Mandu is a story of stones, life and joy. It narrates the love of the poet-prince Baaz Bahadur for his beautiful queen Rani Roopmati. The city adorns magnificient Afghani architecture and Mughal styles. You would find a lot of history in this place. During Mughal rule, it was like a pleasure resort with beautiful lakes and palaces.
Mandu had its fort since 6th century BC. In the 10th century, the Parmars of Malwa kingdom based their capital in Ujjain and later in Dhar under the rule of Raja Bhoja. Mandu then gained importance. Later the Malwa kingdom became a part of the Delhi Sultanate. In 1401, when the Mongols raided Delhi, Malwa became independent. Since then Malwa saw a period of prosperity. It continued till the Marathas captured Mandu in 1732.
Located high on the Vindhya hills at an altitude of 2000 ft, originally Mandu was the fort capital of the Parmars, the rulers of Malwa. It was blessed with its range of natural defences. When in 13th century it came under the power of the sultans of Malwa its’ name was changed to ‘Shadiabad’ meaning city of Joy. This city indeed has a lot to do with happiness as per its legend. Mandu sports wonderful architecture like Jami Masjid and Hoshang Shah’s tomb, which proved to be an inspiration for the architecture of Taj Mahal centuries later.
The climate of Mandu is extreme. In summer the temperature rises to a high of 36 degree centigrade and during winter it reaches a low of 7 degree centigrade.
The best season to travel to Mandu is during the Monsoons when it is at its best So plan a trip between July and September.
There is no money and banking facilities in Mandu. Exchange money from Indore while coming.
No special permit is required to travel to Mandu. Just a visa to India is all what is needed.
By Air The nearest airport to Mandu is at Indore which is around 100 km away. Taxis / buses can be availed to reach Mandu.
By Train The nearest railway station to Mandu is Ratlam and Indore.
By Road Mandu has a well network of roads. One can easily get a bus from Indore, Dhar, Mhow, Ratlam, Ujjain and Bhopal.
Mandu has a variety of places for tourists’ interest.
Jain Temples: This temples have beautiful statues of Tirthankaras. Made from Marble, these statues are decorated with gold, silver and Jade (eyes).
Jahaz Mahal: This building is most popular among the tourists. It is made in a ship like shape, so that’s where it gets its’ name from. It has two lakes on its east and west side which gives an illusion of a ship in harbor.
Haveli Mahal: Towards South of Jahaz Mahal, is this Palace which serves as a Museum for Archaelogical survey of India and displays some nice antiques.
Hindola Mahal: It is a church like structure. The inward slopes of its wall give it a swaying effect.
Champa Baoli: The well gets its name from the Champa flowers. Its water had a fragrance of champa.
Jama Masjid: This magnificient Mosque was built by the ruler Hoshang Shah. It is the largest and best example of Afghan Architecture in India.
Hoshang’s Tomb: Termed as the oldest Marble building, this tomb houses the remains of Hoshang Shah who died in 1435. It is believed that Shah Jahan was impressed with its architecture and he sent his architects to study it before starting the construction of Taj Mahal.
Asharfi Mahal: It was built by Mohammad Shah as a school but later he decided to make it his tomb. This building collapsed as a result of malfunctioned architecture and now it is a grand stairway which leads to the palace ruins.
Roopmati’s Pavillion: Built at the edge of the fort, it has a wonderful view of River Narmada and the plains.
Hathi Mahal: Built on Massive pillars which resemble the legs of an elephant. This building is a dome with wonderful architecture. You can also visit Darya Khan’s Tomb near this place.
Nil Kanth Palace: Originally a Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, Nil Kanth palace was made into a palace with a waterfall running in the center.
Where To Eat:.
You can find some nice restaurants here where you can have a nice lunch or dinner. Try ‘Relax Point’, ‘Krishna’, ‘Shivani’, or try one of the many small roadside eating joints offering delicious food. It is tasty and cheap but not always very hygienic. Try ‘Dal Bati’ and ‘Bafla’ with ‘churma ke laddu’ which is a popular local dish in Madhya Pradesh.
Where To Stay:
Dharmshalas are a good option for Indian visitors coming to Mandu. They offer good quality at very reasonable rates, but they allow only short trips and are open only for Indians. One may find these at the Jain Temple and the other at Shree Ram Mandir.
MP Tourism runs Tourist Cottage and Tourist Lodge which can be booked in advance from their office in Indore. There are several other hotels which offer accommodation:
Hotel Rani Rupmati: This is considered as the best hotel in Mandu and has luxurios AC Rooms and restaurant.
Hotel Maharaja at Jahaz Mahal: This is best in terms of budget options as it gives you very reasonable rates.
