Gwalior, a historic city in Madhya Pradesh, is famed for its grand hilltop fort, royal palaces, and musical heritage. With its blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, the city invites visitors to explore tales of valour, artistry, and devotion across its many stunning landmarks.
1. Gwalior Fort
Why visit: This majestic fort is one of the largest in India, known for its strategic height and magnificent architecture.
Highlights: – Panoramic city views – Blue-tiled façade of Man Singh Palace – Sound & light show in the evening
Timing: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry: ₹75 (Indians), ₹250 (foreigners)
2. Jai Vilas Palace
Why visit: A 19th-century European-style palace that blends royal grandeur with a museum of rare artifacts.
Highlights: – World’s largest chandelier – Silver train dining table setup – Royal costumes and furnishings
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry: ₹100 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)
3. Sas Bahu Temples
Why visit: These intricately carved twin temples are a hidden gem of Gwalior Fort, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Highlights: – Detailed carvings on walls and pillars – Blend of religious and historical charm – Peaceful ambience
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry: Free
4. Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum
Why visit: Once a queen’s palace, now home to rare artifacts, sculptures, and inscriptions from various dynasties.
Highlights: – Erotic sculptures from Khajuraho era – Terracotta, coins, and arms – Museum set inside a fort palace
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry: ₹20
5. Teli Ka Mandir
Why visit: A unique 8th-century temple blending Dravidian and Nagara architectural styles.
Highlights: – Towering 100-ft shikhara – Ornate doorways and sculptures – Set within the fort complex
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry: Free
6. Tomb of Tansen
Why visit: The resting place of India’s legendary musician and a symbol of Gwalior’s musical roots.
Highlights: – Mughal-style dome and garden – Part of the Tansen Music Festival site – Peaceful and symbolic
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
7. Gopachal Parvat Jain Statues
Why visit: Massive rock-cut Jain sculptures carved into the cliffside near Gwalior Fort.
Highlights: – 40-ft statues of Jain Tirthankaras – Built between 7th and 15th centuries – Sacred and serene spot
Timing: Sunrise to Sunset
Entry: Free
8. Sun Temple (Surya Mandir)
Why visit: A stunning modern temple modeled after the famous Sun Temple in Konark, Odisha.
Highlights: – Red sandstone exterior – Beautifully maintained gardens – Peaceful space for meditation
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. Tomb of Muhammad Ghaus
Why visit: A fine example of Mughal architecture, built for the Sufi saint and spiritual guide of Tansen.
Highlights: – Delicate jali work – Large sandstone mausoleum – Lush gardens surround the tomb
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Italian Garden & Motimahal
Why visit: A colonial-era structure and garden, once used as a royal residence and now a government office.
Highlights: – Well-maintained green lawns – Reflecting pools and fountains – Ideal for quiet walks
Timing: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (weekdays only)
Entry: Free
Feature Image:- Photo by Ashutosh Dvivedi on Unsplash
