Vidisha Tourism

History

Vidisha is an ancient city located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It has a rich history dating back to the 6th century BCE, when it was known as Bhelsa. The city was an important center of trade and commerce during the Mauryan period and served as the capital of the Sunga dynasty in the 2nd century BCE. During the Gupta period, Vidisha was an important center of learning and culture, with the famous scholar and poet Kalidasa residing here. The city was later ruled by the Rajputs and the Mughals before coming under British rule in the 19th century.

Geography

Vidisha is located in the central part of Madhya Pradesh, about 55 kilometers from the state capital Bhopal. The city is situated on the banks of the Betwa River, which is a tributary of the Yamuna River. The region is known for its fertile agricultural land and is home to several small hills and forests.

Demographics

As of the 2011 Indian census, Vidisha had a population of 155,959. The majority of the population is Hindu, with a significant Muslim minority. The city has a literacy rate of 79.2% and a sex ratio of 917 females to 1000 males.

Economy

Vidisha is primarily an agricultural town, with the surrounding region known for its production of wheat, soybean, and other crops. The city is also home to several small-scale industries, including manufacturing and handicrafts. The government has undertaken several initiatives to promote tourism in the region, which has helped to boost the local economy.

Culture

Vidisha has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Jain influences. The city is known for its unique style of architecture, with several ancient temples, mosques, and other historic buildings. The local cuisine is a mix of traditional North Indian and Central Indian dishes, with several street food options available. The city hosts several cultural festivals throughout the year, including the famous Ganesh Chaturthi and Diwali festivals.

Tourism

Vidisha is a popular tourist destination in Madhya Pradesh, with several ancient monuments and historic sites. Some of the popular tourist attractions in the city include:

1. Sanchi Stupa - Located about 10 kilometers from Vidisha, the Sanchi Stupa is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest and most well-preserved Buddhist monuments in India.
2. Udayagiri Caves - The Udayagiri Caves are a group of 20 rock-cut caves located about 6 kilometers from Vidisha. These caves are believed to have been built during the Gupta period and feature intricate carvings and sculptures.
3. Bijamandal Mosque - The Bijamandal Mosque is a historic mosque located in the heart of Vidisha. It was built by the Afghan ruler Mahmud Shah in the 16th century and features beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
4. Heliodorus Pillar - The Heliodorus Pillar is an ancient stone column located in Vidisha. It was erected by the Greek ambassador Heliodorus in the 2nd century BCE and is one of the oldest surviving Greek inscriptions in India.
5. Gyaraspur - Gyaraspur is a small town located about 30 kilometers from Vidisha. It is home to several ancient temples and historic sites.

State :

Madhya Pradesh

How to Reach Vidisha