gwalior city tourism

Melodic Gwalior

36 ℃ 28 Apr 2024

• Gwalior fort - 'the pearl amongst fortresses in India'
• The Chaturbhuj temple at Gwalior fort has the first ever written Zero
• The Tansen music festival is celebrated every year on Tansen's tomb in Gwalior
• The Wizard of Hockey, Dhyan Chand, was from Gwalior
• One of the carpets in Jai Vilas Palace took nearly 12 years to weave

Virtual Tour Bateshwar Group of Temples Fort Sas Bahu Temple Teli Mandir

The history of Gwalior can be traced from the legend of eighth century AD, about a chieftain, Suraj Sen who contracted leprosy and was cured by the hermit-saint Gwalipa. He established this city in his honour as a mark of gratitude for the incident. Over the years, the newly established city, Gwalior came into existence. Gwalior has been the birthplace of many powerful dynasties. The city took on a new dimension as a result of the warrior kings, poets, artists, and saints who helped it become well-known across the nation with each new dynasty. In addition, the city serves as the location for the monuments honoring historical freedom fighters like Tatya Tope and the tenacious Rani of Jhansi.

There are many famous tourist places to visit in Gwalior to explore and add to your insta feed. Every heritage site of Gwalior has an interesting and distinct story that would take you back to the era of Maharajas and Maharanis.

Places to visit in Gwalior

Gwalior fort.

The most important landmark in the city, Gwalior Fort stands on a steep land of sandstone. This grandeur was built to honour the saint Gwalipa. As per folklore, when the monarch was ill, sage Gwalipa offered him water from a sacred pond to cure him, that is still inside the Gwalior fort complex. The fort has witnessed important incidents, imprisonments, conflicts, and jauhars. Jain tirthankara statues carved into the rock face border the steep road leading up to the fort. The fort's majestic outside walls, which are two miles long and 35 feet high, continue to remain, attesting to its reputation as one of India's most impregnable forts. 

Jai Vilas Palace

The Jai Vilas Palace , where the Scindia family currently resides, exhibits the beauty of a royal interior. The Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum is made up of about 25 rooms, and in these regal-styled spaces, the past truly comes to life. The Italianate Jai Vilas building blends Corinthian and Tuscan architectural styles. The two massive central chandeliers in the grand Darbar Hall were only hung after ten elephants tested the stability of the roof. They each weigh several tonnes. The characteristics of these large rooms include gilt-accented ceilings, thick curtains and tapestries, exquisite Persian rugs, and antique furniture from France and Italy.

Teli ka Mandir

Teli Ka Mandir , a historic religious temple renowned for its Dravidian architecture and intricate artwork, is the tallest building inside the Gwalior Fort complex. As per folk stories, the temple was built with the money donated by oil merchants. Hence, the name Teli Ka Mandir came into existence. Tourists can also find this information in the inscription written on the main gate of the temple. It is about 100 feet tall, and its design combines Hindu and Buddhist elements. The earliest temple in the fort was built either in the eighth or eleventh century. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and features constructions within with coiled serpents and river goddesses as well as Lord Vishnu in the guise of his mount, "Garuda."

The 19th-century Moti Mahal, one of the most historic structures in the city, is surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains. It was originally a Madhya Bharat Government office, but it is currently home to government offices. Highlights of this palace include the wall murals, mosaics, and gorgeous tempera colours that represent Ragas and Raginis.

Sas Bahu Temple

The Sas-Bahu Temple, which is housed inside the Gwalior Fort, consists of two elaborately carved red sandstone temples. Lord Shiva is honoured in the smaller one, while Lord Vishnu is honoured in the larger. Contrary to what the name might imply, this temple is named after Lord Vishnu's incarnation, Sahastrabahu. In the eleventh century, Kacchapaghata Dynasty King Mahipala built this iconic temple.

Gopachal Parvat

Gopachal Parvat, a well-known series of rock-cut inside the Gwalior Fort, is the best location to view ancient Jain imagery. It is the location of a collection of rock-cut sculptures with carvings from the seventh to the fifteenth centuries. If you're a history or architectural junky, this place would awe you with its grandeur. Here, the statue of Tirthankaras might be seen standing or sitting during their meditation. For followers of Jainism, it is one of the most significant locations in Gwalior.

Gujari Mahal

The palace was built by King Man Singh for his beloved queen Mrignayani. She was one of the queens of Raja Mansing. King's love and devotion towards his brave Gujar Queen, Mrignayani, is memorialised in the Gujari Mahal from the fifteenth century. 

While the interior of Gujari Mahal has been transformed into an archaeological museum housing rare artefacts, some of which date back to the first century A.D., the exterior building has survived in an almost perfect condition of preservation. Many medieval architectural wonders can be found inside the fort. Their perfection of form has endured the ravages of time, despite the fact that many of these were destroyed by the iconoclastic Mughals. The statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyraspur, the tree goddess and miniature representation of perfection, is very noteworthy. The curator of the museum is in charge of keeping the statue, and visitors may view it upon request.

Sun Temple, also known as Surya Mandir, is another pride for Gwalior. It was constructed in 1988, and the Sun Temple of Konark served as  inspiration for its design. The temple's red sandstone exteriors make it the ideal location for dawn and sunset photo shooting. White marble was used to carve the statues inside the temple. The temple welcomes a number of visitors and pilgrims every year.

Ghaus Mohammed Tomb

Another early Mughal-inspired structure is the sandstone tomb of Ghaus Mohammed. He was the Prince of Afghanistan who later became a Sufi saint. According to legends, Mohammad Ghaus occupies a significant position in the history of Mughal India and is said to have had great influence over Mughal emperors like Babur and Humayun. He is also considered as the spiritual guru of Tansen. It is said that that the music of Tansen was very much inspired from the music of Ghaus Mohammed. The screens made in the delicate lace perforated stone method are especially beautiful. On the approach to Gwalior Fort from the Railway Station, it is close to Hazira.

Tansen Tomb

A simple structure of the Tomb of Tansen can be seen a short distance away from the Tomb of Muhammad Ghaus. Tansen was one of the legends and pioneers of Indian classical music and the most famous singer during Akbar's rule and one among the nine jewels of the court. 

Every year in November and December, a grand music event is held at his tomb. Here, musicians and artists from all over the world come to honour the legendary Indian musical maestro Tansen. India-wide performers of both vocal and instrumental music are invited.

Light and Sound Show at the Gwalior Fort

As the sun sets behind the ancient walls of Gwalior Fort, a captivating spectacle awaits tourists and visitors alike. Every evening, the fortress comes alive with a mesmerising sound and light show, weaving together the threads of history into a vivid tapestry of narratives and stories.  The magnificent architecture of the fort serves as a canvas, illuminated by vibrant colours that dance to the rhythm of the tales being told in the legendary voice of Bollywood actors Shri Amitabh Bachchan and Shri Kabir Bedi. Don't miss this enthralling experience while you explore Gwalior!  Show Timings:

Ticket Price: 

Places to visit near Gwalior

Bateshwar group of temples.

The Bateshwar Hindu Temple is group of temples of roughly 200 sandstone Hindu temples constructed by the Gurjar monarchs in Morena. These temple groups are examples of early Gurjara-Pratihara style temple construction. It is located approximately 30 kilometres (19 miles) from Morena city and about 35 kilometres (22 miles) north of Gwalior. The temples are dispersed over around 25 acres devoted to Shiva, Vishnu, and Shakti, which stand for the three main Hindu religions. Bateshwar temples were constructed between the eighth and tenth centuries.

The Jat Ranas of Dhaulpur, who ruled in the 18th century, constructed the renowned Padavali fort. The fort features a temple that was a sacred location to worship Lord Shiva and is graciously guarded by a lion and lioness. Every stone used in the construction of the temple and the fortification has an inscription or other indication of the ancient time period on it!

The well-known Chausath Yogini Temple is located in the village of Mitaoli; it is set atop a hill and surrounded by lush greenery. You can reach this magnificent round temple's beauty after ascending about 100 steps. You will undoubtedly grab your camera as you take in the breathtaking views. 

Read to know more about   Mitaoli, Padavali & Bateshwar - A Collection of Historic Architectural Beauty! 

National Chambal Ghariyal Wildlife Sanctuary 

The sanctuary is perfect for nature lovers and trekkers everywhere, it is located on the Chambal River near the tripoint of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The area is designated as sanctuary in order to protect the critically endangered gharial, the red-crowned roof turtle and the endangered Ganges river dolphin. Other large threatened species of the sanctuary include mugger crocodile, striped hyena, Indian wolf and smooth-coated otter. Other reptiles who live in the sanctuary are Indian flapshell turtle, Indian tent turtle, soft shell turtle, monitor lizard and Indian roofed turtle.

Best time to visit Gwalior

Gwalior can be toured throughout the year. However, the summer season is recommended to be avoided if you want to explore the prominent as well as the offbeat places of the city . The best time to visit the city without any hassle and heat wave is in between October to March.

How to reach Gwalior?

Domestic flights via Air India depart regularly from Gwalior Airport to destinations like Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, and Bhopal. From Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, which is 335 kilometres away from Gwalior, travellers from other Indian cities and towns as well as from foreign nations can catch a subsequent flight.

With direct train connections, Gwalior is well connected to all of India's main cities. The New Delhi-Bhopal Shatabdi Express takes 3 hours to go from New Delhi to Gwalior. A number of other cities, including Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ahmedabad, Nagpur, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Thiruvananthapuram, Kanyakumari, Patna, and Kolkata, are directly connected to this one. Gwalior is a significant railway station that is governed by the Jhansi Rail Division.

The roads leading to Gwalior are very good in terms of connectivity. All of Madhya Pradesh's major towns and the surrounding regions are connected to the location. Chanderi is located 239 kilometres, Lucknow and Bhopal are both only 423 kilometres apart, and Delhi is 321 kilometres away.

Gwalior holds an unparalleled reputation in Sangeet, and has retained Indian traditions and the wealth of music intact over the years. The Gwalior Gharana is one of the oldest Khayal Gharanas and the one to which most classical Indian musicians can trace the origin of their style. Legendary musicians like Tansen and Baiju Bawara belonged to Gwalior.

Gwalior also has a rich history in sports, with the wizard of Hockey, Dhyan Chand, belonging to the city.

• Things To Do

The miracle behind the name

Once upon a time, a king named Suraj Sen went out hunting. Outpacing his entourage, he rode

The legend of Tansen

The great singer, Tansen, belonged to the

Dhrupad Style: A Soulful Genre of Hindustani Classical Music

National chambal sanctuary - truly a pristine paradise.

The cleanest of all, Chambal is haven for countless wildlife!&

Batto Bai Dolls - Preserving the Heritage of Handicrafts

Madhya Pradesh is a state which is known for its unique handicrafts. Once you deep dive int

Madhya Pradesh - A state of timeless cuisines

As you travel the length and breadth of Madhya Pradesh, you'll encounter sights that you've

Gujari Mahal Museum - Exploring the Hidden Treasures of Gwalior

Gwalior, a city known for its rich history and architectural marvels, is a treasure trove o

Gwalior Fort (2024): History, Architecture, and Tourist Attractions

The Gwalior Fort (Gwalior ka kila) is strategically located in the city of Gwalior in the s

Gwalior- A Yummy Tummy Travel Destination of MP

A city with historical and culinary charmsVisiting Gw

Know Everything About Jai Vilas Palace Museum, Gwalior

The Jai Vilas Palace is a magnificent architectural marvel, situated in Gwalior, Madhya Pra

Madhav National Park - Take a Trip into an Unbeatable Wildlife Experience!

Viewing wildlife in its natural habitat is no doubt a rewarding experience in Madhya Prades

A queen remembered for her height - Maharani Chinku Rani Saheb

One of the popular

Mitaoli, Padavali & Bateshwar - A Collection of Historic Architectural Beauty!

A beautiful set of structures dating back to the Gupta and Gurjara-Pratihara dynasties defi

Bhil or Pithora Paintings

Beautifying the present with ancient artIt's a pleasant surprise that in

Sas-Bahu Temple in Gwalior: A Testament of Architectural Brilliance

Gwalior, the city steeped in history and architectural wonders, holds a hidden gem within i

Snacks trail in Madhya Pradesh - The must have treats during Winter

Winter is all about indulgence and indulgence is best relished with a nip in the air! A tra

Stone Carving of Gwalior

Stone Carving is an art wh

Teli Ka Mandir - A must visit in Gwalior

Gwalior is a place where myth and history come together in an ancient inscription. Successi

Tansen Samaroh 2023

Get ready to soak in the melody of Heart of India at the Tansen Samaroh.

Times Gwalior Chambal Heritage Trail

The Times Gwalior Chambal Heritage Trail offers a captivating experience, weaving through G

Walks and Trails

Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh is a city of rich heritage and culture. It has been Read More

Coffee at Indian Coffee House

While it's Signature Coffee is to die for, the sumptuous food make it the obvious choice

Bahadura Ke Laddu

Renowned for their motichur Laado, Bahadura sweets is leading over the nation on taste.

SS Kachori Wala

Famous for its kachori, samosa, jalebi, SS Kachoriwala is an ideal place to enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Maharaja Bada

Maharaj Bada, with burgeoning bazaars and jewellery shops, is one of the biggest markets of Gwalior.

Carpet Weaving

The weavers of Gwalior are known for their excellent carpet weaving techniques. The enigmatic designs & the awe inspiring patterns of these carpets surely catch the attention of one and all.

Gajak Of Gwalior

If you are on a trip to Gwalior and don't buy yourself a packet of Gajak, then we must tell you that you are missing out a lot in your life. Made of sesame and jaggery, every bite of this crunchy delight simply melts in mouth spreading happiness.

Batto Bai Dolls

If you are fond of art and craft then do buy yourself Batto Bai Dolls on your trip to Gwalior. These are charmingly dressed in bright, traditional clothing and catch attention at first sight.

Mrignayani in Gwalior is a good place to buy handicrafts and clothes. Do stop by at this emporium and shop some masterpieces.

Best Places to visit

View All Places Of Interest

The Bateshwar temples are a cluster of almost 200 mini grandeurs made of sandstone, devoted to lords Shiva and Vishnu.

Gopachal Parvat carries splendid rock-cut statues of Jain Tirthankars. The largest idol, of Bhagwan Parshwanath on a lotus, is the largest statue (cut from a single stone) in the world!

The building is originally a palace built by king Man Singh for his wife Mrignayani, who was a Gujar. Thus the palace got the name Gujari Mahal.?

Gwalior Fort is an 8th century fort that is perched on top of a steep, unscalable rock outcrop overlooking the city. It is popularly called "the Gibraltar of India".

The beautiful palace boasts of several unique items from the private collection of the erstwhile rulers of Gwalior.?

Man singh Palace

Unusual decorations like a frieze of yellow ducks, and mosaic tiling of elephants, tigers and crocodiles in blue, yellow and green give Man Singh Palace its alternative identity of Chit Mandir (Painted Palace).

The Parliament House in New Delhi is believed to have been inspired from the circular design and architectural intricacies of the Mitawali temple, which is 37 KMs from Gwalior.

Graciously guarded by a lion and lioness, the Padavli fortress, 35 KMs from Gwalior also has a temple that once served as a divine place to worship Lord Shiva.

This Museum of Music has been set up in the ancestral house of Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan. It houses instruments and photographs of the past masters of Indian classical music, giving music lovers an opportunity to understand the evolution of the art.

The Surya Mandir or Sun Temple is one of the most spectacular temples as well as an architectural wonder in Gwalior. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to the holy Sun God

Tansen Memorial

The tomb of Tansen, the legendary singer who was one of the Navratnas in Akbar?s court, is tucked away in the winding lanes of Old Gwalior. Chewing the leaves from the tamarind tree here supposedly enriches your voice.

One of the most preferred picnic spots, Tigra dam, 35 KMs from Gwalior is a perfect place to spend quality and leisure time with family and friends?

Abul Fazal ka Maqbara

It is believed that Abul Fazal was killed in the 16th century in village Antri and hence the tomb of Abul Fazal exists here.?

National Chambal Sanctuary

With rich history and heritage, the Chambal Valley, 76 KMs from Gwalior has much to offer from its breathtaking landscapes, a variety of wildlife, rural vibe, untainted nature, fascinating ruins and legendary exploits

ACCOMMODATIONS

MPT Tansen Residency, Gwalior

Price: INR 2490 - 4290 Phone: (0751) 2340370 / 3249000 / 4010555 / 4010666

View Details

Krishnayan Heritage

Price: 5000/- Phone: 9425109038

Restaurants And Bars

Boulevard 69 cafe and restro, multi cuisine.

Phone : 8823880000

Boulevard 69 is a concept restaurant, where you can have an amazing laid-back time with friends and family, while revelling in the taste of some of the most exotic dishes from the Indian and Chinese , Continental Cuisines, along with our signature Tandoori and Mughlai culinary delights.

Indish - Radisson

Phone : 7517105555

Indulge in international cuisine at our all-day restaurant, Indish. Sit down to a hot breakfast to begin your day. After meetings and sightseeing, you can recharge with a globally inspired lunch or dinner.

Nearby destinations

Palatial Datia (76 KM)

An astonishing confluence of Mughal and Rajput architecture, the 7 storeyed Datia Palace stands tall in the historic city of Datia. While its exterior is adorned with arches, chhatris and oriel

Majestic Orchha (124 KM)

The historic town of Orchha, nestled on the banks of river Betwa, was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput Chief, Rudra Pratap. Here, the river Betwa splits into seven channels, also

Travel tools

Destination map, local guide directory, tours and operators, destination brochure, tourist guides, best season to visit.

The best time to visit Gwalior is from September to February.

• Group Enquiry? NEW
• 25 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Gwalior
• Madhya Pradesh

The endless list of places to visit in Gwalior comprises dramatic fortresses, royal palaces, and intricately built temples. Gwalior is a perfect blend of architecture, art, and history. The regal town of Gwalior is situated in the heart of India, or the state of Madhya Pradesh.

The strategic location of Gwalior on the map of India makes it accessible from every nook and corner of the country. The town is famous for the magnanimous Gwalior fort because of its hilltop location that overlooks the entire city.

Of many other historic palaces and monuments, Gujari Mahal, Teli ka Mandir, Sas Bahu temple, Tomb of Muhammad Ghaus and Tansen are a few that are not to be missed. The off-the-beaten paths which take you to Bir Singh Mahal, Padavali and Bateshwar and the wild trails of Madhav National Park are a bit away from the town yet command your attention.

Some of the Gwalior tourist places will cast a spell on you and you are sure to take a detour for admiring the brilliant architectural marvels. The intriguing sight of a museum dedicated solely to music which runs in the house of the legendary Sarod player, Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan is another gem in the heart of the town.

Many music festivals are also organized at the Tansen Memorial in memory of the prestigious Ustad Tansen of Gwalior Gharana who was one of the jewels of King Akbar’s kingdom.

The town is shrouded with stories and historical events and can delight any history buff, traveler, photographer or anyone who loves to travel back in time through ageless monuments. Gwalior is an amazing destination to stop by and learn the history right.

Here is the list of best tourist places to visit in Gwalior:

Quick navigation, gwalior fort.

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.

Timing : 8 AM to 5:30 PM on all days of the week.

Entry Fee : INR 75 per Indian adult and free for children below the age of 15 years.

Time  Required to Explore : Around 2 to 3 hours.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 2 KM

Resorts in Gwalior  are so amazing that you won't miss any of the luxuries here. 

Saas Bahu Temple

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.

Timing : 8 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week.

Entry Fee : Free of charge.

Location : Fort Campus, Near Post Office, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Less than an hour.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Around 3.5 KM

Also check here,  famous temples of Madhya Pradesh  one must definitely visit.

Jai Vilas Palace

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.

The palace sprawls its regal branches over an area of 75 acres and it serves as a grand resident to the descendants of Jayaji Rao Scindia as well as a huge museum constituting to 35 rooms.

Timing : 10 AM to 4:45 PM (April to September) and 10 AM to 4:30 PM (October to March) on all days of the week except Wednesday.

Entry Fee : INR 100 per person (Indian).

Location : Jai Vilas Palace, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 2 to 3 hours.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 6 KM

Best of Madhya Pradesh

Gopachal Parvat

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.

The Tirthankaras are either found meditating in seated or standing positions making Gopachal Parvat one of the many Jain findings in Gwalior. Gopachal Parvat is a noteworthy and revered site, especially among the followers of Jainism.

Timing : 24 hours open for visitors.

Entry Fee : Free of cost.

Location : Gwalior Fort.

Time  Required to Explore : Around an hour.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Around 4.5 KM

Padavali and Bateshwar

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.

Timing : 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM on all days of the week.

Entry Fee : INR 15 per person.

Location : 40 km from Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : At least a day.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 40 KM

Gujari Mahal

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.

It is one of those places to visit in Gwalior that stand the test of time. It now encompasses an archeological museum that has an assorted collection of antiques related to Hindu and Jain religions from the first and the second centuries.

Location : Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Less than an hour.

Also check here, famous palaces & forts of Madhya Pradesh  one must definitely visit.

Best of Bhopal

Gurudwara Data Bandi Chor Sahib

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 serenity of the place can be heard in the chants and the hymns recited from the holy book - Guru Granth Sahib. It is a prestigious place of worship, especially for the followers of Sikhism.

Timing : 10 AM to 10 PM on all days of the week.

Time  Required to Explore : 45 minutes to an hour.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Around 3.6 KM

Tansen Memorial

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.

Timing : 8 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week.

Location : Tansen Nagar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Around 2 KM

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.

Timing : 6:30 AM to 12 PM; 1 PM to 6 PM on all days of the week.

Entry Fee : free of cost.

Location : Sun Temple Gwalior Mahaveer, Morar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Around 5.5 KM

Best of Indore

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.

Apart from the domestic usefulness, it is also a major source of irrigation and fishing in the nearby villages. The picturesque getaway is a birder’s delight.

Entry Fee : Entry is free but boating and other activities are chargeable.

Location : Sank River, Tigra, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : 3 to 4 hours.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 25 KM

Samadhi of Rani Laxmi Bai

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.

Entry Fee : Fee of cost.

Location : Phool Bagh Complex, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 30 minutes.

Chattris of Scindia Dynasty

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.

Timing : 9 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week.

Location : Chattri Bazaar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 8 KM

Best of Jabalpur

Jivaji Rao Scindia Museum

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.

Timing : 10 AM to 5 PM (summers); 10 AM to 4:45 PM (winters).

Location : Jaivilas Palace, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 1 to 2 hour.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 5.5 KM

To know more about the history, check here the historical places to visit in Madhya Pradesh .

Man Mandir Palace

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.

Timing : 10 AM to 5 PM on all days of the week.

Location : Man Mandir Palace, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : About an hour.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Around 2.5 KM

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.

Apart from being exceptionally beautiful and serene, Pagara Dam is also an excellent campsite. The presence of water bodies and grasslands makes the landscape appear quite scenic. 

Boating and cycling services are also available here should you decide to add more fun to the affair.

Timing: 24 hours open for visitors.

Entry Fee: Free of cost.

Location : Joura Town, Morena District, Madhya Pradesh

Time Required to Explore : 1-day stay.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 75 KM

Best of Khajuraho

Gwalior Zoo

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.

Timing : 8 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week except Fridays.

Entry Fee : INR 20 per adult and INR 5 per child.

Location : Maharani Laxmi Bai Marg, Shinde Ki Chhawni, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 2-3 hours.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 5 KM

If jungle and nature inspire you, check this list of national parks in Madhya Pradesh .

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.

Location : In the Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 1 to 2 hours.

Madhav National Park

The establishment of Madhav National Park dates back to the year 1958 when the state of Madhya Pradesh earned independence. Before the year 1959, this park was known as the Madhya Bharat National park. The National Park is around 120 Km from Gwalior and is among the top attractions to visit near Gwalior .

It encompasses several valleys and hills of Vindhya range of Central India. The dry deciduous forest comprises of mixed species of plants and trees like teak, sal, kair, gooseberry etc. It is preserved under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and is a major tourist attraction, located on the Mumbai-Agra highway.

Timing : 6:30 AM to 10 AM; 2:30 PM to 6 PM on all days of the week.

Entry Fee : INR 15 per person (Indian)

Location : Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 3 to 5 hours.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 121 KM

Best of Orchha

Sarafa Bazar

No number of modern shopping complexes are capable of dulling the charm of traditional bazaars. Sarafa Bazaar and its popularity in Gwalior proves it right. Offering an endless variety of Jewelry, textiles, handicrafts and much more, Sarafa Bazar is the ultimate abode of shopaholics and is one of the most exciting places to visit in Gwalior.

It is one of the oldest markets in the city. Besides, the variety of lip-smacking food items that you can savor here make this an ideal spot for foodies as well. Do not slip this place on your visit to Gwalior!

Timing: 10 AM to 10 PM.

Entry Fee: No entry fee.

Location: Daulat Ganj, Gwalior

Time Required to Explore: Around an hour.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand: Around 7 KM

Bir Singh Palace, Datia

The seven-storied palace belonged to Maharaja Bir and is situated on a hillock, a few kilometers away from Datia town in Madhya Pradesh. As you walk through the galleries of Bir Singh Palace, you will notice the resemblance it draws from Jahangir Mahal, Orchha.

This palace is one of the finest places to visit in Gwalior for its Bundela architectural excellence.  The palace falls on the Gwalior to Jhansi route overlooking the famous lake Datia, and is also known as Datia Palace or Govind Palace.

Location : Main Datia Road,Datia, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 2 hours.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 105 KM

Mitavli and Padhavli

Among the places you should not miss on your visit to Gwalior are the heritage sites of Mitavli and Padhavli. Visiting these sites is a great means to discover the not-so-known aspects of the heritage of Madhya Pradesh and also to add some interesting pictures to your Madhya Pradesh folder.

These are temples, the construction of which dates back to the 9th and 10th centuries. Though the site is in ruins, you can still marvel at the stunning architecture they exhibit. The two sites, that are easily accessible from Gwalior, sit at a closer distance from each other. Besides, Jat Rana Fort located at Padhavli is equally interesting and one of the most scenic road trips to take in Madhya Pradesh .

These two historical villages must be on the bucket list of all history enthusiasts.

Timing:  8 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week.

Entry Fee:  Free of cost.

Location : Morena District, Madhya Pradesh

Time Required to Explore : 4 hours.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 36 KM

Best of Ujjain

Phool Bagh is hemmed by a museum, a residential palace, and a few other buildings and it was built by late Madho Rao Scindia. It is a scenic and serene garden within the vicinity of Gwalior railway station and is easily accessible.

The campus comprises a temple, a mosque, a gurdwara, and the city zoo. When Prince of Wales visited Gwalior in the year 1922, he inaugurated the garden and since then, it is considered to be a prime location in the city to spend an evening with friends and family.

Timing : 6 AM to 7 PM on all days of the week.

Location : Railway Station, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 30 to 45 minutes.

Splash the Sun City Water Park

With more than 10 water rides and around 18 amusement rides, Splash the Sun City Park is the ultimate fun destination in Gwalior. The electrifying joy rides and splashing pools have the power to keep you cheerful and excited throughout the day. People who have visited this park praise it for its value for money experience.

Timing : 10 AM to 6 PM on all days of the week.

Entry Fee : INR 300 per kid for waterpark; INR 500 per head for the amusement park and INR 800 for couple entry.

Location : Race Course Road, Near Bhagat Singh Garden, Gole Ka Mandir, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Time  Required to Explore : Around 4 to 5 hours.

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand :  Around 4 KM

Check out more: Watersports adventure in Madhya Pradesh.

This museum is one of its kind and is also known as Kala Vithika. A visit is highly recommended to the music enthusiasts who are traveling to Gwalior. It exhibits a distinctive range of musical instruments both ancient and modern.

One interesting fact about the museum is that this museum used to be the ancestral house of Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan, a legendary Indian Sarod player. It also displays an assorted collection of photographs and documents associated with past music meetups and the pioneers of the bygone era.

Location : Sheikh ki Bagiya, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Around 7 KM

Shyam Vatika

Shyam Vatika got recognition not long ago but you can know it as a banquet hall and an auditorium which restores the world’s largest indoor mural work - a measured dimension of 904 sq. meters. The long mural is the masterwork of six artists who did not stop for one week between 27th February 2005 to 5th March 2005.

It is said that the painting broke the previous record of an Australian Mural work that measured around 713 sq. meters. It was registered in the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Largest Indoor Mural in August 2005.

Timing : 8 AM to 8 PM on all days of the week.

Location : Saraswati Estate, Cimmco Tiraha, Near Birla Nagar Railway Station, Gwalior

Distance from Gwalior Bus Stand : Approximately 2.5 KM

Gwalior Travel Guides

Gwalior Reviews

Popular Nearby Places Around Gwalior

More things to do in gwalior, more on gwalior tourism, popular related destinations.

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

• We assure the privacy of your contact data.
• This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• Madhya Pradesh
• Places to Visit in Gwalior

16 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Gwalior

• Gwalior Overview
• Top 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior
• 2 Best Gwalior Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Gwalior
• Best Time to Visit Gwalior
• How to Reach Gwalior
• Driving Directions to Gwalior
• within 1 km
• within 5 km
• within 10 km
• within 20 km
• within 30 km
• within 40 km
• within 50 km

Gwalior Fort

#1 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 4 km from Gwalior Junction, Gwalior Fort is one of the most beautiful historical and architectural marvels situated in the center of Gwalior city. Known as the pearl amongst fortresses in India, Gwalior Fort is one of the best historical forts in India and also one of the top places to visit in Gwalior. The fort was built by a local king, Suraj Sen in 8th century AD on a solitary rocky hill called Gopachal. According to legend, the king was cured of leprosy, when a sage named Gwalipa offered him the water from Suraj Kund, now lies within the fort. The king constructed a fort, and named it after the sage. Since then many dynasties ruled over the place from Tomars, Mughals, Marathas and the British. Finally, Gwalior Fort was acquired by Scindias in 1886 and ruled until the independence of India in 1947. It was here that Tatya Tope and Rani Jhansi Lakshmi Bai fought for their freedom. Spread over an area of 3 sq. km, Gwalior Fort is one of the biggest forts in .....

...read more

Jai Vilas Palace

#2 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 2.5 km from Gwalior Junction and 4 km from Gwalior Fort, Jai Vilas Mahal or Jai Vilas Palace is a 19th century palace in Gwalior, India. It is one of the important heritage places in Gwalior city and was rated among the well maintained palaces of Madhya Pradesh state. Jai Vilas Mahal was constructed in the year 1874 CE by Jayajirao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior, at a cost of Rs. 1 crore. It is a fine example of European architecture, designed and built by Sir Michael Filose. The palace was the residence of the royal family of Scindia's. A segment of the Jai Vilas Palace was converted into a museum now. The Palace is well-known for its beautiful architecture. The palace features a beautiful blend of Tuscan, Italian and Corinthian styles of architecture. Spread over an area of 12, 40, 771 square feet, the palace has 400 rooms and a huge Durbar Hall. The interior of the Durbar Hall is decorated with gilt and gold furnishings and adorned with a huge carpet .....

#3 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 5 km from Gwalior Fort and 5 km from the Gwalior Junction, Surya Mandir or Sun Temple is a Hindu temple in the historic city of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. Situated near the Residency at Morar, Sun Temple is one of the most famous heritage monuments in Gwalior and also one of the top places to visit in Gwalior. Dedicated to Sun God, Surya Mandir is one of the popular pilgrimage places in Gwalior. Also known as Vivaswan Temple, Surya Mandir was constructed in 1988 by G.D Birla, the famous industrialist of India. The Surya Mandir is a new one in the list of the grand historical monuments of Gwalior and it does not even have any historical significance. The temple is the replica of the famous Sun Temple of Konark in Orissa. The temple is one of the architectural wonders and has a beautiful sculpture of Lord Surya in the temple premises. The temple building is created in the shape of chariot pulled by seven horses each one depicting seven days of the week. One can .....

Gwalior Zoo

#4 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 2 km from Gwalior Junction and 3 km from Gwalior Kila, Gwalior Zoo is an ideal spot and also one of the most visited tourist attractions in Gwalior. Also known as Gandhi Prani Udhyan or Gandhi Zoo, Gwalior Zoo is one of the most beautiful zoological parks in Madhya Pradesh. The Gandhi Zoo is a part of a huge garden known as Phool Bagh which was built by Madhao Rao Scindia in 1922 and it was inaugurated by Wales Prince in the same year. The Gwalior Zoo is maintained by the Municipal Corporation of Gwalior. The Phool Bagh campus also includes a gurudwara, a mosque, a theosophical lodge and a prayer hall. Spread over an area of 8 hectares, Gwalior Zoo is home to some rare species of animals including a white tiger. The main animals which are present in the zoo are deer, monkeys, Royal Bengal Tiger, serpents, crocodile, spotted deer, sambhar, hyena, lion, rabbits, panther, bear, hippopotamus, etc. The zoo also has some rare and colorful birds, snakes, lizards, .....

Chhatris Of Scindia Dynasty

#5 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 5 km from Gwalior Junction and 6 km from Gwalior Fort, the Chhatris are the memorial of Scindia dynasty rulers of Gwalior. Situated in Chhatri Bazar, the Chhattris of the Scindia dynasty are one among the prominent attractions in Gwalior city. Renowned for its architectural brilliance and beautiful structures, the Chhatris are located in a beautiful garden. These are elevated, dome-shaped pavilions used as an element in Indian architecture. The first chhatri was built in 1817 CE to commemorate Jayaji Rao Scindia. Since then other Chhatris have been added. The older ones are built in yellow and pink sandstone and are of great architectural value. Apart from others, the Chhatris of Jiwaji Rao Scindia, Daulat Rao Scindia and Janko ji Rao Scindia are well known. These Chhatris preserve the beauty of the medieval period and are decorated with stone carvings of elephants, horses and tigers. These monuments have been built with pink and white stones. There is a .....

Gwalior Trade Fair

#6 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 2.5 km from Gwalior Junction, Gwalior Trade Fair is one of the largest fairs of Madhya Pradesh. It is the most colorful fair of North India and one of the major attractions of Gwalior. Gwalior Trade Fair was started in 1905 by Maharaja Madhav Rao Scindia, the king of Gwalior. The fair is held at the Mela Ground, also known as Pragathi Maidan in the Race Course Road of Gwalior. Started as a cattle fair, this Trade Fair now emerged as the biggest fair in Madhya Pradesh. The fair is not only popular in India but it is also enjoys its international acclaim. The fair is organized by Gwalior Trade Fair Authority (GTFA), a nodal agency of Government of Madhya Pradesh. Usually the fair starts every year around the middle of December and lasts for a month. The Mela Ground spreads over an area of 104 acres which is divided into several pavilions and sectors. It has 1200 permanent pavilions, more than 500 platforms and 3000 kiosks. Both private national and multinational .....

Tombs Of Mohammed Ghaus & Tansen

#7 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 1 km from Gwalior Fort and 3 km from Gwalior Junction, Tombs of Mohammed Ghaus & Tansen are situated in the town of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. Well known for its architecture, the tomb complex is one of the prominent sightseeing attractions in Gwalior. The Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus was built in 16th century AD during the Akbar's rule. Ghaus Mohammed was an Afghan Prince who later converted into a Sufi saint. According to legend, Mohammad Ghaus assisted Babur when he was conquered the fort of Gwalior in 1526 CE. The Sufi saint who belongs to 16th century occupies an important position in the history of Mughal India and is said to have had great influence over Mughal emperors like Babur and Humayun. Tomb of Ghaus Mohammed is a prominent pilgrimage center of both Muslims and Hindus. The structure of this tomb is typical Mughal architecture with hexagonal pillars stand at each of its four corners. The building is square in plan and topped by a square dome decorated .....

Maharani Laxmi Bai Park

#8 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 1.5 km from Gwalior Junction and 3 km from Gwalior Fort, Maharani Lakshmi Bai Park is a memorial situated in the Phool Bagh area of Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The Samadhi of Rani Lakshmi Bai is located here and is one of the best places to visit in Gwalior. Lakshmi Bai, the Rani of Jhansi was born on 19th November, 1835 CE at Banaras and died on 18th June, 1858 CE at Gwalior. She is a well-known freedom fighter, who fought against the British for the freedom of the princely state, Jhansi. She was one of the leading figures of the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and became for Indian nationalists a symbol of resistance to the British Raj. For paying tribute and respect to the Rani, an eight metalled tall statue of Rani Lakshmi Bai has been installed by the ruler of Gwalior in 1920 AD. She is shown riding a horse with sword in her hand and a child at her back. In her honor and memory, every year a fair is organized in Gwalior on 18th June. Timings: 6 AM to 6 .....

#9 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 20 km from Gwalior, Tighra Dam or Tigra Dam is a fresh water reservoir situated at Tighra near Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh. It is the primary source of drinking water to the city of Gwalior and also one of the popular picnic places to visit near Gwalior. Tighra Dam was constructed in 1916 on the Sank River and is a major source of water for the city of Gwalior. This dam has been constructed in the vicinity of eleven villages. The villagers depend on this dam for their irrigation, drinking and domestic purpose. The dam is an engineering marvel and is 24 meters high at its crest, and 1341 m long. The reservoir has a capacity of 4.8 million cubic meters. The dam was failed twice due to infiltration in 1917 & in 1970 respectively. However, today it has emerged as a favourite destination for families to spend some good time together. As tourism gained popularity, the tourist department started a boating club here. One can enjoy speed boating, jalpari boat, paddle .....

Madhav National Park

#10 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 5 km from Shivpuri, 89 km from Jhansi and 116 km from Gwalior, Madhav National Park, one of the oldest parks in India, is situated in Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the major wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh and among prime place to visit on a Gwalior tour . The park was established as Madhya Bharat National Park in 1955. It was declared as a National Park in the year 1959 and renamed as Madhav National Park after Madhav Rao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior. It was originally the shooting reserve of the Maharaja. Even before this, during the reign of the Mughals, its dense forests were the hunting grounds of the Mughal emperors. It is also believed that from the dense forests of Madhav National Park, Akbar once captured elephants for his stables in the year 1564 CE. Since the area was a royal shooting reserve, it was well protected and flourished with wild life and was famous for its tigers. .....

Shanischara Temple

#11 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 23 km from Gwalior and 29 km from Morena, Shanischara Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Aiti village in Morena district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the well-known ancient temples in Madhya Pradesh and also one of the popular attraction not to miss in a Gwalior tour packages . Shanischara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shani Dev. According to legend, the place is the mark where Shani Dev fell, when he was thrown by Sri Hanuman from Lanka to be rescued from Ravana. The Hindus consider Shani or Saturn in great awe and respect. In fact, Saturn is the only deity whose kind glance is believed to bestow prosperity, while a fierce look can cause unparalleled misfortune on the object of its attention. The temple houses the original black idol of Shani brought from Lanka. The main offering to Lord Shani is mustard oil. The statue of Hanuman ji is also installed outside the temple. A grand prayer is organized on .....

#12 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 5 km from Gwalior Junction and 5 km from Gwalior Fort, Sarod Ghar is a museum situated at Jiwaji Ganj in the historical town of Gwalior. It is one of the famous places to visit in Gwalior for music lovers. Also known as Kala Vithika, Sarod Ghar was established in Gwalior with a motive to promote classical Indian music, heritage and culture. The museum has been housed in the ancestral home of Amjad Ali Khan, the renowned Sarod Maestro, who donated the property for this purpose and is owned by Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan Memorial Trust. The museum also aims at creating awareness about Indian classical music and musical instruments of India. The museum exhibits ancient instruments of the great Indian Masters and an impressive collection of photographs and documents. The first instruments exhibited at the Sarod Ghar museum are the instruments belonging to the forefathers of Amjad Ali Khan. The exhibits of the museum includes, Sarods of Nanne Khan & Rabab belonging to .....

Bateswara Group Of Temples-Morena

#13 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 35 km from Gwalior Junction and 28 km from Morena, Bateshwar Temples are a group of historical temples situated in Morena district of Madhya Pradesh. Bateshwar is one of best heritage place in Madhya Pradesh and also one of the prominent places to visit in Gwalior . It is maintained by Archaeological Survey of India. Bateshwar complex is home to about 200 sandstone temples. Spread over an area of 25 acres in the ravines of Chambal, Bateshwar Temples were constructed during 8th to 11th century CE by the Kings of Gurjara - Pratihara dynasty. Most temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva while some are dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple complex was ruined due to the earthquake in the area. The Archaeological Survey has begun the restoration work in 2005. More than 100 temples have been restored till now. Bateshwar Temple Complex is wonderful with its stone architectures, intricate .....

Italian Garden

#14 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 2 km from Gwalior Junction, Italian garden is a park situated next to the Gwalior Zoo in the Phool Bagh area of Gwalior. It is an ideal picnic spot for the whole family or a group of school children. The Garden adjacent to the Palace grounds is built in Italian style. Beautiful fountains, cascading waters make this is a beautiful place. The lush green gardens make the place even more beautiful. It is very closely connected to the Moti Mahal, the former Palace of Scindia dynasty which is now turned into a Government office. The garden is also connected with the Baiji Ki Tal which is a garden along with a beautiful pool. The major attractions here are the boating area and stone fountains add to the beauty and splendor of this park. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Dargah Hazrat Khwaja Khanoon Sahib

#15 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 1.5 km from Gwalior Junction and 2 km from Gwalior Fort, Dargah Khawaja Khanoon Sahib is popular mosque situated in Gwalior town of Madhya Pradesh. Dargah of Khanoon Sahib is one of the popular religious places in Gwalior and also one of the popular places to visit in Gwalior. The Dargah was built in the memory of Khwaja Kanoon Sahib Nagauri. He was born in 853 (1434 AD) in Nagore, a village near Jodhpur, Rajasthan. He was a resident of Marwad and arrived to Gwalior in 1481. His full name was Saiyed Saiyeeduddin Khanoon Rehmat Ullah Aleh Chishtiya, which is carved on the dome of the Dargah. He died in 940 Hijri, according to Islamic Calendar. It is believed that visiting the Dargah for regularly 40 days fulfills all the desires. This feature of this tomb attracts a lot of the peoples from different region of the country. Timings: 6 AM to 10 PM

#16 of 16 Places to Visit in Gwalior

At a distance of 40 km from Lalitpur, 103 km from Orchha, 105 km from Jhansi, 207 km from Gwalior, 218 km from Bhopal, 227 km from Khajuraho, 293 km from Narsinghpur, 309 km from Jabalpur,334 km from Kanpur, 337 km from Satna, 389 km from Indore, 415 km from Lucknow, and 540 km from Nagpur, Chanderi is a historical town located in the Ashoknagar district of Madhya Pradesh. Positioned beautifully along the River Betwa, it is one of the popular tourist places in India and among the must-include places in Madhya Pradesh tour packages . Chanderi is a small 11th-century town nestled between Malwa and Bundelkhand in Madhya Pradesh. Surrounded by magnificent hills, forests, and beautiful lakes, Chanderi boasts of a kind of scenic beauty that should be experienced by travellers of all sorts as part of Chanderi tour packages . This small ..... Distance (From Gwalior): 207 Kms Trip Duration (From Gwalior - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Gwalior Blogs

Gwalior related pages.

Similar Pages:

Places to Visit in Hampi | Places to Visit in Khajuraho | Places to Visit in Thanjavur | Places to Visit in Chittorgarh | Places to Visit in Jodhpur | Places to Visit in Madurai | Places to Visit in Kolhapur | Places to Visit in Agra | Places to Visit in Konark | Places to Visit in Mysore | Places to Visit in Vadodara | Places to Visit in Indore | Places to Visit in Kanpur

Near By Places

Similar Places

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

• Destinations
• Adventure Tours
• Religious Tours
• Trekking Tours
• Weekend Getaways
• International NEW

International

15 Places in Gwalior to Add to Your Travel Goals

During your holiday in this authentic destination of Gwalior , exuberant attractions one can traverse are all turfed in its ground. Here, the eyes can’t help but look at the grand Gwalior Fort, which is beautifully decorated with turquoise fortifying walls. That’s not all, in this tourist destination, all the places you can visit are well-maintained with a collection that is of historic significance. Also, if time permits, a short drive off Gwalior, visiting the Tighra Dam couldn’t get any better and a refreshing change of scenario. Nonetheless, to make your tour in Gwalior simply stupendous, we have mentioned a few not to miss attractions in our blog here.

Recommended Tours

Gwalior Fort (of course!)

The fort can be massive with many attractions inside the complex, so we thought of selecting a few interesting must see.

Photo: https://bit.ly/2zem8xo

The star attraction in Gwalior is the fort itself, so massive, you can see it from all corners of the city. This hilltop fort is a must-see place, and if you are planning to visit here, better plan a whole day tour because inside you can find a series of attractions. Ideally, tourists enter from the Qila Gate (Gwalior Gate) heading straight towards the fort, and for better exploration you can head north-east and visit the mahals like Karan, Vikram, Jahangir and Gujari (Gujari Mahal also has an archaeological museum). Here, another classy place to see is Bheem Singh Rana Ki Chhatri. Other interesting must see are Chaturbhuj Temple, Man Singh Palace, Assi Khambon Ki Baori and most importantly Gwalior Fort Viewpoint, from where on a clear day, expect to get panoramic view of the city. As you exit from the Urvai Gate located on the south-west, you can stop and explore cave temples of Siddhachal Jain Temple and Shree Mata Trishala Atishay Kshetra.

15 Most Famous Big Forts to Witness in India

Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum

Photo: https://bit.ly/2yeRPbL

An archaeological museum located inside the fort complex is one of the must visit places, especially if you are a history buff. This 15th-century Gujari Mahal, though in ruins, offers an interesting insight into the history of the kingdom in Gwalior, and thus is an ideal place for educational tours. The primal things to see in this museum are the sculptures dating back to 1st or 2nd century B.C, archeological discoveries like Terracotta items and Bagh cave frescoes as well as the statue of Salabhanjika. During your exploration in Gujari Mahal, you can also come across a large collection of popular images of Bagh Cave paintings and also photographs of nearly 75 years old Mandu and Dhar areas.

Popular Tourism Circuits in Madhya Pradesh You Must Not Miss to Explore

Teli Ka Mandir

Photo: https://bit.ly/2yfRogU

An impressive element about this pilgrimage site is perhaps its attractive and classy architecture and the detailed artwork of the temple; you can see all that when you visit the Gwalior Fort complex. This Hindu temple is the tallest in the fort with an architecture amalgamation of the northern and southern styles. It is said to be as tall as about 100 feet and it resembles the temple of Pratihara Vishnu, as a matter of fact, Teli Ka Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. However, the temple is also adorned with structures of river goddesses, amorous couples, coiled serpents and the famed vehicle of Lord Vishnu making it an important place for religious tourism in Gwalior.

As a budget traveller, we wish to find attractions closeby, so we can see everything without spending much in transportation, right? Well, here are a few best places you can visit and make a day of it.

Most Sacred Pilgrimage Spots in Madhya Pradesh

From your hotel, you can make your first pitstop at the Gwalior Zoo

Photo: https://bit.ly/2wMxOpx

For those who like wildlife tours, do make a quick stop at the Gwalior Zoo or Gandhi Zoological Park for you can find some exotic species of animals here. This zoo is one of the best places to visit in Gwalior to see white tigers. These beautiful but rather ferocious big cats are the main crowd pullers but also other animals here that can quickly catch the attention of the visitors are the golden pheasants, black bucks, various serpents, hyena, sambhar, bisons and deer. A time spent in this protected site for animals will offer immense pleasure and perhaps it can be an ideal destination to visit for kids during family holiday.

Popular Museums in Madhya Pradesh You Need to Explore

After wildlife exploration, make the next door located Moti Mahal your second pitstop

Photo: https://bit.ly/2ycLko4

A 900 metre walk pass Italian Gardens can take you to another famous and grand attraction, Moti Mahal. A 19th-century palace which was once the secretariat of Madhya Bharat Government, Moti garden flaunts colourful flowers and an extensive work of fountains. Though in a dilapidated condition, it is one of the tourism places that still beautifully displays its tempera coloured walls graced by mosaic mythological paintings of darbars and processions. In fact, Moti Mahal has close similarities to that of Pune’s Peshwa Palaces.

Glance into the Rich Cultural Heritage of Madhya Pradesh, India

At a leisure walking distance, visit the third pitstop at Jai Vilas Palace

Photo: https://bit.ly/2vQiozB

The next place to visit is located at a mere 650 metre walking distance from Moti Mahal. Jai Vilas Palace is one of the must visit places in Gwalior and it is here, you can explore its few in-house attractions. As you reach your destination, en route stop and admire the Rani Mahal Palace. This palace Jai Vilas Palace also houses H.H. Maharaja Jiwaji Rao Scindia Museum, which treasures the personal belongings of Scindia family. Perhaps, this museum is perfect for educational purposes to study the art, history and culture of the Maratha Dynasty. Besides, the palace’s European style architecture adorned with the largest chandeliers found in Asia is worth given time to witness.

15 Historical Places You Must Explore in Central India

Lastly, you can make you fourth pitstop at Amma Maharaj Ki Chathri

About a kilometre walk from Jai Vilas Palace, you will reach Amma Maharaj Ki Chathri. It is a pleasant and lovely lush garden with acres of planted trees and floral ambience, and here you can find a Chhatri (Cenotaph) of the late Madhavrao Scindia. It is a calm place to for afternoon exploration. It has to be noted that it was at Amma Maharaj Ki Chhatri where the people of Gwalior visited to attend late Maharaja’s funeral, also, Congress president, Ms. Sonia Gandhi, and later the Prime Minister, Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee has attended the funeral on October 1st, 2001)

Prominent Pilgrimage Sites in Madhya Pradesh to Visit

Other interesting places in Gwalior that you can visit in a two days tour are listed below.

Tomb of mohammad ghaus.

Photo: https://bit.ly/2hAAKPV

Amongst the many points of tourist interest to visit, the tomb of the 16th-century Sufi saint, Mohammad Ghaus is another enchanting place to explore. Mohammad Ghaus was an advisor of King Babur and a music teacher of Tansen. The tomb reveals an elegant style of Mughal architecture with hexagonal pavilions and stone carvings which provide an exquisite and rusty appeal.

Most Visited Tourist Attractions in Bhopal

Tansen Tomb

Photo: https://bit.ly/2ya2m8s

Located just a few countable footsteps from the resplendent tomb of Mohammad Ghaus, you can visit another smaller yet charming memorial of Tansen. He was a renowned Mughal singer and a musician much loved by Akbar, the Mughal emperor. Here, its serene and quiet ambience is much appreciated by nature lovers, and the best time to visit is during sunrise and sunsets, ideally during sundays.

Best Destinations for Hindu Wedding in Madhya Pradesh

Photo: https://bit.ly/2kD0wHG

Sun Temple or Surya Mandir is definitely one of the top tourist destinations to visit in the whole of Madhya Pradesh. Constructed in the year 1988, this structure possesses the style of the famous Sun Temple of Konark in Odisha. Amongst the many heritage attractions in Gwalior, this very site is thronged by several pilgrims and tourists. The temple’s captivating red sandstone exterior adds charm, offering a picture-perfect image especially during sunrise and sunsets. Here, Lord Surya’s sculpture can also be seen with white marble interiors and marvelous work of art. People are often seen admiring its structure and simply strolling through the temple, certainly a must visit attraction while in Gwalior.

Best Outdoor Activities to Try on Your MP Family Holiday

Photo: https://bit.ly/2yfM3GE

Besides fort & palaces, travellers who are music enthusiasts can visit the Sarod Ghar which is a museum of music, and it treasures all sorts of musical instruments. However, the best part about the museum is that, it is set up in the ancestral house of Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan, the legendary musician. While here, you can see the collection of age-old photographs as well as ancient musical instruments. Basically, Sarod Ghar’s main aim is to conserve the classical music and culture and a visit here will definitely take you back to those soulful times.

Top 15 Places to Visit & Things to Do in Khajuraho

Patankar and Sarafa Bazaar

Photo: https://bit.ly/2yXSLP3

Perhaps the best things to do after sightseeing tour around the city is street shopping or exploring hanging out with friends, and for this, Patankar and Sarafa Bazaar are the places to be at. This market offers a collection of chic and varieties of locally made products. Here you can find a collection of exquisite handicraft products, beautiful stone carvings, traditional handloom products and artifacts. In this high-arched market structure, you can also come across a mixture of products such as traditional clothes and shoes, luggage, cloth bags and a plethora of colourful textiles. Also, when hunger strikes, Patankar and Sarafa Bazaar has a number of mouthwatering eateries- sweet Imarti anyone?

Ultimate Options for Luxurious Stay in Madhya Pradesh

For a rather offbeat vacation feel…take a short drive to nearby attraction of Gwalior

Padmavati pawaya.

Photo: https://bit.ly/2yfqZQw

There are a melange places to travel to near Gwalior, and one such pilgrimage destination is Padmavati Pawaya. This historically rich place is filled with tall mansions and temples filled with several Sanskrit texts. Also while here, you can see rare antiquities, and among the many found here, the image of Yaksha Manibhadra is a popular one. Besides that, another must see thing here is the collection of their terracotta. It beautifully symbolizes the art of Naga and Gupta, and in order to see different kinds of terracotta, you can visit the Gujari Mahal in Padmavati Pawaya, which is located around 60 km from Gwalior and it is open all day from 7:00am to 6:00pm.

Most Popular Tourist Destinations in MP to Include on Your Travel Itinerary

Photo: https://bit.ly/2gu5UZh

Amongst the top places to visit, Tighra Dam is one riveting site that offers visitors a sense of freedom and the best place to indulge in a boating activity. This dam is located 23 km from the city of Gwalior and it has gained a lot of popularity. While the surrounding of the dam also offers an excellent place for family picnic trips it also has a boating club here. You can partake in adventure activities like speed boating, paddle boating, jalpari boat and water scooty rides. Besides, how can one resist the serenity and the picturesque sight of the dam and surrounding area, truly a worth-visiting place off-route Gwalior.

Everything You Need to Know about Wildlife of Madhya Pradesh

Madhav National Park

Photo: https://bit.ly/2zeDcmQ

Although the city of Gwalior has an inhouse animal refuge called the Gwalior Zoo, you can visit Madhav National Park , if you are looking for a more realistic and wildlife holiday experience. This is amongst the best holiday places in Gwalior located in Shivpuri district, here, you can come find serenity and peace amid wild species and their dense forested home. The animals you can encounter while here are blackbuck, nilgai, leopard, chausingha, chinkara and several others animals. Also, the domestic and migratory birds you can see flocking are geese pintail, mallard, gadwall, Indian pond heron, kingfisher and red wattled lapwing. Another interesting feature of this national park are its stunning monuments that are associated with Gwalior’s history.

Madhya Pradesh tourism offers one of its enchanting destinations, Gwalior, which is amongst the top travel destinations in India . During your visit here, make sure to follow our sought after travel guide as we will take you around the city without burning a hole in your pocket. If you enjoyed reading the list of Gwalior attractions do like and share the blog and if you are considering to book your vacation through a travel agent, choose us. We offer best travel packages for all sorts of travellers – honeymooners, solo travellers, corporate and even family holidays. Give us a call us at +91-9212553106 or drop us an email at [email protected] for our best holiday packages.

About Abhishek Gurung

Abhishek Gurung is a writer whose passion for food and travel is an unending affair. He likes going on treks and camping in the woods, loves exploring forts and architecture, he is a cycle enthusiast who likes to contribute something to the environment, travel photography and videography is another interest as he sees life in a cinematic point of view. He likes the idea of living in offbeat destination where the mode of communication is to interact with each other. Coming from Nagaland, he has visited some beautiful valleys and remote villages and appreciates nature as it is and as it should be.

Recent Post

15 Most Famous Festivals in North East India

20 Most Popular Weekend Getaways from Kolkata

7 Best Places to Spend Your Summer Break in North India

Now an Intangible Cultural Heritage Under UNESCO, Gujarat’s Garba Shares the Global Stage

• Hill Stations
• Travel Deals
• Amazing Facts
• Travel Experience
• Travel Tips
• Travel Alerts
• Travel Videos
• Edu-Tourism
• Inspirational People

Subscribe for more updates, tips and insights for your holidays.

20 Highway Dhabas that You Must Stop By

Top 15 places for honeymoon in north east india, 12 best beaches in maharashtra, top 15 wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in kerala, best 15 destinations in india for solo women travellers, int'l blog posts.

10 Best Beaches in Thailand

Tourism Update – Enjoy Visa Free Holiday Travel in Sri Lanka

Thailand Tourism Update- Indian Travelers Now Get a Visa-Free Entry to Thailand!

Top 25 Places to See and Things to Do in Thailand

Top 19 Must-Visit Attractions in Gwalior: A Traveler’s Guide

Gwalior, a city steeped in history and culture, is one of India’s premier tourist destinations. Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, it has been a witness to numerous significant historical events and has been home to many mighty dynasties. Here are the top 19 must-visit places in Gwalior:

Table of Contents

19 Best Places to Visit in Gwalior Are:

1. gwalior fort.

Often referred to as the “Crown Jewel of Madhya Pradesh”, Gwalior Fort stands tall as a testament to India’s rich historical and architectural legacy. Established over a millennium ago by Raja Suraj Sen, this fort has seen the reigns of numerous mighty dynasties.

It offers a perfect blend of archaeology, architecture, and history, complemented by a bustling ambiance of local shops and eateries. Notable attractions within the fort include the Man Mandir Palace and the Saas Bahu Temples.

• Location: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India
• Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
• Entry fee: ₹5 for Indians, free for children below 15, and ₹100 for foreigners.

2. Man Mandir Palace 

A masterpiece of medieval architecture, the Man Mandir Palace was constructed by Man Singh Tomar in the late 15th century. It showcases a harmonious blend of Hindu and ancient sculptures, with interiors adorned with vibrant drawings, tiles, and intricate stone carvings. The palace stands as a silent witness to the rich history of Gwalior.

• Location: Within Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
• Entry fee: Included in the Gwalior Fort ticket.

3. Suraj Kund

Dating back to 425 AD, Suraj Kund is renowned for its legendary healing properties. Legend has it that Ruler Suraj Sen was cured of his leprosy after drinking water from this site. Today, it serves as a serene spot for visitors to relax and reflect on the rich history of Gwalior.

• Timings: Open 24 hours a day
• Entry fee: None
• 5 Days Gwalior Orchha Khajuraho Travel
• 3 Days Ujjain Omkareshwar Itinerary
• Delhi Agra Jaipur Khajuraho Travel
• Khajuraho & Bandhavgarh Tour
• Gujarat with Madhya Pradesh Trip
• 3 Days Khajuraho Travel Itinerary
• Pachmarhi Tour 2 Nights 3 Days

4. Phool Bagh

Nestled near the railway station, Phool Bagh is a lush green oasis in the heart of Gwalior. Inaugurated by the Prince of Wales in 1922, it houses the Gwalior Zoo, a museum, and a living palace. The garden offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• Location: Near Gwalior Railway Station, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

5. Saas Bahu Temples

Contrary to their name, the Saas Bahu Temples are not dedicated to mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law. These twin temples, differing in size, are renowned for their intricate stone carvings and sculptures. Located near the eastern partition of the Gwalior Fort, they offer a glimpse into the city’s glorious past.

• Location: Near Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

6. Haathi Pol

Commonly known as the Elephant Gate, Haathi Pol serves as the primary entrance to the Gwalior Fort. Historically significant, it’s the last gate among the seven gates leading to the fort. The gate earned its name from the sculptures of lively elephants that once adorned its entrance. Its grandeur and strategic design allowed elephants to pass through, making it a marvel of ancient engineering.

• Location: Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

7. Memorial of Tansen

Dedicated to Tansen, one of the greatest musicians of the Mughal era, this memorial is surrounded by lush gardens. Every year, it hosts the renowned Tansen Music Festival, attracting classical music enthusiasts from around the world. The tomb’s architecture follows the Mughal style, offering a serene environment for visitors to pay their respects to the musical maestro.

8. Jai Vilas Mahal

Constructed in a European architectural style, Jai Vilas Mahal is a magnificent palace that showcases the opulence of the Scindia dynasty. With 25 rooms converted into a museum, it houses ancient swords of Mughal Emperors and other priceless artifacts. Some parts of the palace are still occupied by the Scindia family, making it a living testament to Gwalior’s royal heritage.

• Location: Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
• Entry fee: ₹100 for Indians, ₹650 for foreigners

9. Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum

Originally built as a symbol of love by Raja Man Singh for his queen, Mrignayani, Gujari Mahal has now been transformed into an archaeological museum. It houses a vast collection of sculptures, artifacts, and historical relics that trace back to the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, offering visitors a deep dive into the region’s rich history.

• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry fee: ₹15 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners

10. Tomb of Muhammad Ghaus

This 16th-century tomb is dedicated to the Sufi saint, Ghaus Muhammad. A fine example of Mughal architecture, the tomb is adorned with intricate latticework and blue tiles. The serene environment and the tomb’s architectural beauty make it a must-visit spot for history and architecture enthusiasts.

• Location: Near Tansen Tomb, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

11. Scindia Museum

Situated within the grand Jai Vilas Palace, the Scindia Museum offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Scindia dynasty. With exhibits ranging from silver trains, glass furniture, and a myriad of artifacts, the museum provides a comprehensive view of the royal family’s history and their contributions to Gwalior.

• Location: Jai Vilas Palace, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
• Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
• Entry fee: ₹100 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners

12. Dev Kho

Located a short distance from the city, Dev Kho is a natural haven that offers a refreshing escape from urban life. Home to a variety of wildlife and a revered Shiva Temple, it’s a favorite spot for nature lovers and devotees alike. The temple, perched on a hill, provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

• Location: 16 kilometers from Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

13. Gopachal Parvat

It is also known as Gopachal rock-cut Jain monuments. The monument was established between the 7th and 15th century. It is dedicated to a group of Jain carvings. The memorial is located around the walls of Gwalior Fort. In the walls, people can see Tirthankaras seated in the Padmasana posture and standing Kayotsarga posture.

• Located in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Timings: 06:00 am – 06:00 pm
• Entry Fee: ₹ 30 for Indians, ₹ 150 for Foreign Tourists

14. Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod Qilla Gwalior

This Gurudwara is the memory of the great Sikh Saint and Guru Har Gobind Singh. Worshippers from throughout the country come here to visit this gurudwara and pay homage to Guru Hargobind. In October or November, the Sikh Sangat community celebrates the sixth Nanak’s safe return.

• Location: Inside Gwalior Fort (Qilla), Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Timings: 05:00 am – 09:00 pm
• Entry Fee: Free for all

15. Sun Temple

The temple is well known as Surya Mandir. The temple contains one of the most spectacular and unique architectures that people admire in the city of Gwalior. The temple was established in the year 1988 by the famous industrialist, namely G.D. Birla. The temple is built on the lines of the famous Sun Temple at Konark, Orissa.

• Location: Residency Road, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Timings: 06:00 am – 08:00 pm
• Entry Fee: ₹ 25 for Indians, ₹ 125 for Foreign Tourists

16. Samadhi of Rani Lakshmi Bai

The samadhi of Lakshmi Bai is located at Phool Bagh in Gwalior. During the Indian rebellion in 1857, Rani Lakshmi Bai, popularly known as Jhansi Ki Rani, fought the war against the British Raj. The place consists of an eight-metre-tall statue of Rani Lakshmi Bai. Every year in June, a fair is held here in Rani Lakshmi Bai’s memory.

• Location: Inside Phool Bagh, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India
• Timings: 08:00 am – 06:00 pm
• Entry Fee: ₹ 20 for Indians, ₹ 100 for Foreign Tourists

17. Tigra Dam

It is a famous tourist attraction in Madhya Pradesh. People also spelled it as Tig Dam. It produces a freshwater reservoir on the Sank River at a distance measure of 23 km from the Gwalior. It plays a very crucial role in supplying water to the city. It is the best spot for celebrating picnics during the monsoon season. It is also a fantastic place for spending quality time with family.

• Location: Tigra Village, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Timings: 09:00 am – 05:00 pm.
• Boating Price:   Speed and Jalpari boats: ₹50 per person / Paddle boat: ₹100 per person / Water scooter: ₹350 per person.

18. Bateshwar group of temples

Bateshwar group of the temple was built between the 8th and 10th centuries. It is a group of nearly 200 temples and is made from sandstone. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Lord Shakti. These three represent the main traditions of Hinduism.

• Location: Bateshwar, Morena District, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Timings: Typically from sunrise to sunset.

19. Teli ka Mandir

The temple is also well known as Telika Temple. It is a Hindu temple and is located in the Gwalior fort in Madhya Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Vishnu. The temple was built between the early 8th and 9th century. It contains the architecture of the Nagara style and the Valabhi Prasada.

• Location: Gwalior Fort (Qilla), Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India.
• Timings: As per Gwalior Fort opening hours (usually from morning to evening).
• Entry Fee: ₹ 20.

Gwalior is a beautiful city and contains a terrific scenic view. The stunning temples and palaces of Gwalior attract tourists to its city. The Tansen Music Festival is the best time to visit Gwalior.

Enjoy the hassle-free Gwalior city tour with Tusk Travel enjoy a tour with a comfortable private car, an experienced tour guide, an entrance fee, and all. Ask for the best price here

Follow-up Articles:

• 12 Places to Visit Near Gwalior Within 100 Km
• Famous Things to Do in Gwalior
• Gwalior Top 10 Best Places to Visit
• Ultimate Guide to Gwalior Fort, Gwalior
• 10 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Orchha
• Top 12 Places to Visit in Jabalpur
• 10 Most Popular Forts in Madhya Pradesh
• Madhya Pradesh’s 10 Famous Pilgrimage Places
• Places to Visit Near Bandhavgarh National Park

About The Author

Tusk travel team, related posts.

12 Places To Visit Around Hampi You Must See

20 Places To Visit In Gujarat For The Best Tourist Experience

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sorry, we couldn't find anything that matches your search.

Destination

Famous Places to Explore in Hyderabad

A vibrant city with the imposing...

Raipur Tourist Places | Best Place to Visit

The stronghold of several erstwhile...

Declared as India's first UNESCO World...

Ananthagiri

The verdant Ananthagiri Hills is...

Located on the banks of River Godavari,...

Situated around 40 km from Raipur,...

Boasting the famous Chand Baori...

Albert Hall Museum

A magnificent building built in...

2023. The year of India’s G20...

The timeless fort city

• Destinations

Ensconced in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, the royal city of Gwalior stands in stately splendour with a stunning hilltop fort and the resplendent Jai Vilas Palace. With a scattering of heritage structures, Gwalior is also the gateway to the wild heart of India, within which are hidden several dense forests and tiger reserves. Interestingly, Gwalior's history is rooted in a legend. It is said that in the 8th century, a local chief, Suraj Sen, fell ill and was in a critical condition when Gwalipa, a hermit cured him. In return, as a gesture of gratitude, Suraj Sen built a city and named it after the saint.

Famous for its grand fort situated dramatically on a hill, that was described by Mughal emperor Babur as “the pearl among fortresses in India”, the city of Gwalior is also known for its incomparable reputation in classical Indian music.

Gwalior holds an unparalleled reputation in sangeet, and has retained Indian traditions and the wealth of music intact over the years. The Gwalior Gharana is one of the oldest traditions and the one to which most classical Indian musicians can trace the origin of their style. Legendary musicians like Tansen and Baiju Bawara belonged to Gwalior.

Gwalior has been the power centre of a number of dynasties like Kachchhapaghatas, Tomars, Mughals, Marathas and Scindias. The city has witnessed several wars, among which the most famous is the fierce battle that took place between British and Indians under the leadership of Tatya Tope and Rani Lakshmi Bai, the queen of Jhansi, who was martyred here. Legends of Tatya Tope and Lakshmi Bai still abound in the folklores of the region.

Attractions In Gwalior

Explore the legacy of the royal city of gwalior, ahiri dance.

This popular dance form holds a special position in Gwalior's vibrant heritage and enjoys immense popularity among the people of Madhya Pradesh. It is performed with great enthusiasm during folk festivals by the Baredi, Ahir, Gwala, Raut and Rawat...

Flanked by the beautiful Chambal, Kali and Sind rivers, the...

Chaturbhuj Mandir

Carved into a sheer rock face, Chaturbhuj temple, also known as the...

Sitting by the pristine Chambal river, Dholpur is a potpourri of old...

Gujari Mahal

A sprawling palace complex located inside the Gwalior Fort, Gujari...

Immersive Experience

Food and Cuisine

Into the wild

Temples trails

How to get there.

Around 8 Kms from the city is Gwalior Airport which is connected with all major cities of the country.

The city is well-connected with all major towns and cities through good motorable roads.

Situated in the heart of Gwalior city, the railway station is connected with all major towns and cities in India.

We use cookies to ensure that you have the best experience on our website. Continued use of the website would be assumed to be an acceptance of these conditions.

Sign up to our newsletter to receive exciting content about the tourism destinations in India.

Thank you for subscribing! Explore India with us.

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 30 Places To Visit In Gwalior In 2024 For Its History And Culture!

23 Mar 2023

Gwalior is steeped in history and is packed with beautiful monuments and temples. There are plenty of cultural as well as historical places to visit in Gwalior for tourists interested in its rich heritage. While the incredible Gwalior Fort offers a stunning view of the city, Madhav National Park lets you get lost in the wilderness. Not only this, there are several other tourist places that attract thousands of visitors every year. It is a perfect destination to explore with freinds, family, partner or even alone. Gwalior has so much to offer to the visitors that they will be spoilt for choices. So, let’s dig into the list!

30 Places To Visit In Gwalior

A culturally rich city with all things beautiful, Gwalior has had a glorious history with prominent dynasties ruling the region in the past. With all its forts and palaces and parks and museums, Gwalior is definitely worth a visit! Here are some of the best places to visit in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh , to get mesmerised by this city’s historical and cultural charm:

• Gwalior Fort:  For History Lovers
• Jai Vilas Palace:  For A Sneak Peek Into Royalty
• Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum: To Know The History
• Man Mandir Palace:  For Its Grandeur
• Gwalior Zoo: To Interact With Wildlife
• Teli Ka Mandir:  Seek Blessings
• Sun Temple:  One Of The Most Famous Temples
• Madhav National Park: To Spot Animals
• Tomb Of Mohammad Ghaus:  For Sufism
• Tighra Dam: For Adventure
• Tomb Of Tansen : For A Glimpse Of History
• Saas Bahu Temple : A Vishnu Temple
• Scindia Museum : A European Style Museum
• Padavali And Bateshwar : An Ancient Fortress
• Suraj Kund : An Ancient Reservoir
• Gopachal Parvat : To Witness Iconography
• Gurudwara Bandi Chor Sahib : A Historical Gurudwara
• Samadhi Of Rani Laxmi Bai : For The Love Of History
• Sarafa Bazar: For Shopping
• Sarod Ghar: A Museum Of Musical Heritage
• Roop Singh Stadium: For All Cricket Lovers
• Chhatris Of Scindia Dynasty: Tribute To The Royal
• Mrignayani Emporium : Shop Traditional Items
• Jiyaji Chowk Bazaar : Explore The Heart Of Gwalior
• Patankar Bazaar : Shop &  Eat Your Heart Out
• Phool Bagh : A Place Of Calmness & Unity
• Shyam Vatika : Ideal For Artists
• Splash The Sun City : Have Some Fun
• Old Water Park: Get Closure To Nature
• Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore The Wildlife

1. Gwalior Fort: For History Lovers

This is the star attraction of the city and is great for Gwalior sightseeing. The fort is visible from every nook and corner of this historic city. Perched on a high cliff, Gwalior Fort was known to be one of the most impenetrable fortresses in India. Among the best tourist places to visit in Gwalior, it is also referred to as the ‘the pearl amongst fortresses in India’, by the Mughal emperor Babur. This fort is gorgeous, so do take out the entire day if you want to have a look at the entire fort.

Location: Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474008 Entry timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Ticket charges: INR 60  Time required: 2 to 3 hours

Destination Wedding In Gwalior: 12 Venues That’ll Steal Your Heart Away

2. Jai Vilas Palace: For A Sneak Peek Into Royalty

Jai Vilas Palace is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gwalior city . This grand palace is a symbol of opulence and culture of Madhya Pradesh. It was built by the Maharaja of Gwalior, Jayaji Rao Scindia, in order to have a grand welcome for King Edward VII, the then Prince of Wales. Today, also the royal descendants of Scindia family live here and there’s a museum inside the palace. There’s a strong reflection of the colonial period on the layout of the palace.

Location: Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474007 Entry timings: 10:00 am to 4:30 pm Ticket charges: INR 100  Time required: 2 to 3 hours

3. Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum: To Know The History

Image Source

This one is for the history buffs! This massive archaeological museum is located inside the fort, but it deserves a separate mention. This 15th Century Mahal offers a great insight into the rulers of Gwalior. You will also see a large collection of images of Bagh Cave paintings here.

Location: Lohamandi, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474008 Entry timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Ticket charges: INR 10  Time required: 1 hour

40 Tourist Places In Madhya Pradesh That You Should Be Visiting

4. Man Mandir Palace: For Its Grandeur

Also located inside the fort, the lovely Man Mandir Palace was built between 1486 and 1516 by Man Singh Tomar. Though some part of the palace has disintegrated with time, there are still some sights to see which provide an insight into the royal lives of the Tomars.

Location:  Old High Ct Rd, Jayendraganj, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474009 Entry timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Ticket charges: NA Time required: 1-2 hours

5. Gwalior Zoo: To Interact With Wildlife

This zoo was also established by the Scindia family back in 1922. This is also known as the Gandhi zoo. While being one of the best places to visit in Gwalior with friends, this amaing zoo houses a variety of rare animals like sambhars, bison, hyena, spotted deer and a white tiger as well. You can also spot crocodiles, monkeys and some birds as well. There’s also a Phool Bagh here which was inaugurated by the Prince of Wales many ions ago.

Location: Italian Garden Road, Phool Bagh Rd, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474007 Entry timings: 9:15 am to 5:30 pm Ticket charges: INR 20 Time required: 2-3 hours

India’s Fastest Train Will Get You From Delhi To Gwalior In Just 3 HOURS, Not 7

6. Teli Ka Mandir: Seek Blessings

The detailed and intricate artwork of this lovely temple will leave you astounded. tourist places to visit in Gwalior. This Hindu temple is the tallest structure in the fort and has both the architectural amalgamation of North and South styles. This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishu. This temple was used to process oil before the Britishers occupied this fort, that’s why the name Teli Ka Mandir.

Location: Fort Campus, Near Schiendhi School Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh 474001 Entry timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Ticket charges: INR 20  Time required: 1 hour

7. Sun Temple: One Of The Most Famous Temples

This is one of the most specular temples in Gwalior . Dedicated to the holy Sun God, this temple was contracted in 1988 by the famous industrialist G.D. Birla and is among the best places to visit in Gwalior . The interior of the temple is in marble, which gives it a very serene environment. The most captivating part of the temple is the red sandstone exterior which is a stark contrast to the lovely lush green gardens that surround the temple.

Location: Residency Rd, Mahaveer, Morar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474004 Entry timings:  6:30 am to 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm Ticket charges: Free Time required: 1 hour

10 Best Hotels In Gwalior To Make Your Stay Comfortable & Luxurious

8. Madhav National Park: To Spot Animals

If visiting the zoo doesn’t appeal you, then you must visit the Madhav National Park in Gwalior. There are many wild animals that can be spotted here like blackbuck, nilgai, leopard and chinkara. You can also spot some migratory and domestic birds like heron, kingfisher and more.

Location : Shivpuri – Jhansi Rd, Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh 473551 Entry timings: 6:30 am to 10:00 am and 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm Ticket charges: INR 15 for Indians and INR 150 for foreigners Time required: 3-5 hours

9. Tomb Of Mohammad Ghaus: For Sufism

The tomb of the 16th Century Sufi saint is one of the best places to visit in Gwalior. He was a great advisor to King Babur and a teach to Tansen, who was a music legend. The tomb is built in a classic Mughal style of architecture and is a great tourist places to visit in Gwalior.

Location : 27 B, Tansen Rd, Tansen Nagar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474002 Entry timings: 10:00 am to 05:00 Ticket charges: Free Time required: 1-2 hours

15 Best Things To Do In Gwalior: The Glittering Gem Of Madhya Pradesh

10. Tighra Dam: For Adventure

Amongst the best tourist places to visit in Gwalior, Tighra Dam is a river site and is a great place to come with kids. There are boating activities that take place here as well. For the adventurous types, you can try speed boating as well. The best time to visit this place is from January to March and October to December.

Location : Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 475330 Entry timings : 9 am – 5 pm Ticket charges: INR 50 for a speedboat; INR 50 for Jalpari Boat; INR 100 for a for paddle boat; INR 350 for a water scooter Time required: 2 hours

11. Tomb Of Tansen: For A Glimpse Of History

This is one of the places to visit at Gwalior that you simply cannot afford to miss. Tomb Of Tansen is the tomb of the renowned classical musician and vocalist Tansen, who was one of the nine gems in the court of emperor Akbar. Tansen was a student of Mohammad Ghaus from whom he learned Hindustani classical music. He is known for his magical ragas, especially the ‘Deepak Raga’ and ‘Megha Raga’. If you are visiting in November, make sure you also attend the Annual Tansen music festival which sees prominent musicians from different parts of the country.

Location : Tansen Nagar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474002 Timings: 8 am – 6 pm Ticket charges: Free Time required: 1 – 2 hours

10 Honeymoon Places In Madhya Pradesh Every Couple Should Visit

12. Saas Bahu Temple: A Vishnu Temple

Saas Bahu Temple, also known as the Sahastrabahu Temple or Harisadanam temple, is a twin temple located in Gwalior that dates back to the 11th-century and is one of the top Gwalior places to visit . ‘Sahastrabahu’ is another name of Hindu god Vishnu. The two temples are located adjacent to each other and each of them bears intricate carvings and sculptures on their walls.

Location : Fort Campus, Near Post Office, Madhya Pradesh 474001 Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, everyday Ticket charges: Free Time required: 1 hours

13. Suraj Kund: An Ancient Reservoir

Built around the 10th century, Surajkund is an old reservoir and pond near the Gwalior Fort and is one of the top tourist places in Gwalior. The name Surajkund means ‘Lake of the Sun’ and there also has a Sun Temple on the western bank of the Kund. Constructed by King Suraj Pal of the Tomar Dynasty, who was a strong believer of Suraj Devta or Sun God. The compound also has a lush garden and a pool called Siddha Kund.

Location : Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474008 Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, everyday Ticket charges: Free Time required: 1-2 hours

8 Enchanting Resorts In Bhopal That Prove Simplicity Is Beautiful Indeed

14. Padavali And Bateshwar: An Ancient Fortress

Located about 40 km away from the Gwalior city center, Padavali is an ancient fortress that engulfs a cluster of around 200 sandstone Hindu temples and their ruins. The temples are decorated with intricate carvings on their wall. One of them even has erotic carvings and sculptures because of which this site is also called ‘mini Khajuraho’. The architecture of these temples reflect the post-Gupta and early Gurjar-Pratihara styles. This is one of the most interesting places to visit in Gwalior for couples .

Location : Madhya Pradesh Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM, everyday Ticket charges: INR 15 per person Time required: 1 day

15. Scindia Museum: A European Style Museum

Built in 1964, Scindia Museum is a popular museum in Gwalior. It is located within the popular Jai Vilas Palace in Gwalior. Scindia Museum is dedicated to Jivaji Rao Scindia, the last ruling Maharaja of Gwalior from the Scindia dynasty and is one of the popular tourist places in Gwalior. The museum is a beautiful palace is built in the European-style. A highlight of the museum is the glass furniture and a model train that is kept in the dining room. Apart from this, the Scindia Museum also exhibits manuscripts, sculptures, coins, paintings, weapons, from that period.

Location : Jai Vilas Palace, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474009 Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM, except Wednesday Ticket charges: INR 30 per person Time required: 2 – 3 hours

4 Best Tourist Circuits In Madhya Pradesh

16. Gopachal Parvat: To Witness Iconography

Situated within the famous Gwalior Fort, Gopachal Parvat is one of the most popular  Gwalior tourist places  and is one of the best places to witness iconography. The carvings you will come across here ate back to the 7th and 15th centuries.

Location : Phulbagh Rd, Gopachal Marg, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474002 Timings:  24 hours open Ticket Charges:  Free of cost Time required:  1 – 1.5 hours

17. Gurudwara Bandi Chor Sahib: A Historical Gurudwara

Image Courtesy: sikhiwiki

Another one of the famous  places to see in Gwalior,  Gurudwara Bandi Chor Sahib is serene and beautiful. Built with white marble and ornated with gold, Gurudwara Bandi Chor Sahib is built in the fond rememberance of the sixth guru, Guru Har Gobind Sahib.

Location : Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474008 Timings:  10 AM – 10 PM Ticket Charges:  None Time required:  45 – 50 minutes

10 Best Places To Visit In Madhya Pradesh In Summer For A Soothing Trip

18. Samadhi Of Rani Laxmi Bai: For The Love Of History

One of the most well known Indian freedom fighters, Rani Laxmi Bai is well remembered as one of the most courageous women in Indian history and her Samadhi is one of the most important  places to see in Gwalior.  An eight meter tall statue of hers is present in the park.

Location : Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh Timings:  24 hours Ticket Charges: Free of cost Time required:  30 – 45 minutes

19. Sarafa Bazar : For Shopping

Shopaholics rejoice! One of the very popular  Gwalior tourist places  is Sarafa Bazar where you can buy something authentic stuff. Shopping complexes and malls can never match the feelings of traditional bazaar and this place will prove that. Also, don’t forget to try the scrumptious street food in Gwalior .

Location : Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474001 Timings: 10 am – 9 pm Ticket Charges: Free of cost Time required:  1 hour

Restaurants In Gwalior: 8 Best Places To Eat Approved By Locals

20. Sarod Ghar: A Museum Of Musical Heritage

Sarod Ghar is one of the best tourist places in Gwalior for all those who are passionate about music. This place is situated in the ancestorial house of Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan and is home to old musical instruments that were used by famous musicians. If you want to gain knowledge about Indian classical music then you must stop by this famous museum in Gwalior. You can also have a look at old pictures of musicians and documents as well.

Location : Jiwaji Ganj, Ratan Colony, Shekh Ki Bagiya, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474001 Timings: 10 am – 5 pm (Closed on Sunday) Ticket charges : INR 20 (Indians), INR 100 (Foreigners) Time required : 1 hour

21. Roop Singh Stadium: For All Cricket Lovers

Named after the legendary hockey player, Roop Singh Stadium is one of the most popular places to visit in Gwalior . This museum was established in 1978 and in 1988 the first one-day international was held. Roop Singh Stadium is a famous cricket ground in Gwalior and this stadium attracts a lot of tourists who are crazy about cricket. The latest cricket match held in the Roop Singh Stadium was between India and South Africa in 2010. Do visit this eminent tourist attraction in Gwalior to make the most out of your vacay.

Location: Raksha Vihar, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh Timings: NA Ticket Charges: NA Time required:  1 hour

6 Resorts Near Gwalior That Offer The Best Of Comfort, Convenience, And Luxury!

22. Chhatris Of Scindia Dynasty: Tribute To The Royal

Image Courtesy: shivpuriinfo

Built-in the memory of the Scindia Dynasty, Chhatris of the Scindia Dynasty is dedicated to Jayaji Rao Scindia. If you are thinking about visiting historical tourist places in Gwalior then you must pay a visit to the Chhatris of Scindia Dynasty. The walls of these Chhatris have carvings of elephants, horses, and tigers. This place is a paragon of architectural excellence and you must click a few pictures here to capture the beauty of these Chhatris on your camera for creating memories. 

Location: Chatri Bazar Rd, Khasgi Bazar, Jiyaji Chowk, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh Timings: 5 – 11:30 Am, 4:30 – 9:30 Pm Ticket Charges: Free Time required:  1 hour

23. Mrignayani Emporium: Shop Traditional Items

Image Credit: Pexels for Pixabay

Mrignayani Emporium is a major hub for the ones seeking handicrafts and clothes. The emporium is named after the Queen Mrignayani and receives a huge influx of visitors every day. So, if you are on a shopping spree in Gwalior, don’t forget to stop by Mrignayani Emporium.

Location : Gast Ka Tazia Chouraha Lashkar, Patankar Bazar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474009 Timings: NA Ticket charges: NA Time required: 1-2 hours

25 Best Places To Visit Near Gwalior When Wanderlust Beckons

24. Jiyaji Chowk Bazaar: Explore The Heart Of Gwalior

Image Credit: Sayan Kundu for Pixabay

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

A trip to any destination remains incomplete without doing a bit of shopping. In Gwalior, you will find several markets that sell a variety of local products and handicrafts, and one of these places is Jiyaji Chowk Bazaar. Located in the heart of the city, this market can be best described as narrow lanes full of small shops and locals. If you are planning a vacation to Gwalior with your family then you must head to this market where you can find jewelry and handloom products for shopping in Gwalior . If you are seeking best places to visit in Gwalior at night,  Jiyaji Chowk Bazaar should be on your itinerary!

Location : Jiyaji Chowk, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474001 Timings: 10 am – 10 pm Ticket charges: Free Time required: 2-3 hours

25. Patankar Bazaar: Shop & Eat Your Heart Out

Image Credit: Madhurima Handa for Pixabay

Another one on the list of places to visit in Gwalior is Patankar Bazaar that is mainly known for stone carvings, handicrafts, artefacts, and more. These things are perfect for souvenirs for your family and loved ones. Not only this, you will also find several food shops selling local dishes. One of these will be imerti dipped in sugar syrup – a sweet dish to try. Apart from these, you will also find textile shops that offer a great variety of clothes at reasonable prices.

Location : Khurjewala Mohalla, Daulat Ganj, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh Timings: 10 am – 9 pm Ticket charges: Free Time required: 1-2 hours

These 10 Places To Visit In Madhya Pradesh In May Will Fulfill All Your Travel Dreams!

26. Phool Bagh: A Place Of Calmness & Unity

Image Credit: Gyanendra Singh Chauhan for Wikimedia Commons

Located near Gwalior Railway Station, Phool Bagh consists of a museum as well as a residential palace along with other important buildings. It was built by the great Madho Rao Scindia and was inaugurated in the year 1922 by the Prince of Wales. There is a sacred prayer place in the vicinity of Phool Bagh which is an ideal place to calm your mind. Besides this, there is a Gwalior Zoo, a gurdwara, a temple, and a mosque in the area which depicts unity.

Location : Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh Timings: 6 am – 7 pm Ticket charges: Free Time required: 1 hour

27. Shyam Vatika: Ideal For Artists

Image Credit: Dol Ankita for Wikimedia Commons

Shyam Vatika also makes it to the list of the top places to visit in Gwalior as it has got the largest indoor mural in the world which is why it has also been recognized by the Guinness. The mural covers an area of about 904 square meters which was painted by Ashutosh Panigrahi along with 6 members. It took about a week to paint the walls and ceilings of the hall in the year 2005. If you are an artist, then you cannot miss a visit to Shyam Vatika.

Location : Saraswati Estate Near Birla Nagar Railway Station Cimmco Tiraha, Madhya Pradesh 474004 Timings: 10 am – 8 pm (Closed on Sunday) Ticket charges: NA Time required: 30 minutes

Raneh Falls: A Detailed Guide On Exploring The Grand Canyon Of India

28. Splash The Sun City: Have Some Fun

Image Credit: Justdial

One of the coolest places to visit in Gwalior is Splash The Sun City which is located on the Race Course Road. This place offers a variety of rides, roller coasters, and rides that add the thrill element on the trip. A visit to Gwalior with friends or family, definitely calls for a visit to the Splash, especially in the summer season. It gives respite from the scorching heat of the sun and is a perfect way to spend a day with some fun.

Location : Race Course Road, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474005 Timings: 11 am – 6 pm Ticket charges: INR 300 (Kids), INR 400 (Adults) Time required: 2-3 hours

29. Old Water Park: Get Closure To Nature

Image Credit: Sb2s3 for Wikimedia Commons

Situated at the Hurawali Link Road in Gwalior, the Old World Water Park is a must-visit place on your trip to this destination. A popular place for hangouts with your family and friends, this spot will give you the pleasure of spending quality time amidst nature. There are a lot of rides available in this park for all age groups including adults and kids if you want to get indulged in adventure activities.

Location: Sirol Rd, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh 474006 Timings: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm Ticket charges: Adults – INR 500, Kids (below 4.6 ft) – INR 300 Time required: 2 hours

9 Mystical National Parks Of Madhya Pradesh That You Should Visit

30. Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore The Wildlife

Image Credit: Vladsegrt for Wikimedia Commons

Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful place to be visited in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The sanctuary is home to flora and fauna. The serene rivers and tranquil wilderness of the place make it an amazing place.

Location: Barkheda, Madhya Pradesh 473775 Timings: 6:00 am to 9:30 am and 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm Ticket charges: Free Time required: 2 hours

So this was our humble list of places to visit in Gwalior. Is there any other place that you have been to? Let us know more about your trip to Gwalior in the comment section below. But before all that, take some time out from your busy schedule and plan a trip to Gwalior for an enriching holiday experience amidst history, culture and art.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Gwalior

Is it safe to travel to Gwalior in the upcoming weeks or months?

The tourism industry is slowly reopening, and you can visit most of the above-mentioned places and more. But don't take our word for it, just make sure you travel in a small group and keep updating yourself about the latest news and guidelines concerning Covid-19.

Is Gwalior worth visiting?

Gwalior is a culturally rich place with a glorious history. Especially for the history lovers and explorers, there are numerous forts, palaces, museums, and parks to tour in Gwalior that makes it worth a visit.

What are the most popular places to visit in Gwalior with children?

The most popular places to visit in Gwalior with children as per the visitors' reviews: 1. Gwalior Fort 2. Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod Qilla Gwalior 3. Gopachal Parvat 4. Sas-Bahu Temple 5. Jai Vilas Palace Museum

Why is Gwalior famous?

The city of Gwalior is best known for its rich cultures, heritage, and natural beauty. From touring the Tombs and Scindia Palace to shopping at the bustling streets of Gwalior there is a range of things you can do here. Some popular places to visit in Gwalior are: 1. Sun Temple 2. Maharaja Bada 3. Gwalior Fort

What is the famous food of Gwalior?

When exploring the best places to visit in Gwalior make sure you savour the following food: 1. Dal Bafla 2. Jalebi 3. Imarti 4. Rogan Josh 5. Mawa-bati 6. Malpua 7. Poha 8. Bedai

Why is Gwalior called the Gibraltar of India?

The Gwalior Fort was entitled as 'Gibraltar of India' by the Mughal Emperor Babur during the 15th century. It was titled so because the fort featured panoramic sights of the old Gwalior town.

What are the top attractions to visit in Gwalior?

The following are the best places to visit in Gwalior: 1. Gwalior Fort 2. Jai Vilas Palace Museum 3. Sas-Bahu Temple 4. Gopachal Parvat 5. Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod Qilla Gwalior

People Also Read:

Places To Visit In Jammu Places To Visit In Srinagar Places To Visit In Konkan

Recent Posts

11 Villages In France: Perfect For Adventure Seekers

10 Picturesque Villages In Switzerland Loaded With Natural Charm

10 Charming Villages In Austria That You Can Explore Off The Beaten Path

12 Hidden Gems In Maryland: Seek Offbeat Experience

10 Captivating Reasons To Visit Japan: Unveiling The Land Of Endless Wonders

Hidden Gems In Spain You Won’t Find On Any Other List

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• madhya pradesh » Gwalior »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

Top Hotel Collections

Near City Centre

Cheap Hotels

Gwalior Travel Essentials

Ideal duration: 1-2 days

Best Time: July to March Read More

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

"Tourism Capital of Madhya Pradesh"

Gwalior tourism.

Gwalior is a historic city located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Popular because of the hilltop fort, Gwalior is full of palaces and glorious temples giving this city a majestic charm which speaks volumes of its glorious past.

A historic city founded by king Surajesan, Gwalior is a city where India's most eminent royalty once resided. Jai Vilas Pala has the largest carpet in the world which took almost 12 years to weave and two most massive chandeliers in the world that weight close to 3.5 tonnes. The great Indian musician Tansen was born in Gwalior, and the tomb of Tansen is also an important place here. Every year, in November/December, a four-day Tansen Music festival is celebrated in the city where various classical musicians from all over the country perform on the stage near the tomb itself. Visit the various monuments and museums, eat the local delicacies like namkeen and go boating in Tighra Dam while you are in the city.

Places To Visit In Gwalior

Gwalior Fort

Jai Vilas Palace

Gujari Mahal (State Archaeological Museum)

Man Mandir Palace

Tomb of Tansen

Teli Ka Mandir

Top Hotels In Gwalior

₽ 1,910 onwards

₽ 710 onwards

₽ 586 onwards

₽ 388 onwards

More on Gwalior Travel

Tansen music festival, culture of gwalior, restaurants and local food in gwalior, suggested itinerary for gwalior, best time to visit gwalior, top stories about gwalior tourism.

Best Water Parks in Gwalior for a Fun-filled Day

Food & Drink

Best Malls in Gwalior For Shopping, Food & Entertainment!

Sightseeing

Things to Do in Gwalior for a Memorable Holiday

Places Near

Places to Visit Near Gwalior

Hill Stations

Hill Stations Near Gwalior for a Quick Getaway

Nearby Places

How to Reach Gwalior

How to reach overview, how to reach gwalior by flight, how to reach gwalior by road, how to reach gwalior by train, local transport in gwalior, most frequently searched routes to gwalior, browse hotel collections, by hotel type.

Best Resorts In Gwalior

Villas In Gwalior

Lodges In Gwalior

By Budget Category

Cheap Hotels In Gwalior

Hotels In Gwalior Near Railway Station

Best Luxury Hotels In Gwalior

By Star Category

3 Star Hotels In Gwalior

With Specific Facilities

Hotels In Gwalior City Centre

OYO Hotels In Gwalior

Pet-Friendly Hotels In Gwalior

Near Landmarks

Hotels Near Gwalior Fort

Gwalior Photos

+ 16 photos

How To Reach Gwalior

View Details

From Mumbai

From Gurgaon

FAQs on Gwalior

What is the local food in gwalior, what are the places near gwalior, what are the things to do in gwalior, what is the best way to reach gwalior, what is the best time to visit gwalior, who should visit gwalior, what is not so good about gwalior, what is famous about gwalior, have a question on gwalior.

Popular Questions And Answers on Gwalior

Q. How is the nightlife in Gwalior?

Q. Hotels in Gwalior

Q. I want to know that Is Gwalior open on 15 August or Not?

Gwalior Reviews

Gwalior diaries

Shubham Mishra

Similar Places

Get the best offers on Travel Packages

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

Gwalior Tourism

• Gwalior Fort
• Jai Vilas Palace
• Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum
• Tansen Tomb
• Sun Temple Gwalior
• SasBahu Temple
• Gopachal Parvat
• Teli Ka Mandir
• Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod Qilla Gwalior
• Madhav National Park
• View all 12 places
• Things to do
• Best time to visit
• How to Reach
• Tourist Map
• within 25kms
• within 50kms
• within 100kms
• within 150kms
• within 200kms
• within 250kms
• within 300kms
• within 500kms

Explore Places to Visit Near Gwalior by Type

Other Suggested Reads for Gwalior

• Places To Visit in Gwalior
• Things to do in Gwalior
• How to Reach Gwalior
• Best time to Visit in Gwalior
• Gwalior Tourism History
• Food in Gwalior
• FAQS about Gwalior
• Gwalior Tourist Map

• Travel Blog
• Top Attractions
• Hill Stations
• Places to Visit in India
• Things To Do
• Weekend Getaways
• Historical Places
• Tours & Itineraries
• Festival & Events
• Food & Restaurants
• Delhi Travel Blog
• Jaipur Travel Blog
• Goa Travel Blog
• Mumbai Travel Blog
• Bangalore Travel Blog
• Chennai Travel Blog
• Pune Travel Blog
• Hyderabad Travel Blog
• Kolkata Travel Blog
• Indian Holidays Calendar 2024
• Long Weekends 2024
• Travel Tips & Hacks
• Top 10 in India
• India Tourism Guide
• Indian Railways (IRCTC)
• Indian Railways News
• Metro Rail Networks
• Web Check-in
• Hotels in Delhi
• Hotels in Mumbai
• Hotels in Gurgaon
• Hotels in Bangalore
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Chennai
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Pune
• Hotels in Hyderabad
• Hotels in Kolkata

Best 18 Places to Visit in Gwalior (2024): ✔Timing, Entry Fee

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Gwalior > Best 18 Places to Visit in Gwalior (2024): ✔Timing, Entry Fee

Gwalior, the city with a celebrated history, is the tourism capital of Madhya Pradesh . From massive forts to beautiful temples and stunning monuments, the city has a galore of attractions to delight travelers. That’s not all! Gwalior has given the most talented musicians to our country. It was in this city where Tansen learned his art and created many ragas and Dhrupad compositions, strengthening the foundation of Indian classical music. The cultural and historical significance of Gwalior cannot be described in words. You must visit the city to understand the importance of its contribution to our country’s rich heritage and culture.

Read these State-wise Quarantine Rules to Avoid any Inconvenience

Places to visit in Gwalior:

1. gwalior fort, gwalior.

Gwalior Fort | #1 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Known as ‘the pearl amongst fortresses in India’, the impenetrable Gwalior Fort has witnessed many wars and events. Standing tall atop a rocky mountain, this architectural marvel spreads over an area of 3 sq. km and is visible from all the corners of the city. There are several attractions inside the fort including palaces, temples and water tanks, and it might take almost a day to explore the place.

• Timings : 06:00 am – 05:30 pm
• Entry Fee : ₹ 75 for Indians; ₹ 250 for Foreign Tourists

Explore recommended places to stay in Gwalior at best price

2. Phool Bagh, Gwalior

The late Madho Rao Scindia built Phool Bagh, and it was inaugurated by the Prince of Wales in 1922. A museum and a residential palace; this site encompasses a gurudwara, a temple, a mosque, and the city zoo in its campus. The place is famous for well-maintained and beautiful gardens, where you can enjoy a picnic or spend time with family and loved ones. Read also – Things to do in Gwalior

• Timings : 05:30 am – 07:00 pm
• Entry Fee : Free

3. Gujari Mahal Museum, Gwalior

Gujari Mahal Museum | #3 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Built by Raja Man Singh Tomar, this 15th-century palace museum is located inside the Gwalior Fort. Gone through the test of time, this archaeological museum will give you an insight into the history of the city and its rulers. The rare collection of sculptures displayed here are a highlight of the museum. You will also see terracotta items, stone & copper plate inscriptions, coins, bronze sculptures, arms and weapons, replicas of Bagh Cave paintings and excavated material in its exhibits.

• Timings : 09:00 am – 05:00 pm (Closed on Monday)
• Entry Fee : ₹ 10 for Indians, ₹ 100 for Foreign Tourists

Book Couple friendly Hotels in Gwalior

4. Sarafa Bazar, Gwalior

Sarafa Bazar | #4 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

From jewelry to handicrafts and textiles, Sarafa Bazar is a must-visit place for shopaholics. It is one of the oldest and the most famous markets in Gwalior. You can buy lacquer work, chanderi silk, home décor, handmade carpets and vases with intricate designs here, at unbelievable prices. Don’t forget to try pani puri and other lip-smacking street food at the market.

• Timings : 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

If you want to know more about where you can enjoy some good food, read our blog on restaurants in Gwalior !

5. Teli Ka Mandir, Gwalior

Teli Ka Mandir | #5 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

An ancient religious site famous for its Dravidian architecture and detailed artwork, Teli Ka Mandir is the tallest structure inside the Gwalior Fort complex. It is around 100 ft. tall, and the architecture is a blend of Buddhist and Hindu styles. According to historians, this temple was constructed during the 8 th or 11 th century and is the oldest temple in the fort. It is devoted to Lord Vishnu in the form of his mount ‘Garuda’ and also has structures of coiled serpents and river goddesses inside.

• Timings : 08:00 am – 06:00 pm
• Entry Fee : ₹ 20

6. Gwalior Zoo, Gwalior

Gwalior Zoo | #6 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Gwalior Zoo is a must-visit place for wildlife lovers and a great place to spend the weekend with kids and family. The zoological park was built by the royal family in the year 1922 and is spread in an area of 8 hectares. It is home to various rare animal species including a white tiger and others like hyena, golden pheasant, black buck, bison and spotted deer.

• Timings : 08:00 am – 06:00 pm (Closed on Friday)
• Entry Fee : ₹ 20 per Adult; ₹ 5 per Child

7. Samadhi of Rani Laxmi Bai, Gwalior

The brave warrior Rani Laxmi Bai was an inspiration during India’s struggle for freedom. To celebrate her fierceness and pay homage to her sacrifice, an eight-meter tall metal statue of hers is installed in the heart of Phool Bagh. Every year in June, a fair is organized at the Samadhi of Rani Laxmi Bai.

• Timings : 24 hours

8. Moti Mahal, Gwalior

One of the most historic buildings in the city, the 19 th -century Moti Mahal has some beautiful gardens and fountains within its premises. It was once the office of Madhya Bharat Government and has now been converted into offices of the State Government. The beautiful tempera colors, wall paintings and mosaic work depicting Ragas and Raginis are the highlights of this palace.

• Timings : 10:00 am – 10:00 pm (Closed on Sunday)

9. Jai Vilas Palace, Gwalior

Jai Vilas Palace | #9 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Only 650 meters from Moti Mahal, Jai Vilas Palace is a grand structure built by Jayaji Rao Scindia in 1874. The building has European style architecture and is quite famous for its Durbar Hall, which is adorned with some of the grandest chandeliers in the world and a huge carpet that took nearly 12 years to weave. The rooms in the palace have been converted into a museum, and exhibit furniture, paintings, sculptures, decorative art, textiles and more collected by the royal family.

• Timings : 10:00 am – 04:45 pm (April – September) 10:00 am – 04:30 pm (October – March)
• Entry Fee : ₹ 140 for Indians, ₹ 800 for Foreign Tourists

10. Amma Maharaj ki Chathri, Gwalior

Amma Maharaj ki Chathri is just a kilometer from Jai Vilas Palace and is popular for the cenotaph of Late Madho Rao Scindia. If you are looking for some peace and solace, you will be in love with the beautiful, lush green gardens here.

• Timings : 01:00 pm – 05:30 pm

11. Tomb of Muhammad Ghaus, Gwalior

Tomb of Muhammad Ghaus | #11 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Muhammad Ghaus was a 16 th -century Sufi Saint, who was an advisor to King Babur and teacher of music maestro Tansen. His tomb has hexagonal pavilions and stone carvings depicting the elegance of Mughal architecture.

• Timings : 06:00 am – 06:00 pm

12. Tomb of Tansen, Gwalior

Tomb of Tansen | #12 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Walk a few steps from the Tomb of Muhammad Ghaus, and you will see a smaller, simpler memorial of Tansen. He was the renowned singer in Akbar’s kingdom and the father of Indian classical music. A national-level music festival is organized every year at his tomb in November-December.

13. Sun Temple, Gwalior

Sun Temple | #13 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Also called Surya Mandir, Sun Temple is another pride of Gwalior. It was built in 1988 and its design is inspired by the Sun Temple of Konark. Its exteriors are made of red sandstone, making the temple a picture-perfect spot for morning and evening photo shoots. The sculptures inside the temple are carved out of white marble. The temple receives several tourists and pilgrims throughout the year.

• Timings : 06:30 am – 12:00 pm; 01:00 pm – 06:00 pm

14. Sarod Ghar, Gwalior

Sarod Ghar is a music museum showcasing ancient musical instruments that were once used by the legendary musicians of India. In addition, you will also see a collection of age-old photographs and documents related to music meet-ups in the bygone era. The museum is set up inside the house of legendary sarod player Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan.

• Timings : 10:00 am – 06:00 pm (Closed on Sunday)
• Entry Fee : ₹ 20 for Indians, ₹ 100 for Foreign Tourists

15. Sas-Bahu Temple, Gwalior

Sas-Bahu Temple | #15 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Located inside the Gwalior Fort , the Sas-Bahu Temple has two ornately carved temples made in red sandstone. The larger one is devoted to Lord Vishnu and the smaller one to Lord Shiva. Unlike what the name suggests, this temple is actually named after sahastrabahu , another name of Lord Vishnu. King Mahipala of Kacchapaghata Dynasty constructed this temple in the 11 th century.

• Timings : 08:00 am – 05:00 pm

16. Gopachal Parvat, Gwalior

Gopachal Parvat | #15 of 18 Best places to visit in Gwalior

Another popular structure inside the Gwalior Fort, Gopachal Parvat is an ideal place for those who want to see ages-old Jain iconography. It is the site of a group of rock-cut sculptures with carvings dating back to 7 th to 15 th centuries. The Tirthankaras can be seen meditating in a seated or standing position here. It is one of the most important sites in Gwalior for the followers of Jainism.

17. Man Mandir Palace, Gwalior

Man Singh Tomar of Tomar Dynasty built the Man Mandir Palace, situated inside the majestic fort in the city. The four-storied palace has many beautiful carvings and designs that exhibit the splendor of Rajputana architecture. The palace also has a Jauhar pond, where Rajput women performed the Sati tradition.

• Timings : 10:00 am – 05:00 pm

18. Tigra Dam, Gwalior

Built on Sank River, Tigra Dam is a freshwater reservoir and a major source of water for Gwalior city. It is also a popular picnic spot, where one can enjoy speed boating, paddle boating as well as water scooter rides. If you are looking for a peaceful spot that is a little far from the city, we recommend Tigra Dam.

• Timings : 09:00 am – 05:00 pm
• Distance from Gwalior: 23 km
• Boating Cost : ₹ 50 per person for speed and Jalpari boats; ₹ 100 per person for paddle boat; ₹ 350 per person for water scooter

Gwalior is a fascinating city with multiple facets. You can plan a weekend getaway or a long vacation in Gwalior as the city has a lot to offer owing to its rich and varied culture and heritage. Don’t forget to book one of the hotels in Gwalior in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.

Places to Visit in Gwalior (Video):

Frequently Asked Questions About Gwalior:

Q: Suggest some good places to eat in Gwalior.

A: Hungry Birds, Shere Punjab, Param Food Complex, Indian Coffee House, Boulevard 69, Silver Saloon, Alfanzo, Victorian Vantage, Cafe Prizon and Kwality are a few of the best restaurants in Gwalior.

Q: How is the air connectivity to Gwalior?

A: Gwalior Airport does have some scheduled domestic flights to and from Delhi, Mumbai, Jabalpur, Bhopal and Indore; however, they do not operate on a daily basis.

Q: What is the best means to reach Gwalior?

A: It is quite easy to reach Gwalior by train from most major cities in India including Delhi, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Patna, Kolkata, etc. You can also choose to drive to the city as it is well-connected by national highways like NH 3, NH 75 and NH 92.

Q: How is the public transportation in Gwalior?

A: Tempos, autos, buses and taxis are all easily available from anywhere and everywhere to get around Gwalior.

Q: What are the entry timings and charges of Gwalior Fort?

A: Gwalior Fort remains open to tourists from 6 am to 5.30 pm. The entry fee of Gwalior Fort is INR 75 for Indians and INR 250 for foreigners. For kids below 15 years, the entry is free.

Q: Where to go for shopping in Gwalior?

A: Start your shopping spree at Sarafa Bazaar that has shops stocked with lacquer work, handmade carpets and carved metal storage boxes. Other places to shop in Gwalior include Patankar Bazaar and Bada Market for Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees and printed textiles and Topi Bazaar for baubles and bangles.

[showhotelbycity hotelcity=’Gwalior’]

Related Blogs

Latest Travel Blogs

GET FAB BLOGS IN YOUR INBOX!

Book a hotel.

• Social Share

Discover Hotels and Places Nearby

Top places to visit in india, hotels in india, hotels near airport, hotels near railway station, budget hotels, couple friendly hotels.

• Places to Visit in Agra
• Places to Visit in Ahmedabad
• Places to Visit in Amritsar
• Places to Visit in Bangalore
• Places to Visit in Bhopal
• Places to Visit in Chandigarh
• Places to Visit in Chennai
• Places to Visit in Coorg
• Places to Visit in Dehradun
• Places to Visit in Delhi
• Places to Visit in Dharamshala
• Places to Visit in Goa
• Places to Visit in Gurgaon
• Places to Visit in Guwahati
• Places to Visit in Haridwar
• Places to Visit in Indore
• Places to Visit in Jaipur
• Places to Visit in Kolkata
• Places to Visit in Lonavala
• Places to Visit in Lucknow
• Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar
• Places to Visit in Manali
• Places to Visit in Mumbai
• Places to Visit in Mussoorie
• Places to Visit in Nainital
• Places to Visit in Nashik
• Places to Visit in Noida
• Places to Visit in Ooty
• Places to Visit in Rishikesh
• Places to Visit in Surat
• Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram
• Places to Visit in Udaipur
• Places to Visit in Varanasi
• Places to Visit in Pondicherry
• Places to Visit in Coimbatore
• Places to Visit in Kochi
• Places to Visit in Kodaikanal
• Places to Visit in Pune
• FabHotels: Hotel Booking App
• Hotels in Agra
• Hotels in Ahmedabad
• Hotels in Amritsar
• Hotels in Chandigarh
• Hotels in Coimbatore
• Hotels in Coorg
• Hotels in Dehradun
• Hotels in Dharamshala
• Hotels in Gangtok
• Hotels in Haridwar
• Hotels in Indore
• Hotels in Kochi
• Hotels in Kodaikanal
• Hotels in Lonavala
• Hotels in Lucknow
• Hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Hotels in Manali
• Hotels in Mohali
• Hotels in Mussoorie
• Hotels in Nainital
• Hotels in New Delhi
• Hotels in Noida
• Hotels in Ooty
• Hotels in Pondicherry
• Hotels in Puri
• Hotels in Rishikesh
• Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
• Hotels in Tirupati
• Hotels in Udaipur
• Hotels in Ujjain
• Hotels in Varanasi
• Hotels Near Ahmedabad Airport
• Hotels Near Amritsar Airport
• Hotels Near Bangalore Airport
• Hotels Near Bhopal Airport
• Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Airport
• Hotels Near Chandigarh Airport
• Hotels Near Chennai Airport
• Hotels Near Coimbatore Airport
• Hotels Near Goa Airport
• Hotels Near Gwalior Airport
• Hotels Near Hyderabad Airport
• Hotels Near Indore Airport
• Hotels Near Jaipur Airport
• Hotels Near Kolkata Airport
• Hotels Near Lucknow Airport
• Hotels Near Mumbai Airport
• Hotels Near Nagpur Airport
• Hotels Near New Delhi Airport
• Hotels Near Pune Airport
• Hotels Near Vadodara Airport
• Hotels Near Agra Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ahmedabad Railway Station
• Hotels Near Amritsar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bangalore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bhopal Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Chandigarh Railway Station
• Hotels Near Chennai Railway Station
• Hotels Near Coimbatore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Dehradun Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ernakulam Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ghaziabad Railway Station
• Hotels Near Gorakhpur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Guwahati Railway Station
• Hotels Near Gwalior Railway Station
• Hotels Near Haridwar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Indore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Kanpur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Kolkata Railway Station
• Hotels Near Lucknow Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ludhiana Railway Station
• Hotels Near Madurai Railway Station
• Hotels Near New Delhi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Pune Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ranchi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Surat Railway Station
• Hotels Near Tirupati Railway Station
• Hotels Near Udaipur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ujjain Railway Station
• Hotels Near Vadodara Railway Station
• Hotels Near Varanasi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Vijayawada Railway Station
• Hotels Near Visakhapatnam Railway Station
• Budget hotels in Agra
• Budget hotels in Ahmedabad
• Budget hotels in Amritsar
• Budget hotels in Bangalore
• Budget hotels in Bhubaneswar
• Budget hotels in Chandigarh
• Budget hotels in Chennai
• Budget hotels in Coimbatore
• Budget hotels in Coorg
• Budget hotels in Dehradun
• Budget hotels in Ernakulam
• Budget hotels in Gangtok
• Budget hotels in Goa
• Budget hotels in Gurgaon
• Budget hotels in Haridwar
• Budget hotels in Hyderabad
• Budget hotels in Indore
• Budget hotels in Jaipur
• Budget hotels in Kodaikanal
• Budget hotels in Kolkata
• Budget hotels in Lonavala
• Budget hotels in Madurai
• Budget hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Budget hotels in Manali
• Budget hotels in Mumbai
• Budget hotels in Mussoorie
• Budget hotels in Nashik
• Budget hotels in Ooty
• Budget hotels in Pondicherry
• Budget hotels in Pune
• Budget hotels in Rishikesh
• Budget hotels in Shirdi
• Budget hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
• Budget hotels in Tirupati
• Budget hotels in Udaipur
• Budget hotels in Varanasi
• Couple friendly hotels in Agra
• Couple friendly hotels in Ahmedabad
• Couple friendly hotels in Bangalore
• Couple friendly hotels in Bhopal
• Couple friendly hotels in Chandigarh
• Couple friendly hotels in Chennai
• Couple friendly hotels in Coimbatore
• Couple friendly hotels in Coorg
• Couple friendly hotels in Dehradun
• Couple friendly hotels in Dharamshala
• Couple friendly hotels in Goa
• Couple friendly hotels in Greater Noida
• Couple friendly hotels in Gurgaon
• Couple friendly hotels in Guwahati
• Couple friendly hotels in Hyderabad
• Couple friendly hotels in Indore
• Couple friendly hotels in Jaipur
• Couple friendly hotels in Kanpur
• Couple friendly hotels in Kochi
• Couple friendly hotels in Kolkata
• Couple friendly hotels in Lonavala
• Couple friendly hotels in Lucknow
• Couple friendly hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Couple friendly hotels in Manali
• Couple friendly hotels in Mohali
• Couple friendly hotels in Mumbai
• Couple friendly hotels in Mussoorie
• Couple friendly hotels in Nashik
• Couple friendly hotels in New Delhi
• Couple friendly hotels in Noida
• Couple friendly hotels in Ooty
• Couple friendly hotels in Pondicherry
• Couple friendly hotels in Pune
• Couple friendly hotels in Rishikesh
• Couple friendly hotels in Siliguri
• Couple friendly hotels in Surat
• Couple friendly hotels in Udaipur
• Couple friendly hotels in Vadodara
• Couple friendly hotels in Varanasi

• Be our Franchisee
• Travel Agent
• Corporate Enquiries
• Quarantine Hotels
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cancellation Policy

Tourist Places to Visit in Gwalior

Top Tours in Gwalior, India

Gwalior tours.

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Private Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Walking Tours
• Photography Tours
• Motorcycle Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Mitawali, Padawali & Bateshwar Temple (Day excursion from Gwalior)

2. Gwalior Same day From Delhi by fast AC Trains

3. Day trip to Gwalior from Agra

4. The Indian Dream Tour - Classic North India

5. Heritage Tour to India

6. Gwalior Tour - Same Day Tour to Gwalior From Agra

7. Gwalior Orchha Historic town Day Tour private

8. A Trip of Khajuraho, Orchha, Gwalior, Jhansi from Delhi in 5 Day

9. Gwalior Heritage City Tour

10. Gwalior Same day excursion from Agra

11. 10-Days Motorcycle Tour in India With Orchha & Khajuraho

12. Gwalior Orchha Historic Tour With Datia & Sonagir

13. Gwalior tour with beautiful sites of historical monuments

14. Full-Day Tour to Alligator Eco Park in Morena from Gwalior

15. Royal Gwalior Historical City Day tour

16. One Day Gwalior Tour from Agra

17. Romantic tour in Gwalior

18. 22-Day Delhi, Rajasthan, Agra, Gwalior, Orchha, Khajurao, & Varanasi Tour

19. Private one Day Gwalior Tour from Agra

20. Gwalior tour with fort & beautiful palaces.

21. Gwalior to Agra Perfect day Tour Private

22. Gwalior Half Day City Tour Private

23. 14-Day Tour to India Khajuraho & Tiger Safari

24. Gwalior City tour with Gwalior fort, Jai Vilas palace & Holy Temples

25. Private Transport Triangle Tour with Orchha, Khajuraho, Varanasi

26. Classical India plus Hyderabad Region Temples & Mumbai

27. Central India & Rajasthan Road Trip

28. Golden Triangle Tour With Rajasthan & Khajuraho

29. 12-Day Golden Triangle Tour With Orchha, Khajuraho & Varanasi From Delhi

30. Golden Triangle & More

What travellers are saying.

• Gwalior Half Day City Tour Private
• Khajuraho, Orchha Tour Package From Delhi in 5 Days & 4 Nights.
• Gwalior Tour - Same Day Tour to Gwalior From Agra
• Fort & Palaces of Mughal`s & Rajput`s
• 10-Days Motorcycle Tour in India With Orchha & Khajuraho
• Bhraman Tours and Travels
• Travel Bureau - Gwalior
• Arpita Travels
• Historical India Tours

• 11 Reasons Why You Should...

11 Reasons Why You Should Visit Gwalior, India

Surrounded by lofty hills from all sides is the magnificent Fort City of India, Gwalior. Home to a number of palaces, temples and monuments , the city has a glorious history and a rich culture to offer. Breathtaking views, a brush with the good old days, local delights and a royal stay are a few of the things you don’t want to miss. Need some more motivation to pack your bags? Read our 11 reasons why visiting Gwalior is a must.

1. the most revered fort of india is here.

History comes alive as you take a walk inside the majestic Gwalior Fort. Known to be one of the most impenetrable fortresses of India , it was called ‘the pearl in the necklace of the forts of India’ by the Mughal Emperor, Babur. How about a peek into the past? Make sure to see the Light and Sound show hosted every evening at the amphitheatre here.

Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

Man Singh Palace, Gwalior Fort | © Manuel Menal/Flickr

2. It's a witness to the Rebellion of 1857

During the rebellion of 1857, Rani Lakshmibai (Queen of Jhansi) reached Gwalior by fighting the British army and sought shelter inside the Gwalior Fort. To commemorate her bravery, a big statue of Rani Lakshmibai at Phul Bagh on her horse was built in the spot where she took her last breath. A few places in the city have also been named after her.

Phool Bagh, Lashkar, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

The city is deeply spiritual

Gwalior has many remains of Hindu religion in the form of great temples and shrines. There is the Saas-Bahu Temple (Sahastra Bahu Ka Mandir) dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Teli Ka Mandir, residing in the same complex, is known to be the highest building of Gwalior. The Sun Temple and Gopachal Parvat are also well-known places. A holy pilgrim centre, the Surajkund, is a large tank believed to have magical water.

Sahastra Bahu Ka Mandir, Gwalior Fort, Gwalior

Teli Ka Mandir, Gwalior

Sun Temple, Mahaveer, Morar, Gwalior

Gopachal Parvat, Gwalior Fort, Gwalior

Surajkund, Gwalior

3. It houses the Scindia legacy

Jai Vilas Palace houses the great Scindia legacy in Gwalior. An elegant piece of architecture, the palace showcases a blend of Italian, Tuscan and Corinthian art forms. A major part of the Jai Vilas Palace, the Scindia Museum, is famous for its crystal staircase and a mini silver train used for serving food by the royal family. Another surprise is that the palace has two of the largest chandeliers in the world, weighing three and a half tonnes, along with the largest hall carpet in Asia.

Jai Vilas Palace, Lashkar, Gwalior

Jai Villas Palace | © Dan/Flickr

4. The history of music resides here

The first – and the most – admired singer in the court of Emperor Akbar, Tansen, was born in Gwalior. And so were some of the best-known musicians of India . The Sarod Ghar (Museum of Music), set up in the ancestral house of musician, Hafiz Ali Khan, has a huge collection of ancient instruments played by Indian masters in the olden days.

Sarod Ghar, Shekh Ki Bagiya, Gwalior

Indian harmonium | © Thomas Quine/Flickr

5. The great Tansen Music Festival is hosted here

As a tribute to Tansen, Gwalior hosts the Tansen Sangeet Samaroh (Tansen Music Festival) every December. This four-day music festival organized at the Tansen Tomb is where musicians and artists from all across the country gather. For Indian classical music lovers, this festival can surely be a bait to visit Gwalior. Bonus points: December is one of the best months to visit the city!

Tansen Tomb, Gwalior

Mian Tansen’s Tomb | © Nagarjun Kandukuru/Flickr

Cultures come together at the Gwalior Trade Fair

Known as one of India’s most colourful fairs, and the largest in Madhya Pradesh, the Gwalior Trade Fair is where you get to see the rich culture and heritage of central India. From the second week of January until February, this fair remains the centre of attention among people from far and wide. Musical nights and cultural evenings are an integral part of the fair. With a great number of swings, different colours and lights, the Gwalior Trade Fair is a must visit.

It’s the go-to place for traditional shopping

Gwalior specializes in traditional souvenirs from the state of Madhya Pradesh. There are various shops in the Patankar Bazaar and near Lashkar that offer a wide range of art and craft products. Wall hangings, handwoven carpets, lacquerware, dolls and jewellery are quite popular. Maheshwari and Chanderi sarees , leatherware and metalcraft are famous as well. Make sure to carry extra shopping bags because you’ll end up buying more than you might have planned!

Patankar Bazar, Daulat Ganj, Gwalior

Lashkar, Gwalior

6. The food is mouthwatering

Gwalior mostly offers popular North Indian dishes, but with a special twist of its own. A few local products are famous all over Madhya Pradesh like the spicy and salty snack, namkeen and gajak , which is a crunchy and sweet preparation made with sesame seeds and jaggery. A must-try is the street food at Chaupaati and the Royal Thali at the Taj Usha Kiran Palace Hotel.

Taj Usha Kiran Palace Hotel, Gwalior

Snacks and namkeen | © pashminu/Pixabay

The city offers a luxurious stay

Want to experience royalty on your trip to Gwalior? Well, your wish can come true with hotels like the Gwalior Regency, Taj Usha Kiran Palace and Hotel Adityaz. Luxuriously decorated rooms, free WiFi, outdoor pools, spas, on-site restaurants, car rentals and currency exchange are some of the many services available. So, feel pampered to the core as you enjoy your stay here.

Hotel Gwalior Regency, Thatipur, Gwalior

Hotel Adityaz, D.D. Nagar, Gwalior

The city is a boon for adventure junkies

Love sports and fun activities? Gwalior has something just for you. Paddle your way across the Tighra Dam as you enjoy boating or just chill with family and friends. Take part in rock climbing and cycle on the western side of the Gwalior Fort, Urvai Gate. And to brush with wildlife, visit the Madhav National Park near Gwalior and enjoy valley crossing, trekking and rappelling.

Tighra Dam, Gwalior

Madhav National Park, Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

Fun-filled travel experiences to boost your serotonin levels.

How To Spend a Week in Maharashtra

Film & TV

Embrace the barbie spirit by visiting the world's most colourful cities.

Guides & Tips

The best places to travel in november.

Simran Lal, Founder of Nicobar, On How She Launched Her Lifestyle Brand and Tips On Travelling to India

Photo Journal: 10 Photos From Jaipur's Ganguar Festival

A Guide To Madhya Pradesh’s Tiger Reserves

This Homestay Could Help Save Rajasthan’s Nomadic Camel Pastoralists

5 Delicious Indian Dry Bean and Lentil Recipes

The Top Things To Do And See In Jaipur

How to spend 10 days in Madhya Pradesh, India

Top Tips for Travelling in India

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1729396
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Listed 40 times as Top Travel Blog Of India!

Gwalior Fort: All you wanted to know!

Last Updated on November 11, 2023 by asoulwindow

Table of Contents

About Gwalior Fort

Gwalior Fort is one of the top places to see in Gwalior. The main fort of Gwalior is so big that there are roads inside the fort premises, it is like a mini township with temples, palaces, lawns and even a functioning heritage school. Accessed by the Urwai gate, places like the Siddhanchal rock cut Jain statues, ASI Museum, Karan Mahal, Vikram Mahal, Teli ka Mandir, Saas Bahu Mandir, Dhondapur Gate, Jauhar Kund, Fort Bastion Hamamkhana, Bandichor Gurudwara and Scindia School are some of the best tourist places to see in the Gwalior Fort premises.

This is the most comprehensive travel guide to the Gwalior Fort ever. Show me a bigger travel blog on Gwalior Fort and I shall show you a live dinosaur! I have mentioned in detail about each place you can see in the premises of the Gwalior Fort in this exhaustive travelogue.

Such rare information is not available in the old school newspapers, travel magazines and travel guide books. Do share this blog with your friend and family so that more and more people learn about the things to do in Gwalior Fort. I am sharing many trivia and fun facts about the Gwalior Fort in this exhaustive blog. Here is all you wanted to know about the Gwalior Fort.

My Experience of visiting Gwalior Fort

I was transported back in time as I uncovered Gwalior Fort one layer at a time.For a history buff like me,a visit to the Gwalior fort was like moving into a time warp. As I enter the time warp which Gwalior Fort is, every stone of its walls spoke volumes about the endless series of dynasties which won and lost this ancient bastion. It is not every day that I see such huge fort premises.

I was invited by the Time Passion Trails in association with Madhya Pradesh Tourism for a weeklong trip across Gwalior and nearby attractions. As much as I learnt about unheard of places, many of which were off the touristy trail, I also had an amazing time bonding with friends who were also on this trip. Good company, exciting destinations and amazing chemistry between all the participants made this trip memorable.

Why is Gwalior Fort famous?

Thanks to its unique history and the stunning architecture of palaces and medieval temples , Gwalior Fort is famous across the world. I was also treated with unforgettable views of the Gwalior city from this sprawling fort.

Gwalior Fort is known for its strategic location, scale, rich history and grand architecture. What also makes the Gwalior fort so famous is the fact that it is one of the largest forts of India. The fame of the Gwalior Fort continued for centuries as it exchanged hands from one dynasty to another. Gwalior was one of the most important political bastions of the bygone era . This is why Gwalior fort always stayed important and relevant throughout the centuries. No prizes for guessing, the Gwalior fort is still one of the most famous forts of India.

Who is the main deity of Gwalior Fort

Shiva Bhagwan and Vishnu Bhagwan

are the main deities whose temples are built across the Gwalior Fort. I visited many Hindu temples as I hopped from one tourist attraction to another while visiting the Gwalior Fort.

Nomenclature/Etymology of Gwalior Fort

Gwalior Fort is also known as the Gwalior Kila or Gwalior Qila. Did you know that the word Gwalior is a derivation of the word Gwalipa. As per the local folklore, the local chieftain Suraj Sen founded the city of Gwalior in the name of Gwalipa because he cured him of leprosy.

Where is Gwalior Fort located?

Gwalior Fort is located in the heart of the Gwalior City in Madhya Pradesh in Central India. Gwalior Fort is perched atop a sandstone hill because it provides a natural defence advantage to the fort. Its strategic location reminded me of the colossal Mehrangarh fort of Jodhpur in Rajasthan .

Who built Gwalior Fort?

Gwalior Fort was built and renovated by many dynasties over several centuries.

Who ruled Gwalior Fort?

Not many people know that this hill fort was ruled by various dynasties of different kingdoms over several centuries. Below are some of the main rulers of Gwalior Fort:

History of Gwalior Fort

As we have seen above, Gwalior Fort has had a very rich history which spanned centuries. From Kachchhapaghata rulers to brave Tomar Rajputs; from Mughals to the Scindias and British, everyone finds a mention in the annals of history here. Keep reading, as I share some of the most fascinating facts about the Gwalior Fort of Madhya Pradesh in Central India.

Mughal Invasion: Who attacked Gwalior Fort?

Gwalior Fort is known to be one of the most impenetrable forts of India. However, in the year 1527 C.E., the army of Mughal ruler Babur attacked the Gwalior fort. Known to be iconoclasts, the army destroyed the faces of deities , whether Hindu Gods and Goddesses or Jain Tirthankaras .

The signs of defacing the idols can still be seen today. I also noticed that the army of Babur had also destroyed the genitals of the idols of the naked Digambara Jain Tirthankaras. But the good news is that except for the faces and genitals of few statues, much of the Rock cut images of the Tirthankaras are still intact and in good shape.

When was Gwalior Fort constructed?

How old is the Gwalior Fort? Did you know that the Gwalior Fortis one of the oldest forts in Madhya Pradesh as well as in India? After a deep study, the archaeologists, scholars and historians have concluded that Gwalior Fort is at least more than a thousand years old, maybe more! The origins of Gwalior Fort can be traced back to the Tomar dynasty . However, historical records which date back to 3 rd and 4 th century have also been observed in Gwalior Fort.

What is Gwalior Fort made up of?

Gwalior Fort is built with Vindhyan sandstone, lime and mortar. It was easy to see why Gwalior Fort is so robust and impenetrable. The fort walls here are one of the tallest I have seen yet (and I have seen a lot!). No wonder, the strong medieval structures here still stad strong even after so many centuries.

What are the main entrances of Gwalior Fort?

What is the name of the gate in Gwalior Fort? Hathi Pole and Urvai Gate are the main entrances of the Gwalior Fort.

Which gate is best for Gwalior Fort? I entered from the Urvai Gate because it is walking distance from the Siddhanchal rock cut Jain temples, Man Singh palace, Johar sthal , Chaturbhuj Temple etc.

The lesser-known Dhondapur Gate and Ladhedi gate are also other entrances to Gwalior Fort. These are some of the best kept secrets of the Gwalior Fort.

How many gates are there in Gwalior Fort?Overall, there are 6 gates inside the Gwalior fort.

Area of Gwalior Fort

The sprawling Gwalior Fort is spread across an area of a whooping 3 square kilometres. This makes it one of the largest forts in India and Asia .

Architecture of Gwalior Fort

What is the architectural style of Gwalior Fort? The architecture of Gwalior Fort is spellbinding, to say the least. Fortified by solid sandstone walls , the Gwalior Fort is home to three temples, many water tanks and as many as six palaces. This architectural marvel is to be seen to be believed. Though it is not rare to find such grand ruins in India, I was still spell bound by the sheer scale and architectural brilliance of the monuments within the walled premises of the massive Gwalior Fort.

What are the architectural features of Gwalior Fort? While studying the minute details of various monuments of the Gwalior Fort, what I found most interesting is amalgamation of several architectural styles. Rajput, Mughal and Hindu architectural styles could still be easily seen on the walls of Raja Man Singh Palace etc. This blend of architectural styles speaks volumes about various dynasties who ruled Gwalior and the surrounding region over several centuries.

Light and Sound Show at the Gwalior Fort

During my lonely post prandial walk on the roof top terrace of the luxurious Taj Usha Kiran Palace, I was swept off my feet when my eyes rested on the beautifully lit Gwalior Fort. It looked ethereal and reminded me of the forts of Rajasthan which are also lit beautifully in the night! Did you know that it is possible to visit the Gwalior fort even during the night? How cool is that! Much like how I visited Petra in night during my weeklong trip in Jordan in Middle East !

The 45 minutes long Light and Sound Show at the Gwalior Fort is not to be missed.

The timings of Light and Sound Show at the Gwalior Fort are

March to October:

Hindi: 7:30 p.m. and

English: 8:30 p.m.

November to February :

Hindi: 6:30 p.m. and

English: 7:30 p.m.

Top places to see in Gwalior Fort

Till I visited, I had no idea that there are so many exciting places to visit in the Gwalior Fort Complex. This fort is so huge that even a day is not enough to explore all its corners in depth. Till I visited, I had no idea that the famous Raja Man Singh Palace, Chaturbhuj palace, Jahangir Mahal, Shahjahan Mahal are also located within the premises of the Gwalior Fort. Below are some of the best places to see in the Gwalior Fort premises.

Raja Man Singh Palace: Top Place to see in Gwalior Fort

As soon as I arrived at the Gwalior Fort, few local kids asked me to pay them a fortune in promise of a magic show! But the real magic was unfolding right before my eyes! The blue glazed tiles, figures of ducks, elephants etc on the fort walls and blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture made it one of the most unusual forts I have ever seen.

Leading India archaeologist of ASI, K.K. Muhammed sir told us stories behind the small details on the walls of the temple, “You see this, that’s a Hindu element! That part is Islamic architecture !” I listened to K.K. Muhammed sir, agape mouthed as he made us see the what our untrained yes failed to.

As per the ASI signboard,

Raja Man Singh Palace is one of the finest examples of Hindu architecture. It was built by Tomar King Man Singh Tomar in the year 1508 C.E. Overall, Raja Man Singh palace has 4 storey, 2 of which are underground. The plan of the third storey consists of 2 open courtyards and various rooms supported by different decorated pillars and brackets. There are jhulaghar, kesar kund and phansighar below this storey.

The palace is decorated with beautiful paintings, glazed tiled of different colours, various figures such as plantain trees, ducks, peacocks, elephants, human beings, lions and attractive pillared domes.

The palace is constructed on the outer wall of the Gwalior fort, raised over the cliff at about 300 feet from the ground level. Unfortunately, in the 16 th century C.E. when the fort was attacked and captured by the Mughal army, Raja Man Singh palace was used as a state prison.

I visited all the parts of the Raja Man Singh Mahal, including the basement which was used as a spot for performing Jauhar by the queen. The interiors of the Raja Man Singh palace are even more stunning. The glazed blue tiles make an appearance again. Large courtyards, several rooms, narrow stairs, secret passages are some of the highlights of this grand palace . K.K. Muhammed sir took us to the ladies’ quarters, where they would see the proceedings from the privacy of the room.

He added, “ Khus curtains which are made with vetiver grassroots work as a natural coolant. This part was covered with khas ki tattiyan or Khus curtains during summer to keep the temperatures low.” Some natural air cooling this! The bygone era was indeed a carbon-negative world !

Siddhanchal rock cut Jain statues

My jaws dropped as I came across the imposing fort walls of Raja Man Singh Palace from the Urwai gate of Gwalior Fort. The Siddhanchal rock cut Jain idols fell on my right as well as my left as I approached the Raja Man Singh Palace.

These colossal idols were chiselled between 7 th century C.E. to 15 th century C.E. Sadly, Babur from the Mughal dynasty ordered destruction of these beautiful idols in the 16 th century. Later some of these were restored. However, I was heartbroken to see some of these idols without a face. The idols here depict all the 24 Jain Tirthankaras. Siddhanchal rock cut Jain idols are not to be confused withsimilar idols at Gopachal Parvat which is located outside the Gwalior Fort.

The 58.4 feet or 17.8 metres tall idol of Lord Rishabhanatha is a must-see here. He is also associated with Kailash Parbat which is now located in Tibet . Do read my blogs on the epic Kailash Mansarovar Yatra , a spiritual journey which changed my life !

There are several caves, small reliefs on the walls and 22 colossi here. You can also take the stiars to go down and have a closer look. Do not miss visiting the Siddhachal Jain collosi cave temples.

Chaturbhuj Temple- The Zero temple no one told you about!

Did you know you can see the earliest known written documentation of Zero in the world in the Chaturbhuj Mandir? This is one of the lesser-known fun fact about Gwalior Fort.

Located within the premises of the huge Gwalior Fort, the Chaturbhuj temple is a must-visit tourist attraction.

Soul Window Thoughts

It is a well-known fact that Aryabhatta (476–550 CE), a mathematician-astronomer from ancient India has given 0 to the world. You may not have noticed, but it is the zero which is running the world today. Be it computers, mobiles, economics or geo politics, you can’t move an inch without the inevitable zero.  Thanks to its importance, many international tourists also ensure they visit the Chaturbhuj Temple.

It is easy to miss the Chaturbhuj Temple because it takes a bit of an effort to reach here. The sloping road (yes, this fort has tar roads, eh!) at the intersection of the Raja Man Singh Palace and Gwalior ASI Museum leads to the Chaturbhuj Mandir. I didn’t need to ask for directions as the signboards clearly mention it. You must visit the place with a local guide who can not only help you spot the zero but also explain the history of the place.

Teli Ka Mandir: Best Place to visit in Gwalior Fort

Devoted to Vishnu Bhagwan , the preserver and protector of the Universe, Teli Ka Mandir is located within the premises of the sprawling Gwalior fort. Apart from the odd name, the first thing I notice as I enter the main gate was that how tall this temple is. The modern patchwork on the upper part of the temple also caught my attention. India’s celebrity archaeologist K.K. Muhammed sir told me that it was the restored part of the temple. He further added that the Archaeological Survey of India or ASI takes care of the maintenance and upkeep of Teli Ka temple.

What also intrigued me was the huge size of the garbhagriha or sanctum sanctorum, accessed by a short flight of stairs. It is not very often that I see garbhagriha as big as this. But the spartan garbhagriha was empty. Neither was there any idol nor any adornment. It is lost to time. How did we then figure out that this temple is devoted to Vishnu ji . K.K. Muhammed sir taught me how to identify a Vishnu temple, only after chanting a few mantras with the same ease and sincerity of a child reciting poems. He pointed out to the beautiful Garuda figure on the main doorway. Where there is Nandi , there is a Shivalinga and where there is a Garuda , there is Vishnu ji .  

As is common in temples of this region, the images of holy rivers Maa Ganga and Maa Yamuna flank either side of the temple doors. This 100 feet tall ancient Hindu shrine located in the Northern Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is also the oldest and tallest structure found within the Gwalior Fort complex.

Why is it known as Teli Ka Mandir or Telika Temple? Well, the Teli community or the oil merchants from that era are credited as the builder of this temple, which is why it is also known as the Oilman’s temple. Constructed in 8 th or 9 th century C.E., the unusually named Teli Ka Mandir is one of the top places to see in Gwalior Fort.

A unique blend of the North Indian Nagara and South Indian Dravidian style of architecture, I was awestruck with the sheer grandeur of the temple. I circumambulated around the temple, admiring the beauty of each of its carvings, most of which depicted sculptures of various Hindu deities. The more I see, the more I discover.

The oblong vaulted roof constructed in the Buddhist style adds to the uniqueness to this unusual temple. The The rectangular design of Telika Mandir is unusual as well. Shaiva and Shakta Dwarpalas in the inner and outer doorways corresponds to the worship of Goddess Shakti . Unlike many nearby temples, there is no mandap here.

Saas Bahu Mandir: Must-see place in Gwalior Fort

These 11 th century twin temples of Gwalior Fort are a must-visit. Devoted to Vishnu Bhagwan in his Padmanabha form, I was crestfallen to see that the tower of the temple has fallen off. Constructed in the North Indian Bhumija style architecture, these temples look magnificent even if partially ruined. Luckily the entrance porch, rich carvings and the mandapa have survived the test of time.

The stone inscription found on the portico of the bigger Saas mandir mentions the details about its construction along-with funds allotted for the temple and mention of religious congregation, folk rituals etc.

The carvings of Brahma, Vishnu and Saraswati above its entrance door are awe-inspiring. I walk around the temple premises, admiring the ceiling and pillars which depict the carvings on Shaktism, Vaishnavism and Shaivism.

I noticed the Krishna-leela scenes and image of garuda on the walls of the bigger Saas temple. The external walls of the saas temple beautifully carved with geometric designs, musicians, dancers, floral patterns, elephant figures etc. The architectural grandeur of the saas-bahu temples is a perfect representative of the temple building tradition of the Kachchhapaghata rulers.

The smaller bahu temple, offers breathtaking bird’s eye view of the Gwalior City. Much like the bigger Saas temple, the Bahu temple is also embellished with beautiful designs and patterns. It comprises of a vestibule and a small central hall.

Sasbahu Temple which is also known as the Sahasrabahu Temple , Sahastrabahu Temple, Sas-Bahu Mandir, Harisadanam temple or Sas-Bahu Temples is one of the best places to see in Gwalior Fort. Located on the eastern corner of the Gwalior Fort, the construction of this temple was started by started by King Ratanapala. The temple was however completed later during the rule of King Mahipala in the year 1093 C.E.

Why is Saas Bahu temple called so? The literal translation of Saas-Bahu is mother-in-law and daughter-in-law respectively. The Saas temple corresponds to the bigger temple while the bahu temple corresponds to the smaller temple. The original name of the Saas-Bahu temple was however, Sahastrabahu temple . Sahastrabahu means: thousand arms. Gradually, the locals started calling it as Saas-Bahu mandir.

As per the signboard,

“The fully developed temple plan is aligned in North-South direction having garbhagriha, antarala mahamandapa and ardhamanapa from South to North. The exuberantly carved pillars and ceilings of the central hall are flanked by porches on the 3 sides.”

Gwalior Fort Museum or ASI Archaeological Museum

Gwalior Fort Museum is located at walking distance from the Raja Man Singh Palace. Established as recently as the year 1993, the ASI Archaeological Museum, this unique museum is a former jail which was subsequently used as a hospital in the colonial era . This museum is not to be confused with the state run museum situated in the premises of the sprawling Gujari Mahal at the foot of the hill. Gwalior Fort Museum, though smaller than the Gujari Mahal Archeological Museum, is still a treasure trove of various idols and artefacts from the bygone era. The signboards in Hindi and English add context to the displays. The ASI Museum of Gwalior provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the traditions and styles of art, from nearby important historical destinations like Padhawali, Bateshwar, Sihonia, Pawaya, Surwaya, Amrol, Terahi, Kherat, Naresar and Ater.

Some of the notable exhibits here include:

It takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour to see all the displays at the Gwalior Fort Museum or ASI Archaeological Museum. I would suggest that you club a visit to the museum alongside the Raja Man Singh Palace.

Dhondapur Gate

Dhondapur Gateis one of the less talked about places to see in the Gwalior Fort. As opposed to the popular Urwai gate, the Dhondapur Gate is a hidden gate of Gwalior Fort. As per the signboard, the Dhondapur Gate of Gwalior Fort is located in the same direction as the area which houses Karan Mahal, Jehangir Mahal etc. You can visit it right after visiting the Raja Man Singh Palace.

Karan Palace

Also known as the Karn Mahal, it is one of the best state protected monuments inside the Gwalior Fort. Offering grand views of the city below, the Karan Mahal is one of the top sightseeing places in the Gwalior Fort. Karan Palace is located right opposite the Vikram Mahal. Constructed by Kirti Singh, who happened to be the 2 nd king of the powerful Tomar dynasty, the grand Karan Mahal is a sight to behold. It is a delight that much of its structure still stands tall.

Despite the simple structure of the Karan Palace, this medieval edifice stands out with its sheer size. The lattice-screens and sculptures are cherry on the cake. Very well restored, Karan Palace is older than Man Mandir.

Jauhar Kund of Gwalior Fort: The Biggest ever?

“I refuse to believe that the Jauhar Kund of Chittorgarh is the biggest. I am certain that the Jauhar Kund of the Gwalior Fort is the biggest ever. It is just that no one talks about it!”, my local tour guide announced with the same conviction and a tone of finality, with which he said later that “It was in Madhya Pradesh and not Maharashtra that Ganesh Chaturthi processions started.”

He may be right. History often gets lost in translation and protocols and the same narrative runs for centuries without any one daring to question the accepted. Did you know these interesting fact about Gwalior Fort?

The huge Jauhar Kund is where the Rajaput Queens and their maids self-immolated themselves to save themselves from the barbaric attack of the invader. This huge water tank was originally constructed in order to provide water all around the fort. Unfortunately, it ended up becoming the venue of Jauhar for large number of women during Islamic attacks . This event took place when the ruler of Gwalior was attacked by the invading army. It was one of the worse ever Islamic attacks on the Gwalior fort.

As per the noted historian Mata Prasad Shukla, Khadag Rai , the writer in the court of Akbar had written a book known as Gopachal Akhyan in which he mentioned that in the year 1232 C.E. that Shamsuddin Iltutmish had attacked the Gwalior Fort from all the corners despite the structure build atop a slopy hill. The battle continued for a long time. Even though Iltutmish and his army had a disadvantage because the fort was perched atop an elevation, they didn’t give up on the attack.

Eventually, due to the depleting resources and logistics inside the fort, the battle had to be moved to open field. This was the undoing for the King and the inhabitants of the Gwalior Fort. Their army was lesser in numbers than that of Iltutmish. No prizes for guessing it was a one-sided war.

Sensing defeat and sexual slavery by the winning army, the queen and her maids self-immolated themselves in this huge water tank, saving not just their bodied but also their honour and self-respect! A similar goose-bumpy scene also can be seen in the Bollywood movie Padmavat. This scene is also available on Youtube . After this unfortunate event, this water reservoir came to be known as Jauhar Kund or Jauhar Sthal .

Soul Window Ruminations!

I stood there, in silence, numb with all the horrors of the atrocities committed in the past! The melancholy of the place was growing on me, even as the tourists scattered around the fort chirped around, oblivious to the pains the Indians of the bygone era went through. I have nothing but respect for these valiant women , who offered themselves to agni (fire) than to the barbaric invading army !

These practises were very common in medieval India, especially in the North . These brave women would rather self-immolate themselves, than be sexually misused in the harems of the winning army ! There is indeed a lot we can learn from the history ! But then history often repeats itself.

The Jauhar Kund or Jauhar Sthal is located near the Cenotaph of Bhim Singh Rana and towards the west of the Jehangir Mahal.

Cenotaph of Bhim Singh Rana

This 3-storeyed cenotaph, flanked by a dome is not to be missed. Located near the Jauhar Kund, you can easily visit this place while exploring the Gwalior Qila.

Cenotaph of Bhim Singh Rana or the Chhatri of Bhim Singh Rana is one of the lesser-known places to see in the Gwalior Fort. Also known as Bheem Singh Rana Ki Chhatri, it was built in the memory of Bheem Singh Rana, the King of Gohad, Bhind (in Madhya Pradesh) who ruled between 1717 and 1756 C.E.

He took over the fort when the Mughal Empire was on the decline. However, later Bhim Singh Rana succumbed to his injuries in the year 1756 during the battle with Marathas which was led by the Shindes. For those who don’t know Shindes are now Scindia. Later, Rana Chhatar Singh constructed the Cenotaph of Bhim Singh Rana in the memory of the latter. Bhim Singh Rana was the descendant of Rana Jai Singh Bamrolia .

The throne of Gohad is known as the Gaddi of Lord Narasimha. Lord Narasimha is the deity of Bamrolia Jats and Gohad Kingdom .

Vikram Mahal

As I entered the boundaries of the Vikram Mahal, I noticed a functional open-air temple under a tree. The pujari performed pooja of the Shivalinga as I offered my prayers. An idol of Hindu deity Hanuman ji stood nearby. Vikram Mahal, I was told, was once also known as Vikram Mandir because there was once a major Shiva temple here.

Constructed by Vikramaditya Singh, the elder son of Maharaja Mansingh, the Vikram Mahal is one of the most important places which you can visit in the Gwalior Fort. Vikramaditya Singh was an ardent devotee of Shiva Bhagwan . It was during the Mughal attacks that the Shiva temple was completely destroyed

I was glad to see that an active temple, even if smaller, has been re-established in the front open space of the Vikram Mahal. It is always good to see the traditions running alive. I explored all the rooms of this palace, admiring the architectural styles and small details on the walls and ceilings. I am sure this small palace must have felt even more atmospheric in its heydays.

Vikram Mahal, which is situated right next to the Jahangir Mahal is a must-see place in the Gwalior Fort precincts. Fort Bastion Hamamkhana is also located in the same part of the fort campus. Ask you guide to show it to you. Vikram Mahal is also located very close to the Karn Mahal.

Gurdwara Data Bandi Chor Sahib

Also known as Gurudwara Shri Data Bandi Chor Sahib, it is one of the top places to see in the Gwalior Fort.

Several Nihang Sikhs, dressed in navy blue and dastars (turbans) walked around the Raja Man Singh Palace while also loudly chanting holy verses . Someone then told me that Gwalior Fort is also home to Gurdwara Data Bandi Chor Sahib, one of the holiest of all the shrines of the Sikh community . During my earliest visit to Punjab, I met many Nihang Sikhs clad in traditional attire during the Hola Mohalla festival in Anandpur Sahib .

K.K. Muhammed sir told me about the imprisonment of Guru Har Gobind Sahib ji, the 6 th Sikh Guru in Gwalior Fort during the Mughal era. However, Guru Har Gobind Sahib ji was later released along-with 52 Rajas or Kings who had suffered imprisonment in the Gwalior Fort since a long time. There are actually several versions of the stay of Guru Har Gobind Sahib ji at Gwalior Fort. As per one of the versions, on the order of Mughal King Jahangir , Guru Har Gobind Sahib ji was imprisoned.

It is said that Guru Har Gobind Sahib ji was released on the intervention of Sufi Saint Mian Mir and other sympathizers. However, the Guru agreed to be released only if other internees were also set free. Jahangir accepted the order of the Guru and agreed to release other jail inmates as well, many of whom came out of the prison holding the fringe of the Guru’s robe.

This is why the Guru earned the epithet Data Bandi Chhor, which literally means ‘the munificent liberator’.

Scindia School

Located near the Urwai Gate, the heritage building of the still functional Scindia School is not to be missed. Although inaccessible to the tourists, I did manage to look at the building from the bus. Established in the year 1897, the Scindia School is the prerogative of the privileged class.

The Scindia School which is a private boarding school for boys, was founded by the late Maharaja Madho Rao Scindia of Gwalior in the year 1897, as the Sardar School. In earlier days, only sons of Indian royalty and nobility were allowed to study here.

After it was rechristened as The Scindia School , in the year 1933, students from outside of the royal family were also allowed to study here. It is now a public school and I know some middle-class people who have studied here. The Board of Governors here are presently headed by Jyotiraditya Scindia, the famous politician and the scion of the Scindia family.

Jehangir Mahal

Jehangir Palace and Shahjahan Palace are located in the same premises. According to Heeraman Munshi, Jehangir Palace was also known as Sher Mandir. As per the ASI signboard, Sher Mandir was constructed by Sher Shah Suri and this is why it was known as Sher Mandir.

However, later, the name Jehangir Mahal stuck ever since Mughal ruler Jehangir (1605- 1627 C.E.) did renovation here. It is located near the huge Jauhar Kund area. I climbed on the top of the Jehangir Palace and was mesmerised by the breathtaking views of the Gurjari Palace, Jama Masjid and the entire Gwalior city.

Shahjahan Mahal

Shahjahan Mahal is located right next to the Jehangir Mahal in the North East direction. A local guide can help you identify both the palaces. This palace was constructed by Shahjahan (1627-1658 C.E.), the Mughal ruler. This is why it was christened after him. The length and breadth of the Shahjahan Palace is around 98 x 52 metres.

This palace is worth a visit for its unique Mughal architecture. Perched atop a hill, much like the Mehrangarh Fort of Jodhpur in Rajasthan , the Gwalior Fort offers spectacular panoramic views of the bustling Gwalior city below. Did you know this fun fact about Gwalior Fort?

Shahjehan Mahal was built in the Mughal era and has a huge courtyard. These grand palaces are the finest specimen of typical Mughal art and architecture . The jali decorations, exquisite carvings on the walls and arched door are some of the tell-tale signs of the Mughal architecture. I entered the palace through a gate which opens to the huge Jauhar Kund and other to the Vikram Mahal.

Other places to see in Gwalior

The Gwalior Fort is located in the heart of the Gwalior city. The below mentioned sightseeing places are all located merely a few kilometres away from the Gwalior Fort. You can easily explore these tourist places in a day or two in a hired cab or autorickshaw. Local city buses also drop at these places but they take more time. Apart from the below mentioned places of interest, you can also visit Rani Jhansi Laxmibai Memorial, Jai Vilas Palace Museum, Baija Taal, Digital Museum, Maharaja Bada, Mohammed Gaus Tomb etc. These must-see places near Gwalior Fort are located in close proximity with each other.

Below are some of the best places to see near the massive Gwalior Fort.

The Gujari Mahal Archeological Museum or State Archaeological Museum

King Man Singh Tomar had constructed a special palace for his wife Mrignayani. In present day, it has been turned into an impressive open-air museum. It was converted into a museum in the year 1922.

I lost track of time here as I minutely observed scriptures, artefacts and huge stone idols from the pantheon of Hindu deities . I particularly liked the huge statues of Hanuman ji . Hinduism or Sanatan Dharm is the 3 rd largest religion in the world. Growing up in India, I have come to venerate a diverse and vast pantheon of Hindu gods and goddesses. Idols of most of them, especially those of Vishnu Bhagwan are on display in and around the courtyard of Gujari Mahal.

There is an underground museum inside the Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museumtoo. It is easy to miss. One of the conditions on which Queen Mrignayani married King Man Singh Tomar was that she would only drink the water sourced from her village call as Raai Gaanv . The King agreed to this and the remnants of the mud pipeline can still be seen in the underground museum. It is not easy to spot, so ask the local security guide to help you find it.

K.K. Muhammed sir also explained to us the unique architecture of a huge Varaha statue displayed inside the museum. This was easily one of the most beautiful statues of the Varaha I had ever seen. As I was preparing to leave the premises of the Gujari Mahal, a bunch of male peacocks strutted their stuff around and made calls, as if requesting us to stay longer.

Monalisa of India, anyone?

K.K. Muhammed sir wanted us to see a very special statue. He called us in a nearby room and announced, “We have all heard about Monsalisa. But did you know about Shal Bhanjika? Look at her idol carefully. The detailing of her face, the ornaments, dress etc has few parallels in the world.” This 1,000 years old statue of ‘Monalisa of India’ which costs crores of rupees, is displayed in the Gujari mahal Museum. It has participated in various international exhibitions.

Jain Rock Cut temples at Gopachal Parvat

My co-traveller Norina from Budapest in Hungary, Europe exclaimed, “This place reminds me of Petra in Jordan !” I have traveled to Jordan but I found the Gopachal rock cut temples more reminiscent of the Buddha statue in Bamiyan , Afghanistan . It was also very similar to the Buddha statues in Kargil , especially the Chamba statue in Mulbekh I visited during my road trip across Ladakh earlier. Gopachal is one of the top places to see in Gwalior apart from the imposing Gwalior Fort.

Gopachal Siddha Kshetra and Tirtha Kshetra is a famous pilgrimage since the Mahabharat era . It is a renowned Tirthankar Neminath and Tirthankar Parsvanath Deshnasthali. It is also the Nirvana place of Supritishhit Kevali .

The local pujari , who took care of the premises all by himself, was excited to take us to a locked cave. “It is the most beautiful and largest idol of Tirthankar Parsavanath in the world!”, he exclaimed as he could not hold his excitement. We followed him like schools on guided tours . At 42 x 30 feet, this idol of Tirthankar Parsavanath is the largest such image of the world. Lord Parsavanath is sitting in the Padmasan Mudra in this cave temple.

Gopachal is a very important Jain pilgrimage which is also a confluence of Jain Dharma, culture , art, architecture , and literature. It is also the Sadhana Sthali of Mahakali Raidhu. I was left slack jawed at the well-maintained colossal images of the Jain Tirthankaras in the 26 odd cave temples and Trikal Chauvisi on the hill top area accessed by a flight of stairs.

Rock Cut Jain Colossi in Gopachal Tirth Sthal

Rock Cut Jain Colossi is amust-seeplace.The Jain Rock Cut idols at the Gopachal Parvat are like nothing which I have seen before. Do not forget to pay a visit to these national protected monuments rock cut Jain colossi.  The images in the Ek Pathar Ki Baoli are those of standing and seated Jain Tirthankaras , both large and small, sheltered in caves and niches. These are 26 in numbers and have inscriptions on their pedestals. These rare inscriptions refer to the name of the powerful king Raja Tomar Singh Dungar Singh (1425-59 C.E.)

Ek Pathar ki Baoli

Ek Pathar ki Baoli is one of the best hidden gems, located near the Gwalior fort. Ek Pathar ki Baoli is situated near the Cave number 1of Gopachal Tirth Sthal . This is a stepwell or a water reservoir. Few people talk about it. Fewer know about this offbeat place.

Baija Taal Cultural Complex

On the last day of Times Passion Trail, all the participants were facilitated at the Baija Taal Cultural Complex. It was a magical evening, what with cool breeze caressing my face even as the students of Raja Man Singh College of Gwalior hypnotized us with their soulful renditions of Dhrupad and Gwalior Gharana music .

I sat there, silenced by the brilliance of the classical music and wondered why we don’t talk about the music traditions of Gwalior which has merely few parallels in the world. As if by divine intervention , merely a few days after my visit, Gwalior was included in the list of 55 new cities to join UNESCO creative cities network . It is high time people travel to Gwalior for just its music!

The beautifully lit Baija Taal is located in the heart of Gwalior City. It is more like a hangout area for the locals. During my visit, I saw many local people enjoying the boat ride here. The festive atmosphere here is infectious. Used for ceremonies and celebrating festivals, Baija Taal cultural complex also has an art gallery and open-air theatre.

Gwalior Digital Museum

As I was swallowed by the Digital Museum of Gwalior near Maharaja Bada, I found myself engulfed in the world of history, handicrafts, instruments, jewelry and other things of Gwalior displayed in several galleries using state-of-the-art IT equipment.

The Gwalior Digital Museum is a very unusual tourist attraction. Developed by Gwalior Smart City, it is a must-see tourist attraction. It is the first center of its kind in Gwalior and the Bundelkhand region. It is already very popular with school kids and tourists.

In the unique Gwalior Digital Museum, the various architectural styles, costumes, space related objects, lifestyle, musical instruments, jewelry, handicrafts, cultural tradition, painting and many genres of paintings have been digitally displayed in a modern way.

Constructed on a plot measuring 3,500 square feet, the Digital Museum of Gwalior is divided into 16 galleries. I was impressed to see the museum exhibiting the heritage in modern and Digital way.

Free clean toilets are available within the museum premises. Gwalior Digital Museum is located very close to nearby tourist attractions such as the beautifully illuminated Maharaja Bada, Topi bazar, Jiwaji Chowk and several colonial heritage buildings such as the Town Hall etc. These places are best visited in night when it is lit.

Tomb Of Tansen

As I stepped upon platform where Tomb of Tansen existed, my friend Niharika remarked, “Have you chewed the leaves of that ancient tamarind tree near the tomb? It is said that one who chews these leaves are blessed with a sweet voice. Many singers and musicians chew these leaves even today, hoping for a robust voice”. I picked up few leaves and chewed. I even tried singing but much to my disappointed I sounded just as surila as Anu Malik on a bad day. Never mind! I walk around the tomb of Tansen and wished we had video records of him singing.

The Tomb of the famous Mughal musician was constructed in the 16 th century C.E. Tansen, as is widely known was a Hindu and one of the 9 gems of Mughal ruler Akbar. Constructed on the rectangular elevated platform with a pillared gallery, this is a must visit place near Gwalior Fort. The tomb lies right in the center of the gallery which has a roof but no walls. The larger Mohammed Gaus Tomb is located right next to the tomb of Tansen.

Top things to do in Gwalior Fort

What are some of the best things to do in Gwalior Fort? Below are some of the most popular things to do in Gwalior Fort:

• Visit Johar venues
• Visit several palaces
• Monument hopping
• Visit medieval temples
• Soak in the panoramic views
• Study the various architectural styles

Poetry and drama in and around Gwalior

On the last day, I visited more hidden gems of Gwalior which included rock cut temples at Gopachal Parvat, Rani Jhani Laxmibai Memorial, lunch break at Panchvati Gaurav, Jai Vilas Palace Museum, Baija Taal and Maharaja Bada.

The day started with visiting the hilltop rock cut temples at Gopachal Parvat. The Gopachal rock-cut Jain monuments is located in the heart of Gwalior city.

Some of the top tourist places to visit near Gwalior Fort are Tansen Memorial (1 km), Bir Singh Palace (76 km), Madhav National Park (122 km), Orchha (123 km), Bateshwar (123 km), Khajuraho (279 km), Panna National Park (360 km), Sanchi (394 km).

Excursions from Gwalior Fort

There is no dearth of amazing sightseeing places in and around the Gwalior Fort. Some of the tourist places around Gwalior Fort include the destinations such as Narwar Qila, Tatya Tope Memorial Stand, Madikheda Dam and Reservoir, Bhuro-Kho Tower, Bhuro-Kho Jal Mandir, Pohari Jal Mandir, Chaparghat, Bhadaiya Kund, Tunda Bharkha etc. These are lesser-known excursions.

Some of the best well -known excursions near Gwalior Fort are as below.

Sonagiri Jain Temples

Even before I reached the Sonagiri Jain temples, I was left gobsmacked with what I saw from the moving bus. “What are those on the top of the hills?”, I asked my local tourist guide excitedly. “This is where we are going to.” He said! What looked like a utopian castle straight from the fairy tales turned out to be a very important Jain pilgrimage .

The literal meaning of Sonagiri is: a mountain (‘giri’) of gold (‘sona’). It indeed is a mountain of gold. NO matter which direction I saw, hundreds of white Jain temples in unusual architecture greeted me. Thousands and lakhs of devotees and ascetic saints visit Sonagiri everyday in order to practice austerity, self-discipline. Attaining moksha (liberation or salvation) is also the goal of many devout Jains.

Many temples of the Sonagiri Jain Tirth date back to 9 th century C.E. You can also visit a Jain Museum here. I offered my prayers to the 11 feet or 3.4 metres tall idol of Chandraprabha or Bade baba in the temple number 57, also the main temple in Sonagiri. The views of the green valley and nearby hills from the huge terrace in front of this temple is spectacular. I was surprised to learn that former US president Bill Clinton and many other presidents from European nations have also paid a visit to Sonagiri.

It was not possible for me to visit all the 77 Jain temples spread across the hills due to lack of time. However, I was able to visit some of the most stunning temples here. Few of them are also decorated with colourful tiles while others have dramatic spires.

You need to climb many stairs to reach the top. Some of my friends also used the palki (palanquin) service offered by local men. You can also participate in the annual ratha yatra at Sonagiri if you visit here after the festival of Holi from Chaitra Pratipada to Rang Panchami .

The courtyard of Temple number 57 of Sonagiri was also where I was interviewed by the team of one of India’s leading news channel Times Now about my overall experience of Times Passion Trails around Gwalior.

Sonagiri or Swarnagiri is located approximately only 60 kms away from Gwalior. You can reach Sonagiri through the Dabra-Datia Road. Gwalior-Jhansi Road is also nearby. You can also book a train to the Sonagiri Railway Station which lies on the Agra-Jhansi rail line.

Prehistoric Art in Chaturbhuj Nala

You can also stop by Mandsaur to appreciate the millennium old well-protected Prehistoric Art in Chaturbhuj Nala. Located in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh, it is a must-see place near Gwalior Fort. You can see as many as 560 man-made cupules marked on the walls. My co traveller Mr. Raj Kirtani told me about this hidden gem.

According to the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Website, these cup marks are anywhere between 1,00,000 to 2,00,000 years old. You can see the figures of humans, animals, birds etc here. Do not miss the pre-historic painted rock shelters at Chaturbhuj Nala.

Bhimbhetka rock art

I also visited Bhimbhetka, which is one of the most famous places for ancient prehistoric art in not only Madhya Pradesh but all of India. It is one of the best-preserved ancient arts I have ever seen in the world. The rock shelters, figure of a real palm of early man, figures of beasts and men going on war or hunting are some of the best highlights of this cave shelter. Do not miss it! It is located very close to Bhopal. I saw similar petroglyphs and rock carvings inthepicturesque Wadi Rum in Jordan as well.

You can also visit Tikla or Tikula which is a major archaeological site and ancient rock shelter , located 50 kilometres or 31 miles southwest of Gwalior on the Agra to Mumbai Road. Famous for its petroglyphs , it is a must-visit place. The rock painting here can be traced back to 3 rd – 2 nd century B.C.E. It is located approximately 170 kilometres or 110 miles, south of Mathura . And of course, it is not to be confused with Tikal , the Mayan ruins in Guatamela .

Raja Bir Singh Deo palace at Datia

Datia palace which is also known as Raja Bir Singh Deo palace has Seven floor and 400 chambers. It took approximately 8 years to build this massive palace. The first two floors in Datia Palace were reserved for armoury and defence. The 3 rd floor here was reserved for entertainment while the 4 th floor had guest rooms. 5 th floor was made for the audience and the 6 th floor was where the queens were supposed to live.

It was on the 7 th floor where Jehangir stayed in a single, large room. I alternated between soaking in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city below and admiring the artwork in the 7 th floor of this huge palace.

Did you know it was here that the history of India shaped? Not many people know that Abul Fazl could have been the next emperor of the then India instead of Jehangir had Raja Bir Singh or Vir Singh Deo Bundela (who later became the ruler of Orchha ) not intervened. It is funny how no one talks about the phase when the rule of Akbar was almost toppled and his dearest friend killed by his own son.

It was Raja Bir Singh who assassinated Abu’l Fazl on 22 nd August 1602 while he was coming back from the Deccan . Mughals were involved in a battle against the Nizam Shahis of Ahmadnagar back then. Abu’l Fazl used to continually oppose the accession of Prince Salim to the throne.

The plot to eliminate him was hatched by Raja Bir Singh and Prince Salim or Jehangir, the eldest son of Akbar. The convoy of Abul Fazl was attacked near Narwar which is located around 63 kilometres away from Bhopal , the present capital of Madhya Pradesh.

My guide told me that the severed head of Abu’l Fazl’ was sent to Salim as a trophy at Prayagraj . He pointed out to a small ruin from the 7 th floor and exclaimed excitedly, “This is where the head of Abul Fazl was buried!” Abu’l Fazl’s body was buried at Antri , which is a small village located 25 kilometres south of Gwalior.

Despite being one of most important advisors in Akbar’s court, Abul Fazl was killed by the son of Akbar. Ironically, Shaikh Afzal Khan, son of Abu’l Fazl’ was later appointed as the governor of Bihar in the year 1608 by Jahangir himself.

Raja Bir Singh beheaded Abul Fazl in order to please Jehangir. Abul Fazl or Abu’l-Fazl ibn Mubarak, was a major threat to the accession of throne for Jehangir. My local tourist guide told me animatedly that when the Jehangir became the next Mughal King in 1605 C.E., he rewarded Bir Singh Deo by making him the King of Orchha and the Bundelkhand region . The Orchha kingdom was originally founded by the Bundela king Rudra Pratap Singh way back in the year 1501 C.E. Vir Singh Bundela helped the kingdom achieve greater heights.

Abul Fazl, a Sindhi writer, historian and politician is known for his works such as Ain-i-Akbari, Akbarnama and a Persian translation of the Bible . Fazl was also one of the Navaratnas or Nine Jewels in the royal court of Akbar. Needless to say, Akbar was crestfallen when he heard of the news of the assassination of his close confidante and friend.

Raja Bir Singh Deo palace was built for Mughal Ruler Jahangir but the latter stayed here for only one night after which the palace was abandoned. My friends told me about a similar story in the Jehangir Mahal in Orchha. This palace was also built by Raja Vir Singh Deo for Jehangir and similarly the latter stayed here for only one night. All said and done, the Datia Palace remains one of the grandest buildings which Raja Bir Singh Deo ever built.

I found the make-up rooms and concubine bedrooms the most amusing. The views of the huge lake and the village below from the make-up room was spectacular. I was impressed to see the colourful Bundela paintings on the walls and ceilings. These are still preserved in excellent condition. This needs more restoration though. Irresponsible tourists can easily touch and damage the delicate paintings on the easily accessible walls. It reminded me of my visit to Chitrashala , or Ummed Mahal, which is a part of Garh Palace in Bundi , Rajasthan .

Datia Palace which is a unique blend of medieval Rajput and Mughal architecture is grand in scale. It is indeed a pity that no one from the Royalty stayed here ever. As I climbed up, my guide pointed out that even the two aala on the walls were made in typical Rajput style followed by Mughal style.

During the rule of Raja Vir Singh Deo between 1605 and 1627 C.E. he commissioned the construction of more than 52 palaces and monuments which can still be visited by the tourists. Datia Palace which is also called as Veer Singh Ji Deo Palace, Satkhanda Palace , Govind Mahal or Purana Mahal is located near both Gwalior and Orccha.

Temples of Morena

Do not forget to visit the amazing temples of Morena. On the same trip I visited temples like Bateshwar temple, Chausath Yogini Temple or Ekttarso Mahadeva Temple of Mitaoli, Garhi Padawali Shiva Temple andthebeautifulKakanmath temple. I was speechless at the temple architectural brilliance in this region. You can easily take a cab to these places of interest from anywhere in Gwalior. You can also visit a gazak factory for the famous Morena ki Gazak. Do read my complete guide to temples of Morena .

Scindia Chattri of Shivpuri

I came across an interesting signboard with two Cobras surrounding the image of a sun with eyes. It said,

“This Chhattri to the memory of the late Lieutenant General Maharaja Sir Madho Rao Scindia Alijah Bahadur G.C.S.I., G.B.E., L.L.D., D.C.L. of Gwalior was commenced in the year 1926 (Samvat 1982) by order of the council of Regency.

The foundation stone was laid by His Highness Maharaja Jiwaji Rao Scindia Alijah Bahadur on 6 th January 1926 (Samvat 1982) and completed in the year 1932 (Samvat 1989). The construction was carried out under the direction of Lieutenant Colonel Hashmatullah Khan KT Home member Gwalior Government and supervision of Rai Bahadur S.N. Bhaduri C.E. M.I.E. Supervising Engineer By Ashghar Ali Khan, Executive Engineer

Madhav National Park

You can hire a safari jeep /car/gypsey in Madhav National Park. The wildlife safaris can be very expensive. But the best part is that if you are a solo traveller like me, then you can also book the slot of just one person for the price of a good burger. If you are in a large group, you can hire a mini bus which doesn’t cost much either. Since Madhav National Park is not as famous as other protected National Parks of Madhya Pradesh such as Bandhavgarh National Park , Pench National Park and Kanha National Park , the prices here are generally very low.

George Castle in Madhav National Park

George Castle is located deep inside the Madhav National Park. I visited at this bizarre British style structure in the middle of nowhere after a safari in the Madhav National Park where I saw wild boars, monkeys, neel gaai (blue ox) and many species of deer and antelope such as chital or spotted deer. “Come winter and you will see countless crocodiles basking under the sun by the shore of the lake .” said my local guide excitedly.

The George Castle is was built in the year 1911 by the then Scindia ruler of Gwalior. It was built to facilitate the overnight halt of King George V of England. He was supposed to visit the forest for a tiger hunt. However, he hunted the tiger on his way and never made it to the George Castle.

I had a breathtaking view of lakes and a panoramic view of the Kardhai forests from the top of the George Castle accessed by a spiral stair. From the top, I also observed the amusing M shape of the lake.

I also visited the rooms which are now turned into museums . But what I found the most intriguing is the bathroom. The bathtub, Belgian glass windows and Italian tile flooring stood out. It is amusing that these are still in good condition. Do not miss this unusual turreted English-style castle.

Surwaya Gadi

Surwaya Gadi is an ancient Indian school which was earlier known as Shankh Mathika and Saraswati Pattan . To protect the temples here from the attacks of the Mughals, the Shiv temple here was buried under sand. This is why the temple still stands today. It is said that the students who got their education here went on to carve the world-famous temples of the nearby Khajuraho. The Pandavas also stayed here during their exile or agyat vaas .

Located 20 kilometres away from Shivpuri on the Jhansi Road, there is also a monastery here. The structures here were constructed between 8 th and 10 th century C.E.

According to a stone pillar of 1357, Narwar’s Rajpal Jajpal Naresh Navbarman, Kadam Guhadhipati Purander constructed Saraswati Mandir by the orders of Ujjain’s ruler Raja Anantbarman by the end of the 13 th century C.E. The temple was constructed for education and research of the Shaiva saints . There are buildings, bathrooms and sabhagar made of stone for Shaiva Math, Math’s president and students for studies. The floor mill which was operated by the bulls due to the increased  number of students is still persisting here.

Shri Pitambara Peeth

I visited Shri Pitambara Peeth or Datia Shaktipeeth after the abandoned Datia palace. I was told by my local guide that Shri Pitambara Peeth is not only a major Shaktipeeth but also a ‘Tapasthali’ (place of meditation) of many luminaries. You will be surprised to know that the Shivling of Shree Vankhandeswar Shiva here is as old as Mahabharata . The same has also been confirmed by the Archaeological Survey of India after several studies and research.

Shri Pitambara Peeth is approximately 3 kilometres away from the Datia railway station, 75 kilometres away from Gwalior (Airport) and 29 kilometres away from Jhansi .

Some of the other places to see near Gwalior Fort are as under:

• Vidisha-Sanchi-Udayagiri triangle

Festival of Gwalior Fort

During Ram Navami , a special festival is organised by the Jat Community at the cenotaph of Bhim Singh Rana by the Jat Community. Not many know that Bhim Singh Rana and Chhatar Singh belonged to the Jat Community.

Sikh Festival on Diwali

Every year in the month of October or November, the Sikh Sangat (community) from across the globe congregate at the bandichor Gurudwara and celebrate the safe return of the 6 th Nanak, Guru Hargobind. He was released from detention from the Gwalior Fort around October 1619 C.E. I was amused to learn that the day coincides with the Hindu festival of Diwali or the festival of lights. It is a lesser-known fact. This makes Gwalior one of the best places in the world to celebrate Diwali or Deepawali.

Attend a live Dhrupad Baithak

I attended a live baithak where singers did excellent rendition of Dhrupad . This genre in Hindustani classical music hails from Gwalior. One of the earliest mentions of Dhrupad is found in Ain-i-Akbari by Abu Fazl (1593).

However, most of the mentions of Dhrupad are attributed to the musicians in the court of Man Singh Tomar (fl. 1486–1516) of Gwalior. In fact, there is no dearth of credible sources which point out that the origin of Dhrupad indeed can be traced back to the court of Raja Man Singh Tomar.

However, Dhrupad is older than it is believed to be. Dhrupad is mentioned as dhruvapada in the Natyashastra . (200 B.C.E. – 200 C.E.). Dhrupad is also mentioned in the chapter 33 of Book 10 in the Bhagavata Purana (800 C.E.–1000 C.E.). The Drupad songs I listened to live were devoted to Shiva Bhagwan . Dhrupad composition on Vishnu Bhagwan or one of his several avatar or incarnations is known as Vishnupad .

I feel that a visit to Gwalior is incomplete without attending a live concert of Dhrupad . Many luxury properties of Gwalior arrange for Dhrupad performances.  You must also check for ant city events where they are performing Dhrupad .

Attend a live Gwalior Gharana Baithak

I was lucky to be invited to a live music concert at the touristy Baija Taal showcasing the music from the esteemed Gwalior Gharana . The event was organised by Gwalior Municipal Corporation. Surrounded by the lake, the stage came alive when the singers and musicians, both male and female belted out one classical song after another.

The Gwalior school of classical music rose to prominence during the rule of Mughal King Akbar (1542–1605). Sangeet Samrat Tansen , who also hailed from Gwalior, was one of the most famous vocalists of this music form, which is also one of the oldest Khayal Gharana . Attending a live concert of the Gwalior Gharana renditions under open sky transported me a few centuries away.

Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Gwalior Fort

We had amazing lunch buffet at the Fort View Cafe by Madhya Pradesh Tourism, located right next to the colossal Man Singh Palace. Bedmi Poori with alu sabzi served here deserves special mention. The Chaas served here refreshed me after all the walking in the sun. There are several food stalls located opposite the fort café from where you can pick cold drinks, biscuits, chips, namkeen, farsaan etc.

Night Life around Gwalior Fort

There are some cool pubs and bars in Gwalior you may want to check out.

Is it safe to visit Gwalior Fort?

Yes, it is very safe to visit the Gwalior Fort. Since the Gwalior Fort is a major attraction of the Gwalior city, you will always find hordes of tourists and security guards patrolling the fort premises.

Souvenirs Shopping Guide to Gwalior Fort

Apart from the local handicrafts, you can also buy the local Chanderi sari in and around the Gwalior fort. There is a souvenir shop known as Bundeli handicraft shop, located right next to the Fort View Café. You can buy nce hand-made knick-knacks and handicrafts from this souvenir shop. Some of the best Bundeli souvenirs to buy in Gwalior are

What currency is used in Gwalior Fort

INR is widely accepted at Gwalior Fort. Digital payment is also accepted at the souvenir shops and restaurants/cafes etc.

ATM in Gwalior Fort

While I didn’t see any ATM in the precincts of Gwalior Fort (ask around!), the Gwalior city has no dearth of ATMs. Gwalior is a pretty large city and a major tourist attraction of Madhya Pradesh in Central India. It is easy to find ATMs every few steps in Gwalior.

Photography Tips for Gwalior Fort

There are several hidden spots in the Gwalior Fort from where you can soak in sweeping bird’s eye view of the Gwalior fort. These hidden gems are also great for aerial shots sans the drone cameras. Here is a secret tip: I climbed on the top floor of the Jehangir Mahal and was rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Gujari Mahal and the sprawling Gwalior city down below.

Languages spoken in Gwalior Fort

Hindi is the most commonly understood and spoken languages spoken in Gwalior. English is also understood and spoken by many people inside and outside of the Gwalior Fort.

Toilet facility in Gwalior Fort

Clean toilets are available at the Fort View Cafe by MP Tourism. It is located at walking distance from the Man Singh Mahal.

Entry fee for Gwalior Fort

Gwalior Fort is a ticketed monument. You can buy entrance ticket from the famous Urvai Gate like I did. Prices are different for Indians and foreigner tourists. You also need to pay the camera fees here. Special permissions and rates apply for professional shoots. Entry fee is charged collectively to visit the historical sightseeing attractions such as the Raja Maan Singh Palace, Siddhanchal rock cut idols, Karan Mahal, Vikram Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, Shahjahan Mahal, Johar Kund, Bhim Singh Rana Ki Chhatri etc.

Hire a local tourist guide in Gwalior Fort

We had a local guide throughout the exploration of Gwalior Fort. He made us see hidden spots which we would have missed had we explored the fort by ourselves. I highly recommend hiring a local tourist guide in Gwalior Fort if you want to make your trip meaningful. 

How To Book a trip to Gwalior Fort

You can either book the tour to Gwalior Fort through a local trip organiser. Many tour operators in Gwalior offer an all-inclusive trip across Gwalior and even nearby major tourist attractions such as the temples of Morena, Datia, Sonagiri, Shivpuri etc.

Backpacking Budget Travel Tips for Gwalior Fort

It is very easy to travel around Gwalior on a shoestring budget. If you are a budget traveller, you will find it very easy to see all the major sightseeing places in Gwalior on a low budget. Apart from finding low budget hotels, it is also easy to find a shared rickshaw almost anywhere in Gwalior. You can also have a hearty healthy meal at very low costs in Gwalior.

Solo Trip Tips for Gwalior Fort

With so many facilities regarding transport, hotels, sightseeing etc, Gwalior fort is an easy destination for the solo travellers like me. There is a lot which a solo traveller can do in and around Gwalior Fort.

Luxury travel Tips for Gwalior Fort

I travelled to Gwalior Fort in complete luxury. I stayed in the uber luxurious Taj Usha Kiran Palace. It was indeed a memorable experience!

Books on Gwalior Fort

Unfortunately, despite such rich history and culture, not many books have been written on Gwalior. I wish I could change that one day. Until then, read the below books on Gwalior for a deeper understanding. Some of the best books on Gwalior Fort are as below:

Where to stay in Gwalior Fort?

I had a memorable weeklong stay at the luxurious Taj Usha Kiran Palace, which is located right next to the HH Maharaja Sir Jiwajirao Scindia Museum, which is also known as the Jai Vilas Palace .

The Taj Usha Kiran Palace is a restored heritage building which was constructed in the year 1880 by HH Maharaja Jayaji Rao Scindia as a guest residence. Taj Usha Kiran Palace is located at a walking distance from the adjacent Jai Vilas Palace which is the ancestral home of the Scindia family. No wonder then that Taj Usha Kiran Palace has hosted several celebrities as well as Royalty and dignitaries on various occasions.

In fact, Mr. Jyotirao Scindia, Minister of Civil Aviation of India visited Taj Usha Kiran Palace for a swim during my visit. He is the son of late Shri Madhavrao Scindia . He is the grandson of Shri Jiwajirao Scindia , who was the last ruler of the princely state of Gwalior during the British rule in India.

During my week long stay at Taj Usha Kiran Palace, I enjoyed every moment here. On most mornings, I would wake up early and after a bath, start my day by offering prayers at the temples devoted to Shiva-Parvati ji and Ganesh ji. Located within the premises of the luxurious heritage hotel, the visit to these temples infused my day with positivity.

Although its stunning, I never used the swimming pool here. I loved that they had built recliners in the water for those who care. I am also impressed with the very attentive and friendly staff of Taj Usha Kiran. Being a hotel management student myself, I know what it takes to delight a guest and exceed his expectations.

I was surprised to know that one of my super juniors from Institute of Hotel Management , Lucknow who I never met worked here in bakery. The staff also helped me meet her for a quick recap of the good ol’ college days. I loved the lavish breakfasts at Taj Usha Kiran. While my friends stuck to fruits and ABC juices, I binge ate delicious poha, upma, vada, dosa and pasta. The Tiramisu served here, soft and delicious, is the best I ever had!

Coming to my room, I loved that how spacious it was. It was one of the hugest rooms I ever stayed in. Right outside my tastefully done up room was the huge balcony which overlooks the temples, swimming pool and al fresco restaurant down below. After a visit to the temples, I used to do my morning walks at the terrace and the sprawling lawns. Some of my friends also stayed at the luxurious glamping tents right across the pool. We also partied at the private cottage of Taj Usha Kiran here on one of the days. This also had a private courtyard and a small swimming pool! What’s not to love!

What to wear in Gwalior Fort?

I would suggest you to dress respectfully because there are many medieval temples across the Gwalior Fort premises. It would be great if you avoid sleeveless shirts, skirts and shorts. Wearing flip flops is also wise because you will have to keep your shoes outside while visiting the temples. Also, don’t forget to wear sunglasses and a good sunscreen when visiting Gwalior Fort because much of the monuments are out there in the open.

Timings of Gwalior Fort

As per the signboard at the fort, the Gwalior Fort is open for tourists from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Best Time to visit Gwalior Fort

Best time to visit the Gwalior Fort are the months of October, November, December, January, February and March. This is when the weather is good. However, be warned of the extreme cold in December and January. (I love traveling during these months though!)

Duration of Visit in Gwalior Fort

How many days to spend in Gwalior Fort?

What can I do in 1 day in Gwalior Fort? I was easily able to see all the tourist attractions of Gwalior Fort within a day. I started early morning and by late afternoon, I was able to visit all the historical monuments , Johar Sthal and temples located within the Gwalior Fort precincts. However, visiting the Gwalior Fort in mere few hours is grave injustice in understanding the overwhelming history of this place. This place deserves more time and exploration.

What can I do in 2 days in Gwalior Fort? If you have 2 days in Gwalior Fort, you can do so much more. For example, there are a few pre historic cave paintings nearby which merits a visit. But many tourists miss it due to lack of information.

Quick Itinerary for Gwalior Fort

Below is the one-day Gwalior Fort itinerary I followed. You can also include Gopachal Rock cut group of temples and Chaturbhuj temple etc.

How to reach Gwalior Fort?

The humble Gwalior Airport is located approximately 8 kilometres away from the Gwalior Fort.

The Gwalior railway Station is also located around 8 kms away from Gwalior Fort.

Madhya Pradesh has a robust bus connectivity and excellent public transport system. Gwalior is well connected with neighbouring towns and cities such as Jhansi, Orchaa, Bhopal, Indore, New Delhi, Agra etc by bus service.

Local Transport for sightseeing in Gwalior Fort

Local buses, Taxis and three wheelers known as autorickshaws are easily available from other tourist attractions of the Gwalior city. Autorickshaws and cabs can drop you at the Urvai gate of Gwalior Fort from anywhere in the city. You may also drive your own vehicle within the Gwalior Fort complex because the monuments here are pretty spread out. Walking around the sprawling fort is exhausting and time consuming.

It is one of the largest forts in India with proper roads, much like the sprawling Chittorgarh fort near Bundi in Rajasthan . This is why many people visit all the tourist attractions of the Gwalior Fort in a car or a low-cost autorickshaw (great for budget travelers). We were a large group, so we explored all the sightseeing attractions of the Gwalior Fort in a bus.

Distances from Gwalior Fort

There are so many places of interest around the Gwalior Fort which you can include in your itinerary. For example, the Tansen Memorial is located only 1 kilometre away from the Gwalior Fort while Bateshwar is located merely 123 kilometres away from Gwalior Fort.

This distance chart will help you plan a week-long trip in and around Gwalior. Distances of major tourist attractions around the Gwalior Fort in ascending order are as below:

Distance between Morena and Gwalior Fort is 38 kilometres and it takes 1 hour via Mumbai-Agra National Highway.

Distance between Sonagiri Jain Temple and Gwalior Fort is 73 kilometres and it takes 1 hours and 20 minutes via NH44.

Distance between Bir Singh Palace , Datia and Gwalior Fort is 77.5 kilometres and it takes 1 hour and 20 minutes via NH44.

Distance between Jhansi and Gwalior Fort is 104 kilometres and it takes 2 hours and 10 minutes via NH44.

Distance between Kuno National Park and Gwalior Fort is 110 kilometres.

Distance between Shivpuri and Gwalior Fort is 119 kilometres and it takes 2 hours and 15 minutes via NH46.

Distance between Agra and Gwalior Fort is 120 kilometres and it takes 3 hours via Mumbai – Agra National Highway/Mumbai – Agra National Highway/Chennai – Delhi Highway or Srinagar – Kanyakumari Highway.

Distance between Madhav National Park and Gwalior Fort is 123 kilometres and it takes 2 hours and 30 minutes via NH46.

Distance between Orchha and Gwalior Fort is 123 kilometres and it takes 2 hours and 30 minutes via NH44.

Distance between Khajuraho and Gwalior Fort is 278 kilometres and it takes 5 hours via NH44 and NH39

Distance between New Delhi and Gwalior Fort is 339 kilometres and it takes 5 hours and 50 minutes via Yamuna Expressway.

Distance between Bandhavgarh National Park and Gwalior Fort is 380 kilometres and it takes 7 hours via NH39.

Distance between Bhopal and Gwalior Fort is 432 kilometres and it takes 7 hours and 30 minutes via NH46.

Distance between Satpura National Park and Gwalior Fort is 483 kilometres and it takes 9 hours via NH44.

Distance between Indore and Gwalior Fort is 509 kilometres and it takes 9 hours via NH 46 and NH52.

Distance between Kanha Tiger Reserve and Gwalior Fort is 602 kilometres and it takes 12 hours and 30 minutes via NH44.

Distance between Pench National Park and Gwalior Fort is 667 kilometres and it takes 12 hours and 30 minutes via NH44.

Distance between Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve and Gwalior Fort is 859 kilometres and it takes 16 hours and 30 minutes via NH44.

Distance between Panna National Park and Gwalior Fort is 288 kilometres and it takes 5 hours via NH44 and NH39.

Distance between Sanchi Stupa and Gwalior Fort is 396 kilometres and it takes 7 hours and 35 minutes via NH44.

Conclusion: Is Gwalior Fort w orth visiting ?

Why visit Gwalior Fort? Here are my final thoughts in a nutshell. As I mined the annals of history in search of some lesser-known facts of the Gwalior Fort, it left me overwhelmed. There is so much to learn and see in Gwalior Fort.

The grandeur of medieval artefacts and impressive architectural designs are reasons enough to pay a visit to the imposing Gwalior Fort. This imposing fort is one of the most prominent landmarks in Gwalior Madhya Pradesh.

To summarize, Gwalior Fort is an important fort in not only Madhya Pradesh, but all of India. Not many people are aware of the fact that Madhya Pradesh has some of the most stunning buildings, Hindu temples, palaces and pavilions from the medieval era. It is high time; you pack your bags for an exclusive trail around Madhya Pradesh. Please share this blog with your friends and family, so that more people may benefit.

The view from my Soul Window left me wide eyed!

Pin this blog to save the blog and plan a trip later!

Related Blogs

Guide to fascinating temples of Morena

Birdwatching in Pench National Park

Biggest Ever Guide to Pench National Park

Biggest Ever Guide to Satpura National Park

My first Tiger Safari at Bandhavgarh National Park

Related posts:

Top Travel Blogger from India

4 thoughts on “Gwalior Fort: All you wanted to know!”

How do u know KK Muhamad sir, pic posted in article

I travelled with him. Pls read the blog again.

Very nice blog. After going through the article, I realized that I perhaps missed several aspects of the Gwalior, detailed in your blog. I shall suggest everybody to go through this article before visiting Gwalior Fort. And further more…. The photos you have captured are very beautiful.

Gwalior Fort, a majestic hill fort in Madhya Pradesh, India, boasts a rich history dating back to the 8th century. Its architecture seamlessly blends Hindu, Muslim, and Jain influences, showcasing intricate carvings and structural brilliance. Serving as a strategic stronghold for various dynasties, including the Tomars and Mughals, the fort witnessed centuries of power transitions. Its iconic Sas-Bahu temples and towering Man Singh Palace are testaments to its cultural significance. Gwalior Fort stands as a living testament to India’s diverse heritage, symbolizing resilience and architectural prowess through the annals of time.

Thank you for your kind words!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.