An Introduction

The city of Gwalior is in Madhya Pradesh State of India. The city has historic significance and houses many historic building too which have attracted tourist from all over the world. It was a hub of the ancient Indian art and architecture in the older times as is now. The unparalleled talent has risen in the city of Gwalior. Tansen the famous courtier and vocalist of Akbar’s court belonged here. The city of Gwalior is surrounded by hills and is situated on the border where the Ganga and Yamuna delta meet. Gwalior fort is one of the popular tourist spots in Gwalior which is situated on the hill top. The hills surrounding the city are a part of the Vindhya Ranges which lies in the central region of India.

History of Gwalior

The city was founded by Maharaj Suraj Sen. Gwalior was ruled by different northern rulers in the past from the Tomars in first place during the 13^th century, then the Mughal from whom it passed on to the Marathas and the last were the Scindhias. Gwalior was a princely state before independence of India and later became a part of Madhya Pradesh. The name has been derived from the Hindi word for the saints- Gwalipa.

Tourist Attractions in Gwalior

The fairy tales forts and palaces of Gwalior are magnificent and magnetic; they attract many tourists both domestic and international. The Places to Visit in Gwalior are-

Gwalior Fort

The Gwalior fort that was constructed by Maharaja Man Singh Tomar during the 8^th century has a defensive structure and two main palaces- one is the Gurjari Palace and another is the Man Mandir. The fort complex consists of Temples, Mahals and a citadel Man Mandir is located in the north east of the fort. The other attractions in the fort are- Hathi pol, the Gurjari Mahal Museum in Gurjari Mahal which was made for the beautiful queen Mrignayani. The Teli ka Mandir or the oilman’s temple is a shrine with no pillars and where Buddhist architectural styles are found.

Sun Temple

The ravishing temple is built by GD Birla, the pioneer of one of the richest industrialist families of India. It is the exact replica of the famous Konark Sun Temple of Odisha. The exteriors are made of red sandstone and the interiors are carved with pure white marble. The intricate carvings and the green garden surrounding the temple make it a very tranquil and peaceful temple to visit in Gwalior.

Jai Vilas Palace

The residence of the Scindia Maratha Dynasty who also ruled Gwalior was built by Maharaja of Gwalior, Jayajirao Scindia in 1874. He attempted to copy the Palace of Versailles and partly succeeded in his goal. The palace has a huge museum that has the collection of antiques from different parts of the world and also has the World’s largest Chandelier. With posh interiors the Jai Vilas Palace is located in the city center in the city.

Languages Spoken in Gwalior

The languages spoken in Gwalior are Hindi, Marathi and English.

Famous Festivals in Gwalior

The paramount and most influential celebration in Gwalior takes place during the Tansen Sangeet Samaroh and the Gwalior Trade Fair which is the biggest trade fair in Madhya Pradesh and most colorful.

Cuisines of Gwalior

In Gwalior one can enjoy a full King style breakfast with so many varieties of breakfast dishes like Kachoris, Samosa, Poha, Jalebi and Bedai. The full course meal dishes are Rogan Josh, kebab, Dal Bafla, with sweet dishes like Imarti and Morena Gajak.

Climate in Gwalior

Gwalior witnesses a hot summer with high heat and winters that are cold. Humid subtropical climate persists in the months of April to July. Best time to visit is from October to March.