Category: Madhya Pradesh Tourism

National Tourism Awards 2015 – 2016 | Madhya Pradesh becomes the first state to win the “Hall of Fame” award three years consequtively

Madhya Pradesh is indeed “The Heart of Incredible India”

New Delhi | 27th Sept ‘2017

The Honorable President of India, Mr Ram Nathj Kovind presented the National Tourism Awards across various segments & categories of the travel, tourism & hospitality industry at a function organized by The Ministry of Tourism in New Delhi on World Tourism Day.

Speaking on this auspicious occasion, Mr K. J. Alphons, The Minister of State for Tourism, Government of India felicitated all achievers & committed to transform India into one of the most preferred destinations for travelers from around the world.

India, on the tourism vertical, has reasons to celebrate as it’s growth trajectory is rapid. India’s ranking in the Travel & Tourism Competitive Index 2017 ( TTCI ) of World Economic Forum moved from 65th to 52nd position in 2015 & is now ranked 40th.The last three years have seen India cumulatively improving it’s ranking by 25 places which is a significant achievement.

This was possible because of an open & tourist friendly policy of the Government & the active participation of all stake holders.

Tourism is in an enviable position with the inherent capacity to creat large scale employment,eradicate poverty,benefit local communities economically & socially and to generate awareness and support for conservation of the environment.

India’s Travel & Tourism sector ranks 7th in the world in terms of its total contribution to the country’s GDP, shows a new report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). According to the new data, Travel & Tourism generated INR 14.1 trillion (USD208.9 billion) in 2016, which is the world’s 7th largest in terms of absolute size, the sum is equivalent to 9.6% of India’s GDP. Additionally, the sector supported 40.3 million jobs in 2016, which ranks India 2nd in the world in terms of total employment supported by Travel & Tourism. The sector accounts for 9.3% of the country’s total jobs. India’s Travel & Tourism sector was also the fastest growing amongst the G20 countries, growing by 8.5% in 2016. A further 6.7% growth is forecast for 2017.

Visitor exports, money spent by foreign travellers in India, only represents 12% of tourism revenues and in 2016 totaled INR1.5 trillion (USD22.8bn). This is 5.4% of the country’s total exports, compared to a global average of 6.6%. Data from the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) shows that India received only 9 million international arrivals in 2016, placing it 40th in the world, and a tenth of those received by top-ranking France. However, there is a lot of potential for India to grow their visitor exports. Over the past few months India has already starting to address this gap and made significant changes to visa facilitation, which will help to boost international arrivals. WTTC data suggests that visitor exports will grow by 5.4% in 2017.

India is a tremendous Travel & Tourism economy with a rapidly growing GDP.However, these numbers could be even higher, and that the positive impact of this sector could be more wide-ranging. India has a huge potential to increase its international visitors and, in doing so, it can create more jobs and drive economic growth. The government should continue to adopt policies that encourage international travelers, such as the new visa regime, enable investment in vital infrastructure, and allow companies to do business. India is a beautiful and diverse tourism destination, with the right policies in place it will no doubt continue to grow towards ranking even higher in terms of its tourism economy.

Madhya Pradesh was in the limelight winning many coveted titles.

Madhya Pradesh was conferred with the mentioned awards :

1. Best state in comprehensive development of Tourism

The Government of Madhya Pradesh received this award. Tireless efforts by the Government authorities, development of infrastructures & tourist friendly policies were acknowledged.

 

2.Best civic management of tourist destination

Khargone in Madhya Pradesh won this award in category B.

With its tireless and incessant efforts towards the Swacch Bharat Mission,

Khargone is now among the top 20 cities under the Swachh Sarvekshan 2017.

The city has been targeting all the objectives of civic management, set up

under the mission.

Under the sanitation sector, the city has successfully transformed into an ODF

town. Under the Solid Waste Management Sector, the city has achieved 100%

door to door collection, segregation and transportation of waste. Moreover,

the idea of waste to compost is also being practised efficiently. With efforts of

awareness and infrastructural advancement, Khargone has transformed into

a city with an efficiently managed civic system.

 

3.Best tourist friendly railway station

Ujjain railway station, Madhya Pradesh won this award.

The sacred city of Ujjain is flocked by millions of tourists and devotees every

year. The Ujjain Railway Station connects the city with all major parts of the

country. Gearing up for the holy event of Simhastha Mahakumbha and to

provide better facilities and conveniences, several infrastructural and service

related advancements have been created recently in the Ujjain Railway

Station. These facilities include, more number of retiring rooms, eco-friendly

bio-toilets, installation of energy saving systems, better facilities for differently

abled persons, coach guidance system, restaurants, easy ticket booking

arrangements, automatic ticket vending machines, water vending machines,

public assistance system and varied emergency services and assistance.

 

4.Best Heritage City

Chanderi of Madhya Pradesh was a joint winner.

Built in a narrow valley and located on the banks of Betwa river in Madhya

Pradesh, Chanderi is a best example of the Holistic Heritage Indian City.

Different cultures have harmoniously been co-existing to nurture a rich

heritage here.

With its magnificent heritage, Chanderi exhibits an important interchange of

human values recorded in the history over a span of 1200 years. Several efforts

have been made by the city to conserve and redevelop this ancient cultural

corridor by restoring its historical architecture, arts and culture. Known for

its world famous handcrafted Chanderi Sarees, some of Chanderi’s heritage

marvels include Chanderi Fort, Bada Madarsa, Jama Masjid, Koshak Mahal,

Nizammuddin’s Tomb etc..

 

5.Best Wildlife Guide

Mr Saeeb Khan of Satpura National Park, Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh won this award.

Saeeb Khan has been serving tourists in the Satpura Tiger Reserve,

Pachmarhi for the last 15 years. A passionate professional guide with keen

interest and vast knowledge about geography, flora and fauna, Saeeb has

successfully been guiding thousands of tourists. He has also mentored

several study tours. His untiring efforts have immensely helped tourists in

gaining more knowledge about the mystical Satpura range. Saeeb has been

recognized and feted by several tourism bodies and educational institutes for

his invaluable guidance.

 

6.Excellence in Publishing – Hindi

Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Board received this award for “ Singhasta 2016”.

The book published in Hindi by Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Board elaborating on “ Singhasta 2016” & it’s host city was widely appreciated.

 

7.Excellence in Publishing – English

This award was won by Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Board’s coffee table book “The Heart of Incredible India”.

India, is endowed with delightful forests, rich world heritage sites, and varied

art, crafts & culture. To give a glimpse of these nuggets, a Coffee Table Book

was designed. The book has a luxurious look with the regal Tiger on the cover.

The contents of the book with precise information on various subjects along

with attractive pictures have been compiled by renowned authors with great

passion. This painstaking exercise was done with the sole motive to give the

reader an enriched experience of the State.

 

8.Most Innovative & Unique Tourism Product

Hanuwantiya and Jal Mahotsav, Madhya Pradesh tourism  were felicitated with this award.

Utilising the backwaters created at the Indira Sagar Dam and the Omkareshwar

Dam, the Government of Madhya Pradesh has developed a backwater tourism

hub in the form of Hanuwantiya.

Hanuwantiya is an innovative project which offers the serenity of nature.

Applying a thought of innovation here, the Government of MP has been

organising Jal Mahotsav. This event blends adventure and tranquility together

in one single destination.

The fifteen day extravanganza manifests the cultural ethos of the region while

offering fun sports and adventure activities amid the beauty of nature.

 

9.Best Film Promotion Friendly State/ UT

Madhya Pradesh was again awarded with this title.

Madhya Pradesh offers a rich diversity in terms of culture and locations,

making it a great place for shooting and promoting films. There are nearly

500 picturesque locations in the heartland of India in the form of a sprawling

wildlife terrain, Heritage properties, Pilgrimages and leisure spots.

The State’s dedicated Film Office/Commission facilitates such projects through

a single window clearance with utmost ease and transparency. Madhya

Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation works as a nodal agency for

the same.

 

10.Best State for Adventure Tourism

Madhya Pradesh was judged the best state for adventure tourism.

Madhya Pradesh is home to diverse water bodies, landscapes, jungles, heritage

sites and mountainous terrains which make it a perfect place for Adventure

sports. In the last few years, efforts have been made by the State Government

to promote adventure tourism. Several tourist locations in the state now

offer thrilling adventure activities which include Water Sports, Parasailing,

Trekking, Rock Climbing, River Rafting, Hot Air Ballooning etc. Moreover, the

state with 10 national parks, 25 Wildlife sanctuaries, several rivers, lakes and

mighty mountains is also monitoring these activities for safety and regulations.

 

To know more about the awards, click here.

Visit The Brilliance Of The Past Through A Tour Of Sanchi

Craving a slice of history? Or is a long planned pilgrimage on your mind? Sanchi, one of the most famous places that coloured the history of ancient India, should prove to be the place for you. Steeped in history, knowledge and a surreal vibe that echoes the past, Sanchi is still revered. Tourists from all … Continue reading “Visit The Brilliance Of The Past Through A Tour Of Sanchi”

Craving a slice of history? Or is a long planned pilgrimage on your mind? Sanchi, one of the most famous places that coloured the history of ancient India, should prove to be the place for you. Steeped in history, knowledge and a surreal vibe that echoes the past, Sanchi is still revered.
Tourists from all over the world make their way to Madhya Pradesh not just to enjoy thrilling rides cruising through the dense forests and national parks getting glimpses of the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers and the exotic fauna it offers but Sanchi is also among one of the main attractions. Sanchi was also the seat where Buddhism flourished and consequently met with a setback in the early centuries as a result of various conquests. Declared by UNESCO in the year 1989, Sanchi garnered a place in the list of World Heritage Sites and continues to be the pull for travel enthusiasts, archaeologists and pilgrims alike.
Planning a trip to Madhya Pradesh needs your precious time as there is no dearth of places to visit in this wondrous state. Do you have Sanchi on your travel itinerary? Let us present some of the most exciting places that you can visit in Sanchi while you are touring the neighbourhood.

Sanchi Stupas
Sanchi is synonymous with the word Stupas. These architectural mammoths created during the 3rd century B.C under the reign of Ashoka, are a sight to behold. The Great Stupa, one of the oldest among them is carved with magnificent etchings that never fail to instil within the viewer a sense of awe. Standing tall at 71 feet, the Great Stupa surely towers over all the other touristy sites and overshadows everything in its vicinity. Explore every nook and corner of this great architectural masterpiece or simply stand afar and admire. Disappointment would be the last thing to cross your mind.

Sanchi Museum
Not close behind is the Sanchi Museum, that houses a plethora of exotic objects from the long forgotten past. A popular site for the history buffs, going through the artefacts and relics are sure to take you centuries back. The royal dynasties that were the supreme power of the land, their conquests and the lavish manner in which they spent their days seem to transcend through the numerous relics, leaving visitors with an open mouthed wonder.
There surely is something uncanny about seals and paintings that are products of a rich history. Visit the museum reverberating with history and come back armed with numerous tales of the bygone times.

Gupta Temple
Built in the 5th Century AD by the royal dynasties of the Guptas, this architectural wonder continues to inspire builders all over the globe. The Gupta Temple has been designed to form one of the most mathematically approved structures. The temple indeed makes one feel in awe of the brilliant engineering methods followed by the builders of the past who successfully attempted to make such an imposing monument without having in possession any of the modern equipments that we now take for granted. Sanchi is predominantly a Buddhist pilgrimage centre yet the Gupta Temple catered to people belonging to different religions.
The temple is almost in ruins now but the superior craftsmanship cannot be mistaken.

Ashoka Pillar
A stalwart in the history of architectural creations, the Ashoka Pillar situated south of the Great Stupa is one of the many pillars built by the Emperor during his reign. Ashoka was known to strive for an end to the violence that was a result of warring countries and erected these pillars that were etched with his edicts. The pillar at Sanchi stands at a might height of 50 feet, reflecting the majestic rule during the bygone era and stands as a true representation of one of the most revered Emperors.

Udaygiri Caves
A series of twenty caves, these caves attract thousands from afar due to the sheer beauty that the carvings inside generate. Depicting sculptures and deities belonging to Jainism and Hinduism from the Gupta period(4th century AD), the caves offer a pinpointed glimpse into the past. The caves can be found on the top as well as on the foothills and never fail to inspire with their brilliantly intricate carvings that successfully convey stories of a violent and glorious past.

Do you feel inspired enough to pack and travel to Central India already? We at i4u Travel Services have it all designed for you. From arranging flight and train schedules, hotel bookings, guided tours, safari rides through Pench, Bandhavgarh and Kanha National Parks and much much more, the team at i4u is indeed your perfect touring partner, making your journey as hassle free as is possible.

Travel back centuries, tread the lands where history was created and leave your footprints on the very same by visiting the Heart of Incredible India. A grand time is awaiting you!

Partake In Some Of The Thrilling Activities That Madhya Pradesh Has To Offer

Aesthetically located in the central part of India, Madhya Pradesh inevitably inherited a cultural milieu that remains unmatched due to influences from its surrounding states. Madhya Pradesh proudly conserves its own inherent culture while at the same time radiating & reflecting the true essence of neighbouring states too. The place truly encompasses the beauty that … Continue reading “Partake In Some Of The Thrilling Activities That Madhya Pradesh Has To Offer”

Aesthetically located in the central part of India, Madhya Pradesh inevitably inherited a cultural milieu that remains unmatched due to influences from its surrounding states.
Madhya Pradesh proudly conserves its own inherent culture while at the same time radiating & reflecting the true essence of neighbouring states too.

The place truly encompasses the beauty that people globally associate India with thanks to its towering architectural achievements and vast landscapes devoted to exotic flora. The temples of Khajuraho with its intricate carvings depicting scenes from a bygone era, the palatial buildings of Ujjain & Indore that reflect the royal dynasties of the families that resided there convey an otherworldly presence among the tourists that remains unmatched. The flora and rare fauna that constitute of a variety of wildlife are the other high points of this glorious state that attract visitors from all over the world.

The spirituality that is expressed through the pilgrimage trips to Amarkantak, Maheshwar, Chitrakoot and the famous stupa of Sanchi is unparalleled and has successfully managed to present Madhya Pradesh as one of the most religiously rich places in India. From these wondrous places of religion, to places where you can unwind and be pleasantly taken aback by the works left behind by our ancestors, to numerous parks that have been an abode for endangered species of animals, there is no dearth of touristy places in MP to visit.
However, apart from simply admiring the various sites that tour guides assign to the itinerary, the beauty of Madhya Pradesh can also be enjoyed actively by participating in the various sports and adventure rides that the place has to offer. Yes, jungle safari rides that promise a rendezvous with the national animal of India i.e. the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers is the most popular draw but we would also like to present to you some of the other thrilling activities that you can indulge in during the trip.

 
Trekking
Nature Walks and trekking allow you to experience the plethora of thrills that nature has to offer, first hand. Let your travel itinerary be filled with exciting spots to trek to along with all the safari rides and visits to scenic locations that would probably be done from within an automobile. Pachmarhi, Pench National Parks and trekking through the Satpura ranges offer quite a thrill. Notable tour guides would even insist that you forego the modern comforts and set out to explore the nooks and crannies of Madhya Pradesh on foot. From coming face to face with an exotic bird or crossing a river with the help of a stone bridge, you are guaranteed to quench the adventurous soul yet crave for more.

River Rafting
River Rafting in Orchha on the river Betwa is one of the most thrilling rides that the place has to offer. Tourism packages usually include 90 minutes to 3 hour packages where you can get glimpses of the serene Kanchana Ghat, Shiv Ghat and Note Ghat or can even choose to spend a few moments at each of these river banks if you so please. Enjoying breakfasts and other refreshments are part of these lucrative packages that ensure that the visitors enjoy themselves to the fullest.

Rock Climbing
Another one of the most popular recreational activities that are held outdoors, wearing harnesses and the necessary gear truly instil an adrenaline rush. Pachmarhi offers the ideal place for this activity due to its abundance of hills and mountains and the rocks that create a challenge for even the most experienced. For the faint hearted or the less experienced, artificial rock structures too offer a thrill with its imposing heights and footholds embedded on the surface for a better grip. Make sure you do not miss out on this exiting activity (that would surely test your indomitable spirit) once you visit the state.

Camping
Do you fancy staying inside a tent and be surrounded by the wildlife? Delawadi Jungle Camp has just the solution for you as is staying in Udayagiri. From basking in the serene forests, indulging in star gazing at night and bird watching by day, it is a haven for trekkers. The lush greenery offers an experience that remains incomparable and would definitely rank as one of the most memorable activities long after the trip. Ditch the high end hotel rooms for a couple of days and wrap yourself within the rustic comforts that Mother Nature has to offer.

The outdoor activities that can be participated in while on a trip to the Heartland of India make the long travels truly worthwhile. Tourist places in MP are countless and thus it is up to the travel operators and you to determine your priorities to get the most out of the trip.

The team at i4u Travel Services provides you with the exact experience that you are looking for ensuring that your trip remains as hassle-free as ever.

Festivals and Fiestas: a.k.a Reasons To Visit Madhya Pradesh

The colourful state of Madhya Pradesh oozes a vibrancy and liveliness that remain unparalleled. The bustling streets filled with frantic activity, the nooks and corners that are always animated are some of the images that are associated with the Heartland of India. The place offers a home for people of different religious backgrounds and ethnicity … Continue reading “Festivals and Fiestas: a.k.a Reasons To Visit Madhya Pradesh”

The colourful state of Madhya Pradesh oozes a vibrancy and liveliness that remain unparalleled. The bustling streets filled with frantic activity, the nooks and corners that are always animated are some of the images that are associated with the Heartland of India. The place offers a home for people of different religious backgrounds and ethnicity and this contribute to the vivid cultural diversity, emergence of numerous religious festivals, fairs and cultural fiestas.

The place is synonymous with Tiger sightings, Jungle Safaris and the exotic flora and fauna that are spread across the expansive parks. Kanha, Pench and Bandhavgarh National Parks are frequented by visitors all the year round and always find a spot in the travel itineraries. Yet the hive of activity that animate Madhya Pradesh every few weeks are left outside the spotlight and travelers are hardly aware of them unless they time their visits around these festivals. The cultural hubbub of Madhya Pradesh presents a sight to behold with their flurry of activities that encompass and celebrate not only religious occasion but also mark various important days that contribute towards the history of the land.

Madhya Pradesh looks its best and exudes a certain charm during these times of the year when the festive feel lingers in the air. Following are a few of the most popular festivals that are celebrated with much pomp and gusto in the various cities of the state.

Khajuraho Festival

Held in the first weeks of February, the extravagant dance festival lasts almost 7 days every year. The festival is organised to pay a tribute to the Gods and Goddesses who were the original patrons of music and are thus held opposite the Chitragupta and Vishwanatha Temples in open-air stages. Dance forms ranging from Odissi, Manipuri, Bharatnatyam, Kathakalli and many more are magnificently displayed during these days paying homage to their respective states.

Tansen Music Festival

The festival that spans four days and based in Gwalior offers an excellent platform for music lovers from to showcase their talents in front of the world. The festival is organised to pay tribute to one of the first musical geniuses that India ever witnessed who elevated the status of folk music, Tansen. The performances are held under Tansesn’s tomb and present a splendid affair that is remembered long after the festival.

Navratri

Navratri is celebrated across Madhya Pradesh in the months of September and October and as the name denotes, the festival spans nine days. It marks the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon (Ravana) and the grand festivities truly make the trip to MP worthwhile. From songs, dances, fairs, street stalls displaying a multitude of trinkets, the entire state hardly spend a night asleep during the Navratri Celebrations. If nothing else, let travel agents plan the trip around these times for you to witness the splendour of the bonfire which document the “destruction of Evil” by burning a giant effigy of Ravana.

Ujjain’s Kumbh Mela

Ujjain’s Kumbh Mela that is held once every twelve years is the perfect scenario to witness the devotional and religious significance that India has to offer. Attended by thousands of tourists from all over the world to take a dip in the holy river Shipra, the conglomeration of devotees truly leaves one awed. Kumbh Mela spans an entire month and during this auspicious month hundreds of under-priviledged people are fed, religious functions are held and fair are attended. The month long festivities indeed offer a spectacle that must not be missed.

Akhil Bhartiya Kalidas Samaroh

A treat for the ears and the eyes, this cultural fest pays its respects to the poet Kalidasa and is held in the cultural hotspot of the state, Ujjain. The festival sees the assembly of poets, elocutionists and scholars from all over India who successfully inspire the audience with their exquisite performances. The festivities make the literature and art lovers’ dreams come true. Even the plays that are staged have socio-political resonances that remain true to the present conditions.

The team at i4u Travels not only creates the perfect travel itinerary catering to your specific preferences but also makes sure that you do not miss out on the cultural extravagances that the place has to offer. From booking hotels, pick-ups, drop-offs, suggesting convenient locations to dine to arranging for the much sought after Safari Rides in Kanha and Bandhavgarh National Parks, i4u Travels do not give you much reason to enlist additional help while planning the trip.

What are you waiting for? Come, soak in the festivities and spot a tiger or two.

Travel To Madhya Pradesh From The United States And Have Lasting Memories

So you have heard a lot about the pristine yet vibrant land of India. It’s vibrant culture that is both varied and unique attracts people from across the world. To satisfy your wanderlust & quench your thirst for wildlife, heritage & spirituality, you by default are drawn towards Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh, geographically located in … Continue reading “Travel To Madhya Pradesh From The United States And Have Lasting Memories”

So you have heard a lot about the pristine yet vibrant land of India.

It’s vibrant culture that is both varied and unique attracts people from across the world.

To satisfy your wanderlust & quench your thirst for wildlife, heritage & spirituality, you by default are drawn towards Madhya Pradesh.

Madhya Pradesh, geographically located in the middle of India & also known as The Heart of Incredible India ideally represents the conglomeration of cultures presenting you with a world that still remains faithful to the awe-inspiring times of yore.

The multi dimensions of Madhya Pradesh tourism specifically wildlife & heritage attracts large number of international tourists as well.

The quaint, tranquil nature of the towns and cities, the abundance of flora and fauna & the heritage value of the destinations indeed offers a welcome respite from the chaos and bustle of the cities in the western region of the world. The efficiently connected and well mapped travel routes and the frequency of flights to and fro, visiting Madhya Pradesh no longer needs elaborate planning sessions and booking of the flights almost a year in advance.

With i4u Travels’ efficient coordination you can now have the whole of the travel itinerary prepared long before you even board the flight. The itinerary includes hotel bookings, transportation, pick-up and drop-off and also books the elusive Safari Rides for you ensuring that your time spent there is completely hassle free and inspiring to say the least.

The western countries have a long standing reputation of being drawn towards the spirituality that India promises.

And what better place to locate it other than the Heart of Incredible India?

Not only do the spiritual and religious sites attract hundreds of tourists all the year round but the National Parks that Madhya Pradesh has no dearth of thrive with activity and are considered some of the prime tourist spots.

Following are some of the more famous places to visit when in Madhya Pradesh that is guaranteed to remain etched onto your minds serving as a catalyst for your next visit.

National Parks of Madhya Pradesh

The national parks of Madhya Pradesh are a sight to behold.

Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Panna & Satpura  National Park indisputably attract more tourists with a promise of an encounter with a Royal Bengal Tiger.

The landscape is to be awed for, the flora & fauna relished & the hospitality cherished.

Sanchi

A list of the top historical and religious sites to visit in Madhya Pradesh will remain incomplete without the mention of the Sanchi Stupa. The former Buddhist pilgrimage and educational centre Sanchi is the epitome of what MP can offer to the world in terms of grand architecture and intricate designs. It has even been granted the status of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Khajuraho

Another of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, it is believed that the place was an actual seat of religion and learning. Khajuraho also boasted a total of 85 temples under the reign of the Chandela Dynasty. Only 22 of these are still accessible and continue to inspire architects of the present times.

Orchha

Visit Orchha to remain in awe of the intricate creations of the people of ancient India. From Sawan Bhado (manual air coolers) to Jehangir Mahal, Dinman Hardaul’s Palace,Raj Mahal to stunning temples like the Laxmi Narayan Temple and Ram Raja Temple, Orchha indeed is a traveller’s delight.

Madhya Pradesh is guaranteed to satiate even the most wanderlust of souls. For a detailed overview of the experiences that are in store for you and which would make such a long trip completely worth your savings and time, do visit i4uTravels at their website, www.i4utravels.com

Visa

Applying for a tourist visa for citizens of the United States is a simplified process.

Mentioned below are a few links which will aid in going about the process in a hassle-free manner:

Government of India: https://goo.gl/V5AQRX

United States Consulate : https://goo.gl/1Cy6GW

International Tiger Day, Significance & An Invite To Celebrate This Exciting Affair In The Tiger Reserves of Madhya Pradesh

International Tiger Day is an annual extravaganza to raise awareness for tiger conservation as well as its implications. This is held on the 29th of July each year as was decided in 2010 at the St. Petersburg Tiger Summit. The first & foremost query to be addressed is why so much hype on Tigers & … Continue reading “International Tiger Day, Significance & An Invite To Celebrate This Exciting Affair In The Tiger Reserves of Madhya Pradesh”

International Tiger Day is an annual extravaganza to raise awareness for tiger conservation as well as its implications. This is held on the 29th of July each year as was decided in 2010 at the St. Petersburg Tiger Summit.

The first & foremost query to be addressed is why so much hype on Tigers & its conservation.

In 1900, approximately 100,000 tigers were estimated to be living in the wild.

In the last 100 years,Tigers were almost on the brink of extinction as we lost more than 97% of them due to habitat loss, poaching as well as other reasons.

Out of the 3891 tigers worldwide, India is home to 2,226 wild tigers which is ⅔ of the world population followed by Russia & Indonasia.

Apart from the aesthetic beauty of the species itself, there are very crucial social economic reasons too demanding its active & responsible conservation.

A Tiger reserve is just not earmarked for the Tiger itself. They house many other animals such as the elephant, rhino, langur, barasingha, mongoose, river dolphin, olive ridley turtle, crocodile — not to speak of the millions of herbs, plants and trees.
Tigers are what conservationists scientifically term as the   “UMBRELLA” species. By attempting to conserve them, we save everything beneath their ecological umbrella – everything connected to them – including the world’s last great forests, whose carbon storage mitigates climate changes.

For the benefit of the commercially inclined, a tiger reserve offers the following :

  • Employment
  • Generation Agriculture (incidentally the famous IR-8 rice was discovered from the wild rice plants found in one such reserve)
  • Fishing fuel Wood
  • Fodder and Grazing
  • Timber
  • Pollination of Plants
  • Tendu Leaves
  • Carbon Storage and Sequestration (vital for climate protection against global warming)
  • Water and its Purification by Filtering Organic Wastes
  • Soil Conservation
  • Nutrient Cycling and moderation of Extreme events such as Cyclone Storms, Flash Floods.
    The other important verticals are cultural ones like tourism, education, research and development, and spiritual ones (like visiting temples within some of them).
    There was a recent article where Tigers were compared with Mangalyan ( India’s Mars Orbiter Mission ). The comparison may seem to be very bizarre but the new bio-economic analysis threw up interesting statistics, stating saving two big cats gives more value than the cost of India’s much-hyped maiden mission to Mars. The one-of-its kind analysis by a group of Indo-Australian team of scientists had published a paper titled ‘Making the hidden visible: Economic valuation of tiger reserves in India‘ in the journal Ecosystem Services. The team analysed the economic benefits accruing to the country from 6 Tiger reserves namely Corbett, Kanha, Kaziranga, Periyar, Ranthambore & Sundarbans. It says saving two tigers yields a capital benefit of about Rs 520 crore; in comparison ISRO’s maiden mission to mars Mangalyaan cost the country Rs 450 crore.According to the last estimate, India is home to 2,226 adult tigers which would mean a capital benefit of about Rs 5.7 lakh crore — almost equivalent to a third of the total currency that was demonetised by the government!

So conservationists say saving tigers makes a very good economic sense!

With only a few hundreds of tigers that still roam freely, the onus is on us to ensure that they continue to do so and also help in increasing their population to turn them into a thriving race yet again.

Madhya Pradesh, affectionately called as the “Tiger State of India” is abode to a significant population of India’s Tigers. Tourists & wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to Madhya Pradesh as it figures in the list of “Places to see Tigers in India”. With its expansive and dense forests and grasslands, the Heartland of India provides the perfect haven and sustenance for tigers. The state has also gained International acclaim when it was featured in the list of places from around the world that can be visited for tiger sightings.

A Trip to the National Parks of Madhya Pradesh Namely

Kanha, Bandhavgarh, Pench, Panna & Satpura will quench your thirst & portray a beautifully drawn picture of flora & fauna.

We at i4u Travels ensure that you can get your fill of tiger sighting leisurely, anytime of the year. Kanha National Park, Pench National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park are some of the more popular places that travelers keep on their radar while visiting Madhya Pradesh. Travel itineraries are designed enabling exclusive visits to the parks and the tour packages too allow a primary focus on these locations.

Bandhavgarh National Park with its dense flora provides an excellent atmosphere for tigers to reside. Spanning over an area of 446 sq kms, Bandhavgarh was awarded the status of a National Park in 1968. It is renowned for its high density of tigers and is frequented by tigers all the year round. The Park is divided into three zones (Magadhi, Tala, Khitauli) for tourists to experience the area in an enhanced manner.

Kanha National Park was officially known as a Tiger Reserve in the year 1973 and was ranked among the “Top 10 Famous Places For Tourists To Visit In India”. The area is vast and covers around 940 sq kms. Similar to Bandhavgarh Park, the area too is divided into four zones (Kanha, Kisli, Sarhi, Mukki) that allow visitors to take in the magnitude of the varieties of wildlife that have found a home in the dense deciduous forests.

Pench National Park, the final pit stop for Tiger Sighting was declared a sanctuary in 1977 and a national reserve in 1983. Though it comes later in the list of must-visit places to see tigers, it is an important place to travel to see the exclusive and nearly extinct Royal Bengal Tigers. The Park is divided into three zones (Touria, Karmajhiri, Jhamtara) and spans an area of 758 sq kms.

Safari Rides are one of the exciting ways to get around these parks and take in the exotic views that these parks have to offer. These can be pre booked and the services tailored to meet the specific demands of the clients and are the highlights of the entire trip.

i4u Travel Services is proud to be a part of TOFT –  ( Travel Operators for Tigers ) and  advocates & supports responsible tourism.

Come, visit Madhya Pradesh to celebrate this auspicious day and reward yourself with an experience of a lifetime amidst these mighty beasts.

 

Revive Yourself And Get Spiritually Elevated In The Heart Of India

Travel plans tend to become overwhelming & sometimes confusing, especially when it comes to planning a holiday trip to a multi dimensional destination like Madhya Pradesh. The sheer number of places that can be visited and admired will ensure that you keep revisiting the Heartland of India quite frequently. From the rare species of wildlife … Continue reading “Revive Yourself And Get Spiritually Elevated In The Heart Of India”

Travel plans tend to become overwhelming & sometimes confusing, especially when it comes to planning a holiday trip to a multi dimensional destination like Madhya Pradesh. The sheer number of places that can be visited and admired will ensure that you keep revisiting the Heartland of India quite frequently. From the rare species of wildlife to the exquisite flora, to the heritage sites that are renowned for their architecture and historical significance to the destinations of pilgrimage and spiritual importance, Madhya Pradesh has something for every wandering soul.

While discussing a holistic travel plan of Madhya Pradesh, it is obvious that the talk isn’t complete without a mention of the plethora of national parks and Tiger Safaris- that attract the most number of tourists all year round. The state is famous for its high density of tigers along with multiple rare species that have found a home there. Though, these are some of the obvious attractions that tourism packages highlight, we here at i4uTravels strive to bring to you options to visit some of the gems that the place has to offer but that which often get overlooked by tourists.

Away from the hustle and bustle of the main city squares, Madhya Pradesh rewards you with serene spiritual places to relax and unwind that are sure to rejuvenate your entire being.

Following are some such sites that you can place on your travel itinerary and treat yourself to those nooks of Madhya Pradesh that deserve to be promoted more:

Maheshwar

Maheshwar, formerly known as Mahishmati, is a temple town situated on the banks of the holy river Narmada. The place is all the more significant as it finds a mention in the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The beautiful temples and mighty forts of Maheshwar is a testament to the times when royalty reigned. Not to mention,  the hand-woven ‘Maheshwari Sarees’ that contain traces of the lost past.

The erstwhile abode of the great Maratha queen, Rajmata Ahilya Devi, a visit to Maheshwar still reminds one of the eminent royal ambience once enjoyed here.
Do not miss an evening boat ride on the Narmada as the subtle sense of folklore and mystery become all the more apparent when the reflections of these grand architectural masterpieces get beautifully reflected on the river water reminding you a little of the myths you listened to as a child.

Chitrakoot

Chitrakoot’s spiritual association range back to the times of the hallowed Rama and Sita who were known to have spent the majority of their exiled years in these forests nestled between the Vindhya ranges. These tranquil grounds are a popular pilgrimage site and are significant due to the mystical tales of incarnations and blessings of mythological beings.
The Sati Anasuya Temple, the Gupt Godavari, Janki Kund, Sphatik Shila and Ramghat and multiple other tourist sites, situated on the tranquil river banks are some of the many gems that Chitrakoot rewards the travellers with.

Sanchi

Sanchi,one of the three UNESCO World Heritage sites is synonymous with Buddha Stupas that are hemispherical structures which house Buddha’s relics. The stupas, the temples, monasteries and the globally renowned Ashoka Pillar are some of the architectural wonders of Sanchi that continue to inspire the world with their masterful engineering even to this day. These sacred stupas also underwent restoration in the early 20th century and were reverted to their former glorious state.

Madhya Pradesh tourism is incomplete without a mention of the ancient Udaygiri Caves that were built during the reign of Chandragupta 2 and have distinctive features of that period, containing some of the oldest cave temples in India. Sanctuaries that date back to the 5th century and are steeped in mythology can be found in abundance amidst the hills.

A custodian of the early Gupta sculpture,cave 5 in Udaygiri has a magnificient sculpture of Vishnu in the Varaha avatar. The God, personified as a serpent (naga) is depicted as a being controlling the waters and carrying the Earth Goddess on his tusk.
There is no fixed period to visit Madhya Pradesh as each season offers a unique view of this wondrous state. Make the best of the services available at i4uTravels and be assured to have all your touring demands met. From booking hotel rooms to providing a travel itinerary that suits your test and also keeping in mind of modes of transportation as well as recommending & booking the best Tiger Safari,  i4utravels will not disappoint you.

Go, indulge yourself in the laps of Mother Nature and be spiritually inspired.

Visit Madhya Pradesh, The Heart of Incredible India.

Make Your Way To Madhya Pradesh During The Monsoons

Madhya Pradesh, the Heartland of India, bound by states all around is a traveller’s delight. Though generally humid, it does get its fair share of monsoon showers during the months of June.

Madhya Pradesh, the Heartland of India, bound by states all around is a traveller’s delight. Though generally humid, it does get its fair share of monsoon showers during the months of June. Continue reading “Make Your Way To Madhya Pradesh During The Monsoons”