Gwalior Fort, situated in the city of Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most prominent and historically significant forts in India. The fort is perched atop a steep hill called Gopachal, which rises about 100 meters above the city of Gwalior. This strategic location provides commanding views of the surrounding plains.
The history of Gwalior Fort dates back over a thousand years. It has seen the reigns of various dynasties including the Tomars, Mughals, Marathas& British and has withstood numerous attacks over the centuries. The fort showcases a blend of architectural styles reflecting the influences of different rulers. It features impressive structures such as palaces, temples, water tanks, and gates. The architecture includes elements of Hindu, Muslim, and Jain styles.
A local story about the fort says that a saint named Gwalipa was wandering around the fort and met the king Suraj Sen who was suffering from a skin disease. As a cure, Gwalipa suggested the king to take a dip in the sacred SurajKund which cured the king immediately. In gratitude the king named the city after the saint and later the fort got named after the name of the city.
On our second day in Gwalior, the first thing we did was to visit the Gwalior Fort. We booked a cab for the day as the fort complex is huge and the car makes it easier to get from one site to the other. Visiting hours are from 07:00am to 05:30pm. And it takes about 4-5 hours to explore the fort in detail.
Things To See At Gwalior Fort
Gwalior Fort stands as a testament to the region’s cultural and historical significance. Here are some prominent structures in the fort that one must not miss.
Man Singh Palace
The Palace, was built by Raja Man Singh Tomar in the 15th century. It exemplifies a fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, featuring ornate carvings, colourful tiles, and grand courtyards. The palace served as a royal residence and a center of cultural activities during the Tomar dynasty’s reign. Its interiors boast exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs, reflecting the opulence of the era.
The palace is also known for its contrasting architecture as it also has two floors underground which can be accesses through a series of tunnel like stairs and you enter a whole new and dark world. It is believed the underground floors of the palace were used as a prison by the Mughals and have a history of torture and killing during their reign. Some of the famous prisoners include Guru Hargobind, the 6th Guru of Sikhs and King Aurangzeb imprisoned his own brother Murad.
Gujari Mahal
It was constructed by Raja Man Singh Tomar for his queen, Mrignayani, in the 15th century. This palace exhibits a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles, characterized by intricately carved sandstone walls and elegant jharokhas (windows).
Gujari Mahal now houses the Archaeological Museum, showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts including sculptures, inscriptions, and coins from various historical periods. We got some great insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region exploring the museum’s galleries. The highlight being the famous stone sculpture of Shalbhanjika. Gujari Mahal stands as a testament to the artistic and cultural achievements of the Tomar dynasty and is a key attraction within the Gwalior Fort complex.
Chaturbhuj Temple
It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Constructed in the 9th century, the temple showcases a blend of elements from both Nagara and Dravidian architectural styles. It is renowned for its intricately carved sculptures and exquisite craftsmanship, portraying scenes from Hindu mythology and legends. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum houses a four-armed idol of Lord Vishnu in the Chaturbhuj form. We loved to admire rich heritage and spiritual significance of the temple while exploring the architectural wonders of the Fort.
Jahangir AndShah Jahan Mahal
Jahangir and Shah Jahan Mahals are two significant structures within the Gwalior Fort complex, constructed during the Mughal era. Jahangir Mahal, built by Raja Man Singh Tomar in the 16th century, served as a royal residence and an audience hall for Mughal emperors. It showcases a blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles, featuring intricate carvings and ornate balconies.
Shah Jahan Mahal, named after the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, was added later to the complex. It is smaller in size compared to Jahangir Mahal but reflects similar architectural elements. Both palaces boast impressive facades, spacious courtyards, and elaborate interiors adorned with decorative motifs.
Jahangir Mahal is known for its strategic location and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Shah Jahan Mahal served as a private residence for the royal family and features elegant design elements.
These palaces stand as testament to the cultural exchange and architectural patronage during the Mughal rule in Gwalior.
Sas-Bahu Temple
The Sas-Bahu Temple, located within the Gwalior Fort complex, is a remarkable marvel dating back to the 9th century. The temple comprises of two structures, one larger – Sas (Mother-in-law) Temple and the other smaller Bahu (Daughter-in-law) Temple.Both are dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Its architectural style is a blend of Nagara and Indo-Aryan styles, characterized by ornate sculptures and finely detailed motifs.
The larger temple, Sas, features a towering spire and a pillared mandapa (hall), while the smaller temple, Bahu, is more modest in size but equally graceful. The temple complex is adorned with elaborate sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including gods, goddesses, and celestial beings.
The SasBahu Temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Gwalior and continues to be a significant attraction within the Gwalior Fort complex.
AssiKhambaKi Baori
AssiKhambakiBaori, located within the Gwalior Fort complex, is an ancient stepwell dating back to the 15th century. Its name, which translates to “Eighty Pillar Stepwell,” refers to the numerous pillars that support the structure. The stepwell served as a source of water for the fort’s inhabitants during its heyday. AssiKhambakiBaori features a symmetrical layout with detailed carvings and architectural designs, reflecting the craftsmanship of the era.
TeliKaMandir
TelikaMandir, situated within the Gwalior Fort complex, is a prominent Hindu temple dating back to the 9th century. It stands as one of the oldest and tallest structures within the fort. The name of the temple, which translates to “Oilman’s Temple,” likely refers to its original builders or the use of oil in its construction. Teli ka Mandir exhibits a unique architectural fusion of North Indian, South Indian, and Indo-Aryan styles, reflecting the cultural influences prevalent during its construction.
The temple features a towering shikhara (spire) decorated with detailed carvings and beautiful motifs. Its walls are embellished with sculptures depicting various Hindu deities and mythological figures. Teli ka Mandir houses a sanctum sanctorum dedicated to Lord Vishnu, showcasing a finely sculpted idol.
We were mesmerized by the elegant proportions and exquisite craftsmanship. Despite its simplicity, Teli ka Mandir remains an architectural gem and a significant symbol of Gwalior’s rich heritage.
Gurdwara Data Bandi Chhor
Gurdwara Data BandiChhor commemorates the visit of Guru Hargobind Sahib, the sixth Sikh Guru, to the fort in the early 17th century. “Data Bandi Chhor” translates to “the liberator of prisoners,” symbolizing release of Guru Hargobind along with 52 Rajput kings held captive by Emperor Jahangir.
The gurdwara features a white marble facade with domes and minarets, exhibiting a blend of Sikh and Mughal architectural styles. Inside, the shrine is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings depicting Sikh history and the life of Guru Hargobind Sahib.
We got completely immersed into the serene and spiritual atmosphere here.
Gurdwara Data Bandi Chhor holds historical significance and serves as a reminder of the Sikh principles of compassion, justice, and liberation. It demonstrates the enduring legacy of Guru Hargobind Sahib and his teachings of righteousness and equality.
Urwai Gate
The Gwalior Fort is renowned for its remarkable rock-cut sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras, dating back to the 15th century. Carved into the cliffs of the fort, these sculptures depict the revered Jain spiritual figures in seated or standing postures, adorned with intricate details and serene expressions. The sculptures showcase the artistic prowess of the craftsmen of the era and reflect the influence of Jainism in the region.The Jain rock-cut sculptures attest the cultural diversity prevalent in Gwalior during medieval times.
If you take a guide, then they might not show you this site. And we too almost missed it. But the sheer magnificence of the sculptures makes it hard to miss and we then asked our cab driver to stop so that we can admire the beauty of these sculptures.
Each Tirthankara sculpture embodies the ideals of Jain philosophy, including non-violence, truth, and compassion, which inspired us to contemplate and introspect our lives. The tranquil surroundings of the fort provided an ideal setting for some quiet reflection and spiritual contemplation
The rock-cut sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras are considered sacred by Jain devotees and are an integral part of the religious and cultural heritage of Gwalior. They continue to attract pilgrims, scholars, and tourists from around the world, offering a glimpse into the rich spiritual and artistic traditions of Jainism.
These 9 are the must visit sites at the Gwalior fort. So, plan your trip and let us know how you liked our recommendations. You can also tell us if you explored any new sites as the complex of the fort is very vast.
