Trip Overview
The definitive statewide circuit built entirely for the smart traveler. Experience the incredible diversity of Madhya Pradesh—from the carved temples of Khajuraho and the jungles of Bandhavgarh to the street food of Indore—utilizing comfortable, authentic budget homestays and economical guesthouses throughout.
Day 1 Arrival in Gwalior
Arrive in Gwalior. Check into your clean, economical guesthouse. Spend the afternoon exploring the massive Gwalior Fort and the Sas Bahu Temple. Enjoy local street chaat in the evening.
Day 2 Gwalior to Orchha
Take an affordable shared transport or local train to Orchha. Check into a traditional, budget-friendly homestay near the Betwa River. Explore the Orchha Fort complex and Ram Raja Temple.
Day 3 Orchha to Khajuraho
Travel to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Khajuraho. Check into a backpacker-friendly lodge. Spend the afternoon marveling at the intricate carvings of the Western Group of Temples.
Day 4 Panna Excursion
Take a short budget trip to nearby Panna National Park. Enjoy the cascading Raneh Falls and an affordable jeep safari through the reserve. Return to Khajuraho for the night.
Day 5 Khajuraho to Bandhavgarh
Travel deep into tiger country. Check into a basic but cozy eco-lodge on the outskirts of Bandhavgarh National Park. Relax around the campfire and share stories with fellow travelers.
Day 6 Bandhavgarh to Jabalpur
Enjoy a morning safari to spot Royal Bengal Tigers. After lunch, transfer to Jabalpur. Check into a local guesthouse and visit the stunning Dhuandhar Falls and Marble Rocks at Bhedaghat.
Day 7 Jabalpur to Pachmarhi
Drive winding roads to the hill station of Pachmarhi. Settle into a budget-friendly heritage cottage. Enjoy the cool climate and explore the local market.
Day 8 Pachmarhi Exploration
Spend a full day enjoying nature. Trek to Bee Falls, explore the Pandav Caves, and hike up to Dhoopgarh for a magnificent, cost-free panoramic sunset.
Day 9 Pachmarhi to Bhopal
Travel to the City of Lakes, Bhopal. Stop en route to explore the ancient Buddhist monuments at Sanchi Stupa. Check into a smart city guesthouse in Bhopal.
Day 10 Bhopal Sightseeing
Visit the prehistoric cave paintings at Bhimbetka. In the evening, enjoy a budget-friendly boat ride on the Upper Lake and explore the vibrant Chowk Bazaar.
Day 11 Bhopal to Ujjain
Travel to the holy city of Ujjain. Check into an affordable Dharamshala or guesthouse near the ghats. Witness the mesmerizing evening Aarti on the banks of the Shipra River.
Day 12 Ujjain to Indore
Attend the early morning Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar. Travel to Indore in the afternoon. Check into your budget stay and immediately hit Sarafa Bazaar for a legendary, low-cost street food dinner.
Day 13 Mandu Excursion
Take a day trip to the ruined fortress city of Mandu. Explore Jahaz Mahal and the romantic pavilions of Roopmati. Return to Indore for your final night in Madhya Pradesh.
Day 14 Departure
Enjoy a local breakfast of hot Poha and Jalebi before heading to the Indore Airport or Railway Station for your journey home.