Mandu

  • Mandu is an ancient fort city in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh.
  • It's surrounded by stone walls dotted with darwazas (gateways).
  • It's also known for its Afghan architectural heritage.
  • Landmark buildings include Hoshang Shah’s Tomb, a domed marble mausoleum, and the vast Jami Masjid mosque, with courtyards framed by colonnades.
  • The imposing, centuries-old Jahaz Mahal palace stands between 2 lakes.

General Information of Mandu

  • 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.

Places of Interest

  • Mandu is one of the ancient towns and is known as ” the town on stone” . Mandu is located at a height of 2,000 ft and that creates a natural defense from any foreign attack. 
  • Mandu was under the rule of Parmara who were the rulers of Malwa. The spirit of Mandu remains in the palatial monuments that were built ages ago and still bears the bare stories of the past. 
  • Mandu is one of the important tourist destinations in Madhya Pradesh. This place acts as the hub of the rulers who used to rule the place and the ruins still speak about the glorious past. 
  • There are various places where you can find the history still utters her stories of glory and grandeur. The major attractions of Mandu have been classified under the Royal enclave (a group of temples), the Village Group (residential area) and RewaKund Group (site of legendary romance). 
  • The Baz Bahadur Palace, near the Rewa Kund is an enticing blend of Mughals and Rajasthani architecture. It was built in 1509, much before Baz Bahadur captured Mandu in 1554. 
  • Rani Roopmati pavilion was built on a higher platform by Baz Bahadur for his beloved Roopmati. The two structures bear testimony to their undying love.

How to reach Mandu?

By Air

The nearest airport at Indore connects Mandu to Mumbai, Delhi, Gwalior and Bhopal.

By Train

The nearest railway stations are at Ratlam and Indore.

By Road

Roads are connected well between Mandu, Indore, Dhar, Mhow, Ratlam, Ujjain and Bhopal.

Trips
& tours

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