5 fascinating places that you need to visit in and around Gwalior
Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest state in India by area and the fifth largest by population. The history of the state dates back several thousand years.
Madhya Pradesh is not just a state; it’s a treasure trove of historical and cultural heritage. This region was a crucial hub for several ancient Indian civilisations, including the Vedic period, Ashoka’s Mauryan empire, and the Gupta empire. The renowned Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolises the architectural brilliance of the Mauryan period.
During the medieval period, Madhya Pradesh witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties. The region fell under the rule of the Rajputs, followed by the Delhi sultanate and the Mughal empire. Several architectural wonders, such as the forts of Gwalior, Mandu, and Orchha, were constructed during this time.
Gwalior, located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, has a rich historical significance. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by various dynasties, each leaving a mark on its cultural and architectural heritage.
One of the earliest dynasties that influenced Gwalior was the Pratihara dynasty, which ruled during the 8th and 10th centuries. They were known for their patronage of art and culture, and their influence can be seen in the iconic Gwalior Fort, which stands majestically on a hill overlooking the city.
Under the reign of the Tomar dynasty in the 15th and 16th centuries, Gwalior flourished architecturally. The Tomar rulers transformed the city into a canvas of magnificent palaces and temples, such as the Suraj Kund Jain Temple and the Man Mandir Palace within the Gwalior Fort, reflecting their love for art and architecture.
Gwalior also witnessed the rule of various Muslim dynasties, including the Delhi sultanate and the Mughals. The influence of Islamic architecture can be seen in structures like the Tomb of Ghaus Mohammed and the Teli Ka Mandir, which blend elements of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
The Bundelas, a Rajput clan, ascended to power in Gwalior in the 16th century, and their influence lingered until the Scindias took over in the 18th century. The Bundelas, renowned for their bravery and courage, left behind several awe-inspiring structures, including the Jai Vilas Palace. This palace, now a museum, is a testament to the grandeur of the Scindia dynasty, showcasing their luxury and architectural prowess.
Today, Gwalior serves as a testament to the rich history and architectural heritage of Madhya Pradesh. Visitors can explore the city’s palaces, temples, and forts, which give a window into the diverse dynasties and cultures that have shaped the region.
Here are 5 fascinating places that you need to visit in and around Gwalior.
BATESHWAR GROUP OF TEMPLES
The Bateshwar Group of Temples is a significant architectural complex near Gwalior. These temples are dedicated to various Hindu deities and are renowned for their historical and cultural importance.
The Bateshwar Group of Temples comprises more than 200 ancient temples spread across a large area. The temples were built between the 8th and 11th centuries AD during the reign of various Indian dynasties, such as the Gurjara-Pratiharas and the Kachchhapaghatas.
The architectural style of the Bateshwar Group of Temples is predominantly influenced by North Indian temple architecture. These temples are known for their intricate carvings, elaborate mandapas (pillared halls), and beautifully sculpted idols of deities.
Each temple in the complex has its own unique architectural and sculptural features. The temples are dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses, including Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and multiple aspects of the divine feminine. Some prominent temples in the complex include the Shiva, Hanuman, and Chaturbhuja Temple.
The Bateshwar Group of Temples holds religious significance for the local population and attracts tourists and devotees from different parts of India and abroad. The temple complex is known for hosting the Bateshwar Mela, a large-scale religious festival in October and November. During this time, the temples come alive with festivities, music, and cultural performances.
The Bateshwar Group of Temples is a testimony to the region’s rich architectural heritage and religious traditions. Its historical and cultural significance makes it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and architectural aficionados,
CHAUSATH YOGINI TEMPLE
The Chausath Yogini Temple in Gwalior is an ancient and unique temple dedicated to the 64 yoginis and goddesses associated with the tantric traditions of Hinduism. It is one of the few surviving temples of its kind in India.
The temple dates back to the 9th century and is situated on a hill called Mitaoli, around 32 km from Gwalior. It is constructed in a circular shape, a distinctive feature of Yogini temples. The main sanctum sanctorum, where the primary deity is enshrined, is open to the sky.
The Chausath Yogini Temple is believed to have been patronised by the Kachchhapaghata dynasty, who ruled the region during that period. The temple is known for its architectural beauty, with each of the 64 statues of the yoginis being intricately carved and different from one another.
The circular design and the colonnaded structure of the Chausath Yogini temple bear a striking resemblance to the shape of India’s old Parliament building. The unique circular shape of the temple, with its open central courtyard, is reminiscent of ancient architectural concepts that have stood the test of time.
The Chausath Yogini temple in Mitaoli has inspired the circular design of India’s old Parliament building; the two structures have different cultural, historical, and functional contexts. Nevertheless, both are remarkable architectural achievements in their own right.
The yoginis, often depicted as fierce and powerful divine beings, are associated with pursuing spiritual knowledge and transformation. The Chausath Yogini Temple provides a unique opportunity to observe and experience this aspect of Hindu mythology and spirituality.
KAKANMATH TEMPLE
The Kakanmath Temple in Morena is remarkable for its unique construction and mysterious origins. The fact that it was built without cement, lime, or any binding agents is fascinating. The technique of stacking stones on each other to create such a towering structure is an incredible feat of engineering.
What adds to the intrigue is that this temple was supposedly erected in just one night, which is astounding considering its size and complexity. While many neighbouring temples have succumbed to the test of time, the Kakanmath Temple has stood tall.
Located approximately 70 km from Gwalior, this temple is not only a place of sacred significance but also a hub of mystery. Its elevation of roughly 115 ft above ground level adds to its grandeur and makes it a truly unique place to visit.
Local folklore suggests that ghosts built this temple overnight, transporting stones from distant places to an empty field. This captivating legend has drawn people from distant lands, eager to delve into its rich history and splendid architecture. While some attribute the temple’s durability to an extraordinary unseen force, others credit its stability to the meticulous balancing of stones.
LAXMIBAI SAMADHI STHAL
The Maharani Laxmibai Samadhi Sthal is indeed a remarkable memorial dedicated to Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi, a prominent figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Located in Gwalior, this memorial offers a peaceful and serene environment surrounded by lush green trees and beautiful gardens.
The complex’s main attraction is the tall white marble memorial featuring a statue of Rani Laxmibai at its centre. The 25-ft-high structure is crowned with the Chhatri of Rani Laxmibai, which adds to its grandeur and inspires visitors.
Inside the memorial, visitors can find a hall with a life-sized bronze statue of Rani Laxmibai placed on a pedestal. Additionally, a captivating portrait gallery showcases paintings depicting her battles and significant moments from her life.
The museum within the memorial houses a wide range of historical artefacts, including weapons, coins, and replicas from numerous monasteries, providing insights into the culture of that period.
The Maharani Laxmibai Samadhi Sthal serves as a national pride and honours the contributions of Rani Laxmibai to India’s first freedom struggle. As a result, it has become a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
GOPALCHAL PARVAT
Gopachal Parvat is a significant hill in Gwalior. It holds great religious and historical significance, especially for the Jain community.
Gopachal Parvat houses several Jain temples and rock-cut sculptures that date back to the 7th and 15th centuries. These temples and sculptures are notable examples of Jain art and architecture and are known for their intricate carvings and serene surroundings.
The hill is home to more than 100 statues and rock-cut caves. The sculptures depict various Jain Tirthankaras (spiritual leaders) and deities. The most famous among these is the 8-meter tall statue of Lord Adinath, the first Tirthankara of Jainism.
One of the most remarkable features of Gopachal Parvat is the unity of different sects of Jainism. The temples on the hill represent both the Digambar and Swetambar sects, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of these religious traditions.
Every year, Gopachal Parvat attracts numerous devotees and tourists who visit to admire the architectural marvels and engage in spiritual activities. The peaceful ambience and panoramic views from the top of the hill make it an ideal destination for meditation and introspection.
Various religious and cultural organisations undertake the preservation and maintenance of Gopachal Parvat’s temples and sculptures, ensuring the continuity of its rich heritage.