Holiday Calendar 2024: Discover the Wonders of Madhya Pradesh!

With 17 gazetted holidays and 30 additional days off, 2024 is going to be a year filled with exciting long weekends. Take advantage of these opportunities to embark on delightful journeys and explore the captivating landscapes of the Heart of India. Plan your adventures in 2024 with a detailed list of long weekends and fantastic destinations in Madhya Pradesh!

January: Start the year on a high note with an extended Republic Day weekend! Head to Hanuwantiya, a picturesque island situated on the bank of one of Asia's largest reservoirs, the Indira Sagar Lake. Enjoy luxurious camping amidst serene surroundings, and partake in thrilling water, land, and air adventures. Create cherished memories on this refreshing getaway.

March: March brings with it a delightful double dose of joy, as Maha Shivratri falls on a Friday, blessing you with a blissful three-day break. This could be an ideal opportunity for a spiritual sojourn to Ujjain and Omkareshwar, both adorned with legendary temples devoted to Lord Shiva. Following this divine retreat, the Holi weekend unfolds, commencing on Monday, the 25th. You can take a leave on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, getting a joyous nine-day break, as 29th is also a Good Friday holiday.

Venture into the lively streets of Indore during the Gair celebration (Rangpanchmi), immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry. Indulge your palate in the diverse and delectable street food offerings that grace the markets of Indore. After falling in love with the cleanest city in India, unearth nearby treasures such as Mandu, and the historic city of Maheshwar. While on your journey to Maheshwar, don't miss the opportunity to take a refreshing halt at the mesmerising Jam Gate, where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes while savouring roadside corn and much more.

April: April beckons you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Madhya Pradesh! 

With Gudi Padwa on the 9th, Cheti Chand on the 10th, and Eid-ul-Fitr on the 11th, three consecutive holidays create the perfect opportunity for a memorable escape. Take a leave on Friday, the 12th, and relish a rejuvenating 6-day break.

Plan a trip to Pachmarhi, the exclusive hill station of Madhya Pradesh, offering mesmerising natural wonders, gushing waterfalls, old-world British architectural charm, historical sites and sacred spiritual abodes like Churagarh Temple and Jatashankar. After exploring the queen of Satpura, Pachmarhi, venture towards the Satpura Tiger Reserve.

The Satpura Tiger Reserve is a habitat for 52 species of mammals, 31 reptiles, and 300 species of birds, including 14 endangered ones. The reserve is also home to the Indian Giant Squirrel, Flying Squirrel, and Leaf-nosed bats. 

What makes this reserve unique is its commitment to pollution-free activities. Cycling, canoeing, and trekking are allowed, offering visitors a chance to make beautiful memories amidst the natural beauty of the Madai zone in Satpura. From Satpura Tiger Reserve, you can also head to Tawa or Tamia for a serene getaway. 

May: Plan a refreshing jungle getaway in May for a rejuvenating experience!

Parshuram Jayanti on Friday, the 10th, creates a three-day window, ideal for an immersive jungle safari experience in the Heart of India. Head to Pench Tiger Reserve, renowned as the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's 'The Jungle Book.' Immerse yourself in the landscapes that captivated Kipling's imagination, bringing Mowgli and his friends to life.

Adding to its allure, Pench Tiger Reserve has recently been recognised as the country's first Dark Sky Park (DSP). Marvel at the beauty of nature as you embark on a safari during moonlit hours, seizing the chance to witness the majesty of nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.

During the peak temperature hours, enjoy staying at luxurious properties that offer a plethora of recreational activities, providing a relaxing stay. Extend your trip with a leave on the 13th for a delightful four-day experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the natural surroundings.

June: June extends a gracious three-day weekend, courtesy of Eid-ul-Zuha falling on a Monday, the 17th. Immerse yourself in the natural splendour of Bhopal and explore nearby attractions, such as the awe-inspiring Great Stupa in Sanchi. On the second day, embark on a spiritual escape to the Bhojpur temple, then head towards Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, delving into the rich historical tapestry of India. On the third day, unravel the historical allure of Jagdishpur, exploring landmarks like Rani Mahal and Chaman Mahal. Seize the opportunity to indulge in a shopping spree at the vibrant bazaars of Bhopal, adding a touch of local flair to your exciting weekend getaway.

August: August unfolds with a week of celebration, beginning with Independence Day on Thursday, followed by Raksha Bandhan on Monday. Enhance the festive spirit by taking a leave on Friday, allowing for an extended 5-day break from the 15th to the 19th of August. Plan a memorable trip to the historic city of Gwalior during this break, where you can explore nearby attractions such as Mitaoli, Padavali, and the Bateshwar Group of temples. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the Chambal region, discovering the hidden gems that define its heritage.

Extend the festivities into the Janmashtami weekend from the 24th to the 26th by exploring the spiritual gem of Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain. Pay a visit to the renowned Sandipani Ashram, where legends believe Lord Krishna, Balram, and Sudama received their education. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the beautiful ISKCON temple, alongside other prominent spiritual abodes, allowing the spiritual aura of the city to embrace you. 

September: Embark on a captivating journey from September 14th to 16th, immersing yourself in the historical sites of Shivpuri. With Eid-e-Milad falling on Monday, the 16th, seize the opportunity for a delightful 3-day exploration. Witness the ancient charm of Shivpuri, exploring iconic landmarks like the Royal Chattris. Afterwards, discover major nearby attractions, including the fort of Narwar, Survaya ki Garhi, and the wildlife wonders of Kuno National Park. Additionally, indulge in a luxurious camping experience at the Kuno Forest Retreat, where you can enjoy a plethora of cultural and adventurous activities, adding a touch of comfort and excitement to your memorable journey.

October: October brings the promise of two extended four-day weekends, beginning with Maharshi Valmiki Jayanti on Thursday. Consider taking a leave on Friday for a leisurely break from 17th to 20th. Immerse yourself in the enchanting natural wonders of Jabalpur, where serene getaways await you at the majestic Dhuandhar Falls and the mesmerising marble rocks of Bhedaghat. The early onset of winter adds an extra layer of charm to the city, promising a delightful experience during your visit. 

To enhance your exploration, venture into the largest national park in Madhya Pradesh, Kanha National Park. Spreading over two districts - Mandla and Balaghat, this park is just 125 km from Jabalpur. Considered one of the best-administered and managed wildlife national parks in India, Kanha is the ideal home for a wide range of wild creatures. From the mighty tigers to the most populated Barasingha and countless species of plants, birds, reptiles, and insects, Kanha National Park offers a rich biodiversity experience.

But the excitement doesn't stop there! Diwali graciously falls on a Thursday, the 31st, presenting yet another golden opportunity for a four-day long weekend. Consider taking a leave on a Friday and embark on a journey to explore the ancient cities of Madhya Pradesh, Orchha and Chitrakoot, both having profound connections with Lord Rama.

During Diwali, Chitrakoot transforms into a dazzling spectacle with grand celebrations of the Deep Daan, an event that bathes the entire city in light, adding an unmatched vibrancy to the festive atmosphere.

November: November blesses us with the auspicious occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti, falling on a Friday, granting us a consecutive 3-day leave. Take this opportunity to explore the ancient city of Burhanpur, starting with a visit to Gurdwara Sri Badi Sangat Sahib. This sacred site marks the place where Guru Gobind Singh Ji stayed while travelling to the south through Agra, Chitorh and Ujjain. The Gurdwara houses an ancient Bir (hand-written copy) of Guru Granth Sahib, a holy book displayed on the auspicious occasion of Gurpurab. Immerse yourself further in the rich tapestry of Burhanpur by visiting other notable sites such as Asirgarh Fort, Dargah-e-Hakimi, and Ahukhana, each unfolding a chapter of spiritual and historical significance.

Make note of these holidays and seize the chance to explore the Heart of India! 

From the spiritual retreats in Ujjain and Omkareshwar to the majestic wildlife of Pench Tiger Reserve, the historical charm of Gwalior, and the vibrant celebrations during Diwali in Chitrakoot, each destination is a unique gem waiting to be explored!

Additionally, consider the option of going on buffer safaris during the monsoon season, a unique experience in the Heart of India, or witnessing the grand Ram Vivah happening during Shukl Panchami, where a full-fledged wedding of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita takes place with all rituals. Alternatively, indulge in the Chanderi Festival, occurring around October, where you can enjoy luxurious living while immersing yourself in the cultural and artistic heritage of this quaint town. The Heart of India offers a diverse tapestry of experiences, ensuring there's something for every traveller's taste and preference.