GWALIOR is a city in Madhya Pradesh, India, lying 122 kilometres (76 mi) south of Agra, and 423 kilometres (263 mi) north of Bhopal, the state capital. Gwalior occupies a strategic location in the Gird region of India, and the city and its fortress have served as the center of several of historic northern Indian kingdoms. Gwalior is the administrative headquarters of Gwalior district and Gwalior division.
It is famous for Gwalior Fort, which has changed hands many times. From the Tomaras in the 8th century, it passed to the Mughals, then the Marathas under the Scindias (1754).
The city has several important educational institutions, including the Atal Bihari Vajpayee - Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management, Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, Scindia School, Madhav Institute of Technology and Science, Laxmibai National Institute of Physical Education. Gwalior has five government universities: Jiwaji University, Maharaja Maan Singh Tomar music and arts university, Rajmata Vijyarahe Scindia agricultural university, Laxmibai National University of Physical Education and ABV-IIITM government universities. A few private institutions are also well known in this region, such as Aditya College, ITM University, Amity University, and others.
Places of interest
Maharaj Bada is the biggest and most important market of Gwalior. Seven ancient buildings of different styles of architecture (Italian, Russian, Mughal, Rajputi, Chinese, etc.) can be viewed.
Gopachal Parvat is situated on the mountainous terrain at the slopes of Gwalior Fort. Gopachal Parvat contains unique statues of Jain Tirthankaras. The idol of Lord Parshvanath seated on a lotus (carved out of a single stone) is the largest in the world, towering at 47 feet in height and 30 feet in breadth. There is a series of 26 Jain statues in a single line. Built between 1398 and 1536 by Tomar kings, these Jain Tirthankar statues are one of a kind in architecture and a treasure trove of old Indian heritage and culture. Gopachal Parvat is located approximately 2 km from the railway station and bus stand.
Tomb of Rani Lakshmibai, a famous freedom fighter, at Phoolbag area. It is here where the great warrior queen of Jhansi died in 1858 fighting against the British. It is also her burial place.
Municipality Museum, one of the importants museum of the city is situated a little distance from Rani Lakshmibai's tomb.
Municipality Museum
Vivsvaan Mandir (Sun Temple), A newly built temple dedicated to the Sun god, the Sun Temple is located near the residency at Morar, Gwalior. It is a facsimile of the famous Sun temple of Konark, Orissa and now this sun temple is one among the significant pilgrimage centers in Gwalior. The temple is located in a serene ambiance and a well-maintained garden within the temple premises is very attractive. This holy temple draws the locals and tourists alike who gather here to render their prayers. It makes one astounded that a shrine of comparatively modern origin is held in such high regard, and became one among the most sought after pilgrimage centers in the city.
Jai Vilas Mahal is the residential palace turned museum of Scindias in the heart of the city. The palace has notable collections of antiques and also some of the old time gadgets and collections that can't be easily seen.The museum is one of the largest in Madhya Pradesh and has the world's largest chandelier and the complex is a mixture of British as well as Hindu architecture. The palace was made in 1874 as an attempt to bring the palace of Versailles to Gwalior and the Jai Vilas Palace was a successful attempt.
Jai Vilas Palace
Gwalior trade fair was started in 1905 by Maharaja Madho Rao, king of Gwalior. It has become the biggest fair of Madhya Pradesh and, indeed, one of the most colorful fairs of India. It starts in the second week of January and continues until February.
Modern 5D is the MP's first multi-dimensional theater launched in the 2011 trade fair of Gwalior. It was built by Gwalior's leading enterprise Modern Techno Projects (P) Ltd. Modern 5D is recognized as India's first own multi-dimensional theater.
Shyam Vatika is a banquet hall which has the world's largest indoor mural, as recognized by Guinness World Records.
Chatris of Scindias is situated close to the city near Achaleshwar temple and is the burial place for the Scindias who ruled the city for many years. Designated persons like Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia, Vijayaraje Scindia and His Highness Jivajirao Scindia are creamated here.
Heritage road in front of Chatris of Scindias
Tansen's tomb: Gwalior is the birthplace of the famous musician Tansen. He was one of the nine gems of Akbar.
Gaus Mohammad tomb: Great Gaus Mohammad tomb and the smaller Tansen tomb are situated on the same territory.
Babar used to say about that this fort was a pearl among the fortresses of India. It stands on an isolated rock, overlooking the Gwalior town, and contains a number of historic buildings. It is one of the biggest forts in India and a postage stamp has been issued by the Indian Postal Service to commemorate the importance of this fort. From historical records, it is established that it was built in the 8th century. The fortress and the city have been integral to the history of the kingdoms of North India. It is said that the Mughal Emperor Babur (1483–1531) described it as "the pearl in the necklace of the forts of Hind". The fort, also given the epithet "Gibraltar of India', provides a panoramic view of the old Gwalior town, which is to its east.
Gujari Mahal-Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture. The 15th century Gujari Mahal is a monument to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his intrepid Gujar Queen, Mrignayani. The outer structure of Gujari Mahal has survived in an almost total state of preservation; the interior has been converted into Archaeological Museum housing rare antiquities, some of them dating back to the 1st century A.D. Even though many of these have been defaced by the iconoclastic Mughals, their perfection of form has survived the ravages of time. Particularly worth seeing is the statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyraspur, the tree goddess, the epitome of perfection in miniature. The statue is kept in the custody of the museum's curator, and can be seen on request.
Sas – bahu temple- A 9th Century shrine, Saas-Bahu temple in the fort allures not only the devotees but also the tourists with its artistic value. Despite what its name may suggest, these temples are not dedicated to Sas (mother-in-law) and Bahu (daughter-in-law) but rather the short form of Shashtra Bahu, another name of Lord Vishnu. These temples situated adjacent to each other and the larger one is elaborately decorated with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The roof of the larger temple is adorned with a marvelous lotus carving which is very fascinating. These ancient temples display exceptional architectural brilliance and are a perfect destination for pious people.
Teli Ka Mandir (Telangana Mandir)- A lofty structure of about 100 feet, Teli Ka Mandir in Gwalior Fort distinguishes itself from the other compositions of its time because of its unique architecture. Though the roof of the temple holds a Dravidian look, the sculptures are typically north Indian.The temple bears a close resemblance to Prathihara Vishnu temple, and is filled with images of coiled serpents, passionate couples, river goddesses and a flying Garuda. The temple architecture follows Indo Aryan and Nagara style that exhibits superior artistic caliber. A marvelous temple, believed to be the oldest constructions in the fort gives enchanting experience to the visitor.
Gwalior Zoo (Gandhi zoological Park)- This is one of the most lively and beautiful zoological parks of Madhya Pradesh. Its main attractions include Jamuna, a white tiger, serpents, golden pheasants, sambhar, hyena, bison, and others.
Sambhar at Gwalior zoo
Sarod Ghar-This Museum of Music has been set up in the old ancestral house of the legendary Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan. It houses ancient instruments of the great Indian Masters of yesteryear. It also houses an impressive collection of photographs and documents. Sarod Ghar is a unique institution devoted to promoting Indian classical music, heritage and culture. Through this 'window' to the past, music lovers can gain a better understanding of the evolution and history of our classical music and a deeper perspective and insight into the context of the art as it exists today.Roop Singh Stadium is a cricket ground. The stadium has hosted 10 One Day International (ODI) matches. Of the 10 matches played so far, the first one was played between India and West Indies on 22 January 1988. The ground has flood lights and has hosted day-night encounters as well. One match of the 1996 Cricket World Cup was also played on this ground, between India and West Indies. This ground is famous for hosting the ODI between India and South Africa in which Sachin Tendulkar scored a double century.
City Mall, one of the biggest malls of Madhya Pradesh. A multi-storied grand structure, it houses shops and showrooms of many national and international brands and has a number of eateries, as well as a Fun Cinemas multiplex. There are also some international and world-famous fast food restaurants like Domino's Pizza and McDonald's in DD City Mall.
Tighra Dam: located on the outskirts of the city, Tighra is a nice place for an outing. Tighra Dam is now being used to store water from the Sank river and supply water to the whole of the city.Gwalior is a city in Madhya Pradesh, India, lying 122 kilometres (76 mi) south of Agra, and 423 kilometres (263 mi) north of Bhopal, the state capital. Gwalior occupies a strategic location in the Gird region of India, and the city and its fortress have served as the center of several of historic northern Indian kingdoms. Gwalior is the administrative headquarters of Gwalior district and Gwalior division.
It is famous for Gwalior Fort, which has changed hands many times. From the Tomaras in the 8th century, it passed to the Mughals, then the Marathas under the Scindias (1754).
The city has several important educational institutions, including the Atal Bihari Vajpayee - Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management, Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, Scindia School, Madhav Institute of Technology and Science, Laxmibai National Institute of Physical Education. Gwalior has five government universities: Jiwaji University, Maharaja Maan Singh Tomar music and arts university, Rajmata Vijyarahe Scindia agricultural university, Laxmibai National University of Physical Education and ABV-IIITM government universities. A few private institutions are also well known in this region, such as Aditya College, ITM University, Amity University, and others.
Gwalior can be seen as the headquarters of the Chambal Region[citation needed], and it is surrounded by industrial and commercial zones of neighboring districts (Malanpur - Bhind, Banmor - Morena) at all three main directions. Gwalior is the fourth largest city of Madhya Pradesh and is often referred to as the tourist capital of the state. Gwalior was the capital of Madhya Bharat (1947–1956) before the creation of the Madhya Pradesh state.
Jain rock-cut sculptures A striking part of the Jain remains at Gwalior is a series of caves or rock-cut sculptures, excavated in the rock on all sides, and numbering nearly a hundred, great and small. Most of them are mere niches to hold statues, though some are cells that may have been originally intended for residences. According to inscriptions, they were all excavated within a short period of about thirty-three years, between 1441 and 1474. One of the colossal figures is 57 ft (17 m) high, taller than any other in northern India.
Gurudwara
Gwalior Fort also has the Gurudwara, built in the memory of the sixth Sikh, Guru Har Gobind. This Gurudwara is particularly large and grand, built entirely of marble with coloured glass decorating the main building. Recital of the Guru Granth Sahib creates a peaceful and sacred atmosphere. Mughal kings used to visit Gwalior regularly. During the Sikh genocide of 1984, many Sikhs were burned alive here. There is a Gurdwara that was converted to a mandir of "kalli devi" and process is on to take it back by Sikhs.
Sun temple gwalior
A temple built by Birla group is dedicated to the Sun god, the Sun Temple is located near residency at Morar, Gwalior. It is a facsimile of the famous Sun temple of Konark, Orissa and now this sun temple is one among the significant pilgrimage centers in Gwalior. It is the place which gives best examples of peace and neatness in gwalior.
The temple is located in a serene ambience and a well-maintained garden within the temple premises is very attractive. This holy temple draws the locals and tourists alike who gather here to render their prayers. It makes one astounded that a shrine of comparatively modern origin holds such a highest regard, and became one among the most sought after pilgrimage centers in the city.
Revolt of 1857
Gwalior is also known for its participation in the 1857 revolt, mainly due to Rani Lakshmibai's involvement. After Kalpi (Jhansi) fell into the hands of the British on 24 May 1858, Lakshmibai sought shelter at Gwalior Fort. The Maharaja of Gwalior was not willing to give up his fort without a fight as he was a nominal ally of the British, but after negotiations, his troops capitulated and the rebels took possession of the fort. The British wasted no time in attacking Gercest, the bloodiest battle ever fought on Indian soil. Indian forces numbered around 20,000, and British forces around 1600. Lakshmibai's example is remembered to this day by Indian nationalists. She died fighting, and Gwalior was captured. Tatya Tope and Rao Sahib escaped.[12] Tantya Tope was later captured and hanged in April 1859.
Main festivals
All national festivals, Diwali, Bhai Dooj, Holi, Makara Sankranti, Eid-ul-Fitr, Christmas, Rakhi, Mahavir jayanti, and other local ones such as Nag-Panchmi, Shreenath Mahadji Maharaj Punyatithi, Ganesh Utsav, Gangaur, Teej, Gudi Padwa (Marathi New Year), Navratri, Dussehara, Durga Puja are celebrated with equal enthusiasm. Last decade has seen a rise in the celebration of events like Valentine's Day, Rose Day and New Year's Eve.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in a unique way in Gwalior City. People of Gwalior arrange a carnival of floats (known as "Jhanki" in the local Hindi language) in various places of the city.
Gwalior also celebrates Rang Panchami quite differently. This festival is celebrated five days after Dulendi or Holi. This is also celebrated like Dulendi, but colors are mixed with water and then either sprinkled or poured on others.
Makar Sankranti is a 'Kite Festival' on 14 January each year; people fly kites and compete to cut each other's kites in the sky.
Economy of Gwalior
Gwalior Fair
Gwalior enjoys being at a very strategic position as being a main junction on New Delhi - Chennai railroad and being on NH-3 and NH-75. Gwalior is surrounded by 3 Industrial areas - Sitholi, Banmore and Malanpur. All three of these sectors are on NH 75, NH-3 and NH 92 respectively, with Malanpur being the largest. The city used to have big manufacturing industries, such as Gwalior Grasim and J.C.MILLS of Birlanagar, but now this sector is left with only one industry - J.B.Mangharam Ltd. But the other 3 sectors have many industries. The important are from dairy, chemical, manufacturing, textiles, and other industries. Handicraft and small industries are also found like Gwalior potteries. Gwalior is also an important historical and tourism sector of the country. Therefore, the tourism sector also puts an effect into the city's economy. Gwalior is part of NCR. The Gwalior Trade Fair is an annual trade fair showcasing the economy of Gwalior. There are some manufacturing set-ups of some companies like Cadbury, J. K. Tyres, Surya Bulbs, and SynRam.
Maharaj Bada is the biggest and most important market of Gwalior. Seven ancient buildings of different styles of architecture (Italian, Russian, Mughal, Rajputi, Chinese, etc.) can be viewed.
Gopachal Parvat is situated on the mountainous terrain at the slopes of Gwalior Fort. Gopachal Parvat contains unique statues of Jain Tirthankaras. The idol of Lord Parshvanath seated on a lotus (carved out of a single stone) is the largest in the world, towering at 47 feet in height and 30 feet in breadth. There is a series of 26 Jain statues in a single line. Built between 1398 and 1536 by Tomar kings, these Jain Tirthankar statues are one of a kind in architecture and a treasure trove of old Indian heritage and culture. Gopachal Parvat is located approximately 2 km from the railway station and bus stand.
Tomb of Rani Lakshmibai, a famous freedom fighter, at Phoolbag area. It is here where the great warrior queen of Jhansi died in 1858 fighting against the British. It is also her burial place.
Municipality Museum, one of the importants museum of the city is situated a little distance from Rani Lakshmibai's tomb.
Municipality Museum
Vivsvaan Mandir (Sun Temple), A newly built temple dedicated to the Sun god, the Sun Temple is located near the residency at Morar, Gwalior. It is a facsimile of the famous Sun temple of Konark, Orissa and now this sun temple is one among the significant pilgrimage centers in Gwalior. The temple is located in a serene ambiance and a well-maintained garden within the temple premises is very attractive. This holy temple draws the locals and tourists alike who gather here to render their prayers. It makes one astounded that a shrine of comparatively modern origin is held in such high regard, and became one among the most sought after pilgrimage centers in the city.
Jai Vilas Mahal is the residential palace turned museum of Scindias in the heart of the city. The palace has notable collections of antiques and also some of the old time gadgets and collections that can't be easily seen.The museum is one of the largest in Madhya Pradesh and has the world's largest chandelier and the complex is a mixture of British as well as Hindu architecture. The palace was made in 1874 as an attempt to bring the palace of Versailles to Gwalior and the Jai Vilas Palace was a successful attempt.
Jai Vilas Palace
Gwalior trade fair was started in 1905 by Maharaja Madho Rao, king of Gwalior. It has become the biggest fair of Madhya Pradesh and, indeed, one of the most colorful fairs of India. It starts in the second week of January and continues until February.
Modern 5D is the MP's first multi-dimensional theater launched in the 2011 trade fair of Gwalior. It was built by Gwalior's leading enterprise Modern Techno Projects (P) Ltd. Modern 5D is recognized as India's first own multi-dimensional theater.
Shyam Vatika is a banquet hall which has the world's largest indoor mural, as recognized by Guinness World Records.
Chatris of Scindias is situated close to the city near Achaleshwar temple and is the burial place for the Scindias who ruled the city for many years. Designated persons like Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia, Vijayaraje Scindia and His Highness Jivajirao Scindia are creamated here.
Heritage road in front of Chatris of Scindias
Tansen's tomb: Gwalior is the birthplace of the famous musician Tansen. He was one of the nine gems of Akbar.
Gaus Mohammad tomb: Great Gaus Mohammad tomb and the smaller Tansen tomb are situated on the same territory.
Babar used to say about that this fort was a pearl among the fortresses of India. It stands on an isolated rock, overlooking the Gwalior town, and contains a number of historic buildings. It is one of the biggest forts in India and a postage stamp has been issued by the Indian Postal Service to commemorate the importance of this fort. From historical records, it is established that it was built in the 8th century. The fortress and the city have been integral to the history of the kingdoms of North India. It is said that the Mughal Emperor Babur (1483–1531) described it as "the pearl in the necklace of the forts of Hind". The fort, also given the epithet "Gibraltar of India', provides a panoramic view of the old Gwalior town, which is to its east.
Gujari Mahal-Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture. The 15th century Gujari Mahal is a monument to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his intrepid Gujar Queen, Mrignayani. The outer structure of Gujari Mahal has survived in an almost total state of preservation; the interior has been converted into Archaeological Museum housing rare antiquities, some of them dating back to the 1st century A.D. Even though many of these have been defaced by the iconoclastic Mughals, their perfection of form has survived the ravages of time. Particularly worth seeing is the statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyraspur, the tree goddess, the epitome of perfection in miniature. The statue is kept in the custody of the museum's curator, and can be seen on request.
Sas – bahu temple- A 9th Century shrine, Saas-Bahu temple in the fort allures not only the devotees but also the tourists with its artistic value. Despite what its name may suggest, these temples are not dedicated to Sas (mother-in-law) and Bahu (daughter-in-law) but rather the short form of Shashtra Bahu, another name of Lord Vishnu. These temples situated adjacent to each other and the larger one is elaborately decorated with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The roof of the larger temple is adorned with a marvelous lotus carving which is very fascinating. These ancient temples display exceptional architectural brilliance and are a perfect destination for pious people.
Teli Ka Mandir (Telangana Mandir)- A lofty structure of about 100 feet, Teli Ka Mandir in Gwalior Fort distinguishes itself from the other compositions of its time because of its unique architecture. Though the roof of the temple holds a Dravidian look, the sculptures are typically north Indian.
The temple bears a close resemblance to Prathihara Vishnu temple, and is filled with images of coiled serpents, passionate couples, river goddesses and a flying Garuda. The temple architecture follows Indo Aryan and Nagara style that exhibits superior artistic caliber. A marvelous temple, believed to be the oldest constructions in the fort gives enchanting experience to the visitor.
Gwalior Zoo (Gandhi zoological Park)- This is one of the most lively and beautiful zoological parks of Madhya Pradesh. Its main attractions include Jamuna, a white tiger, serpents, golden pheasants, sambhar, hyena, bison, and others.
Sarod Ghar-This Museum of Music has been set up in the old ancestral house of the legendary Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan. It houses ancient instruments of the great Indian Masters of yesteryear. It also houses an impressive collection of photographs and documents. Sarod Ghar is a unique institution devoted to promoting Indian classical music, heritage and culture. Through this 'window' to the past, music lovers can gain a better understanding of the evolution and history of our classical music and a deeper perspective and insight into the context of the art as it exists today.
Roop Singh Stadium is a cricket ground. The stadium has hosted 10 One Day International (ODI) matches. Of the 10 matches played so far, the first one was played between India and West Indies on 22 January 1988. The ground has flood lights and has hosted day-night encounters as well. One match of the 1996 Cricket World Cup was also played on this ground, between India and West Indies. This ground is famous for hosting the ODI between India and South Africa in which Sachin Tendulkar scored a double century.
City Mall, one of the biggest malls of Madhya Pradesh. A multi-storied grand structure, it houses shops and showrooms of many national and international brands and has a number of eateries, as well as a Fun Cinemas multiplex. There are also some international and world-famous fast food restaurants like Domino's Pizza and McDonald's in DD City Mall.
Tighra Dam: located on the outskirts of the city, Tighra is a nice place for an outing. Tighra Dam is now being used to store water from the Sank river and supply water to the whole of the city.
