Central India is teemed with a rich historical and cultural past. The medieval history of India thrived in Central India with dynastical rule of Chandelas, Guptas, Mughals, Marathas and Bundelas that led to the establishment of several monumental forts, palaces and temples.
Khajuraho Temples, Madhya Pradesh
The UNESCO World Heritage Site Khajuraho Temples are globally renowned for their exquisite carvings of erotic figures that date back to the period from 900 to 1130 AD, during the reign of Chandela Dynasty. Khajuraho group of temples is one of the top destinations on the itineraries of tourists in Madhya Pradesh, Central India. Located in the Chhatarpur district of the state, the monuments are a group of Hindu and Jain temples which symbolize the Nagara style of architecture. While history states that as many as 85 temples were built by the 12th century, only 20 have survived. Of those, Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is ornamented with a profusion of intricate sculptures that exude expression of ancient Indian art.
Sanchi Stupa, Madhya Pradesh
Sanchi Stupa is the famed Buddhist vihara at the town of Sanchi in Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh. Also known as the Great Stupa, it is the oldest stone structure in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located 46 kilometres northeast of capital Bhopal, it was originally commissioned by emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC. Its nucleus was simply a hemispherical brick structure erected over the relics of Gautama Buddha. A "chatra", parasol-like structure symbolizing high rank was crowned upon to honour and shelter the relics. The complete stupa was built of bricks during the Mauryan period.
Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh
The resplendent hill fort near Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh dates back to the 8th century. The majestic monument consists of a defensive structure and two main palaces, Gujari Mahal and Man Mandir. Gurjari Mahal, built for Queen Mrignayani, is today an archaeological museum. The oldest record of Zero in the world was found in a small temple in the fort, with the inscription around 1500 years old.
Rajwada Palace, Madhya Pradesh
Rajwada Palace is an architectural marvel of the Holkars of Maratha Dynasty, located in Indore district. The seven-storied structure was built about two centuries ago, displaying a unique blend of Hindu-Rajputana, Mughal and European architecture.
Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh
The clusters of natural rock shelters in Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh, are an archaeological site recognized by UNESCO. Dating back to Paleolithic age, the site exhibits the earliest traces of human life on the Indian Subcontinent. Some of these are believed to have been inhabited by Homo erectus more than 100,000 years ago. The Stone Age rock paintings are 30,000 years old and the caves deliver early evidences of dance.
