Ultimate 5-Day Itinerary for Madhya Pradesh: Explore the Heart of India

Travelling to a city for a day or two is usually an easy process. However, things may get overwhelming when it comes to a 5-day trip. And when you are visiting Madhya Pradesh, there are so many options that even 5 days may fall short. Here is our guide to get the best out of your 5-day itinerary for Madhya Pradesh

Overview of what the itinerary covers

The itinerary will cover everything from amusement parks to religious places to scenic spots and even cultural places. Join us as we delve into the history and tourism of the heart of India. 

Day 1: Indore - The Gateway to Madhya Pradesh

Indore is pretty much the first city you will encounter when entering Madhya Pradesh. Here, you will encounter clean roads and a renowned water park. 

Aqua Imagicaa Indore

Aqua Imagicaa Indore is a world-class park that can help you start your trip on a thrilling note. The thrilling rides like Torpedo and Vortex can help fulfil your adrenaline dreams, while water rides like Splashdown and Wave Rider will be just right for the water baby in you. If you think the park is expensive, think again. You can bag great deals and ticket offers for booking with groups. 

Day 2: Drive to Ujjain (1.5 hours from Indore)

Next, head on to Ujjain to experience the religious side of Madhya Pradesh. 

Mahakaleshwar Temple

Known for its eminence as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of India, the temple is a surreal beauty. The devotees come here all year round, and the vibe is pretty tranquil.

Kal Bhairav Temple

One cannot pay a visit to Ujjain without taking blessings at a very special temple of the country, known as the Kal Bhairav Temple. This temple, devoted to Kal Bhairav, one of the fierce forms of Lord Shiva, is also known by a peculiar offering, since liquor is also offered to the god during the ritual.

Evening: Aarti at Mahakaleshwar

Towards the end of the day, go to the renowned Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga to attend the evening aarti. This religious ceremony is rather a soul-stirring event, where rhythmic chants, radiant lamps and an in-depth spiritual atmosphere are involved. It is really memorable to observe the aarti when the temple lights are lit, and the ancient architecture is shown. It is better to be there early enough to get a good viewing position, more so during the high pilgrimage seasons.

Day 3: Bhopal - A Blend of Heritage and Nature (2.5 hours from Ujjain)

The third day will be spent visiting the Madhya Pradesh capital city of Bhopal, a beautiful city of lakes, historic sites and a rich cultural heritage.

Sanchi Stupa

Start with the Sanchi Stupa, which is a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage site. This Buddhist monument was constructed by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and is a symbol of peace, enlightenment and architectural brilliance. The carved gateways (toranas) are complex and portray events in the life of Buddha, and are a treasure to history and photography enthusiasts.

Bhimbetka Caves

Then proceed to the other UNESCO World Heritage, the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters. These ancient caves have rock drawings dating back over 30,000 years, and that gives us an idea about the primitive life of man.

Day 4: Drive to Khajuraho (4 hours from Bhopal)

The fourth day of the MP 5-day plan will be spent exploring the architectural wonders of Khajuraho, known for its great temples.

Western Group of Temples

The most popular and the best preserved cluster of Khajuraho is the Western Group of Temples. The temples are renowned due to their elaborate carvings, such as the renowned erotic carvings which represent life, spirituality and emotions of human beings. Kandariya Mahadev Temple is unique with its beautiful work and magnificence.

Eastern Group of Temples

The Eastern Group of Temples is less crowded and is more serene. These temples have the Jain shrines and show spiritual harmony and architectural beauty. They suit the best travellers who like going to places of heritage that are not so overrun.

Evening: Sound & Light Show at Khajuraho Temples 

Towards the end of the day, consider viewing the Sound and Light Show. The show is narrated with dramatic lighting and music, which brings to life the history, legends, and the cultural importance of Khajuraho, and is thus an ideal way to end the day.

Day 5: Orchha - A Historical Gem (1.5 hours from Khajuraho)

The last day of the Madhya Pradesh Itinerary 5 days, will lead you to the beautiful town of Orchha, which is time-trapped and full of Bundela architecture.

Orchha Fort Complex

Visit the great Forth Orchha complex, comprising Jahangir Mahal, Raj Mahal and Rai Praveen Mahal. The fort boasts of large courtyards, wall paintings and great architecture which remind us of the great Bundela dynasty.

Chhatris (Cenotaphs)

Orchha has riverside Chhatris, which are a beauty to behold. These cenotaphs are erected in commemoration of the rulers of Orchh, which are beautifully placed on the banks of the Betwa River. Going there at sunset is a breathtaking experience and a serene moment.

Evening: River Safari

Cap off your MP 5-days plan with a river safari on the river Betwa. It is a relaxing boat ride through picturesque scenes of monuments, much bird life of Orchha and the peaceful environment of the town- a perfect location to relax and reminisce about your adventure in Madhya Pradesh.