Perched atop a rocky mountain in Madhya Pradesh, this phenomenal fortress was impenetrable during attacks. The fortress has witnessed many historical events and it is proudly stated as the “pearl amongst the fortresses in India." Sprawling over an area of 3 km, Gwalior fort can be seen from every nook and cranny of Gwalior. It is the only monument among the Gwalior tourist places that dominate the entire cityscape.
This temple was originally named as Sahastrabahu Temple which is another name for Lord Vishnu with many hands. By gradual mispronunciation in the course of time, it got famous as Saas Bahu Temple. This temple was constructed in the reign of King Mahipala of the Kacchapaghata Dynasty who wished for a prosperous and successful kingdom from the Lord of the universe. This temple is also praised for its intricate designs and impeccable carvings.
If you are interested in witnessing the armors from the era of Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb to the freedom movement during the reign of Rani Laxmi Bai, then head to Jai Vilas Palace. This well-preserved palatial monument was built by Jayaji Rao Scindia who was once the Maharaja of Gwalior.
Gopachal Parvat is situated in the Gwalior fort and is a great place to witness some age-old Jain iconography. It is a group of rock-cut sculptures which are situated on the south side of the fort is a sight to behold and visiting the place among the best things to do in Gwalior. These carvings date back to the 7th and the 15th centuries.
Bateshwar is a group of temples belonging to the 8th and 10th centuries whereas Padavali is a fortress that was built in the 18th century. Embark on a short drive to witness these marvels dating to various ages. Where Bateshwar has a cluster of around 200 mini temples made of sandstones, Padavali has just one notable temple which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The site is unique, gripping and can send you back in time.
Gujari Mahal is a perfect example of architectural brilliance which dates back to the 15th century. It was constructed by Raja Man Singh in the premises of Gwalior Fort, making it one of the finest among the six mahals enclosed within the walls of the fort.
This serene oasis was constructed in the remembrance of the sixth Guru Sant Har Govind Singh. The gurdwara was built in white marble and was ornated in gold. It is believed that the Mughal emperor Jahangir confined Sant Har Govind Singh at this spot; thereby, a Gurudwara was built in his memory.
The tomb of Tansen which is famous as Tansen Memorial is an obvious choice among the many Gwalior tourist places. Tansen was a pioneer of Gwalior Gharana in Hindustani Classical music during the reign of Mughals. He was an ardent follower of the Sufism and learned ragas from his teacher Muhammad Ghaus. The tomb has a simple architecture in Mughal archetypal. Tansen was buried in the same complex as Muhammad Ghaus and this complex is famous as Tansen Memorial where the national level music festival is organized in the months of November and December.
The construction of this magnificent temple dates back to the year 1988 by the renowned industrialist G.D. Birla. The temple is dedicated to Sun God and the architecture is inspired by the world-famous Sun Temple in Konark. The sculptures and the edges are carved out of marbles and Red sandstone giving it a unique appearance in contrast with the lush Green garden that encircles the temple. Sun Temple is one of the sacred places to visit in Gwalior for devotees.
Tighra Dam was constructed in the year 1916 on the river Sank and since then, this freshwater reservoir serves as a major source of water to the city dwellers to fulfill their daily water needs. It serves as a great spot to picnickers where a wide variety of boat rides such as Jalpari boating, paddle boating, speed boating, and even water scooters rides can be enjoyed.
To commemorate the well-known woman warrior, Rani Laxmi Bai, an eight-meter tall statue is installed in the middle of Phool Bagh. She rebelled and fought to save the princely state of Jhansi in the war of 1857 against the British rule. She died fighting against the British, but she is remembered even today and the stunning statue honors her valor and courage. The Samadhi is quite distinct in the garden and is one of the places to visit in Gwalior for enkindling your spirit.
It is one of the prominent places to visit in Gwalior to learn the rich history of the Scindia Dynasty. Chhatris of Scindia Dynasty is located in Chhatri Bazar and is a marvelous site to admire the detailed architecture and design. The entrance and the outside walls are adorned with stone carvings of animals like horses, tigers, elephants, etc. Daulat Rao Scindia, Jivaji Rao Scindia, and Jankoji Rao Scindia among a lot of others are some popular names from the Scindia Dynasty who are associated with the monument.
This place turned Museum used to be the royal abode of the Scindia family. A stretch of rooms in Jai Vilas Palace is allotted to the Museum space where you will witness gadgets and antiques belonging to the bygone era. You will feel proud upon witnessing the world’s largest chandelier that is on display in the museum. The palace has a touch of both Indian and British architectures and the palace sprawls across a large area.
One of the few places to visit in Gwalior which are built by Man Singh Tomar or by the Tomar Dynasty. The stunning carved stonewalls and the perfectly placed tiles can give you the best sense of Rajput style architecture. Jauhar Pond in the palace is famous as suicide point where Rajput women would commit suicide to save their honour. The various chambers for different purpose like dining, sitting hall, etc. can give you quite a tour of the palace.
Whether you want to indulge in photography, adventure or you just want to spend a day away from the hubbub of the city life in the middle of nature, Pagara Dam is your ultimate retreat. Located on Asan River, this dam is an ideal place in Gwalior where you can come with family or friends, and spend some quality time together and is one of the best places to go for a bike trip in Madhya Pradesh.
Sprawled across an area of 8 hectares. Gwalior zoo was established in the year 1922 by the family of Madhav Rao Scindia. It is one of the protected areas in Phool Bagh which is under the care of the Municipal Corporation of Gwalior. The zoo has a vast collection of animals like hyena, sambars, bison, golden peasants, monkeys, spotted deer, black bucks, crocodiles, snakes, white tiger, etc.
Located in the Gwalior Fort, this temple also dates back to the 9th century and is the highest building in Gwalior (100 ft.). This temple was used to process oil before the Britishers occupied the Gwalior Fort. This temple is famous for its unique architecture as the temple holds a Dravidian look, but the sculptures are typically North Indian.
This magical tank is situated within the walls of Gwalior Fort and it was constructed in the 15th century. The tank is shrouded by a story that reveals that the discoverer of Gwalior city Raja Suraj Sen suffered from leprosy once but when he drank the tank’s water, he was cured. The historical significance lures many believers to worship the tank. The entire surrounding is pristine and quiet, making it a perfect place to unwind in Gwalior.
Maharaj Bada or Jayaaji Chowk is one of the most significant place of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. Maharaj Bada, which is sometimes just called as Bada, is the central focus of Gwalior, with a large square, a former opera house, banks, tea, coffee and juice stands and a municipal market building.
