The Best Things to See and Do in India's Majestic City of Gwalior
A majestic city indeed, Gwalior is a relatively hidden treasure in India. The city lies in the state of Madhya Pradesh, where remains from Middle Pleistocene era have been found. Inhabited by many dynasties over centuries, Gwalior’s landscape is dominated by beautifully carved temples and forts. Here are the best things to see and do in the area.
Gwalior Fort
The Gwalior Fort was built on a hill and its present grand form dominates the landscape like nothing else. Built as a defensive structure, the fort has several palaces and temples, mostly well-preserved. The intricate carvings and architectural details will leave you gaping at the site for hours.
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Sahastrabahu temple
The complicated name has been shortened to Sas-Bahu temple, as it is locally known. Built in 1092 by King Mahipala inside Gwalior Fort, the temple is a marvelous sight. It was originally built with limestone, but once that started wearing off, the temple was restored to its perfect condition, seen today.
Teli Ka Mandir
One of the oldest surviving structures inside Gwalior Fort, Teli Ka Mandir (Temple of the Telis) was probably built between the 8th and 11th-century AD. The temple is home to a shrine of Lord Vishnu. It was commissioned by the rich Teli family who dealt in oil at the time.
Tomb of Tansen and Muhammad Ghaus
Akbar’s court had nine gems, they say, and one of them was musician and vocalist Tansen. A gifted person, he was a favourite of the King. After he died in 1586 he was buried near his Guru (teacher) and a beautiful tomb in his memory was built over it. Muhammed Ghaus was another talented musician to whom an architecturally beautiful memorial tomb is dedicated.
Sun Temple
The Konark-inspired Sun Temple, made by the Birla family in Gwalior is an intricately carved structure and paying a visit to the site while in Gwalior is a must!
State Archaeological Museum
Gujari Mahal, also now known as the State Archaeological Museum, houses many rare Hindu and Jain sculptures and artefacts. It was once the palace of Rani Mrignayani, the wife of Raja Man Singh Tomar.
Jai Vilas palace
Built in 1874 by Jayajirao Scindia of the Scindia dynasty, Jai Vilas Mahal looks pristine in white from the outside and its grandeur inside could surpass anyone’s imagination. A mix of Tuscan, Corinthian and Italian-Doric architecture makes the palace a must-visit.
Tansen Music Festival
Tansen Music Festival, also called Tansen Samaroh, is an annual music festival paying tribute to the legendary musician. Indian musicians from across the country come to perform and while most days the festival takes place in the main Gwalior city, it moves to a village called Behat on the last day.
Jiyaji Chowk Bazaar
Jiyaji Chowk is a busy market area in Gwalior and the best place to buy local handloom and handicraft items.
Silver Spoon
Silver Spoon is one of the best restaurants in Gwalior offering kachoris (a Gwalior local dish) and many cuisines. It is one of the best multi-cuisine eating places in the city!
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