The history of Madhya Pradesh goes back to the time of Ashoka, the great Mauryan ruler. To the Chandelas, however, goes the credit of building the fantastic monuments of Eros, Khajuraho, in the north of the state. Between 12th and 16th centuries, the region saw continuing struggles between Hindu and Muslim rulers and invaders. The fortified city of Mandu in the southwest, was the scene of frequent battles. Madhya Pradesh finally fell to the Mughals. 

Hindus form the majority of the population, but there are significant minorities of Muslims, Jains, Christians, and Buddhists and a small population of Sikhs. Hindi is the official and most widely spoken language; tribal languages include Bhili and Goni, as well as eastern and western Hindi dialects. The second most important common language is Marathi. Agriculture dominates the Madhya Pradesh economy. MP is also famous for its sari weaving, embroidery and beadwork.

A number of tribes occupy Madhya Pradesh, including the Bhil, Baiga, Gon, Korku, Kamar, Kol, and Maria. Many of the tribal traditions are still vital and strong, although they have been exposed to outside cultural influences. A great deal of tribal mythology and folklore is also preserved; e.g., the Gon bards still sing of the legendary deeds of Ling-pen, the mythical originator of the tribe. All tribes retain myths and legends regarding their origins, and they have songs for the ceremonies of birth and marriage, together with folktales, riddles, and proverbs illustrating their cultural heritage. 

The climate is monsoonal, with much of the rain falling from June to October. The March-to-May season is hot and dry, and temperatures everywhere are higher than 29º C. Winters are usually pleasant and dry. Generally, rainfall decreases westward and northward; in the east and southeast it averages 60 inches or more, dropping to 40 inches or less in the west and less than 30 inches in the Chambal River valley to the north. Best time to visit: September to February.