
Madhya Pradesh as the name implies is the centre of India. Rich cultural heritage and large forests are the main attractions. Exquisitely carved temples, Stupas, Forts and Palaces are reminders of the days of empires & kingdoms, of great warriors and builders, poets and musicians, saints & philosophers, of religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism & Islam. Erotic sculptures & temples of Khajuraho are also among the most popular tourist destination for the visitors. The temples of Khajurho are considered as a unique gift to the world, representing as they do a paean to life, to love, to joy; perfect in execution and sublime in expression.A good part of Madhya Pradesh is forested, offering a unique & exciting panorama of wildlife. Tiger is quite common among the national parks like Kanha, Bandhavgarh & Shivpuri. Many indigenous tribes also share the forests with the wildlife.
Although signs of habitation date back some 12,000 years with the rock cave paintings at Bhimbetka near Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh's history can be traced back to the 3rd century BC when the great Buddhist Emperor Ashoka controlled the Mauryan Empire in Malwa. Chandelas constructed the fantastic series of temples at Khajuraho in the north of the State. Between 12th and 16th centuries, the region saw continuing struggles between Hindu and Muslim rulers or invaders. The fortified city of Mandu in the southwest was frequently the scene for these battles, but finally the Mughals overcame Hindu resistance and controlled the region. The Mughals, however, met their fate at the hands of the Marathas, who in turn fell to the British.