Gwalior Tours,Tour to Gwalior,Gwalior Fort Tour,Travel to Gwalior Historical Places

Attractions In & Around

Tourist Attractions

Deogarh Temple	Gwalior Fort	Man Singh Palace
Gujari Mahal	Usha Kiran Palace	Carpet Weaving
Tomb of Tansen	Teli ka Mandir	Art Galleries and Museums

Other Attractions In & Around

Tomb of Tansen	Teli ka Mandir	Shivpuri
Orchha	Gwalior Zoo	Jai Vilas Palace
Narwar	Gwalior Fort	Dholpur
Datia	Chanderi	Art Galleries and Museums
Usha Kiran Palace	Gwalior Fort	Man Singh Palace

Art Galleries and Museums

The Scindia Museum situated in the Jai Vilas Palace, has a collection ranging from sculptures, bronzes, miniature paintings, manuscripts and coins. The Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum houses rare antiquities. The old ancestral house of the legendary Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan has been converted into 'Sarod Ghar' - Museum of Music by the Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan Memorial Trust. The Municipal Corporation Museum has a very fine natural history section.

Museums and art galleries are treasure houses and the beautifully maintained palaces give Gwalior its inimitable regal flavour.
If Man Mandir reflects Man Singh’s aesthetic sensibilities, Gujari Mahal speaks of his love. The courage and beauty of Mrignayani and her love with Raja Mansingh are now a part of popular folk tradition.
Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture..

Collections - Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum : The Archaeological Museum was established in 1922. On view are inscriptions, copper plates, inscribed seals, stone pillars and capitals, terracotta and coins excavated from ancient sites like Pawaya (Padmavati), Besvagar (Vidisha). Ujjain (Ujjayini) and Maheshwar. There are copies of the frescoes and paintings from Bagh. There are some antiquities dating back to the 1st century AD. Even though many of these have been defaced by the iconoclastic Mughals, their perfection of form has survived the ravages of time. Particularly worth seeing is the statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyraspur, the tree goddess, epitome of perfection in miniature. The statue is kept in the custody of the museum's curator, which can be seen on request.
The palace has been now converted in a museum and houses very good collection of Jain and Hindu artifacts.

Do you know? : The 15th century Gujari Mahal is a monument to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his Gujar queen, Mrignayani. It is a monument of love associated with the bold and beautiful Mrignayani After he won her; she demanded that he build her a separate palace with a constant water supply from the River Rai, via an aqueduct. The outer structure of the Gujari Mahal has survived in an almost total state of preservation; the interior has been converted into an Archaeological Museum.

Timings : The museum is open every day except Monday, from 10 am to 5 pm.

Sarod Ghar : The old ancestral house of the legendary Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan has recently been converted into 'Sarod Ghar'. The museum has been rebuilt keeping in mind the old traditional architecture of Gwalior and houses in it ancient instruments of the great Indian Masters of yesteryears.

The Municipal Corporation Museum : This has a very fine natural history section.

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Chanderi

The town dominated the trade routes of Central India on the borders of Malwa and Bundelkhand and became an important military outpost. Today it is a well-preserved medieval town famed for the craft of sari weaving, with beautiful structures executed in the Bundelkhandi style.

It is said that Chanderi former prosperity depended on its strategic position as a sort of base camp for armies moving south from the time of the Sultans of Delhi.

However, the documented history of Chanderi goes back to the early 11th century, which is a kaleidoscope of movement and activity prompted, by its strategic location. On the borders of Malwa and Bundelkhand, the town dominated the trade routes of Central India, proximate to the arterial route to the ancient ports of Gujarat as well as to Malwa, Mewar, Central India and the Deccan. Consequently, Chanderi became an important military outpost, prized by rulers with power and repeatedly experienced the might of men who moulded the destiny of Hindustan.

Chanderi also came up as pilgrimage center with the coming up of Jain temples in the 9th and 10th century..

Parameshwar Tal : Built by Bundela Rajput Kings, the picturesque Parameshwar tank is situated half a mile to the northwest of Chanderi town. It has a well-carved temple and cenotaphs of three Rajput Kings.

Places around : Chanderi is surrounded by hills, lakes and forests, and there are several monuments of Bundela Rajputs and Malwa Sultans. Some of the interesting monuments are: -

Shahzadi Ka Rouza : This monument is attributed to some unknown princess, which is decorated on the exterior with ornamental arches and a band of geometrical designs.

The Fort : Dominating the skyline of this lovely old town is a vast Mughal fort. Its main gate is known as the "Khooni Darwaza".

Thruvanji : 26 km South-West of Chanderi is the old village of Thruvanji, with a number of Jain temples of the early medieval period.

Finally, if you have read the ancient love story of Nal and Damyanti, refresh your memories in Narwar, 122 kilometers from Gwalior, another picturesque place with regal fortresses and palaces of Rajput style.

Noted for Sarees : Chanderi is also famous for its brocades and muslins, especially for its handwoven Chanderi sarees. Master weavers use silk and cotton to create dazzling weaves, distinguished by beautiful borders. Great care is bestowed on the preparation of the thread. The weavers work in a dark underground room of which the walls are kept damp to prevent dust flying about.
Usually in subtle hues, the Chanderi sarees have sophistication hard to match. They generally have a rich gold border and two gold bands on the pallav. The more exclusive ones have gold checks with lotus roundels all over known as butis.
These sarees have fascinated the Indian lady since ages.

Though the craft from Chanderi is very famous, the architecture of the area is in no way less imposing. Here, the Bundela Rajputs and the Sultan of Malwa influence the architecture. In 1445 Mohammed Khilji built the Koshak Mahal on lines of Mandu architecture. The Jama Masjid , Shahzadi ka Rouza and Battisi Bandi were all built by the Sultans of Malwa in the 15th century.

Badal Mahal Gate : A gate without a Mahal, constructed to commemorate some important victory.

Battisi Bavdi : Built by Sultan Ghiyasuddin Shah in 1485, the Battisi Bavdi derives its name from a flight of thirty-two steps.

Buddhi (Old) Chanderi : A number of 9th and 10th century Jain temples dot this place attracting thousands of Jain pilgrims from all over the country.

Jama Masjid : With imposing domes and long arcades, this is possibly the biggest mosque of the erstwhile Madhya Bharat.

Koshak Mahal : The Koshak Mahal is a ruined Muslim palace, still being maintained. Today the town is chiefly known for its gold brocades and saris.
According to historical records, Koshak Mahal was ordered to be built by Mahmud Khilji of Malwa when he passed through Chanderi in 1445 AD. The original plan of the Khilji ruler was to construct a seven-storey palace though only two could be completed during his lifetime. The Mahal is divided into four equal parts and has architecture similar to Mandu.

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Datia

Known in Mahabharata as Daityavakra, Daita is known for its seven-storied palace of Raja Bir Singh Deo. This structure is a unique example of 17th century architecture. And if you happen to be a temple freak, do visit the Gopeshwar temple.

It is also a pilgrimage spot for devotees of Siddhapeeth Shri Peetambara Devi.
The other sight is a temple with Mughal frescoes.

The seven-storied palace built in brick and stone by Raja Bir Singh Deo is one of the finest examples of Bundela architecture, built in 1614. The palace houses some of the fine Bundela paintings. The imposing Gopinath temple is a confluence of cultures with Mughal frescoes adorning the temple.

This is a town of great historic significance, and Datia's seven-storeyed palace was built entirely of stone and brick. Within the palace are some fine wall paintings of the Bundela school.

The fort is an exemplary combination of the Rajput and Mughal architecture. In 1818 Datia played host to then British Governer-General, Lord Hastings and a splendid durbar was held in 1902 for the Viceroy, Lord Curzon. The sunset from the fort is absolutely spectacular.

This would be your favourite site. The buildings require so much imagination to be really appreciated. This palace stands on its own..

Datia village : Datia is a crowded little village with narrow lanes. The streets are lined with sweet marts, bangle sellers, cloth merchants etc.

The city too looks like an interesting place to walk around, seeming like the kind of place where you could lose your self for a couple of days without being pressured from any sources.

The views of the surrounding city and countryside are quite amazing. Since the fort also has many peacocks, it is worth spending a little while on the fort walls watching the peacocks go about their daily duties.
Raj Garh Palace, on top of a hill, has an uninteresting museum, but an interesting view.

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Dholpur

Between Gwalior and Agra, actually in a part of Rajasthan that separates Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, Dholpur was the scene of a pitched battle between Aurangzeb's sons to determine who would succeed him as emperor of the rapidly declining Mughal empire. The Shergarh Fort in Dholpur is very old and now in ruins.

West of Dholpur near Bari is the Khanpur Mahal, a pavilioned palace built for Shah Jahan but never occupied..

Talab Shahi : The historic and picturesque lake, Talab Shahi, and the palace were built in 1617 A.D. as a shooting lodge for Prince Shah Jahan. Later on it was maintained by the rulers of Dholpur. The lake attracts a large number of winter migratory fowls like pintail, shoveller, red crested pochard, comnion pochard, tufted duck, common teal, garganey teal, wigeon anti gadwall.

Location : The town of Dholpur is 34 m. S. of Agra by rail.

Muchkund : This picturesque and ancient scared place Muchkund is about 8 kms. from the town of Dholpur and is named after Raja Muchkund. The 24th King of the Suryavanshi dynasty (the solar race) is said to have reigned nineteen generations before Lord Ram. According to legend Raja Muchkund, was sleeping here when a demon Kaal Yaman while pursuing Lord Krishna, accidentally woke him up. The demon was burnt to ashes because of a divine blessing to Raja Muchkund. It is now a sacred place for pilgrim. It is said that the Mughal Emperor Akbar built the enclosures around it.

Rajasthan Govt. recognised Van Vihar and Ramsagar, old wild life reserves of the users of the rulers of Dholpur spread over an area of 59.86. sq. kms, in 1955 A.D. These are like two separate wildlife sanctuaries. Van Vihar, located on Vindhyan plateau, supports a rather open stunted growth of Dhok and Khair trees.

It is said that Maharaj Udaibhan Singh of Dholpur had a great liking for the wild animals of Van Vihar and he used to hand feed not only the deer and antelopes in the reserve but also animals like foxes, jackals and birds. There is an old forest rest house in Van Vihar - initially built by the rulers of Dholpur. It is now maintained by the forest department and booking can be made in advance by contacting the Dy. Conservator of Forests, Dholpur.

Attractions nearby : The main attractions are Shergarh Fort (built by Sher Shah Suri on the site of an earlier Hindu fortress), Khanpur Mahal (palace of Shah Jahan), Shiva Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva) and Talab-e-shahi (the picturesque lake, 40kms from Dholpur, attracting various migratory birds in winter).

Ramsagar part of the sanctuary has Ramsagar lake. The lake is very picturesque and supports rich aquatic life including fresh water crocodiles and a number of species of fishes and snakes. Water birds like ibis, white breasted water hen, moorhen, jacanas, stilt, river tern, ringed plover, sand piper and herons (grey, and purple) are quite common. During winter months migratory ducks and geese also visit the lake in good numbers. A four-wheel vehicle is necessary if one intends to visit Ramsagar area and the lake.

History : People call it - a city with inclement history.

The present dynasty, claiming descent from the Moon, received Dholpur from Gwalior, against their former territory ceded to Gwalior. Little is known of the early history of the country forming the state of Dholpur. Founded by Dhawal Deo, this historic city was ruled by the Chauhan family from the mid-9th century. It was a small state but it had a very turbulent history. Its strategic location on the main route from Kabul and Delhi to Deccan and its proximity to cities like Gwalior, Agra and Bayana attracted attention of almost all-powerful kings and rulers of Delhi and Agra.

Dholan Deo Tonwar founded this state in 1004. Dhaulpur is the alternative official name. Local tradition affirms that the Tonwar Rajputs, who had their seat at Delhi from the 8th to the 12th century, ruled it. In 1450 it had a raja of its own; but in 1501 the Mahommedans under Sikandar Lodi took the fort of Dholpur and in 1504 again it was transferred to a Mussalman governor. Babar again invaded it in 1526 A.D. During Humayun's regime the site of Dholpur town was moved northwards to avoid erosion by the river. During the dissensions that followed the death of Aurangzeb in 1707, Raja Kalyan Singh Bhadauria obtained possession of Dholpur. His family retained it till 1761, after which it was taken successively by the Jat raja, Suraj Mal of Bharatpur, by Mirza Najaf Khan in 1775, by Scindias in 1782, and in 1803 by the British. It was restored to Scindias by the treaty of Sarji Anjangaon, but in consequence of new arrangements was again occupied by the British. Finally, in 1806, the territories of Dholpur, Ban and Rajakhera were handed over to the Maharaja Rana Kirat Singh, ancestor of the present chiefs of Dholpur, in exchange for his state of Gohad, which was ceded to Scindias.

It is a crop-producing place, without any special manufactures. Among the objects of interest in the town may be mentioned the fortified sarai built in the reign of Akbar, within which is the fine tomb of Sadik Mahommed Khan (d. 1595), one of his generals. The town, from its position on the railway, is growing in importance as a centre of trade.

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Gwalior Fort

The city's most renowned landmark stands on a steep mass of sandstone dominating the city and the fort hill is around 3 kms in length. Its glorious history dates back to more than a thousand years. Emperor Babar who was inspired by this imposing structure described it "the pearl amongst the fortresses of Hind."

It has been a scene of momentous events - imprisonments, battles and jauhars. A steep road winds upwards to the Fort, flanked by statues of Jain tirthankaras, carved into the rock face. Looming at a height of 100 meters over the city, the magnificent outer walls of the Fort still stand, two miles in length and 35 feet high, bearing witness to its reputation for being one of the most invincible forts of India.
It encompasses about six palaces, three temples and several water tanks.

This fort was a mute witness to one of India's most dramatic events in history-the 1857 revolt. It silently stood by the side and watched, as Rani of Jhansi, (key participant in India's struggle against the British), died a valiant death within the ramparts.
Gwalior is a legendary city, with a very interesting and colourful past, which remembers its kings, poets, singers and saints with pride, and preserves every monument of its historical and cultural heritage, with utmost care.

During this period of 1000 years, many rulers, including the Tomars, Mughals, Marathas and the British, annexed Gwalior fort. In the early 19th century, the fort was passed on to the Scindias.

Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture. The walls of the fort give way onto the steep slopes. This fort has been a witness to many battles in the turbulent times as well as festivals in the peacetime. The rulers have imparted justice from the fort, which has seen the imprisonment of many. The ceremonies held in the fort have been spelled out grandeur but the Jauhars have screamed distress. It was here that Tatyia tope and Rani of Jhansi fought for their freedom. The structure, the placement, the architecture and every thing of the fort is unparalleled. On a clear day from the walls of the fort one can have a birds eye view of the city.

In the 14th century Tomars came to power in Gwalior and made the fort their seat of administration. For the next few centuries the fort was witness to numerous conflicts with the neighbouring states.

Man Mandir - where two shows take place every evening (in Hindi and English), very convincingly brings to life the old fort, its history, anecdotes and unattached legends through the resounding voice of Amitabh Bachchan. The canopy of brightly lit stars, the chill of the night and the hauntingly captivating fort is absolutely magical. The poignant ambience of chivalry and heroism has been recreated through the superbly mounted Son-et-lumiere. Assisted by the bright lights and digital sound, the saga of heroism, valour and romance floats in air every evening..

Best time to visit : The best time to visit is between September and April.

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Gwalior Zoo

Gwalior Zoo, has some are species of Indian wildlife kept in natural surroundings.
It has become a conservation zoo for Satpura National Park in Madhya Pradesh..

Timings : Open every day from 8 am to 3 pm.

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Jai Vilas Palace

Jai Vilas Palace, the current residence of the Scindia family is an Italianate structure combining the Tuscan and Corinthian architectural modes. About 35 of the rooms have been converted into the Scindia Museum. The main durbar hall is impressive.

The Jai Vilas Palace is an opulent Italianate structure, set in carefully laid lawns.

Built in 1809, this palace was designed by Lt. Col. Sir Michael Filose.

A splendor of a different kind exists in the Jai Vilas Palace, current residence of the Scindia family. In these rooms, so evocative of a regal lifestyle, the past comes alive..

Interesting facts : The imposing Durbar Hall has two central chandeliers, weighing a couple of tonnes, and hung only after ten elephants had tested the strength of the roof. Ceilings picked out in gilt, heavy draperies and tapestries, fine Persian carpets, and antique furniture from France and Italy are some of its features.

Treasures : Eye catching treasures include: a silver train with cut glass wagons which served guests as it chugged around the table on miniature rails; a glass cradle from Italy used for the baby Krishna on each Janmashtami, silver dinner services and swords that were once worn by Emperors Aurangzeb and Shah Jahan. These are, besides, personal mementoes of past members of the Scindia family: the jeweled slippers that belonged to Chinkoo Rani, four-poster beds, gifts from practically every country in the world, hunting trophies and portraits. The Scindia Museum offers an unparalled glimpse into the rich culture and lifestyle of princely India.

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Narwar

: Narwar or Narbar is a tahsil located at a distance of 43 kms from Shivpuri, the district head quarters. It is remarkable for its medieval fortress atop a hill. Narwar was the one-time capital of Raja Nal of Naisadha, and his consort Damayanti.
Kuchhwaha Rajputs built the fort. Well, who does not know the history behind the famous king Raja Man Singh and his beautiful wife Mrignayani? The novel Mrignayani by famous story write Sh. Vrindavan Lal Sharma and soap opera with the same name was based on the love story of this region. Mrignayani was also known as Gujri Rani. Still the fort is worth seeing..

The Fort Structure : This is a historic town, just east of the Sind River, northern Madhya Pradesh State. It is situated atop a hill about 500 feet above ground level and has an area of 8 sq km. Though it is now in a dilapidated condition, yet judging from the remains it seems likely that in the flourishing days it might have been only second to the Gwalior Fort in magnificence.
The interior of the fort is divided by cross walls into four 'ahata' and 'dholaahata'. The architecture of the fort and palaces is basically Rajput in style with flat ceiling, fluted columns and multifold arches. The inner walls of the palaces have been decorated with bright paint and glass beads.
Near the fort are the Jai Stambha, Sati monument, Ladu bungalow, Chhip Mahal, Makardwaj Tal, Kacheri mahal, Sikandar Lodi's Mosque, and Jail Kambha.
Traditionally said to have been the capital of Raja Nala of the Sanskrit epic Mahabharata, the town was called Nalapura until the 12th century. From the 12th century onwards, Narwar was held successively by Kachwaha, Parihar, and Tomar Rajputs (warrior caste) until its capture by the Mughals in the 16th century. It fell to the Maratha chief Scindia in the early 19th century. Outside the walled town are memorial pillars of the Tomar chiefs.

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Orchha

Lying on the road to Khajuraho, Orchha is famous for its palaces and temples built in the 17th and 18th centuries and was once the capital of the Bundela Rajputs. The Jehangir Mahal, the Chaturbhuj Mandir and the Laxmi Mandir are worth visiting.

Orchha's grandeur has been captured in stone, frozen in time; a rich legacy to the ages. For on this medieval city, the hand of time has rested lightly and the places and temples built by its Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries retain much of their pristine perfection..

Ram Raja Temple : This is the main temple in the centre of the modern village and also the only temple where Lord Ram is worshipped as Raja (king). Originally a palace, it was turned into a temple when an image of Lord Ram temporarily installed proved impossible to move. Today with its soaring spires and palatial architecture, the temple is surely one of the most unusual in India.

Shahid Smarak : Commemorates the great freedom fighter Chandrashekhar Azad who lived and worked in Orchha during 1926 and '27

Sunder Mahal : This small palace, almost in ruins today, is still a place of pilgrimage for Muslims. Dhurjban, son of Jhujhar, embraced Islam when he wed a Muslim girl at Delhi. He spent the latter part of his life in prayer and meditation and came to be revered as a saint.

The Chhatris : There are about 14 chhatris (cenotaphs) or memorials to the rulers of Orchha, grouped along the Kanchan Ghat of the Betwa River.
Strewn around the area are little shrines and memorials, each with its own poignant history, each contributing to the nostalgic beauty is Orchha.

The Temples : Orchha's impressive temples date back to the 16th century. They are still in use today and are visited regularly by thousands of devotees.

Location : Orchha lies besides the Malwa plateau along the Betwa River.

Laxmi Narayan Temple : Linked to the Raja Ram temple by a flagstone path, the style of this temple is an interesting synthesis of fort and temple moulds. The interior contains the most exquisite of Orchha's wall paintings. The murals are vibrant compositions covering a variety of spiritual and secular subjects. They are in an excellent state of preservation with the colours retaining their vivid quality.

Dinman Hardaul's Palace or Palki Mahal located on the other side of the village, is another interesting monument of romance of the son of Bir Singh Ju Deo. Hardaul was suspected to have fallen in love with his brother's wife and as the rumors of this love spread far and wide, Hardaul put himself to death to prove that he was innocent.
This saintly prince is worshipped as god and even today villages of Bundelkhand have platform like shrines where he is worshipped.

Phool Bagh - meaning Flower Garden, is a walled complex, built as a summer retreat, laid out as a formal garden with a central row of fountains culminating in an eight-pillared palace pavilion.

Chaturbhuj Temple : This is built on a massive stone platform and reached by a steep flight of steps. It was specially constructed to enshrine the image of Lord Rama that remained in the Raja Ram temple. Lotus emblems and other symbols of religious significance provide the delicate exterior ornamentation.

History : The word Orchha literally means hidden place. Once the capital of the Bundelas, it is now just a village set among a wonderful complex of well-preserved palaces and temples. It was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput chieftain, Rudra Pratap and it remained the capital till 1783, when nearby Tikamgarh became the new capital. Orchha's golden age was during the first half of the 17th century. Of the succeeding rulers, the most notable was Raja Bir Singh Deo who ruled for almost 22 years.
Complementing the notable proportions of the exteriors are the interiors that represent the finest flowering of the Bundela school of painting. Its impressive temples are visited by thousands of devotees. The area is peppered with fascinating little shrines and memorials, to add to the overwhelming feeling of nostalgia, the city evokes in the visitor.

Attractions around : Fort Complex and its Palaces

The Royal romance

Approached by a multi arched bridge over the Betwa River the complex is set on an island in the River, surrounded by fortified walls, with three palaces set in an open quadrangle- most spectacular of these being the Jahangir Mahal, built by Raja Bir Singh Deo to commemorate the visit of Moghul Emperor Jahangir to Orchha in 1606. There is also a small Archaeological Museum inside this palace. The Raj Mahal palace nearby is situated to the right of the quadrangle, whose interiors have exquisite murals, boldly colourful and on a variety of religious themes. The third palace is the Rai Parveen Mahal, built for the poetess and musician Rai Parveen, the paramour of Raja Indramani (1672-76).

Jehangir visited Orchha in the first half of the 17th Century and the Jehangir Palace was, in fact, built to commemorate his visit.

Palace of Raj Parveen is surrounded by a beautiful garden. Orchha takes you down in a romantic depth with the Mughal King Jehangir and Rai Parveen, the wife of Raja Indramani. She was a beautiful lady of her time with great artistic taste and abilities and a superb dancer as well as a singer. The dales of Orchha ring with the stories of Jehangir’s romance with her. Jehangir loved her deeply and wanted to marry her – an offer which she refused.

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Shivpuri

This quaint little town with its luxuriant forests and hilly environs used to be the summer capital of the Scindia rulers. Here is the Madhav National Park, which not only provides sanctuary to the wildlife but to the avifauna as well.

Prior to the royal Scindias its dense forests were the hunting grounds of the Moghul emperors when Emperor Akbar captured great herds of elephants.
Much later, it was the tiger that roamed the wooded hills and many a magnificent best was bagged by royal shikaris. With its luxuriant forests and undulating hills, Shivpuri was the natural choice as the summer resort capital of the Scindias. Shivpuri's royal ambience lives on in the exquisite places and hunting lodges and graceful, intricately-embellished marble chhatris (cenotaphs) erected by the Scindia princes.
A sanctuary for rare wildlife and avifauna, Shivpuri has transformed a royal past into a vibrant, hopeful present.

The district derives its name from God Shiva. It was known earlier by the name Sipri. The Shivpuri place first found a mention during Moghul times in 1564 when Emperor Akbar is stated to have halted at this place. During that period it formed a part of Narwar Sarkar. It has a very big ancient fort and a wealth of history behind. The district was known as Narwar district during the times of Gwalior State, although its Headquarter was at Shivpuri..

Fauna : Wild life has been steadily declining in the district, due to indiscriminate shooting and cutting of forests. In ancient times the forests were thick and a good number of animals could be seen. The animals found are…
Nahar tiger (Felis tigris), tendua–panther (pelis pardus), ladaya jackal (Cummins aurens), lakkad baggha hyena (Hyena striata), Bhalu, Sloth bear (Melxerus ursinus), Sambhar (Carvas unicolar), suar, wild bear (Sus crislatus), Lomdi-fox (Vulpes bengaleneis), Chinkara (Gasells benetti), Kala Hiran–black buck (Antelope cervicapra) and Langur black faced monkeys (Semli petheous entellus).

Among the main common birds, the following are found the common Myna, Shikra Hawk, The common Crow, The commons gray house Crow and all black crows, the harival green Pigeon, the Grey jungle fowl, The Mor-Peacock, Jungle bush Quail and bustard Quail.
The avifauna also includes the cormorant, paint stork, white, purple sunbird, paradise flycatcher and golden oriole.

Spread over 156 sq. km, the Madhav National Park is a haven for wildlife and wildlife - buffs. The park remains open throughout the year, boasting of large numbers of chinkara, Indian gazelle and chital. The nilgai, sambar, chausingha, blackbuck, sloth bear, leopard and the common langur are the other inhabitants of this sprawling park.

Information for tourists : Apart from its National Park Shivpuri is noted for quite a few features…

Physical features - Rivers : There are four main rivers namely The Parwati, The Sindh, The Kuno and The Betwa, which pass through the district. The Parwati is a tributary of Sindh River and joins it near Pawaya in Gwalior district. It is perennial but not navigable.

Climate : Shivpuri has a cool and dry climate.

Communications : The district is much better off in its road communication for it lies 116 kms, south of Gwalior on Agra-Bombay National Highway No. 3 - an excellent all weather road. This road connects the district to Gwalior, Agra and Delhi in the north and Guna, Bhopal, Ujjain, Indore and Bombay in the south. There is no airport in the district.

Agriculture : Shivpuri is mainly an agricultural district and so cultivation is the main occupation of the people.

Attractions around : Flora

The species of trees commonly found in the district are Khair, Kardhai, Dhow, Salaj, Tendu, Palas, Mahua, Karch, Karey, Saja, Koha, Jamun, Saj.Dhaman Kaim, Semal, Tinach and Amaltas.

Cenotaphs : Set in an elaborate Moghul garden, are the cenotaphs, the royal chhatris dedicated to the Scindias. Facing each other across a water tank are the chhatris of Madhav Rao Scindia and the dowager queen Maharani Sakya Raje Scindia, in a delightful fusion of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, with their shikhara - type spires and Rajput and Moghul pavilions. Both cenotaphs house life-size images of the Scindias, attired religiously, daily with flowers and incense.

The summer palace of the Scindias, Madhav Vilas Palace, looks intensely alluring, dressed in a soft shade of rose - pink. The Mahal as it is popularly known as, is attired with marble floors, elegant terraces and a Ganapati Mandap.

Deep inside the park, at its highest point stands the George Castle, built by Jiyaji Rao Scindia. The ideal time to visit the castle is at sunset, when the Sakhya Sagar Lake seems to take on the radiance and changing hues of the sky.

Lacing the forest cover of the National Park is the Sakhya Sagar Lake, home to various reptiles like, marsh crocodile, the python and the monitor lizard. On the shores of the lake, and connected to it by a pier, is a Boat Club, an elegant structure.

Bhadaiya Kund, is another picnic spot along a natural spring, the waters of which are said to be rich in minerals, of a curative nature.

Bird life in the forests is also plentiful, with many of the species typical of the habitat.

Scindia Contribution : Shivpuri remained with the Kachhawaha Rajputs upto 1804 when it was taken over by Scindia. It was captured by the English in 1817 but returned to Scindia next year and it continued to be a part of Gwalior state since then. In 1859 it is said that the great Indian leader Tatya Tope was hanged near the present Collectorate. Maharaja Madhav Rao Scindia paid much attention towards the development of Shivpuri. He constructed a big palace and also developed the city. It was the summer capital of Gwalior State and government offices were shifted here in summer months.

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Teli ka Mandir

The 9th century edifice towering 100 ft. high is a Pratihara Vishnu temple with a unique blend of Muslim and Hindu architecture sporting a peculiar layout plan and design. A figure of Garuda crowns the high doorway, which is the highest structure in the fort..

Rare Features : The Teli-ka-Mandir or the oilman's temple is probably the earliest of the temples in the Gwalior Fort. Although commanding in appearance, this temple consists only of the sanctuary with a porch and doorway leading into the inner chamber. Surprisingly, there is no mandapa and no pillared hall, which is so characteristic of the fully developed temple in this part of the country. This structure is a rare specimen of a Brahmanical sanctuary, for, the shape of its roof bears testimony to its Buddhist heritage. Instead of a spire it has a ridge of the type found on the vaulted roof of a Buddhist chaitya-hall.

The roof of this structure is made in the Dravidian style but the decorations on walls are done in the Indo Aryan style. This strange combination of two architectural styles has been the main attraction for the visitors. People still wonder at the construction with awe.

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Tomb of Tansen

A pillar of Hindustani classical music, the great Tansen, the musician extraordinaire of Akbar's Court, lies buried in Gwalior. The beautiful garden, in which the tomb is located, is the venue of the annual music festival held during November-December.

Distinct personalities from abroad also visit and rejoice music.

Gwalior is also renowned for the tomb of Tansen, the musician extraordinaire of Akbar's Court (one of his "nau ratan", nine jewels). Gwalior retains a strong musical tradition, and continues to be an influential force in Hindustani classical music. Tansen, an exponent of the Dhrupad style, went on to evolve the Gwalior Gharana style, whose contemporary exponent is the globally renowned Sarod player, Amjad Ali Khan.

The memorial to this great musician has a pristine simplicity about it, built in the early Moghul architectural style. More than a monument, the tomb is part of Gwalior's living cultural heritage. Leading musicians of the country gather here to give performances during the festival. The memorial of this great singer carriers a very simple tone in itself, surrounded by gardens on its sides..

Do you know? : Tansen is acknowledged as the most illustrious musician of medieval India, with a voice so evocative that, according to legend, when he once sang a midnight raga at noon, darkness encircled the palace. Abul Fazl, (Akbar's chronicler) writes that Tansen was given the title of Miyan by the Emperor in Fatehpur Sikri.
His body was buried near his mentor Hazrat Ghaus. Near Tansen's tomb is a tamarind tree, said to be as old as the tomb itself.
The legend goes that students of music who chew the leaves of the tree in faith will be blessed with miraculous musical gifts.

About Tansen : Miyah Tansen was born in Gwalior. Before Akbar the great summoned him to be a musician in his durbar, Tansen was under the prince of Rewa, who also befriended him. It is said the prince was heartbroken to part with the services of Tansen in his royal court.
The Moghul Emperor Akbar was a great patron of art and music and what is now known as the Hindustani classical music flourished in his patronage, with Tansen leading a grand array of accomplished musicians. He was the father of Hindustani Music. In Indian society and culture, Tansen has since remained a magical, legend as the most melodious singer and instrumentalist.

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