Experience Glorious Gwalior On The Maharajas’ Express Train Journey
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A popular destination on the Maharajas Express Luxury Train’s 7 Nights/8 Days Indian Panorama journey, Gwalior is revered for its beautiful temples, breathtaking forts and monuments, history in sports and music, as well as its culinary delights including local street food, tasty snacks, and the Royal Thali.
Famous personalities such as the legendary musician Tansen and Hockey wizard Dhyan Chand hail from Gwalior.
DELIGHTFUL DISCOVERIES AND MUST-SEES IN GWALIOR
Gwalior is situated in the central state of Madhya Pradesh and is surrounded by rocky hills. It was founded in the 18th century by Suraj Sen and was once a princely state under the British rule. Later, Gwalior was ruled by several others dynasties including the Mughals, Marathas and the Scindias.
Gwalior is home to various tourist destinations, each showcasing the true soul and culture of this ancient city. From the moment you alight from the Maharajas’ Indian luxury train in Gwalior; you can count on amazing discoveries that will quench your wanderlust.
Let’s take a look at some landmarks in Gwalior that you will explore during your Maharajas Express journey
GWALIOR FORT
A visit to Gwalior is incomplete without discovering the awe-inspiring Gwalior Fort which stands atop the Gopachala Hill and provides breathtaking views of the city.
According to popular legend, the city of Gwalior was named after Gwalipa, a sage who once helped Prince Suraj Sen quench his thirst from a sacred pond and cured him of leprosy.
As a token of his gratitude, Suraj Sen fortified the hilltop to protect the sages from wild animals, naming the place as Gwalior. Thus, the Gwalior fort came into existence around the 5th century and is spread across 3 km.
Described as The Pearl Amongst Fortresses in India by Emperor Babur, this magnificent fort has witnessed many battles, including the one in 1858 which was fought by the Great Rani Lakshmibai.
MAN MANDIR PALACE (MAN SINGH PALACE)
Located within the Gwalior Fort, Man Mandir Palace is a Hindu architectural marvel that was built under the reign of Raja Man Singh Tomar. Its open courtyards and large rooms are known for their grandeur.
The intriguing Light and Sound show that takes place in the evenings will take you back to the eras gone by.
SAAS BAHU TEMPLE
Two temples made of red sandstone together make up the Sas-Bahu ka Mandir. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver, these twin temples are also known as the Sahastrabahu Temple.
The bigger temple (Mother-in-Law) and the smaller temple (Daughter-in-Law) stand next to each other and are known for their architectural beauty as well as the intricate sculptures that adorn their walls.
Saas Bahu Temple, Gwalior
JAUHAR KUND
Located within the Man Mandir Palace, the Jauhar Kund is where the royal ladies committed themselves to the fire after the death of Raja Man Singh. The place now adorns a part of the Gwalior Fort and the tank was constructed with the purpose to supply adequate water to the vicinity.
CENTRAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Situated within the Gurjari Mahal that was built by Raja Man Singh for his favourite queen, the Central Archaeological museum provides glimpses of Gwalior’s rich history. It hosts an eclectic collection of terracotta items and images as well as Hindu and Jain sculptures.
SURAJ KUND
A must-see, the Suraj Kund is where it all began, so to speak. It is the same sacred pond, the medicinal waters of which healed Suraj Sen after being directed by sage Gwalipa. The monument was constructed in the 15th century though its history dates back to 425 AD.
JAI VILAS PALACE
Built-in 1874 by the Maharaja of Gwalior, the Jai Vilas Palace is an opulent and regal structure, the grand architecture of which will leave you spellbound. The Durbar Hall here is famous for its huge chandeliers and large carpet.
In addition to being the residence of the royal Scindia family, a major portion of the palace has been converted into the Jiwajirao Scindia Museum.
Gwalior has many more interesting places to see and experiences to take home including –
Tighra Dam, Tomb of Ghaus Mohammed, Sarod Ghar, Sun Temple, Chaturbhuj Temple and Teli ka Mandir which is one of Gwalior’s highest buildings.
The Gwalior Trade Fair and Tansen Music Festival are also immensely popular. Shopping for local art and crafts is another major attraction here, for tourists.
The Maharajas luxury train promises a memorable experience. Find out more about the luxury train here.
