Ancient Ruins in Madya Pradesh

Khajuraho, Orchha, Bhopal and Sanchi

We have been spending this week exploring ancient Hindu, Islamic and Buddhist ruins throughout the state of Madya Pradesh. We began in Khajuraho, whose 11th century Hindu are adorned with elaborate erotic carvings. We spent yesterday, New Years Eve, in Orchha, a small town of 8,500 people that has really impressive 17th century Islamic palaces and temples. We spent a few hours wandering around Jehangir Mahal and Raj Mahal, whose enormity and architectural detailing certainly holds one's eye. We climbed up the narrow staircases of each one admiring the projecting windows, domes and towers on each of the 4 floors. From the top, as far as the eye could see, we saw smaller temples and ruins dotting the landscape along the nearby Betwa river.
We spent our New Years Eve at a rooftop dinner-dance party at the Sheeh Mahal Hotel, which had amazing views as it was located between the Jehangir and Raj Mahal. A classical music performance with a dramatic transvestite dancer preceded a delicious Indian buffet. We ate dinner next to an '07 Wesleyan couple who have been cycling around the world for the last year and a half. Such a small world!
We have just arrived in Bhopal, in central Madya Pradesh. Tomorrow we will explore more Islamic ruins in the area and hopefully head to Sanchi the following day to see ancient Buddhist temples. We have been having a hard time getting train tickets as this is one of busiest travel times so our plans are subject to change. We'll find out tomorrow morning at the train station.
Happy New Year to everyone!!!