Gwalior Fort is a majestic monument that stands on a rocky hill overlooking the city of Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, India. It is one of the oldest and largest forts in the country, and has witnessed many battles, sieges, and dynasties over the centuries. The fort is also known for its splendid palaces, temples, museums, and sculptures, which showcase the diverse artistic and cultural heritage of India. Whether you are a history buff, a culture lover, or an adventure seeker, Gwalior Fort has something for everyone. Here is everything you need to know about this amazing fort and how to make the most of your visit.
History of Gwalior Fort
The history of Gwalior Fort is as fascinating as its architecture. According to legend, the fort was built by a king named Suraj Sen in the 6th century, who was cured of leprosy by a sage named Gwalipa. The sage gave him the name Gwalior, and the fort was named after him. The fort was later ruled by various dynasties, such as the Pratiharas, the Kachchhapaghatas, the Tomars, the Mughals, the Marathas, the Scindias, and the British. The fort was also the site of many historic events, such as the first recorded use of zero in mathematics, the rebellion of Rani Lakshmibai, the first war of independence, and the Indian Mutiny. The fort has been described as “the pearl of Indian fortresses” by the Mughal emperor Babur, and “the Gibraltar of India” by the British.
Architecture of Gwalior Fort
The architecture of Gwalior Fort is a blend of various styles and influences, reflecting the diversity of its rulers and periods. The fort covers an area of about 3 square kilometers, and is surrounded by a massive wall that is 35 feet high and 2 miles long. The wall has six gates, the most famous of which is the Hathi Pol (Elephant Gate), which is adorned with a huge statue of an elephant.
The fort has two main parts: the upper fort and the lower fort. The upper fort contains the main palaces, temples, and museums, while the lower fort contains the residential and administrative buildings.
Some of the most notable attractions of the fort are:
1. Man Singh Palace
Also known as the Chit Mandir (Painted Palace), this is the most magnificent and colorful palace in the fort. It was built by Raja Man Singh Tomar in the 15th century, and is decorated with exquisite tiles, paintings, and carvings. The palace has four stories above the ground and two below, and has a circular tower at each corner. The palace also has a sound and light show every evening, which narrates the history and legends of the fort.
2. Gujari Mahal
This is a palace built by Raja Man Singh Tomar for his beloved wife Mrignayani, who was a Gujar princess. The palace is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture, and has a beautiful courtyard, a water tank, and a fountain. The palace now houses the Archaeological Museum, which displays a collection of rare sculptures, coins, weapons, and artifacts from various periods and regions of India.
3. Jain Rock Sculptures
These are a series of rock-cut sculptures of Jain Tirthankaras, or spiritual leaders, that are carved on the southern slope of the fort. There are about 1500 sculptures, ranging from a few inches to 57 feet in height, and dating from the 7th to the 15th century. The sculptures are remarkable for their detail, expression, and size, and are considered to be among the finest examples of Jain art in India.
4. Teli Ka Mandir
This is the oldest and tallest temple in the fort, and is dedicated to Vishnu, the preserver god of Hinduism. The temple was built in the 9th century, and has a unique architectural style that combines elements of North Indian and South Indian temples. The temple has a rectangular sanctum, a barrel-vaulted roof, and a towering spire. The temple is also adorned with sculptures of various deities, animals, and floral motifs.
5. Sas Bahu Temple
This is a pair of temples that are located near the Man Singh Palace, and are dedicated to Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi. The temples were built in the 11th century, and are named Sas Bahu, which means mother-in-law and daughter-in-law, because of a legend that they were built by a king and his son for their respective wives. The temples are famous for their intricate carvings and pillars, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology and daily life.
How to Reach Gwalior Fort
Gwalior Fort is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, such as air, train, and road.
By air: The nearest airport is the Gwalior Airport, which is about 10 kilometers from the fort, and has flights to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
By train: The nearest railway station is the Gwalior Junction, which is about 3 kilometers from the fort, and has trains to all parts of India.
By bus: The nearest bus stand is the Gwalior Bus Stand, which is about 2 kilometers from the fort, and has buses to nearby towns and cities.
By road: You can also hire a taxi, an auto-rickshaw, or a cycle-rickshaw to reach the fort from any part of the city.
Best Time to Visit Gwalior Fort
The best time to visit Gwalior Fort is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool, and the fort is illuminated with lights during the festivals of Diwali and Dussehra.
The fort is open from 6 am to 5:30 pm every day, and the entry fee is Rs. 75 for Indians and Rs. 250 for foreigners.
The sound and light show is held from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm in Hindi, and from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm in English, and the ticket price is Rs. 75 for Indians and Rs. 250 for foreigners.
Gwalior Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, culture, and architecture. The fort is a treasure trove of India’s glorious past and offers a glimpse into the lives and times of its rulers and people. The fort is also a marvel of engineering and art and showcases the diversity and beauty of India’s heritage.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Gwalior Fort and experience the magic and mystery of this magnificent monument.
