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:
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
- Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- 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.
- Location: Within Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
- Timings: Open 24 hours a day
- Entry fee: None
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
- Entry fee: None
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
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry fee: None
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
- Timings: Open 24 hours a day
- Entry fee: None
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.
- Location: Near Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry fee: None
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.
- Location: Gwalior Fort, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
- 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
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry fee: None
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
- Entry fee: None
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.
Conclusion
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
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