Renowned for its historic temples and palaces, Gwalior is a wonderful retreat for tourists to live an overwhelming experience. The city boasts of architectural galore that can be witnessed everywhere when you are in Gwalior. The historic city founded by King Surajesan has been hosting royalty since ages and is known for its regal structures that adorn the city.
One of the most impressive structures of the city is the Gwalior Fort which is often cited as the ‘pearl among the fortresses’ in India. The fort attracts a number of history lovers from all over India and its imposing architecture leaves a lasting impression on the minds. The remarkable fort has seen various events of history and has many temples, water tanks and palaces inside the complex making it a splendid place to visit for everyone.
When it comes to palaces, Gwalior is one of the best places to appreciate the cultural heritage of India. The Jai Vilas Palace is a breathtaking structure where one can look forward to seeing the art extravaganza of Gwalior. The place boasts of showcasing some interesting items like swords from the times when Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb lived and the library which has a collection of more than five thousand books. Currently serving both as a museum and residence of the royal Maratha Scindia family, Jai Vilas Palace is a fascinating place for culture vultures in Gwalior.
Another palace to enthrall you with its historical ruins in Gwalior is the famous Man Mandir Palace. Associated with many interesting stories, Man Mandir Palace is a must-visit to see the famous place where Aurangzeb imprisoned his brother Murad. It also features Jauhar Kund where Rajput women committed mass suicide to avoid rapes by the forces of Iltutmish. Some of the famous monuments which can be visited here are Jahangir Mahal, Shah Jahan Mahal and the Gujari Mahal.
For the lovers of archaeology, Gujari Mahal is a prominent attraction in Gwalior. Built by Man Singh, this place is a must visit to see various sculptures, statues and other remains that are as old as the 1st and 2nd century BC. If you want to enthrall yourself with the excellence of Indian architecture, Padavali is an impressive fort that can be visited about 40 kilometers from Bangalore. Comprising a number of ancient temples that boast of erotic carvings, the archaeological site belonging to the 8th-10th century AD is famous as Mini Khajuraho.
For those who cannot complete a vacation without filling their bags with multiple souvenirs of the city they visited, Gwalior is a wonderful place to be. If you want to indulge in some high-end luxury, Dindayal City Mall is a place where you can find multiple outlets that sell international brands. The place is a popular hangout spot among the people of all generations and one can find the plethora of showrooms, restaurants, bazaars, etc.
Gwalior also offers multiple items for shopping if you are interested in buying from the local markets. Some of the popular items to shop for when you are in Gwalior are traditional handicrafts, artifacts, handlooms and other attractive items. The handloom industry of Gwalior is famous for Maheshwari and Chanderi silk sarees. The best place to look for these attractive sarees is the popular Kothari shop in Sarafa Bazaar. Other famous markets in Gwalior to buy clothes are Naya Bazaar, Dahi Mandi, and Gandhi Bazaar. Gwalior is also known for its wonderful designer jewelry that showcases the vibrant culture of the place. Topi Bazaar is also a great place if you want to shop for sneakers, designer handbags and small purses and leather sandals.
For shopping handicrafts, Jiyaji Chowk Bazaar is a great place to go and spend your money. Another famous market to buy handloom products, carvings, artifacts etc. is Patankar Bazaar. Mrignayani Emporium is also a famous place in Gwalior to buy handicrafts and clothes. For buying Gwalior style silver boxes to add to your collection of souvenirs, Arihant Emporium is a famous shop that is a must visit for all the shopaholics.
One of the popular attractions of Gwalior is the Gwalior Trade Fair. The famous fair draws in a number of tourists and offers many fun memories that you will cherish forever. Usually held in the month of January or February, Gwalior Trade Fair boasts of many interesting activities like hasya kavi sammelan, qawwali, cultural performances, Mushairas, music nights, etc.
Gastronomes in Gwalior can spice up their taste buds with a number of delicacies like kachoris, Samosas, Poha and bedai, kebabs, bhutte ki kees, Dal Bafla, Jalebi, Imarti, Rogan josh, mawa-bati and Malpua and traditional sweets such as the Morena Gajak. Gwalior also has various places to enjoy some tantalizing nightlife with some notable bars and pubs. A few of the popular ones are DnD Discotheque and Bar, Spectrum Discotheque and Pub and Barcode Discotheque and Bar.
Gwalior is also an amazing destination for those who have an inclination towards spirituality. The Sun Temple is one of the most beautiful shrines in Gwalior where one can admire the striking architecture and spend some peaceful moments in the serene ambiance of the temple. Teli Ka Mandir is another popular temple that dates back to the 9th century and known to be the highest building in Gwalior. Attracting a number of devotees, Saas Bahu Temple is an impressive temple that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Among offbeat places, Roop Singh Stadium in Gwalior is a delight for sports lovers which is known for being the stadium where Sachin Tendulkar hit the first double hundred in the history of ODIs. And, if you are looking to indulge in a serene escape from all the hustle and bustle, boating at Tigra Dam is a wonderful getaway from Gwalior. Gwalior Zoo is a place where you should go to see many rare species and add an adventure with some enthralling wildlife in your holiday experience in Gwalior. It is a must visit if you are planning a vacation with kids and family.
One of the popular places to not miss while sightseeing in Gwalior is Sarod Ghar that is the ancestral house of the legendary Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan. Another interesting attraction of the city is Shyam Vatika that boasts of having the world’s largest indoor mural. For those looking to treat themselves with some luxury, Usha Kiran Palace Hotel deserves a visit to feel like a royal and bask in the regal ambiance.
Full of interesting attractions and heritage places, Gwalior will captivate you every single minute on your vacation. Especially those who are history fanatics, Gwalior will not fail to leave them mesmerized.
