Mandu

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Mandu is a popular tourist spot in Madhya Pradesh and a favored excursion destination from Indore. The historical town is situated centrally at a distance of 283 km from Bhopal.

The town of Mandu witnessed several takeovers, invasions and glorious rules by famous dynasties of the past including the Mughals, the Afghans, the Marathas etc. It was basically founded as a retreat by Raja Bhoj in the 10th century and it was not until the 13th century when Muslim rulers conquered the town. The tumultuous environment was yet to cease as the next few centuries saw it being under the subjugation of first the Afghans, then the Mughals and finally the Marthas. This period also saw Mandu being abandoned for an extended period of time as the capital of Malwa was shifted back to Dhar.

Today, the site figures as one of the prominent historical places in India and the various monuments located here stands as a testimony to its glorious past. Bravery and valor reverberates from its walls, telling legendary tales from the bygone era apart from being a much sought after tourist attraction. Overall, these monuments are divided into three categories namely, the Royal Enclave Group, the Village Group and the Rewa Kund Group.

Royal Enclave Group:

Jahaz Mahal: This ship-like structure was constructed by Ghiyas-ud-din and is today the most famous building in Mandu. Built for the royal harems, the building once used to house over 15,000 maidens. To create an illusion of a floating ship, two lakes also exists to its east and west side.

Taveli Mahal: The Archeological Survey of India has some antiquity gallery housed here which is located just south of Jahaz Mahal.

Hindola Mahal (Swing Palace): Constructed as a pleasure dome, its illusionary design is such that it gives the impression that the inward slopes of the walls are swaying.

Village Group

Jama Masjid: This sacred Mosque with its palatial size was built in 1454 and stands today overshadowing the village of Mandu. The structure is considered as possessing one of the finest examples of Afghan architecture in India.

Hoshang's Tomb: This monument is said to be the oldest marble structure in India. Constructed in 1435 just behind Jama masjid mosque, its architecture depicts typical Hindu influences like carved marble lattice screens. According to legends, a special envoy was sent to study its architecture before commencing the construction of Taj Mahal.

Ashrafi Mahal: This monuments is now mostly in ruins. Originally built as a madarsa, the fort was later renovated and extended as Mohammed Shah's tomb.

The Jain Temples: Comprising of a complex of numerous buildings including a Jain museum, this complex is a major part of Mandu historical monuments.

Rewa Kund Group

Baz Bahadur Palace: This palace is dedicated to the last independent king of Malwa who figured in several folk stories as the lover of one Rupmati. Constructed in 1509, beside Rewa Kund. The palace displays a curious mix of Rajasthani and Mughal style of architecture. There was a water lift at the northern end of the tank to supply water to the tank.

Rupmati's Pavilion: This romantic structure is dedicated to Rupmati and is located at the very edge of Mandu Fort. According to locals, Mughal ruler Akbar attacked Mandu town for the sake of Rupmati compelling Baz Bahadur to flee the town. Rupmati later poisoned herself resulting in a tragic end to their love story.