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Gwalior, the tourist capital of Madhya Pradesh is famous for its many ancient palaces and beautiful monuments that transport visitors to the bygone era of the kings. Travel to Gwalior is a must for all lovers of history and art.
It is a paradise for travellers as they get a peek back in time at the grandeur of the city. Though much of it lies in ruins and is in need of care, the monuments still hold a charm of their own. Here is a guide to the places you must visit in Gwalior.
Gwalior Fort
One of the places to visit in Gwalior is the Gwalior Fort, a massive monument standing on a hilltop. It was built by Raja Man Sing Tomar in order to defend his boundaries from attack of neighbouring kings. Popularly called the 'Gibraltar of India' it gives tourists visiting here a birds eye view of the beautiful valley and the city below. You can also explore the fort and walk through its zig zag pathways.
Photo Courtesy: Nagarjun Kandukuru
Hathi Pol
A tourist place in Gwalior is the entrance at the Gwalior Fort, better-known as Hathi Pol. This mega-structure can only be accessed after passing through six entrances. This gate was the major defence of the fort against enemies attacking from its front. It once had a life-sized stone structure of an elephant here but now it lies in ruins. Tourists coming here can perceive the details of this enormous gate. It is said that when the king came back from battle victorious, he would enter from this gate sitting on an elephant back.
Photo Courtesy: Alabhya Jaloree
Jai Vilas Mahal
Another place to visit in Gwalior is the Jai Vilas Mahal, which was the residence of the Scindia Kings. Even till date the family of the rulers live here. It is open for visitors to observe and be awed at the grandeur of the Scindia dynasty. You can see many artifacts and weapons adorning the walls of this place. Also the beauty of this structure would leave you speechless by its Indo-Italian design. It is mostly visited my historians who come here to learn more about the Scindia dynasty.
Photo Courtesy: Mohitkjain123
Memorial of Tansen
A major attraction in Gwalior is the Memorial of Tansen, also referred to as the Tomb of Tansen. Tansen was a much-loved musician in Akbar's court, who had this built in respect of the great musician. Within this memorial, you will get to see the tomb of Tansen, as well as his teacher Muhammed Ghaus. Tourists can explore this beautiful architecture, which is an ode to one of the great musicians of the country.
Photo Courtesy: Simon Wagner
Dev Kho
Another place to visit in Gwalior is Dev Kho, a habitat of various species of wildlife. It is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and bird lovers who come here to catch a glimpse of these magnificent beasts. Tourists can go on a safari and see many wild animals and birds here.
Photo Courtesy: Sequoia Hughes
Gujari Mahal
Another tourist place in Gwalior is the Gujari Mahal, a palace built by Raja Man Singh for his wife Mrignayani. Today this palace has been converted to a museum and holds some artifacts and items like precious stones, jewels, terracotta objects, weapons, sculptures, paintings, inscriptions, pottery, etc here. Tourists coming here can browse through these items and know more about the Tomar Dynasty that once ruled over the region.
Photo Courtesy: Manuel Menal
How to Reach Gwalior
By Air: Gwalior has its own airport. It has frequent flights to places like Delhi, Varanasi, Jaipur, Agra, Indore, Mumbai and many other places.
By Train: Gwalior Railway Station is connected to all major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, etc.
By Road: Gwalior is a city with frequent bus services. Luxury buses and taxis or state run buses are always available. Buses are available from Delhi, Indore, Agra and Jaipur. There is also a good network of taxi services that ply between Gwalior and the neighbouring major cities in India.
Photo Courtesy: Carol Mitchell
