On World Heritage Day, Madhya Pradesh Revolutionises Heritage Tourism with Cutting-Edge Technology

Madhya Pradesh Tourism is leading the way in major technological innovations at the state’s tentative and UNESCO-listed heritage sites in honour of World Heritage Day. These initiatives demonstrate the continued dedication to preserving cultural heritage and using cutting-edge technology to enhance the visitor experience. The official theme of World Heritage Day 2024 is “Discover and experience diversity,” and Madhya Pradesh is the ideal example of this.

Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located in Madhya Pradesh, a state known for its rich cultural diversity and tapestry. These include the prehistoric Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, which feature ancient rock paintings that depict early human life, the Stupas at Sanchi, one of the oldest stone structures in India that symbolises Buddhism, and the Khajuraho Group of Monuments, which are renowned for their intricate and sensual sculptures.

Ten sites, including the picturesque Bedhaghat-Lametaghat in Jabalpur, the architecturally significant Mandu Group of Monuments, the historic ensemble of Orchha featuring grand temples and palaces, the biodiversity-rich Satpura Tiger Reserve, the historically significant Gwalior Fort, the inventive Khooni Bhandara water management system in Burhanpur, the monumental Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple in Bhojpur, the culturally valuable Gond monuments of Ramnagar, Mandla, and the historic ensemble of Dhamnar illustrating monastic traditions, are among the ten sites that make up the Tentative List. When taken as a whole, these sites showcase Madhya Pradesh’s rich cultural legacy and deep historical roots.

Among these developments is the availability of in-depth narratives via QR code-based audio tours at significant sites and museums, which improves visitor understanding and engagement. It offers a comprehensive historical review of Bhojpur, Orchha, and Sanchi. Additionally, many cities have added amazing light and sound displays, such as Sanchi, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Buddhist history dating back to the second century; Orchha, the home of Raja Ram, where the lord is revered as a king; Mandu, the site of the romantic tale of Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati; and many more remarkable tales from Indore, Gwalior, Khajuraho, Pachmarhi, Burhanpur, and Chanderi.  These shows bring the colourful history of these regions to life under the stars by blending historical insights with captivating audio-visual effects.

Further technological innovations include the acquisition of data through Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR & VR) using Oculus devices, the convenient integration of WhatsApp, online ticket booking systems for easier accessibility, and the meticulous documentation and preservation of the state’s monuments through Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping. Moreover, Madhya Pradesh is paving the way for digital preservation techniques under the National Monument Mission (NMM). Recent efforts by Madhya Pradesh have included digitalising and 3D scanning important locations to ensure longevity and ongoing relevance for future generations.

Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla (IAS), have invited global and local visitors to explore these historical marvels and rediscover the heritage of the state.  “Madhya Pradesh Tourism continues to create awareness to safeguard and celebrate the state’s cultural legacy, making it accessible to everyone through innovation and technology,” he said.