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Must Visit Temples in Madhya Pradesh

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas located in the city of Ujjain. Offering an ambiance filled with serenity, the temple draws in a number of pilgrims.

Offering an ambiance that is serene and quiet, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, counted among the best temples in Madhya Pradesh is a great respite to get away from all the chaos and mundanity.

On the day of Maha Shivratri, a huge fair get organized near the temple every year when the temple remains open all night. It’s a beautiful sight to witness. One should plan a visit during this time of the year to experience the grandeur of Madhya Pradesh temples.

Location: Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 4:00 am to 11:00 pm.

 If you’re looking to venture into the unknown, unexplored and untouched, take a trip to the tribal inhabited corners of Madhya Pradesh.

Built-in respect of Lord Vishnu who is also known as Sahastrabahu, this temple is located in Gwalior. The temple was built by King Mahipala and its name gradually changed probably due to mispronunciation.

Saas Bahu Temple boasts of splendid carvings which portray the brilliant artistic skills of the artisans and sculptures of that time. 

The temple is best known for offering the most enthralling views of the city of Gwalior and a hike from Gwalior Fort to the temple is also a preferred activity if the weather is pleasant.

Location: Fort Campus, Near Post Office, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

From the adventure islands of Hanuwantiya and Sailani Tapu to the waters of Narmada and Betwa rivers, water sports in Madhya Pradesh has something unique to offer.

Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Bada Ganesh Ka Mandir is a popular religious tourist attraction in Ujjain and counted among the best temples in Madhya Pradesh. Hundreds of people from different parts of the country throng this temple every year.

The most fascinating aspect of this temple is that apart from the spot, Ganesh Ka Mandir also serves as a place of learning astrology and Sanskrit. This is another reason why it draws in a large number of visitors.  Perfect for those who are not just spiritually inclined, but also wants to learn the ancient language, Sanskrit and keen to practice astrology, a visit to this Madhya Pradesh Temple is a must.

Location: Bada Ganesh Ka Mandir, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 7:00 pm.

From the dense jungle trails to treks to historical places, you can explore a wide variety of hiking trails in Madhya Pradesh.

Also famed as one of the finest temples in the Khajuraho group of temples, Kandariya Mahadeo Temple was built in 1050 BC. Adorned with ornate carvings with over 900 sandstone sculptures, Kandariya Mahadeo Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

With a Shiva Lingam in its garbha griha, Kandariya Mahadeo Temple is a wonderful depiction of medieval architecture that can be appreciated in abundance here.

The beautiful temple is east facing and was built by the popular Chandela ruler Raja Dhandadeva.

Location: Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Road trips are key to fun and relaxation and if you love taking road trips with your friends and loved ones, taking road trips in Madhya Pradesh is not going to disappoint at all as the state is rich in nature, wildlife and history.

Dedicated to Kal Bhairav who is also known as the guardian deity of the city of Ujjain, Kal Bhairav Temple is one of the most visited temples in Madhya Pradesh.

With liquor as one of the main offerings, the temple houses the idol of Kal Bhairav who is considered to be the chief of Ashta Bhairava. 

The famous temple is also related with Tantra cult that was a secret religious sect who flourished on black magic.

Location: Jail Road, Bhairav Garh, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Adventure treks in Madhya Pradesh offer a glimpse into the heritage as well as nature, Not only there are waterfalls but also there are past ruins to take you back in time.

One of the most revered temples of Madhya Pradesh, Chintaman Ganesh Temple is believed to be constructed during the rule of Paramaras. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha whose image is housed in the ‘garbhgriha’.

Dating back to the ancient period, Chintaman Ganesh Temple is famous for brilliantly preserving the age-old charm.

One of the popular legends associated with Chintamani Ganesh Temple is that Lord Ganesh came to earth and created the temple for himself.

The ancient shrine draws in a number of tourists who come here to seek blessings of Lord Ganesha to be relieved of all worries.

Location: Chintaman Ganesh Temple, Chintamani Road, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 6:00 am to 12:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

 If you want to see something that is way beyond usual, there is a range of natural wonders for you to explore in Madhya Pradesh.

One of the only temples of Chandela reign that is still used for worship, Matangeshwara Temple is a famous temple in the Western group of Khajuraho temples.  Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Matangeshwara Temple boasts of one of the largest lingams in North India.

Built about 1100 years ago, Matangeshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and serves as one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in Khajuraho. Shivratri festival is celebrated with a lot of fervour at Matangeshwar Temple and also the most favored time to visit here.

Location: Rajnagar Road, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Iconic places to visit in Madhya Pradesh come in the form of palaces and forts displaying an excellent level of craftsmanship, if architecture and history amaze you this one is for you. 

With Goddess of food, Annapurna is the main deity, Annapurna Temple is a famous pilgrimage site in Indore. The temple is decorated with elaborate carvings and boasts of some splendid architectural display.

Annapurna Temple also has shrines dedicated to Sivan, Hanuman, and Kalabhairava. The revered shrine draws in a number of pilgrims every year and hailed as one of the must-visit tourist destinations in the city of Indore.

Location: Kranti Kriplani Nagar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

If you are someone who loves travelling alone and to places which are quiet and not crowded, there are lesser known and unexplored places in Madhya Pradesh for you.

Considered as one of the most exquisite Jain temples in Madhya Pradesh, Adinath Temple is dedicated to the Tirthankar Adinath who is believed to have founded the religion of Jainism.

The temple is known for having mind-blowing carvings of Yakshis on its three bands of sculptures.

The 11th-century temple depicts similarities to Khajuraho’s Hindu temples and is a must visit if you are fond of history and culture.

Location: Adinath temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

To witness the scenic surroundings and tourist attractions in Madhya Pradesh, you can go cycling in Madhya Pradesh paddling through the most enchanting routes of the state.

Boasting of impressive architectural beauty, Lakshmana Temple is made in respect of the Hindu God Vishnu. It was built by the Chandela Kings and known to be among the largest temples in the western wing of Khajuraho complex.

The temple catches the fancy of every traveller with its gorgeous exhibit of images of more than 600 gods on the exterior wall. 

Lakshmana Temple boasts of a fine architectural plan with an entrance porch, a mandapa, antral, maha mandapa and garbha griha. The wonderful temple is also a delightful visit for photography lovers.

Location: Lakshmana Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

With smooth roads and pleasant weather, the biking routes in Madhya Pradesh will enthral you and make your journey delightful.

Famous for its wonderful architecture, Javari Temple is one of the notable shrines in the Eastern Group of Khajuraho temples. It is a belief that this temple is named after Javari who has owned the land on which the temple is constructed.

The beautiful Temple is known for its immaculate design and carvings that reflects the architectural brilliance of a bygone era.

With various sculptures adorning its walls, Javari Temple is one of the finest examples of ancient architecture.

Location: Eastern Group of Temples, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

If you are in Madhya Pradesh for a jungle adventure, you must complete your vacation fun by undertaking an authentically wild experience at jungle camps in Madhya Pradesh.

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Chaturbhuj Temple was built by Raja Madhukar during the years 1558 to 1573.  The temple is named Chaturbhuj which literally translates to ‘one who has four arms’ referring to Lord Rama.

The temple boasts of ornate decorations with religious symbols on the walls which are wonderful to witness. Denoting striking similarities to the Kushal Mahal in Chanderi, Chaturbhuj Temple is astounding as it doesn’t have any erotic carvings for which the Khajuraho temples are known for.

The temple is also called Jatakari Temple and known for its intricate architecture.

Location: Chaturbhuj Temple, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 9:00 pm.

if you have a thing for guest houses, there is a long list of Madhya Pradesh Tourism guest houses that are sure to meet your requirements and enhance your overall experience of visiting Madhya Pradesh.

One of the most popular Madhya Pradesh temples, Omkareshwar Temple is a famous shrine that is considered among the 12 Jyotirlingas. 

It is located on a Mandhata Island which lies in Narmada river that is known to be shaped in the form of Hindu symbol 'Om’.

 It is one of the most sacred places in for Hindus in Madhya Pradesh and associated with many legends and history that will invite your curiosity for the temple. 

The temple is a must-visit not only if you are spiritually inclined but also if you want to appreciate the scenic beauty of River Narmada and the island where this temple is located.

Location: Omkareshwar Mandir Road, Mandhata, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm.

 Madhya Pradesh is a delight for every kind of traveller, Whether you are looking forward to the adventure of living in the realm of nature or you are wishing to bask in the opulence of royal treatment, Madhya Pradesh will charm you in surprising ways.

Known to be one of the popular shrines in Ujjain which is a major Shaktipeeth, Harsiddhi Temple was built during the reign of Marathas.

The temple’s main deity is Harsiddhi Mata whose idol is painted in dark red colour and stands between the idols of Mahasaraswati and Mahalaxmi.

The temple is famous for the presence of Shree Yantra that is symbolic of the nine forms of Durga and two imposing stambhs that are lighted with hundreds of lamps during the festival of Navratri making it an impressive sight to behold.

Location: Harsiddhi Temple, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Besides the widely celebrated temples and monuments belonging to the bygone ages, there are countless ancient rock shelters and caves in Madhya Pradesh to ignite your curiosity.

One of the most interesting temples in Chitrakoot is the Bharat Milap Mandir which is located along the Parikrama of Kamadgiri. The place where the temple is built is believed to the place where Lord Rama met with his brothers during his period of exile in the Ramayana.

It is accepted that Lord Rama’s brother Bharat with his army and royal family stayed outdoors here. Some of the astounding sights which you can look forward to at Bharat Milap Mandir is the footprints of Lord Rama and his family.

Location: Bharat Milap Mandir, Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

If you love camping in the jungles and close to nature, Camping in Madhya Pradesh is an experience of seamless serenity laced with adventure. 

Parsvanath Temple is a famous 10th-century Jain temple that is renowned for the artistic brilliance of Chandela period. It is one of the biggest temples in the Khajuraho complex with the statue of Lord Parsvanath that was installed here in the year 1860.

Depicting everyday activities, the carvings on the walls of Parsvanath Temple are considered to be among the finest portrayal of simple events of life in the whole temple complex of Khajuraho.

Location: Eastern Group of Temples, Sevagram, Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

When it comes to forts in Madhya Pradesh, you are spoilt for choice, the state is home to countless historical marvels from various ages, and each one has something unique to offer.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped in the form of Pashupatinath, Shri Pashupatinath Temple is one of the famous temples in Mandsaur.

One of the prominent features of the temple is the eight faces of Lord Shiva that are depicted on the Shiva Linga here.

The eight faces are symbolic of eight aspects of Shiva in Shaivism theology. The temple is supposed to be built in the 5th or 6th century and has many interested inscriptions that have helped in ascertaining the dates of many archaeological discoveries in the region.

Location: Pashupatinath Mandir Road, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.

If you love observing details in architecture and ancient buildings, heritage sites in Madhya Pradesh are majorly popular for their impressive architectures and intricate carvings.

Exuding the legacy of ancient dynasties that reigned over Jabalpur, Chausath Yogini Temple is one of the oldest temples. It was built in the 10th century by the rulers of Kalchuri Dynasty and dedicated to Goddess Durga along with 64 yoginis.

Standing through the vagaries of time, Chausath Yogini Temple has witnessed Mughal invasions when it was damaged partially but still considered to be an impressive sight to behold for the tourists.

Location: Chausath Yogini Temple, Bhedaghat, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 7:00 am to 8:30 pm.

From visiting ancient temples to having an adventure in the wildlife sanctuaries of Madhya Pradesh, one can do endless things on a trip to Madhya Pradesh.

Offering an enthralling sight of the city of Bhopal, Laxmi Narayan Temple is one of the popular Madhya Pradesh temples dedicated to Goddess Laxmi.

Encompasses by sprawling green lawns, Lakshmi Narayana Temple is known for its beautiful sculptures that date back to the 12th century.

Laxmi Narayan Temple has the idols of Goddess Lakshmi, Narayana, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and enthralls tourists with its architectural splendor.

Location: Laxmi Narayan Temple, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 4:30 am to 1:30 pm and 2:30 pm to 9:00 pm.

National Parks of Madhya Pradesh are the wildlife hotspot of India that offers a trip into the serenity of nature in the wild world of fascinating animals.

Known for its six feet tall Shiva linga, Gauri Somnath Mandir is one of the most visited temples in Madhya Pradesh. There is a popular legend which says that one can see the figure of his next life in the Shiva linga here which is assumed to have predictive qualities.

Shaped in the form of a star, the temple also has a statue of Nandi outside the sanctum sanctorum and an idol of Goddess Parvati behind the linga.

Location: Omkareshwar Mandir Road, Mandhata, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 6:00 pm.

 From lush green trails for cycling and forested valleys for trekking to gushing rivers for rafting and vast lakes for cruising, Madhya Pradesh proves to be an adventurer’s paradise.

Hosting one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, Mamaleshwar Temple in Omkareshwar is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the region. 

Also known as Amareshwar Temple, the temple is a must visit if you are visiting Omkareshwar. 

The temple boasts of many ancient inscriptions which are more than hundreds of years old and a delight for all the tourists who are fond of history.

Location: Mamleshwar Temple, Omkareshwar, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5: 30 am to 9:00 pm.

Replete with rich history, Temples at Bateshwar are a group of 200 sandstone Hindu temples that should not be missed among Madhya Pradesh temples. Located along the banks of river Yamuna, temples at Bateshwar were built by King Badan Singh Bhadoriya.

The temples are representative of the three major traditions within Hinduism and dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Parvati.

The most spectacular time to visit the temple is during the month of October to November when a grand animal fare is organized attracting tourists from all over the world.

Location: Mear Mitawali Padawali Banmore, Morena, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 4:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Paying respect to Goddess Kalika, this temple is one of the most visited places of spiritual interest in Madhya Pradesh.

There is the idol of Kalika Mata that is considered to be the most astounding feature of this temple and one experiences the transformation of energy or ‘shakti’ into your soul as you stand in front of the idol.

Kalika Mata Mandir in Ratlam is a wonderful place to take your loved ones and enjoy the overwhelming spiritual ambiance of the place.

Location: Anand Colony, Shastri Nagar, Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Encompassed by the breathtaking natural scenery, Taxakeshwar Temple in Mandsaur is one of the most visited Madhya Pradesh temples. The temple is dedicated to the serpent king Taxakeshwar who is revered as Takhaji by the locals in Mandsaur. 

Taxakeshwar Temple reflects the architectural elegance of the 12th century and one of the most striking features of the temple is gorgeous natural water pool that houses a variety of fishes. 

One of the most splendid times to visit Taxakeshwar Temple during every Purnima of Vaisakh month.

Location: Taxakeshwar Temple, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

One of the popular 51 Shakti Peeths, Kalmadhav is known to be more than 6000-year-old and believed to be founded by Suryavanshi Samarat. The ancient temple boasts of fine ponds and kunds with the temple built of white rock.

Located on banks of Shon river, Kalmadhav is believed to be the place where Sati’s right hips fell after her self-immolation.

The temple attracts the most devotees during the festival of Navratri when one can witness many special rituals performed at the temple.

Location: Kalmadhav, Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.

With goddess Durga as the presiding deity, Bijasan Mata Temple is one of the renowned temples perched atop an 800 ft high hillock. The temple is dedicated to the nine forms of Goddess Durga and known for the most extravagant Navratri Mela which takes place twice in a year. 

The sacred shrine boasts of remarkable architecture and offers some picturesque views from the hill.

Location: Bijasan Mata Temple, Salkanpur, Sehore District, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, Shri Dwarkadhish Gopal Mandir in Ujjain is a wonderful example of Maratha architecture. With two feet tall statue of Lord Krishna dressed in silver, this temple speaks of grandeur blending perfectly the ethnic and modern architecture. 

The inner sanctum of the temple is adorned by the silver-plated door which was taken away by Mahmud Ghazni but later recovered by Mahadji Scindia.

The excellent marble-spired temple offers a great visit if you are interested in history and appreciate architectural creativity.

Location: Shri Dwarkadhish Gopal Mandir, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 5:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Perched atop Trikoota Hill, Maihar Devi Temple is one of the beautiful temples after climbing 1063 steps. Attracting flocks of tourists every year, Maihar Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Goddess Parvati.

It is believed that when Sati was carried down by Lord Shiva, it was her necklace that fell down and thus the name ‘Maihar’ was derived for the temple which translates to ‘necklace of mother’. 

The temple is best to visit during the festival of Navratri and Durga Puja when the maximum number of devotees visit.

Location: Maihar Devi Temple, Satna, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Perched on the top of Bhairav Hills by the banks of River Shipra, Bhairav Parvat is a famous temple in Madhya Pradesh. Also called Gadkalika by the locals, the temple boasts of unique architecture with gorgeous stone inscriptions.

The Shakti Peeth is believed to be the place where Ma Sati’s elbow fell after Lord Shiva cut the burnt corpse by Sudarshan Chakra into 52 pieces.

The goddess is revered as Avanti in this temple and always adorned with red which is considered as a sacred color for married women.

Location: Bhairav Parvat, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Sati Anusuya Temple is one of the most serene temples in Madhya Pradesh where it is believed that Lord Rama and Sita visited Sati Anasuya to live and meditate.

The temple is one of the best destinations to take a respite from the mundane activities of the city and enjoy the serene surroundings of Sati Anasuya Temple.

It is believed that when Chitrakoot didn’t receive rainfall for many years, it was Sati Anusuya who prayed and brought the river Mandakini down to the earth.

Location: Sati Anasuya Temple, Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh.

Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.