RAISEN
Raisen district in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is popular for its large number of impressive sites with great historical importance and rare archaeological findings. The royal city once ruled by many famous dynasties is famed for its rich heritage, ancient monuments, temples, stupas and rocky terrain.
A monument of rich heritage, Raisen fort standing out right there on a spectacular sandstone hill with its impressive and elegant look is attracting thousands of visitors from decades. Apart from rich historical significance the district is also popular for its rich natural splendour where people can spend some time in tranquillity.
Raisen is surrounded by many prominent places of historical interest. Sanchi about 23 kms away is a popular pilgrimage centre for the Buddhists. The emperor Asoka had intense emotions associated with this place, he set up the stupas and pillars in Sanchi. Bhojpur, established by the renowned king of the Paramar dynasty Raja Bhoja is popular for its ancient remnants of the Bhojeshwar temple, a marvellous site for the tourists looking for the historical evidences. The gigantic dam located within the vicinity of Bhojpur is a classic example of the engineering talents of the people of the past generation. Bhimbetka about 75 kms from Raisen has a lot to offer for people keen on archaeology. The cluster of about 500 caves of pre-historic age leaves the history buffs speechless. The caves arouse great interest in the minds of people with its beautiful paintings depicting hunting, dancing, music, horse and elephant riders, animal fighting, honey collection, decoration of bodies etc. Also paintings of animals such as bisons, tigers, lions, wild boar, elephants, antelopes, dogs, lizards can be witnessed.
The place with rare archaeological monuments and remains offers a feast to the historical and archaeological enthusiasts.
PLACES TO SEE
Sanchi : Sanchi about 23 kms away is a popular pilgrimage centre for the Buddhists. The emperor Asoka had close relations with this place, he set up the first stupa in Sanchi and also the pillars. The National Emblem is taken from the Ashoka pillar, where at the end of a tall pole four standings lions are placed back to back facing four different directions. The presence of the majestic gateways add charm to this spectacular city. The carvings on the pillars and gateways explain about the life and achievements of Ashoka and Buddha.
Bhojpur : Bhojpur, established by the renowned king of the Paramar dynasty Raja Bhoja is popular for its ancient remnants of the Bhojeshwar temple, a marvellous site for the tourists looking for the historical evidences. The incomplete temple looks stunning with beautifully carvings on the domes which is sternly held up by 4 huge pillars. Lord Shiva takes a form of a massive Lingam in this temple and is elegantly placed on a large platform of 21.5 sq feet.
The gigantic dam believed to be built by Raja Bhoja at Bhojur is a classic example of the engineering talents of the people of the past generation.
Bhimbetka : Bhimbetka about 75 kms from Raisen has a lot to offer for people keen on archaeology. The cluster of about 500 caves of pre-historic age leaves the history buffs speechless. The caves arouses great interest in the minds of people with its beautiful paintings depicting hunting, dancing, music, horse and elephant riders, animals fighting, honey collection, decoration of bodies etc. Also paintings of animals such as bisons, tigers, lions, wild boar, elephants, antelopes, dogs, lizards can be witnessed.
HOW TO REACH
By Air : Bhopal about 45 kms from Raisen is the nearest domestic airport. Taxis can be hired from here.
By Road : Government and private buses run from the state capital Bhopal to Raisen.
