GWALIOR

The pearl amongst fortresses in India

Glorious Gwalior

Gwalior’s tradition as a royal capital continued until the formation of present day India with the Scindia’s having their dynastic seat here. The magnificent mementoes of a glorious past have been preserved with care, giving Gwalior an appeal unique and timeless.

Gwalior’s history is traced back to a legend. In 8 A.D, a chieftain called Suraj Sen was stricken by a deadly disease. He was cured by a hermit saint, Gwalipa, and in gratitude founded a city which he named after the saint who had given him the gift of new life. The new city of Gwalior became, over the centuries, the cradle of great dynasties and with each, the city gained new dimensions from warrior kings, poets, musicians and saints, contributing to making it a capital renowned throughout the country.Since then, Gwalior is considered to be a city where a rich cultural tradition has been interwoven into the fabric of modern life. Also where a princely past lives on in great palaces and their museums. And where a multitude of images merge and mix to present to the visitor a city of enduring greatness.

Gwalior is best known for its imposing hilltop fort, which was famously described as ‘the pearl amongst fortresses in India’.

Gwalior holds an unparalleled reputation in Sangeet, and has retained Indian traditions and the wealth of music intact over the years. The Gwalior Gharana is one of the oldest Khayal Gharanas and the one to which most classical Indian musicians can trace the origin of their style. Legendary musicians like Tansen and Baiju Bawara belonged to Gwalior.

Gwalior also has a rich history in sports, with the wizard of Hockey, Dhyan Chand, belonging to the city.

Gwalior is essentially a small city with its obligatory share of chaos, but the narrow lanes full of noise and traffic notwith standing, it stll bears the stamp of a place that has seen much grandeur.Once the capital of the Marathas and the Mughal emperors, it is now the seat of the Scindias,an erstwhile royal family.Gwalior is usually spoken of in the same breath as it is majestic 10th century fort, which dominates the whole region from atop a huge bluff.The great 14th century traveler Ibn Batuta spoke of Gwalior as being “a fine town of whites stones”,as did the Governor General of Bengal,Warren Hastings,who called it the “Key to Indostan”.Today, the city may not have that important a position on India’s political or cultural map,but there are a lot of hidden gems still to be discovered here, including the impressive Fort and the structures built around it.Additionally, the old city makes for an interesting stroll and there are markets nearby for shopping.

Orientation

Gwalior is a chaotic and crowded city, yet it has a certain charm.It is well connected to all major Indian cities. The airport is 10 km from the city centre, what is the railway station is centrally located.Most of the tourist sites, however, are located within a small circuit and autos can also be convenient mode of transport for moving around.

Shopping

Gwalior has its fair share of lively bazaars.Out Of these, the Patankar and the Sarafa bazaars sell everything from ornaments,lacquer ware to wall hangings.Also find shops selling saris and it might not be a bad idea to walk in and ask for Madhya Pradesh’s famous Chanderi sarees which can be bought from the Government’s authorized popular chain of fabrics and handicrafts called Mrignayani.

Where to eat

In Gwalior, it is best to eat at the hotel at which you are staying. Most of these have their own restaurants that mainly serve North Indian fare. You might also find a few Continental and Chinese dishes on the menu.The city has a few standalone restaurant. Of these,the multi cusine Indian CoffeeHhouse is a good option. Try is your delicious and promptly served south Indian fare.

History of Gwalior

The historical significance of Gwalior

Climate & Best time to visit Gwalior

For tourists, Sept to March is the best time to visit Gwalior

Best Places to stay in Gwalior

Along with many budget & deluxe properties, Gwalior also hosts heritage & premium properties too.

How to reach Gwalior

Gwalior is well located & easily approachable.

Best Places to see in Gwalior

TripAdvisor recommended places to see in Gwalior.

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