Gwalior, known for its old architecture and historic significance, never ceases to astonish its tourists. This culturally rich city, also known as Madhya Pradesh’s tourist center, should be on your itinerary when visiting central India. Check out some must-visit attractions in Gwalior that you must see on your next vacation.
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Must-Visit Attractions in Gwalior, India
Sahastrabahu Temple (Sas Bahu Ka Mandir)
The twin Sahastrabahu Temples were built in the 11th century in honor of Lord Vishnu and are notable for their beautiful wall decorations. It’s also known as Sas Bahu Ka Mandir (Mother-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law Temple), with the Sas temple being larger and the Bahu temple being smaller.
Gwalior Fort
The Gwalior Fort is one of India’s most fortified fortifications. This architectural marvel, built on a long sandstone plateau, is the state’s most well-known tourist attraction. The nightly Light and Sound Show is a must-see.
Phool Bagh
Phool Bagh was built by the late Madho Rao Scindia and was inaugurated by the Prince of Wales in 1922. This property has a gurudwara, a temple, a mosque, and the city zoo in its grounds, as well as a museum and a residential palace. The area is known for its well-kept and lovely gardens, where you may have a picnic or spend time with family and friends.
Gujari Mahal Museum
This 15th-century palace museum is housed within the Gwalior Fort and was built by Raja Man Singh Tomar. This archaeological museum, which has stood the test of time, will provide you with information on the city’s history and rulers. The museum’s uncommon collection of sculptures is one of its highlights. In addition to terracotta items, stone & copper plate inscriptions, coins, bronze sculptures, arms and weapons, replicas of Bagh Cave paintings, and excavated material, the museum’s exhibits include terracotta items, stone & copper plate inscriptions, coins, bronze sculptures, arms and weapons, replicas of Bagh Cave paintings, and excavated material.
Jai Vilas Palace
If you want to see armor from the time of Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb until the liberation movement during Rani Laxmi Bai’s reign, go to Jai Vilas Palace. Jayaji Rao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior, constructed this well-preserved royal structure. The palace is spread out over 75 acres and serves as a beautiful residence for Jayaji Rao Scindia’s descendants as well as a large museum with 35 rooms.
Gopachal Parvat
The Gopachal Parvat, located in the Gwalior fort, is an excellent spot to see some ancient Jain imagery. It is a set of rock-cut sculptures on the fort’s south flank that are a sight to behold, and visiting the site is one of the top things to do in Gwalior. These carvings date from the seventh through the fifteenth centuries.
Gopachal Parvat is one of the several Jain sites in Gwalior, with the Tirthankaras meditating in seated or standing poses. Gopachal Parvat is a well-known and venerated place, especially among Jain devotees.
Sarafa Bazar
Sarafa Bazar is a must-see for shopaholics, offering everything from jewelry to handicrafts and textiles. It is one of Gwalior’s oldest and most well-known markets. Lacquer work, chanderi silk, home décor, handcrafted carpets, and vases with complex designs may all be found here for a bargain. At the market, don’t forget to try pani puri and other mouthwatering street cuisine.
Teli Ka Mandir
Teli Ka Mandir is the tallest structure inside the Gwalior Fort complex and is known for its Dravidian architecture and rich artwork. Its architecture is a mix of Buddhist and Hindu influences, and it stands roughly 100 feet tall. This temple, according to historians, was built in the 8th or 11th century and is the fort’s oldest temple. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the shape of his horse, Garuda, and contains coiled serpents and river goddesses.
Padavali and Bateshwar
One of the must-visit attractions in Gwalior, Bateshwar is a collection of temples from the 8th and 10th centuries, whereas Padavali is a stronghold from the 18th century. Take a short drive to see these historical wonders. Whereas Bateshwar boasts a sandstone cluster of over 200 tiny temples, Padavali only has one significant temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The site is one-of-a-kind, engrossing, and has the ability to transport you back in time.
Samadhi of Rani Laxmi Bai
During India’s struggle for independence, the heroic warrior Rani Laxmi Bai served as an inspiration. An eight-meter tall metal statue of her has been placed in the center of Phool Bagh to honor her bravery and sacrifice. Every year in June, a fair is held at Rani Laxmi Bai’s Samadhi.
