<P> Although the modern state of Madhya Pradesh came into being in 1956, its cultural heritage is ancient and chequered . Innumerable monuments, exquisitely carved temples, stupas, forts and palaces on hilltops, raise in the visitors mind visions of empires and kingdoms, of the great warriors and builders, poets and musicians, saints and philosophers; of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism . The famous Sanskrit poet - dramatist Kalidasa and the great musician of the Mughal court, Tansen, were from Madhya Pradesh . They are known all over the world . </P> <P> Several cities in Madhya Pradesh are extraordinary for their architecture and or scenic beauty . Three sites in Madhya Pradesh have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO: </P> <Ul> <Li> The Khajuraho Group of Monuments (1986) </Li> <Li> Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi (1989) </Li> <Li> The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka (2003) </Li> </Ul> <Li> The Khajuraho Group of Monuments (1986) </Li>

List of world heritage sites in madhya pradesh