The Central region of India gives you a peek into the splendid wildlife, rich heritage and architectural splendours of the country. A journey through India’s core takes in the full spectrum of the country’s history: from the earliest Buddhist caves at Ajanta and Ellora through the splendours of medieval Hinduism at Khajuraho, to splendid wildlife in the national parks of Kanha and Bandhavgarh. Five major river systems flow through this west-central region of India: the Naramada and Tapti in Madhya Pradesh, and the Godavari, Bhima and Krishna in Maharashtra, whose sources lie in the Western Ghats (here known as the Sayadhris) and run eastwards. By trapping the monsoon rains blowing off the Arabian Sea to the west, the mountains form a divide between the lush, densely populated coastal lowlands of the Konkan, and the more arid uplands of the Deccan plateau. The landscape holds enough pilgrimage spots, wildlife sanctuaries, ancient monuments, mountain ranges and remote forests to attract travellers of different tastes. This region creates a colourful amalgamation of culture, cuisine, trade and tradition. And, it certainly gives you the glimpse of splendour that the rich heritage of India offers.
