picture-1.jpg

Madhya Pradesh

Gwalior travel guide

picture-1.jpg
map


Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Gwalior is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. With its grand forts, intricate palaces, and vibrant markets, Gwalior offers a fascinating journey through time and a glimpse into the soul of India. This comprehensive travel guide will navigate you through the historical landmarks and cultural gems for an enriching visit to Gwalior.

What to see

Forts and Palaces

The impressive Gwalior Fort, adorned with soaring towers and rugged battlements, stands 300 feet above ground on a central hill in the city. Regarded as one of India's most impregnable forts, it traces its origins back to the fifth century A.D., initially known as Gopagiri. According to a popular legend, the city's founding in the eighth century is attributed to chieftain Suraj Sen, who, cured of a severe ailment by the saint Gwalip, named the city near Gopagiri in gratitude. Throughout the ages, Gwalior Fort changed hands among various rulers, including the Huns, princes of Kanauj, Kachwahas, Prathiharas, Qutub-ud-din Aibak, Akbar (utilizing the fort as a prison), the Tomars, Jats, and Marathas. Sikh history is also interwoven with the fort, as Guru Hargobind, the sixth guru, was confined at Assi Khamba Bawri near the Man Singh Palace during Jahangir’s reign in the 17th century. In the early 19th century, the fort and city became the focal point of a protracted conflict between the British and the Scindias. Two entrances provide access to the fort—the Qila Gate, ideal for pedestrians, and the Urwahi Gate, accessible by vehicle via a lengthy ramp. Cap off your visit with the captivating sound-and-light show at Gwalior Fort in the evening. Illuminating the fort's grandeur, this presentation unfolds the tales of valor, conquests, and cultural richness that have shaped Gwalior's legacy over centuries.

Within the fortress, numerous palaces constructed by various dynasties grace the landscape. Among them, the most remarkable is the Man Singh Palace, commissioned by Raja Man Singh Tomar during his rule from 1486 to 1516. The palace's exterior is adorned with intricate friezes made of yellow and blue tiles, the remnants of which can still be discerned. The presence of impressive jhimili, or stone lattice-screens, along with cornices, pendants, and mosaics featuring floral and geometrical patterns, enhances the palace's architectural splendor.

Situated on a lower level is Gujari Mahal, originally constructed for Raja Man Singh's queen, Mriganayani. Transformed into the Archaeological Museum, it houses a diverse collection encompassing coins, sculptures, pottery, and weapons. Particularly noteworthy among the artifacts are a substantial sculpture of Shalbhanjika dating from the late ninth to early tenth century, as well as depictions of Nataraja and Yama. Additionally, Jahangir and Vikram Palaces are other regal residences within the fort that warrant exploration.


gwalior-travel-guide-1-body

More information

Madhya Pradesh

You may enjoy

East of the fort lies the Saas-Bahu temple complex, dating back to the 11th century. Constructed in sandstone, this architectural marvel is dedicated to both Vishnu and Shiva. According to Manuel Joseph, Assistant Superintending Archaeologist of ASI, Gwalior, the temple was likely initially named Sahasra Bahu, signifying one of Vishnu's epithets, "thousand-armed." Over time, this name evolved into Saas-Bahu.


gwalior-travel-guide-2-body

In close proximity stands the Teli ka Mandir, an eighth-century temple that seamlessly blends architectural elements from both northern and southern India. Adorned with decorative details in the Nagara style from the north and featuring a Dravidian-style shikhara, this 100-foot-high Vishnu temple underwent renovations by subsequent rulers to shift its purpose to the worship of Shiva.

On the fort's slopes near the Urwahi gate, awe-inspiring sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras, intricately carved into the cliff face during the 15th century, can be found. These figures, portrayed in seated and upright positions, find shelter within caves and niches. A focal point for visitors is the impressive 57-foot-high statue of Bahubali.

Outside the fort

Nestled in the narrow lanes of Gwalior lies Sarod Ghar, the former residence of sarod maestro Amjad Ali Khan, now repurposed as a museum. Within its walls, an impressive collection of instruments used in Hindustani classical and North Indian folk music, along with aged documents, books, and photographs, is carefully preserved. These artifacts once belonged to Amjad Ali Khan's ancestors and encompass gifts from fellow musicians. The street itself is named Haafiz Ali Khan Marg, paying homage to Amjad Ali Khan's equally illustrious father, a renowned musician in his own right.

Within Lashkar, the Scindia family's Jai Vilas Mahal, known as the Scindia Museum, bears a striking resemblance to an Italian palazzo and serves as a repository for maharaja memorabilia. Commissioned by King Jayaji Rao in 1874 for the princely sum of one crore, a portion of this grand royal residence has been transformed into a museum. Notable attractions within include an extensive array of stuffed animals, particularly tigers, and various bird species. A captivating feature in the dining room is the table adorned with the renowned silver train—a miniature marvel that glides on rails, transporting after-dinner drinks and cigars in crystal coaches to the delighted guests.


gwalior-travel-guide-3-body

Situated in Hazira, just 2.5 km from Gwalior railway station, the Mausoleum of Hazrat Mohammed Ghous, a 16th-century prince-turned-Sufi saint, is located in the Old Town or Old Gwalior. Displaying typical Mughal architecture, the mausoleum features hexagonal towers adorned with small domes at the corners, lattice work on the walls, and a prominent central dome. The complex is laid out in the style of a classic Mughal garden. Adjacent to the tomb, on the right, stands a modest samadhi dedicated to Tansen, the renowned singer and composer of Akbar’s court, with Ghous serving as Tansen’s spiritual mentor. These historic grounds host the annual Tansen Sangeet Samaroh music festival in December, transforming the dusty surroundings into a vibrant celebration of music and culture.

Shop

Renowned for its local offerings, the region boasts popular products such as savory namkeen and gajak, a delightful sweet crafted from sesame seeds, jaggery, or sugar for a satisfying crunch. For a diverse shopping experience, Patankar Bazaar, Maharaja Bada, and Sarafa Bazaar stand out, offering a variety of state-famous items like Chanderi and Maheshwari saris and stoles, mulberry fabric, handwoven carpets, intricate metalcraft, and quality leatherware. For a reliable and fixed-rate shopping experience, the state government-operated Mrignayanee emporium at Sarafa Bazaar is an excellent choice.

Gwalior, with its grand historical monuments, vibrant markets, and cultural richness, is a destination that beckons explorers seeking a journey through time. This guide serves as a compass to navigate the city's historical marvels and cultural gems ensuring that your visit to Gwalior is not just a trip but an enriching experience that lingers in your memory long after you've left the city's ancient gates.