10 must see places in Mandu

10 must see places in Mandu 

Monsoon is the best time to visit this beautiful heritage city in central India. Situated on the Vindhya mountain range in Madhya Pradesh at a height of 2000 ft above sea level, it overlooks Malwa plateau on one side and river Narmada flowing through the Nimar plains on the other. The excavations date the city to around 11th century. Ruled by Hindus, Afghans and Mughals successively it has a fine blend of hindu and mughal style of architecture with rich history.

The two tombs of the Roopmati pavillon can be seen from a distance, as the tourists start their climb for Mandu. Originally built as a military post it served as the capital of the region. Many structures dotting the landscape have awe inspiring architecture and the place is worth a visit.

Places of interest in Mandu

1 Jahaz Mahal

Jahaz Mahal is by far the most spectacular structure of Mandu. Built by Ghiyas ud din Khilji in 15th century it is a place to visit during rains. Made of sandstone it glows golden in the sunshine and is enveloped in fog during monsoon presenting a beautiful picture. Surrounded by the clouds and greenery it looks like a ship floating on a lake. 

2 Hindola Mahal

Hindola Mahal  is another beautiful piece of architecture in the palace complex consisting of Jahaz Mahal, Taweli Mahal and Narahar Jharoka. Flanked by Kapoor Talav and Munj talav it is a two storied structure called Hindola or a 'Swing' due to the sloping  outer side walls. Most probably it served as an audience hall with intricate jali work on the high perched windows.

3 Jami Masjid 

Jami Masjid or Big mosque is another splendid piece representing the best of mughal architecture. The pillars of the Jami masjid have intricate motifs representing hindu symbols of bells. 

4 Rani Roopmati Pavillion

Rani Roopmati Pavillion is strategically situated atop the Malwa plateau and overlooks the Nimar plains below giving a view of river Narmada on clear days. Built as a checkpost it is a two storied structure, it served as the abode of Rani Roopmati the queen of Baz Bahadur the ruler of Mandu. It overlooks Baz Bahadur's palace below.

5 Baz Bahadur's Palace

Another monument worth visiting is the palace of Baz Bahadur the ruler of Mandu. It is situated below Rani Roopmati pavillion and flanked by a flight of steps and a lofty gate at the entrance. Beautiful arches, hanging balconies, terraces and courtyards makes one nostaglic of the golden times.

6 Rewa Kund

Rewa kund is a reservoir built by Baz Bahadur besides his palace. The water was supplied to Roopmati Pavillion from the kund situated at the foot of the hillock, thus making it an architectural marvel. 

7. Hoshang Shah's Tomb

Hoshang Shah the second independent ruler of Mandu constructed a beautiful tomb in white marble and wanted it to be his final resting place. However as fate would have it, his entire family was killed in his absence by his enemies and laid to rest in this tomb. On getting the news of his families massacre he suffered a massive heart attack and died. The city in which he was buried was named as Hoshangabad. As per his wish a dummy tomb has been constructed for Hoshang Shah besides the tomb of his wife here.

Shahjahan was greatly impressed by the look and design of Hoshang Shah's tomb and sent his architect Ustad Hamid to study the design. Hoshang Shah's tomb served as an inspiration for Taj Mahal. 

8 Darya Khan's Tomb 

Darya Khan a mughal general has built a number monuments in Mandu notable being military and travellers quaters with minute planning and eye for detail.

9 Dilawar Khan's Mosque

Dilawar Khan's mosque is a fine blend of Afghan and Mughal architecture.

10 Ashrafi Mahal

Ashrafi Mahal facing the Jami Masjid was a madarassa or academic institution. In the same complex was a seven story tower of victory built to commemorate victory of Mahumud  Khilji  over Rana Khumbh of Mewar, now only one floor of the tower remains.

The other notable structures worth a visit are  Hati Mahal, Nilkanth Mahal, Dai Ka Mahal, Chhoti Dai Ka Mahal, Lohani Caves and temple ruins.

How to reach 

Nearest airport is Indore and then three hours ride to Mandu. It can also be reached from Bhopal and Nagpur. Nearest railway station is Indore.

Best place to stay

M P Tourism's Malwa Hotel and Resort in Mandu is an idyllic place to stay. The resort offers reasonable accommodation in AC cottages amid a heavy folliage of trees and a man made reservoir. Beautiful garden with swings and riot of colours all around makes it a perfect place to unwind after a tiring day exploring Mandu.

For more details contact - M P Tourism, Nagpur on -0712 2442378 or nagpur@mptourism.com