As summer is already here, you must have started looking for pretty hill stations to enjoy vacations with your friends and family. The temperature is on the rise, and so is the travel fever. If you are the one looking for offbeat, less crowded, and tranquil hill stations to visit this summer, we've got you covered. Often called the 'heart of India', Madhya Pradesh is the central state commonly known for its history, culture, and ancient temples. However, MP also offers the serenity of nature with cascading waterfalls, lush green forests, and stunning hill stations. And not just that, it also has plenty of activities including jungle safari, trekking, hiking, and birdwatching for the adventure lover.
So, if you are planning a summer escape, here is a list of 5 must-visit hill stations of Madhya Pradesh:
5 Must-Visit Hill Stations Of Madhya Pradesh:
1. Pachmarhi: Commonly known as the 'Queen of the Satpuras', it is a beautiful hill station in the Hoshangabad district. Pachmarhi is the highest point of MP, located at an altitude of 1067 metres. With many secret waterfalls including Apsara Vihar, Duchess Fall, Sangam, and The Bee Falls, which tumble over jagged rocks facing northwest, it gives relief from blistering heat. Pop into the local cave pavements estimated to be 10,000 years old during the time of Pandavas.
Pachmarhi is also known for its wildlife. It has The Satpura Tiger Reserve where you can find several large mammal species, including Tiger, Leopard, Chital Deer, Sambar Deer, wild bear, etc. In Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, you can find more than 1,000 plant species, 50 mammal species, and 250 bird species. It is also known for its rich cultural heritage and several tribal communities, including the Baiga, Gond, and Korku tribes.
Being MP's most famous hill station, Pachmarhi has something to cater to all, whether you are coming solo, with friends, or with family.
2. Shivpuri: Located at a height of 478 metres above sea level, Shivpuri is one of the major tourist destinations in Madhya Pradesh, offering a respite from the heat. Shivpuri has some top-notch attractions like Mahadev National Park, Chhatri, and Sakhya Sagar Lake, making tourists lost in its natural allure. Earlier known as Sipri, Shivpuri has a rich history of the Mughal period, so if you are keen on knowing history, there you go.
Shivpuri is one of the calmest and cleanest places in MP, becoming a perfect soul-soothing destination for your holidays.
3. Mandu Hill: UNESCO World Heritage site, Mandu is an ancient city of Madhya Pradesh, considered the symbol of architectural excellence. If you are a history lover, this will be your dream place to explore. Belonging to the Malwa region, this old city has several places to visit like Jahaz Mahal, Rani Rupmati's Pavilion, Baz Bahadur's Palace, Jami Masjid, Hindola Mahal, and Champa Baoli. For a stunning sunset view, you should visit Mandu Fort, which also has a magnificent man-made lake named Sagar Talab.
This beautiful hill station is in the lap of the Narmada valley which gives a soothing view of the Narmada river. To cool down your evenings, do not forget to visit the banks of the river.
4. Tamia Hill: A less explored and less crowded hill station in Madhya Pradesh, Tamia is located near the Satpura National Park. Tamia Hill is a hidden tourist destination in Central India where you can indulge in activities like trekking, camping, and nature walks in Patalkot Valley. Historic churches and museums are other major tourist spots of the hill station.
With lush green trees and a cool breeze around the valley, MP's this hill station will allow you to enjoy views like Nanital and any other hill station. You can spend some quiet time amidst nature refreshing yourself from the noise of the metro cities.
5. Amarkantak: Another must-visit hill station of Madhya Pradesh is Amarkantak. Known as 'The King of Pilgrimages', this place holds a specific value in the Hindu religion because of the Sangam of the three rivers Son, Narmada, and Johila. Tourists prefer to spend their time near river banks diving into spirituality and nature together. Amarkantak also has breathtaking natural views and thriving flora and fauna to make your vacations full of greenery.
The best thing about this place is that you can visit it throughout the year. You can explore Narmada Kund, Sonmunda Amarkantak, Sarvodaya Jain Temple, Shri Yantra Mandir, etc to make your trip worth visiting.
READ: Summer Vacation Destination: Beat The Heat This Summer With Rajasthan's Only Hill Station, Mount Abu
Accommodation And Connectivity:
Madhya Pradesh has multiple budget-friendly and luxury stay options as an add-on to your trip. Pachmarhi and Shivpuri have some unique homestays that you can book in advance for a relaxing and luxurious vibe. You can easily find dorm beds under Rs. 500 and hotels ranging from Rs. 1500 to Rs 20,000 per night. Along with suitable stay options, all the hill stations are also well connected through road and railway. You can choose to drive your own vehicle or use public transport to reach the hill stations.
Other Places To Cover During Your Madhya Pradesh Visit:
Madhya Pradesh has a clean, calm, and joyful ambience that attracts tourists throughout the year. Apart from these hill stations, Madhya Pradesh has a few other well-known tourist spots you should visit—UNESCO World Heritage site Khajuraho is one of them, notably known for its ancient temples. Beautiful temples adorned with carvings serve as evidence of the state's ancient and rich history here.
Bhopal has a beautiful serene lake to make your evening walks memorable. Indore is known for its cleanliness and greenery. Next is Bhedaghat, known for the Dhuandhar Falls. Boating in Bhedaghat is also fascinating. Another popular city, Gwalior, boasts hilltop forts that narrate the glorious past of the city and state.
So, if you are planning a trip this summer vacation, Madhya Pradesh's hill retreats and historical monuments are a must-visit.
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