A monsoon sojourn through the heart of India

The pitter-patter of the monsoon rains evokes a sense of adventure. With the fragrance of rain-soaked soil, and the droplets hanging onto the lush green leaves, Madhya Pradesh becomes a sight to behold during the monsoons. Pack your bags and gear up for an adventure in the heart of incredible India.

Pachmarhi

With cloudy skies and rain-drenched greens, a visit to the lush environs of Pachmarhi is a must. Snuggled between the rugged Satpura Range and located at an altitude of 1,067m, the hill station is home to several rare species of flora and fauna, cocooning the town in vibrant natural beauty.

Pachmarhi has a lot to offer for adrenaline-pumping activities. Cycle through the verdant surroundings of the town soaking in each panoramic view or plan a visit to the Satpura Adventure Club (contact details given below). The club offers a wide range of adventure activities like ziplining, ATV Bike rides and much more.

Mandu

Mandu, the city of romance, becomes even more mesmerising in monsoon. The majestic city that celebrates the legendary romance of Sultan Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati, deserves to be explored at leisure. Because during the rains, the place and its surroundings acquire, a sheen of green and the valleys are enveloped with idly floating clouds. Plan a cosy stay at one of the best hotels in Mandu, Malwa Resort, ideally located from the monuments (details mentioned below). 

Look for Afghan influence in the city's architecture, distinctly evident in the famous Jahaz Mahal. When in Mandu, do explore the heritage sites like the Rani Roopmati Pavilion, Hoshang Shah's tomb and Baz Bahadur Palace.

Orchha

Nestled on the banks of the Betwa River, the quaint town of Orchha with its royal cenotaphs seems to be in a time warp. During the monsoons, this historic city looks its best, with the green cover becoming denser and the Betwa river gushing along in full might. Built by Bundela chief Rudra Pratap Singh, the town has a distinct medieval aura that woos you with its charm. 

If the weather allows, you can also try rafting in the Betwa. And don't forget to get the best photographs of the cenotaphs in the drizzle.

Khajuraho

Around 185 km from Orchha is located the UNESCO heritage city of Khajuraho. With the Vindhya Range in its backdrop, the famous temples of Khajuraho take on a new lustre in the rainy season.

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments is a must-visit. Admire the exceptional architecture and the graceful sculptures of deities and celestial bodies adorning its walls. Its expressive designs manage to capture not only the moods and forms of life but also is India's gift to the artistic world. 

At a distance of 21 km from Khajuraho, Raneh Falls, the Grand Canyon of India, is one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Madhya Pradesh. You can also plan a visit to Pandav Falls, a serene waterfall located inside the Panna National Park, located around 34 km from Khajuraho.

Amarkantak

For the spiritual soul, a visit to Amarkantak will fill your heart with happiness and positivity. 

Known as 'Teerthraj - the king of pilgrimages', it is the place where the Vindhya and the Satpura mountains meet the Maikal Hills. 

The monsoon rains add more charm to the town and the forests surrounding it. With the holy Narmada river, the Sone and Johila rivers emerging from here, Amarkantak is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Madhya Pradesh. The rains fill the many waterfalls slicing the mountains, among which the Dudhdhara and Kapildhara Falls are the most magnificent.

The city has a lot to offer spiritually with the group of ancient temples such as Shri Yantra Mandir and Shri Sarvodaya Jain Temple to name a few. The Narmada Udgam Temple is the most visited, with pilgrims satisfying their souls with the iconic sight of the Narmada River from the temple.

End your trip with a visit to the Kabir Chabutra, which is a short distance away from Amarkantak. It is said that this is where Sant Kabir used to meditate and achieved salvation.

To know more about the Heart of Incredible India, please visit the official website of Madhya Pradesh Tourism https://www.mptourism.com/ 

Satpura Adventure Club: +91-9425 367365, 9425310465

Malwa Resort: (07292) 263235, 8349994782