Madhya Pradesh, a land that holds within its borders a mesmerizing blend of culture, spirituality, natural beauty, and ancient history, is a place where tradition and modernity meet in harmony. From the vibrant streets of its cities to the serene ghats of its rivers, from intricate art and craft to majestic wildlife, the state offers an experience like no other. Known for its rich spiritual heritage, delectable cuisine, and diverse landscapes, Madhya Pradesh is fast becoming a tourism hotspot, attracting visitors from around the world.
In an exclusive interview with Indian Masterminds, IAS officer Bidisha Mukherjee, the Additional Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, we delve into the state’s expansive tourism initiatives that have transformed it into a multi-dimensional destination.
Today, on World Tourism Day, Madhya Pradesh received national recognition as Pranpur, Sabarvani, and Ladpura Khas were declared the Best Tourism Villages by the Union Ministry of Tourism. The Ministry organizes the Best Tourism Village Competition with the aim of promoting community-based values and lifestyles while preserving cultural and natural resources. Pranpur was honored for its craft heritage, while Sabarvani and Ladpura Khas were recognized for responsible tourism. IAS officer Bidisha Mukherjee accepted the awards in New Delhi alongside rural representatives.
These villages offer unique experiences, from Pranpur’s handloom tradition to the serene landscapes of Sabarvani and Ladpura Khas.
The Shift from Wildlife to Multi-Dimensional Tourism
“Traditionally, Madhya Pradesh was known for its wildlife sanctuaries and tiger reserves,” Ms. Mukherjee shares. “We have some of the best wildlife tourism experiences in the country, but today, our focus has broadened.” While places like Bandhavgarh and Kanha continue to be crowd-pullers for their thriving tiger populations, the state has expanded its tourism portfolio to include spiritual, heritage, adventure, and responsible tourism.
Spiritual Tourism: Connecting to the Divine
At the heart of this expansion is the state’s push into spiritual tourism. With Madhya Pradesh being home to two of India’s twelve Jyotirlingas—Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain and Omkareshwar—the state attracts countless pilgrims throughout the year.
Ms. Mukherjee explains how the Mahakal Lok in Ujjain, which surrounds the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple, has transformed the entire area into a grand spiritual and cultural hub. “The development of Mahakal Lok isn’t just about building a beautiful space—it’s about creating an immersive spiritual experience,” she adds. Additionally, projects like Ram Raja Lok in Orchha and Mata Lok in Salkanpur further enrich the spiritual journey for visitors. These sites, which blend religious significance with architectural beauty, are set to become key destinations for those seeking solace and connection to divinity.
Other important spiritual circuits include the Ram Vanagaman Path in Chitrakoot, which traces the path Lord Ram took during his exile. Meanwhile, in Chhindwara, the state is developing Hanuman Lok to honor Lord Hanuman, drawing devotees from all corners.
Heritage Tourism: Rediscovering History
Madhya Pradesh’s architectural heritage is steeped in history, and beyond the iconic Khajuraho Temples, the state is working to promote other heritage towns. “People used to come here mostly for Khajuraho,” Ms. Mukherjee notes, “but now they are also visiting places like Mandu, Chanderi, Maheshwar, and Orchha.” These towns, with their ancient forts, palaces, and temples, offer a glimpse into the grandeur of past eras and are becoming popular for destination weddings and film shoots.
Film tourism is another area seeing remarkable growth. Movies and web series such as Panchayat, Laapata Ladies, Maharani, and Gullak have been shot in locations like Sehore and Hoshangabad. In fact, international projects like The White Tiger, A Suitable Boy, and The Lion have showcased Madhya Pradesh’s unique landscapes to a global audience. “With over 434 film projects already completed, we are increasingly becoming a favored spot for filmmakers,” Ms. Mukherjee reveals.
Adventure Tourism: Thrills Amidst Nature
If you think Madhya Pradesh is only about temples and wildlife, think again. The state has embraced adventure tourism, developing tented cities in spots like Hanumantiya, Kuno, Gandhisagar and Chanderi. These tented cities offer a range of adventure activities, from water sports to air-based adventures, ensuring that thrill-seekers can experience the state’s natural beauty in an exhilarating way.
“We’re offering a mix of activities—whether it’s kayaking, paragliding, or hot air ballooning, there’s something for everyone,” says Ms. Mukherjee. The government has also identified areas for eco-friendly tourism, ensuring that adventure and sustainability go hand in hand.
Responsible Tourism: Authentic Rural Experiences
As global tourism trends lean towards more meaningful and sustainable experiences, Madhya Pradesh has positioned itself as a leader in responsible tourism. One of the most innovative projects in this space is the development of 1000 rural homes, where tourists can immerse themselves in the local culture.
“You can stay in traditional homes, enjoy local cuisine, and engage in heritage walks,” Ms. Mukherjee explains. “This not only provides visitors with an authentic experience but also empowers rural communities by creating livelihood opportunities.” The initiative includes activities such as temple walks, village tours, and experiencing vernacular architecture, all while respecting the environment and local traditions.
Madhya Pradesh is also committed to promoting safe tourism, especially for women travelers. “We’ve taken steps to ensure that women, especially solo travelers, feel secure in every part of our state,” she emphasizes.
“We are opening our MP Tourism outlet in Kidzania to take it further to a larger audience.”
Upcoming projects include the launch of five tourism TV commercials (TVCs), which will introduce Madhya Pradesh’s multi-faceted offerings to a wider audience.
A Destination Like No Other
As Ms. Mukherjee puts it, Madhya Pradesh is now truly a multi-dimensional destination. Whether it’s a spiritual retreat, a heritage walk, a wildlife safari, or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, the state offers something for every traveler. “We have everything except beaches,” she quips. “From the temples of Ujjain to the palaces of Orchha, from the tiger reserves of Kanha to the watersports of Hanumantiya—Madhya Pradesh is a place where every kind of traveler can find their own unique experience.”
