Students work in groups, pen articles, and shoot photographs. Then our team of publishing professionals weaves their work into the EdTerra Student Travel Chronicle. Choose Travel Journalists Program to show your students’ analytical and intellectual maturity to the world. This project activity delivers 21st Century Skills.

1. Student Travel
Kunskapsskolan International
Sector 70, Gurugram
MADHYA PRADESH
The Land of Serenity
OUR JOURNEY
CITY OF LAKES
BHOPAL
EXPLORE
CHRONICLE
CHRONICLE
SANCHI
Tourism in
Madhya Pradesh
VOL I, 2022

2. Welcome
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3. Hello
PRINCIPAL’S LETTER
STC Madhya Pradesh 01
The quality that marks this very first issue of ‘Student Travel
Chronicle’ is a testimony to the maturity of the young minds
who joined forces to enthusiastically shape and provide
substance to its form.
Kunskapsskolan International, Sector 70A, Gurugram, is
committed to creating the vital link between learning in the
classroom and the equally important topical learning from the
school of life outside the classroom. The pages that follow
are representative of the aim of the school, which is to take
teaching beyond the walls of the classroom into the freedom
of outward exploration and creativity.
There were many outcomes from this intensive
3 day journey to Sanchi and Bhopal, finally
culminating in the awards ceremony for the
prize-winning students at the end of this journey of excitement.
All this, and much more is yours to discover as the students
help you re-live the excitement of their experience in the pages
ahead - replete with photographs and one-liners, memories
and impressions.
We, at Kunskapsskolan International, Sector 70A, Gurugram,
wish to acknowledge our gratitude to the accompanying
teachers for their excellent collaboration. I would also like to
recognize the essential contributions of EdTerra Edventures
Private Limited, who have designed and taken out this journey.
The company’s efforts before, during and after the journey
enabled students to produce this beautiful magazine. EdTerra
takes pride in designing journeys that offer substantial
educational opportunities for students, while ensuring that
they have incredible fun at the same time.
We know there is no better way to conclude this message
than to give a stirring THANK YOU to the students, who were
energetic participants and willing learners throughout.
Ms Rupa Chauhan
Head of School
Kunskapsskolan
International,
Sector 70A, Gurugram

4. Content
STC Madhya Pradesh 02
02CITY OF LAKES
07-08
Visiting Bhojtal, one of the largest lakes
in Bhopal was a fulfilling experience
05-06
01OUR JOURNEY
We visited a group of monuments at
Sanchi that represent the earliest-known
examples of temple architecture in India
09-10
03BHOPAL
We found the Tribal Museum to be a beautiful
representation of the individual characteristics of
indigenous state tribes

5. Photographs & Articles
Students of Kunskapsskolan
International, Sector 70A, Gurugram
Journey Mentor(s)
Abdul Hannan
Publisher
EdTerra Edventures Private Limited
Chief Editor
Amita Midha
Created as part of EdTerra’s on-journey Student
Media Projects
THE
EDTERRA
EDITORIAL
TEAM
11-12
04SANCHI
The historical buildings at Sanchi represent the early period
of the rise and spread of the Buddhist faith in the Indian
subcontinent.
05
13-14
TOURISM IN
MADHYA PRADESH
At the Tribal Museum, we got an opportunity to learn
about the history of tribals and their lifestyle

6. 01.OUR JOURNEY
A Walk Through Indian History
Things to
SEE
Bhimbetka
Bhopal
Sanchi
M
adhya Pradesh has a history that goes
back centuries. It has witnessed immense
transformation from the ancient and medieval
times up to the colonial era. Further, given its central
location in the Indian subcontinent, this region came
under direct influence of various significant rulers.
For example, the art, culture, and architecture in
Madhya Pradesh have seen influences of the Mauryas,
the Guptas, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals, the
Marathas, and later, the Scindias, and the British.
Madhya Pradesh is a place where India’s history
comes alive. The rock paintings and tools found in
Madhya Pradesh indicate the existence of human
settlements in prehistoric ages. When history began
to be recorded, a major portion of modern-day Madhya
Pradesh was referred to as Malwa.
In the last thousand years, Madhya Pradesh has been
ruled by Muslim and British rulers, which began with
Iltutmish’s invasion in 1231 CE who appended Gwalior
into the Delhi Sultanate. In the 14th century, the Khaljī
Sultans of Delhi overran Malwa. Thereafter, it became
a part of the Mughal Empire under Akbar and later,
the Marathas and the Scindias ruled parts of Madhya
Pradesh from 18th century onwards. However, by 1818,
the British took control of the region and strengthened
their control over what constitutes present-day
Madhya Pradesh. After gaining independence, the
state of Madhya Pradesh was formed through the
States Reorganisation Act of 1956 combining three
regions namely, Madhya Bharat, Vindhya Pradesh,
and Bhopal State. Today, it is the second largest state
of India in terms of area and the fifth largest in terms of
population. Bhopal, the city of lakes, is its capital city.
Madhya Pradesh is also home to the Great Stupa of
Sanchi as well as Bhimbetka rock-shelters that contain
the largest collection of prehistoric art in India.

7. We started our journey playing games, dancing and
singing on the train. We saw amazing views of lakes,
rivers and hills on our way. The food served was amazing
and we even got ice cream after lunch.
We reached the hotel by bus and were amazed we saw
the hotel. The rooms were very nice and we loved our
stay. The next day we went to Sanchi Stupa and the site
was full of various historical structures.
Our guide told us lots of interesting stories about Gautam
Buddha. The most exciting was the one about an elephant
with six tusks and a monkey chief.
We also observed the rock engravings of Jataka tales
on the gates at Sanchi Stupa. Later, we did an activity
where we had to identify the Jataka tale on the gates.
We also visited the Tribal Museum where we learnt about
different aspects of tribal life.
After our visit to Sanchi Stupa, we had food at a very nice
resort. The bus ride back to our hotel was fun. We had a
DJ session and everyone enjoyed it a lot.
In this journey we learnt how to live Independently,
without our parents.
Sanchi was the final destination of our journey. The Great
Stupa that we saw there is a stunning piece of architecture
belonging to the ancient era. The intricate carvings on the
gateways of the Stupa gave an insight into Buddha’s life
and teachings. We realised the importance of values such
as peace, equality, and tolerance. Thus our trip to Madhya
Pradesh was enriching and full of learning.
We were charged up after our visit to the Tribal Museum,
Bhopal
Behind us is the Great Stupa, standing 42 ft. high with a
diameter of 106 ft.
The Jataka Tales have been inscribed on toranas or
gateways of the Maha Stupa, describing the previous
births of Gautama Buddha
Team Members
Aadyansh, Aarush, Aashvi, Arhaan,
Araanya, Ayushman, Kaisei, Krishang, Kriti,
Lakshay, Sana, Shasshwati, Taneesha,
Vihaan, Vikramaditya, Viraj & Zoe
06

8. 02.CITY OF LAKES
Upper and Lower Lakes: Bhopal’s Twin Jewels
B
himbetka is located in Ratapani Tiger Reserve
in the Raisen District of Madhya Pradesh. It
is situated nearly 45 km from Bhopal in the
foothills of the Vindhya Ranges. The rock-shelters
were first discovered by Dr. Vishnu Sridhar Wakankar
and his team in 1957. There are more than 700
rock-shelters in the complex and from the time the
investigation began in 1957, cave paintings have been
found in many shelters. The paintings found here have
opened a window into not one, but multiple periods of
prehistory.
When seen from a chronological standpoint, the cave
paintings offer an in-depth study into the cultural
transformation of humans from the Stone Ages to
the Bronze Age. The paintings are mostly simple,
depicting animals, humans, hunting scenes, weapons,
and day-to-day activities. They suggest that over a
period spanning thousands of years, humans evolved
from being hunters and gatherers to food producers.
Further, what is interesting is the use of natural
colours and a variety of materials such as manganese,
hematite, red stone, and wooden coal in different
ages. There is evidence that vegetable colours, leaf
extracts, and animal fat were also used.
Bhimbetka gives us a peek into the social and cultural
lives of early humans. Moreover, it presents us with
an opportunity to understand the evolution of human
species over time. It is an antidote to the illusion
that the current state of the world is how things
have always been and that things will remain largely
unchanged in the future. It tells us, in a broad sense,
how far humanity has come.

9. We woke up at 6 a.m. and took a bath. We went for
breakfast at 7:50 a.m. and then proceeded to visit the
Kaliyasot Dam. We had to climb stairs to reach the top of
the dam. The view from the top was breathtaking.
Afterwards we went to visit the Upper Lake and saw
numerous ducks and swans. We learnt that there is also
a boating facility available on the Upper Lake for sailing,
paddle boats and motor boats. People were having a lot
of fun.
Upper lake is the largest lake in Bhopal, also known as
Bada Talaab. There was a pathway full of trees near it
and we took some photos there. Upper Lake and Lower
Lake are divided from each other by an overbridge. The
Upper Lake is bigger in comparison to the Lower Lake
and was commissioned by Raja Bhoj in the 11th century.
On the other hand, Lower Lake was commissioned by
Nawab Chote Khan in 1794 and is located in the old part
of Bhopal.
Bhimbetka is popular for its natural, cultural, and
historical heritage. It was declared a World Heritage
Site by UNESCO in 2003. Our visit to Bhimbetka was
really insightful as we learnt a lot about the lives of early
humsns and our ancestors. Seeing the cave paintings
that were made centuries ago was an experience that we
would always cherish. Everyone who is interested in art,
history or anthropology must visit Bhimbetka.
Standing near an old steam engine exhibited on the banks
of Bhojtal, earlier called Upper Lake
We spotted a variety of birds, both resident and migrant, at
Bhojtal
Bhojtal, or Bada Talab, is a major source of freshwater in
Bhopal and nearby areas and provides refreshing views
Team Members
Adhirith, Amaira, Ananya, Hridhaan, Iaan,
Krishneel, Nayonika, Pravek, Rishaan,
Rudraveer, Saanvi, Shaurya, Tehan &
Vikram
08

10. 03.BHOPAL
Lakes, Culture, Cuisine - Bhopal’s treasure trove
B
hopal is widely known in India for its natural
beauty and historical legacy. The city is believed
to have been founded in the 11th century by
a legendary king named Raja Bhoj (or Bhojpal). The
princely state of Bhopal was established in the colonial
times by an Afghan soldier named Mohammed Khan
(1707–40). Later, Bhopal became a princely state of the
British after resisting the Marathas. After India gained
independence, Bhopal became a part of the newly-
formed state of Madhya Pradesh in 1956 and took the
title of state capital from Nagpur that became a part of
Maharashtra.
The western half of the city is divided horizontally by
two adjacent lakes. The north of the city is dotted with
beautifully-carved mosques, royal palaces, exotic
havelis and crowded bazaars. Towards the south of
the two lakes lies the new city characterised by wide
roads, parks, shopping-malls, restaurants, and lush
greenery. Bhopal boasts of one the greenest urban
areas in India even after becoming susceptible to
poisonous gases since the tragedy of 1984.
There are several magnificent monuments in Bhopal.
Taj-ul-Masajid is one of the largest mosques in India.
Gohar Mahal is an outstanding example of the fusion
of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. The Birla
Temple, situated at the highest point of Bhopal, offers
an amazing view of the cityscape.
Bhopal is famous for silver ornaments and the
exquisite embroidery work called Zardozi. Overall,
Bhopal is a wonderful city endowed with beautiful
panoramic views, educational institutions, museums,
and historical monuments.

11. We travelled to Bhopal by the Shatabdi Express. After
reaching our hotel, The Pride Hotel, we ate dinner and
received a briefing about the itinerary. We were very tired
from our journey and immediately went off to sleep.
The next day, we woke up, ate breakfast and went to
Sanchi Stupa. The Great Stupa is one of the oldest
Buddhist structures in India and the largest stupa at the
site. We learnt about the four gateways in four directions,
namely North, South, East and West. We saw the Jataka
tales engraved on these gates and later, did an activity
based on the stories. We also learnt that the Great Stupa
and Sanchi’s other Buddhist monuments were collectively
designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1989.
Later, we had our lunch.
We also visited the Kaliyasot Dam and Bhojtal Lake. The
view from the dam was spectacular. The Upper and Lower
Lake were full of swans and ducks, who looked majestic.
We also categorised the rocks near the lake and dam as
sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks.
The State Archaeological Museum with its repository of
ancient sculptures, manuscripts, and other artefacts is a
must visit for history lovers
PosingwiththevaluableexhibitsattheStateArchaeological
Museum in Bhopal
Posing outside the Tribal Museum, where we had an
amazing time exploring the art, customs, culture, paintings,
artefacts, and practices of tribes
Team Members
Aarna, Aarush, Adhrit, Etash, Evika, Kabir,
Kainat, Khush, Navya, Shaina, Vihaan &
Zara
10

12. 04.SANCHI
Home To India’s Best Preserved
Buddhist Monuments
S
anchi is situated about 40 km from Bhopal and
houses a number of monuments that were built
during the ancient times. The Great Stupa (or
Maha Stupa) is the most stunning of them all. It was
originally commissioned by Emperor Ashoka (273–
232 BCE) and further expanded by his successors.
Several small stupas, temples, and monasteries were
also built there.
The Great Stupa is the largest of all the three stupas.
It is surrounded by four gateways or toranas facing
the four directions and depicting the life-events of
Gautama Buddha, as narrated in great detail in the
Jataka Tales. There are a number of pillars near the
Great Stupa. Each of these pillars is 40 to 50 ft tall.
Most popular among these is the Ashokan Pillar. The
length of the pillar is 16.4 metres, which is crowned
with four lions that are set back to back.
The Great Stupa at Sanchi and the other monuments
at the same site were collectively declared a UNESCO
World Heritage Site in 1989. In addition to being an
important Buddhist site, Sanchi is representative of
the brilliant artistic and architectural skills prevalent
in ancient India.

13. Sanchi Stupa is the biggest stupa and oldest Buddhist
monument in India. It is 120 feet wide and 54 feet high.
There are four gateways in four directions: North, South,
East and West. All the gateways have ornate pillars that
were commissioned by Ashoka. The main entrance to the
Great Stupa is through the southern gate.
Sanchi was abandoned around the 12th century and
fell into disrepair. Later in 1818, a British general Henry
Taylor visited the site and documented his findings.
The restoration work began in 1881 and completed
in 1919 under the supervision of the then Director of
Archaeological Survey of India, Sir John Hubert Marshall.
EachpillarhasrockengravingsofBuddha’slife,depictions
of early Buddhism, auspicious symbols and Jataka
tales on it. We also saw the relics of two of Buddha’s
earliest disciples — Sariputta and Mahamogallena. The
Archaeological Survey of India’s Museum at the site has
preserved various antiques from the Mauryan empire
such as the Lion Capital of the Ashokan Pillar.
The monuments of Sanchi represent of Buddhist principles
and are examples of excellent craftsmanship from the
Mauryan Period
Our visit to Sanchi helped us learn about Emperor Ashoka,
the third ruler of the Mauryan dynasty
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sanchi
Stupa was built by Emperor Ashoka to spread Buddhist
ideas and philosophy in the subcontinent
Team Members
Ahaan, Arihant, Arshan, Hridyansh, Jay,
Manaan, Neil, Pratiyush, Rishik, Risshit,
Shaurya, Vivaan & Vivan
12

14. 05.Tourism in
Madhya Pradesh
A Bit Of Everything And A Whole
Lot Of Nowhere Else On Earth
S
ituated in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh has no
coastline and no international border. However, due to its
rich forest reserves and historical significance, it attracts
its fair share of foreign and domestic tourists. The international
tourist arrival in the state in 2015 was 0.42 million with numbers
only increasing year-on-year. This comes as no surprise
considering all that Madhya Pradesh has to offer.
Madhya Pradesh is the second largest state in India by area;
however, it is not very densely populated. It attracts a number
of tourists owing to its rich heritage, intricate architecture, and
wildlife sanctuaries. Besides its vast expanses of uninhabited
areas, a number of cities and sites including Bhopal, Sanchi,
Bhimbetka, Sanchi, Indore, Gwalior, and Khajuraho lie in Madhya
Pradesh.
A tourist traditionally visits Madhya Pradesh for exploring the
GreatStupaofSanchi,theBhimbetkarock-shelters,theKhajuraho
group of temples, or one of the many wildlife sanctuaries. An
increasing number of tourists are now visiting for: leisure travel,
rejuvenating retreats to resorts, hotels, and adventure sports
avenues that have opened up in cities such as Bhopal; and
second, exploration of history, culture and architecture.
Hence, a visit to Madhya Pradesh is an inquiry into the history of
human civilisation, the relationship between nature and human
beings, human-inflicted disasters (with respect to the Bhopal
gas tragedy of 1984, the ripple effects of which can still be felt
even today), and socio-cultural evolution that has spanned over
thousands of years characterised by the amalgamation of Hindu,
Muslim, and British influences in the region.
It is true that one visit may not be enough to get a full exposure to
the leisure, recreation, or perspective that Madhya Pradesh has
to offer; however, an educational tour to Sanchi, Bhimbetka and
Bhopal is as good a start as any.

15. We learnt that Bhopal is not as well known for its natural
resources and surroundings as its history and museums.
We visited the Sanchi Stupa, Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka
and the Tribal Museum.
First we went to the Sanchi Stupa. The site is home
to various Buddhist structures — the Great Stupa, the
Buddhist Vihar, Gupta Temple and the ASI museum.
We discovered that Gupta Temple is considered to be
one of the first examples of temple architecture. The
site has four gateways, which depict the life of Buddha
through rock engravings on its pillars. Sanchi Stupa is an
interesting monument with fascinating stories.
Later we went to the Tribal Museum where we went
through the architecture and history of Bhopal. In the
museum we learnt about the tribal history of Madhya
Pradesh. It felt as if we had gone back in time and
experienced the development of Bhopal. While we were
on our way to the Sanchi Stupa we also passed the Tropic
of Cancer, an imaginary Latitude that passes through
India.
It was an awe-inspiring experience. Next we visited the
Sanchi Stupa which is a sight to behold. We saw many
Stupas there. The Stupas are made up of terracotta
and lime stone. There are four gateways and each gate
represents a stage in the life of Gautam Buddha. We
enjoyed our visit to Madhya Pradesh and wish to visit
again.
We found out the importance of these wonders, which
have been safeguarding the art and history of the Mauryan
period
We learnt that Bhopal is known for its variety of natural and
artificial lakes besides its historical building
We loved that along with learning, we had a fantastic time
bonding with our friends
Team Members
Aanya, Anaira, Annika, Avni, Eva Robin,
Kayra, Namairra, Samaira, Savia, Siyona,
Takumi, Veralika, Vibha, Xenya & Zara
14

16. 06.Moments
Say Cheese
02
03
01
01 We were amazed to see the
lifesize authentic dwellings,
created by the tribal craftsmen
02 This is from our visit to Bhojtal,
also known as Bada Talab,
surrounded by lush greenery
03 Our guide gave us tons of
information about the
historical aspects of Sanchi

17. 04
06
05
04 Posing at the restaurant, where
we stopped for a quick meal
before resuming our journey
05 Deciphering the picture clues
given in EdTerra’s Sanchi
Observation and Jataka Tales
Challenge
06 Along with being educational,
this journey also helped us
bond with our co-travellers
16

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with EdTerra Edventures
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