Gwalior Fort, Gwalior
Although the fort has seen a large number of various dynasties and empires, it was said to have been constructed by Suraj Sen Kachwaha during the 5th century. Gwalior fort comprises of two main palaces and several temples that are dedicated to Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions.
Gwalior Fort
Standing on a steep mass of sandstone, Gwalior Fort dominates the city and is its most magnificent monument. It has been the center of momentous events in the history of India – battles, Jauhars, imprisonment.
It was here that Tatya Tope and Rani Jhansi fought for their freedom. A steep road winds upward to the fort from the city, flanked by statues of Jain Thirthankars, carved into the rock face between 7th and 15th century.
Gujari Mahal
Within the fort is some marvels of medieval architecture. The 15th century Gujari Mahal is a monument of love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his intrepid Gujar Queen, Mriganayani.
Mansingh Palace
Built between 1486 and 1517 by Raja Mansingh. Emperor Aurangzeb, had his brother imprisoned and later, executed here. It also has Jauhar Kund, where in Rajput tradition, the Ranis, committed mass sati if their consorts were defeated in battle.
Teli Ka Mandir and Sas Bahu Ka Mandir
The 9th century Teli Ka Mandir, towering 100 feet high, is a great architectural style. The shape of the roof is distinctively Dravidian, while the decorative embellishments have the typical Indo-Aryan characteristic of northern India.
Also dedicated to Vishnu is the graceful Sas Bahu ka Mandir built in the 11th century.
Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod
Built in the memory of Guru Hargobind sahib, the 6th Sikh Guru, who was imprisoned here by the emperor Jehangir for over two years.
Jai Vilas Palace and Museum
It is reminiscence of a regal lifestyle, the past comes alive. Palace Jai Vilas is an Italian structure, which combines the Tuscan and Corinthian architectural modes.
The imposing Durbar hall has two central Chandeliers weighing a couple of tons and hung only after ten elephants had tested the strength of the roof. Eye-catching treasures includes silver train with cut glass wagon, which served guests as it chugged on the table on miniature rail.
Tomb of Tansen
A pillar of Hindustani Classical music, the great Tansen, one of the jewel amongst Navratnas of Mughal Emperor- Akbar’s court, lies buried in Gwalior.
More than a monument, the tomb is part of Gwalior’s cultural heritage and is the venue of annual music festival.
Sun Temple
Located near the residency of Morar, the newly constructed Sun Temple, takes its inspiration from the famous Konark Sun Temple in Orissa.
Ek Patthar ki Bawadi
World famous sculpture of the Lord Parshvanath. No where in the world, can one find bigger sculptor of Lord Parshvanath in a sitting posture. There also Chattries (Cenotaphs) of Scindia Family, Maharaja’s Bara shopping centre, Urvai Gate of Jain sculptor, Sarod Ghar- old ancestral house of legendary Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan, Laxmi bai samadhi etc.
