General Information

• Perched along the Vindhya ranges at an altitude of 2,000 feet, Mandu, with its natural defenses, was originally the fort capital of the Parmara rulers of Malwa. 
• Towards the end of the 13th century, it came under the way of the Sultans of Malwa, the first of whom named it Shadiabad – ‘city of joy’. 
• And indeed the pervading spirit of Mandu was of gaiety; and its rulers built exquisite palaces like the Jahaz and Hindola Mahals, ornamental canals, baths and pavilions, as graceful and refined as those times of peace and plenty. 
• Each of Mandu’s structures is an architectural gem; some are outstanding like the massive Jama Masjid and Hoshang Shah’s tomb, which provided inspiration to the master builders of the Taj Mahal centuries later. 
• Mandu known as the city of joy is a hilltop fortress bearing a deserted look. The fabled city of Mandu is steeped in history. 
• Built by the Parmara ruler Raja Bhoja, Mandu was once the capital of Malwa. Built in the 10th century a summer retreat and fortress Mandu exemplifies Afghan architecture in India. 
• Later Mandu passed from the hands of Muslim rulers of Delhi to Afghan governors to Gujarat and was restored back to the Mughals. 
• Under the rule of the Afghan ruler Mandu witnessed the greatest prosperity and flourish. He made Mandu an independent kingdom. 
• His son Hoshang Shah made Mandu the capital of Malwa. Several temples, palaces and ghats built during this time were the finest examples of Afghan architecture. 
• A tour to Mandu takes you around town drenched in history and romance.