In a concerted effort to enhance collaboration between tourism stakeholders of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, and to boost inbound tourist traffic to Madhya Pradesh, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board organised a comprehensive Roadshow on Friday, 18 July, at Jai Mahal Hotel, Jaipur. This initiative was held in preparation for the upcoming Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart (October 2025), and the Regional Tourism Conclaves scheduled in Rewa (26–27 July 2025), Gwalior (August 2025), and Indore (September 2025). The Roadshow saw the participation of eminent filmmakers and social media influencers as well.
Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, remarked, “Madhya Pradesh is known as the ‘Heart of India’—not just geographically, but for its rich cultural diversity, historical heritage, natural abundance, and heartfelt hospitality. The state is emerging as a global tourism destination, offering everything a traveller desires. Our vision is to showcase the lesser-known facets of Madhya Pradesh to the world. Tourism, to us, is not limited to sightseeing—it is an experience. Be it cultural immersion, cuisine, folk traditions, or local life—our focus is on curating experiential, sustainable, and community-empowering tourism offerings that resonate with the needs of today’s discerning traveller.”
Stakeholders Deliberate on Investment Potential in Tourism Sector
The event facilitated dialogue between travel operators, hoteliers, and tourism stakeholders from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, exploring bilateral collaborations and investment opportunities. This strategic exchange is expected to bolster regional tourism while contributing to the broader vision of national tourism growth.
A Glimpse into Madhya Pradesh’s Rich Cultural Legacy
The Roadshow also served as a window into Madhya Pradesh’s profound cultural heritage. Through a detailed presentation, delegates were introduced to the state’s natural, historical, religious, and rural tourism offerings.
Tourism Highlights of Madhya Pradesh:
- Tourist Footfall: In 2024, Madhya Pradesh welcomed 134.1 million tourists. Religious and spiritual destinations like Jyotirlingas Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar, along with Chitrakoot, Maihar, and the sacred origin of River Narmada at Amarkantak, continue to attract devotees and seekers alike.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The state boasts 3 inscribed and 15 tentative UNESCO World Heritage sites—accounting for 25% of India’s total. The inscribed sites include the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, the Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, and the Sanchi Stupa.
- Intangible Cultural Heritage: The Sangeet Natak Akademi, as India’s nodal agency for UNESCO, has recognised three elements from Madhya Pradesh in its National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage: the tribal dance Bhagoria, Gond tribal painting, and the Narmada Parikrama pilgrimage.
- Biodiversity Distinctions: Madhya Pradesh holds the unique honour of being known as the Tiger State, Leopard State, Cheetah State, Gharial State, Vulture State, Wolf State, and a Green, Clean and Safe State.
- Upcoming Signature Events: Major festivals include the Gandhi Sagar Forest Retreat & Festival in Mandsaur (from 12 September), Kuno Forest Retreat & Festival in Sheopur (from 5 October), and Chanderi Eco Retreat (from 25 October).
- Connectivity Initiatives: The PM Shri Tourism Air Service is operational from Bhopal, Indore, Singrauli, Satna, and Rewa—enhancing air connectivity to key regions.
Seamless Connectivity Between Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan
The two states enjoy robust connectivity through road, rail, and air, fostering greater tourism, commerce, and cultural exchange. Cities in Rajasthan such as Kota and Chittorgarh provide access to Shivpuri, Gwalior, and Satna in Madhya Pradesh. A well-integrated railway network connects major cities across both states, and air travel has become increasingly convenient via Indore, Bhopal, Jaipur, and Udaipur.
World-Class Hospitality—From Luxury to Homestays
Madhya Pradesh offers a diverse range of accommodation options catering to every traveller’s preference. From luxury chains like Taj, Marriott, Radisson, Ramada, The Park, and Clarion Inn in cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Jabalpur, to heritage stays in royal palaces and havelis—the state ensures a memorable experience. Over 200 homestays provide authentic rural hospitality for immersive cultural tourism.
Boundless Investment Opportunities in Tourism & Hospitality
The state’s new Tourism Policy 2025 provides robust incentives to attract investment. Under this policy, land parcels, wayside amenities, and heritage properties are allocated via an e-tender process. Land is available on 90-year lease terms, with minimal stamp duty and registration charges. For Ultra-Mega Tourism Projects exceeding ₹100 crore investment, the government may directly allocate land.
A Flourishing Hub for Filmmaking
Madhya Pradesh is rapidly becoming a sought-after destination for film tourism. The Film Facilitation Cell (FFC) operates as a single-window system for easy approvals. Film permissions are guaranteed within specified timeframes under the Public Service Guarantee Act.
Since the implementation of the film policy, over 400 film projects have been shot in the state. Productions such as Streeand Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, Sui Dhaaga, Laapataa Ladies, The Railway Men, Padman, Dhadak 2, Panchayat, Kota Factory, Gullak, and Citadel have all captivated audiences nationwide.
The Government of India had conferred the “Most Film-Friendly State” award to Madhya Pradesh for the period 2017–2020.