The
strategically important fort at Gwalior dominates the city and for centuries
it controlled one of the major routes between north and south India. Its
history goes back to 2000 years, with rock inscriptions from the 5th century
still to be found. From the 12th century, the control of the fort and
surrounding area passed through a succession of Muslim, Tomar, Rajput,
Afghan, Mughal and finally Maratha rulers. During the 12th century
Qutb-ud-din Aibak was the first ruler to hold it but eventually the Tomars
took possession. It was under Man Singh, who came to power in 1486 that many
of the great battlements and interior palaces were built. After a short
period of control by Lodhis, the first Mughal emperor took over the fort,
and described it as a “Pearl among the fortresses of Hind”. During
the collapse of Mughal empire, the Scindia line of Marathas conquered the
area in 1754. The British took control of it during the Maratha wars and
held it for 30 years after capturing the Rani of Jhansi within its walls in
1858.Sightseeing at Gwalior -
Gwalior Fort : On the way to the fort you pass through 21 Jain sculptures carved out of the rock. These sculptures date back to the 8th and 15th centuries. Enter the fort through Urwahi gate. The forts walls and buildings were constructed by different generations of rulers. The notable of them are the Suraj Kund, a tank built in 8th century AD, Teli ka Mandir, dedicated to Vishnu, this temple was build by Prathiharas (8th-11th centuries) is one of the oldest buildings; Two 11th century temples known as Sas Bahu ka Mandir also dedicated to Vishnu; the 16th century Gujri Mahal Palace and the Hindola Gate which houses a small archeological museum. The finest buildings in the fort is the Man Mandir Palace built by Raja Man Singh in the 15th century. Other buildings inside the fort are the interconnected Vikramaditya and Karan Palaces. Jai Vilas Palace and Museum The enormous Jai Vilas Palace built in the 19th century has a pair of world’s heaviest chandeliers in the Durbar Hall, and a crystal staircase. The dining table is fitted with electric train made of silver which carried brandy and cigars around the table after dinner. Thirty five rooms have been converted into a museum filled with family’s memorabilia.
Shivpuri
: 114 kms from Gwalior is the old summer capital of Scindhias. Set in
formal gardens, the Chhatris (tombs) are the main attraction here. With
Mughal pavilions and sikhara spires these beautiful memorials to the
Scindhia rulers are inlaid in Pietra dura style like the Taj Mahal.
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Gwalior Attractions
