Bhopal, the capital of madhya-pradesh was founded in the 11th century by Raja Bhoj of Paramara dynasty. The city, encompassed by hills, stretches along two artificial lakes, the Upper Lake and the Lower Lake. To the north of the lakes are bazaars and some old mosques flanked by narrow lanes. To the south is the new city with its leafy suburbs and industrial enclaves. Bhopal is also the gateway to visit some fascinating sites in madhya-pradesh. Bhopal is one of the few cities in the country which has been able to retain its old world charm along with all the modern influences. Bhopal faced one of the world's worst industrial disasters - a gas tragedy in December 1984. The toxic gas that leaked from the Union Carbide factory claimed some 5,000 lives. The wounds of this tragedy are still fresh.

Indore, the bustling commercial city of madhya-pradesh was a princely state of British India till 1947. It was ruled by the Maratha Holkasr who had gone against the old customs of not allowing Harijans into the temples. The city holds some magnificent temples, monuments, museums and parks. At the first sight you will come across two sacred rivers - Saraswati and Kham flowing merrily along the city.

Ujjain is situated on the banks of the river Shipra and is one of the seven sacred cities of India. It is also one of the four sites where Kumbh Mela is held. In between the 4th and 5th centuries it was the second capital of the Gupta Empire. The celebrated Sanskrit Poet Kalidasa was from Ujjain. The glory of Ujjain weakened in 13th century after it was sacked by Delhi Sultans.