, throw your panama hat on the cliff and enjoy a hike up and back to the plains.
The height of the Tamarati:-
Tamaranchi is another name for Tamaranchi. This is the castle's highest point (1429 meters). Leopards have been spotted in the forest above the summit. We can see the entire Naneghat range and the castles near Murbad from here.
We can see forts as far south as Siddhagad near Bhimashankar and the twin mountains of Napta, Ghodishep (865 metres), Ajoba (1375 metres), and Kulang fort (1471 metres) in the north near Kasara district from Tamarati.
Caves in Harishchandragad:-
The caves are scattered throughout the castle. Many of these are habitable and are located beneath the upper level of the Tamarati.
Some are near the temple, others near the castle, and still others deep in the woods. The natural cave is located deep on the northwest side of the castle, to the right of Kokan Kada.
Many other caves have gone missing, according to reports.
Nageshwar Temple near Khireshwar
This is a beautiful ancient architecture with various works of art on display. Some carved objects can be found on the temple's roof.
The most impressive inscription is a 1.5-meter-long statue of King Vishnu in the dormitory, known as "Sheshshayi Vishnu" in Marathi.
It is extremely rare and thus extremely valuable. There are numerous legends surrounding this image. Near the temple, there are caves.
Ganapati, Harishchandreshwar
Temple:-
This temple is an excellent example of ancient Indian carving. It stands 16 metres tall from the ground.
A number of ancient caves and water tanks are located near this temple. The Mangal Ganga River is said to have originated in one of the temple's tanks.
The temple's surface is similar to temple construction in northern India. The same temple can be found in Buddha-Gaya.
Many cemeteries can be seen here, with the general construction visible. These are made of carefully placed stones that are finished on top of one another. Near the temple, there are three large caves. Drinking water is obtained from wells near the temple.
Kashitirtha, another nearby temple, is also worth a visit. This temple's allure is enhanced by the fact that it is engraved on a single large rock.
Doors are available on both sides. Face sculptures flank the main entrance. This is the expression of the temple guards. An inscription by Devsnagsri about Saint Changdev can be found to the left of the door.
How to Reach There:-
Harishchandragad lies at the confluence of the Thane, Pune, and Ahmednagar regions.
1) Thane District: One has to
take a bus to Nagar from Kalyan and get off at 'Khubi Phata'. From there we
reach Khireshwar village by bus or private car. The city is about four miles [7
km] from the fortress.
2) From the Pune District: A daily bus runs from Shivajinagar ST stand in Pune to Khireshwar village.
3) From the Ahmednagar region:
One has to take a bus to Nashik or Mumbai and descend to the village of Ghoti.
From Ghoti, we have to catch
another bus to Sangamner via Malegaon & land in the Rajur area. From here,
2 routes turn the castle.
1) From Rajur, one has to take a
bus or a private car to the village of Pachanai. From here, the trail goes
straight to the highest point.
2) Recently, the road from Rajur
to Tolar Khind has been made available. The temple is about 2-3 hours on foot
from Tolar Khind (Tolar valley).
3) from kotul to kothale bus bus
services are available tolar khind every hour bus to kothale, private cars are
also available on this route.
This is a list of tourist attractions in the town of Shimla in Himachal
Pradesh in the Indian state.
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Shop: Shopping Mall is the main shopping street in Shimla. It boasts a
plethora of restaurants, clubs, banks, pubs, post offices, and tourist
information centers. This is the lowest level of the Gaiety Theatre.
Ridge: Ridge is a big open space on Mall Road that accommodates all of
the city's cultural activities. Christ Church, located in Ridge, is North
India's second oldest church.
Inside are glass windows representing faith, hope, compassion,
resilience, patience, and humility.
Some of the monuments in this area are the State Library and the Gaiety
Heritage Cultural Complex.
Jakhu Hill: 2 kilometers from Shimla, at an elevation of 8,000 feet,
Jakhu Hill is the city's highest point, with views over the city and the snow-capped Himalayas.
At the top of the hill is the ancient temple of Hanuman, a Hindu deity
famous for both tourists and locals alike.
Hanuman statue, 33 meters (33 meters), 2,591 meters high above sea
level, is one of the highest artifacts in the world, surpassing Christ Redeemer
in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Jakhoo has a rope access road
and connects Jakhoo's temple on the beach and is the first of its kind in
Shimla.
Kali Bari: Kali Bari is a temple dedicated to the body of the fearless
goddess Kali Shyamala in the city of Shimla.
Views from the temple include Annandale, Shimla Railway Station,
Railway Board Building, Old Bus Stand, ATRAC, TV Tower, and other landmarks.
Annandale: Developed as a Shimla racecourse, Annandale is 2-4 km from
Ridge at an altitude of 6,117 ft. It is now used by the Indian Army. It has a
Military Heritage Museum and a helipad. Every VVIP, VIP, or celebrity visiting
Shimla comes via nhelipad.
Annandale is one of the main tourist attractions in Shimla. The first
Durand Cup football tournament was organized here in 1888 by Mortimer Durand.
Indian Institute of Advanced Study: The center is located on the site
of the former Viceregal Lodge, built-in 1884-88.
The Himachal Pradesh State Museum: The museum, which opened in 1974,
sought to protect the hills and cultural heritage of the empire. There is a
collection of small paintings by Pari, sculptures, sculptures of wood and
cloth, textiles, and regional jewelry.
Summer Hill: Summer Hill township is 6,500 feet high on the
Shimla-Kalka railway line. Mahatma Gandhi lived in these quiet places during
his visit to Shimla. Himachal Pradesh University is located here.
Sankat Mochan: The famous Hindu temple dedicated to Hanuman.
Tara Devi Temple: 11 km from Shimla bus station. Tara Devi Hill has a
temple dedicated to the star goddess above the hill. There is a Military Milk
City here with headquarters for Barat Scouts and Guides.
Jutogh: Located 8 km, the military cantonment is located near Tutu, the
capital of Shimla.
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