Gwalior is a historical and culturally rich city located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, India. Here are some of the things you can do and places you can visit in Gwalior:
Gwalior Fort: The Gwalior Fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The fort is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the city. The fort has many temples, palaces, and monuments that are worth visiting.
Jai Vilas Palace: The Jai Vilas Palace is a magnificent palace built by the Scindia family. The palace has a mix of Indian and European architectural styles and is now a museum that showcases the lifestyle of the Scindia family.
Sun Temple: The Sun Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to the Sun God. The temple is built in the shape of a chariot and has intricate carvings and sculptures.
Teli Ka Mandir: Teli Ka Mandir is a beautiful temple located inside the Gwalior Fort. The temple has a mix of North Indian and South Indian architectural styles and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Sas Bahu Temple: Sas Bahu Temple is a group of two temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temples have intricate carvings and sculptures and are located inside the Gwalior Fort.
Gopachal Parvat: Gopachal Parvat is a Jain pilgrimage site located near Gwalior. The site has many Jain temples and statues carved out of rock.
Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus: The Tomb of Mohammad Ghaus is a beautiful mausoleum built in memory of the Sufi saint Mohammad Ghaus. The tomb has beautiful architecture and is located in a peaceful environment.
Shopping: Gwalior is famous for its textiles and handicrafts. You can shop for Chanderi sarees, Maheshwari sarees, and handicrafts made of stone and wood.
Food: Gwalior has a rich culinary tradition and is famous for its kebabs, biryanis, and sweets. You can try the local delicacies at the many restaurants and street food stalls in the city.
Excursions: You can also take excursions to nearby places like the Bateshwar Temples, Madhav National Park, and the Chambal River Sanctuary.
These are some of the popular things to do and places to visit in Gwalior. The city has a rich history and culture, and there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
Places to Visit in Gwalior
Gwalior is a city rich in history and culture, and there are many places to visit in and around the city. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions:
Gwalior Fort: The Gwalior Fort is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The fort is built on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the city. It has several palaces, temples, and monuments, including the Man Mandir Palace, the Gujari Mahal Museum, and the Teli ka Mandir.
Jai Vilas Palace: The Jai Vilas Palace is a grand palace built by the Scindia family. It is now a museum that showcases the family’s lifestyle and has an extensive collection of art, furniture, and artifacts.
Sas Bahu Temple: The Sas Bahu Temple is a group of two temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. They have beautiful carvings and sculptures and are located inside the Gwalior Fort.
Teli ka Mandir: Teli ka Mandir is a temple located inside the Gwalior Fort. It is a fusion of North and South Indian architectural styles and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Sun Temple: The Sun Temple is a stunning temple dedicated to the Sun God. It is built in the shape of a chariot and has intricate carvings and sculptures.
Gujari Mahal Archaeological Museum: The Gujari Mahal Museum is located inside the Gwalior Fort and has a collection of ancient artifacts, sculptures, and coins.
Tomb of Tansen: The Tomb of Tansen is a mausoleum built in memory of the famous musician Tansen. It is located in a peaceful environment and has beautiful architecture.
Scindia Museum: The Scindia Museum is located inside the Jai Vilas Palace and has a vast collection of weapons, paintings, and artifacts.
Chambal Ravines: The Chambal River Sanctuary is located near Gwalior and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. It has several species of birds, crocodiles, and the endangered gharial.
Bateshwar Temples: The Bateshwar Temples are a group of ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. They are located near Gwalior and have intricate carvings and sculptures.
These are some of the popular places to visit in Gwalior. The city has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant history, making it an exciting destination to explore.
Best Time To Visit Gwalior
The best time to visit Gwalior is from October to March, during the winter season. The weather during this time is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 27°C, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions. The winter season is also the time for several festivals and events, such as the Tansen Music Festival and the Gwalior Trade Fair, which add to the city’s vibrancy.
The summer season in Gwalior, which lasts from April to June, can be scorching hot with temperatures reaching up to 45°C. The monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, brings relief from the heat but also causes heavy rainfall and humidity, making it difficult to explore the city’s attractions.
Therefore, the winter season is the best time to visit Gwalior as the weather is pleasant, and the city is at its best. However, visitors should keep in mind that the winter season is also the peak tourist season, and the crowds at popular attractions can be significant.
Things to Do in Gwalior
Gwalior is a city rich in history and culture, and there are many things to do and see in and around the city. Here are some of the popular things to do in Gwalior:
Explore the Gwalior Fort: The Gwalior Fort is a massive fort that dominates the city skyline. It has several palaces, temples, and monuments, including the Man Mandir Palace, the Gujari Mahal Museum, and the Teli ka Mandir. Visitors can spend hours exploring the fort and admiring its architecture and history.
Visit the Jai Vilas Palace: The Jai Vilas Palace is a grand palace built by the Scindia family. It is now a museum that showcases the family’s lifestyle and has an extensive collection of art, furniture, and artifacts. Visitors can explore the palace and learn about the history of the Scindia family.
Attend the Tansen Music Festival: The Tansen Music Festival is an annual music festival that celebrates the legacy of the famous musician Tansen. The festival features classical music performances by renowned artists from across India.
Take a walk in the old city: The old city of Gwalior is a labyrinth of narrow streets, old buildings, and markets. Visitors can take a walk in the old city and experience the local culture, food, and architecture.
Visit the Sas Bahu Temple: The Sas Bahu Temple is a group of two temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. They have beautiful carvings and sculptures and are located inside the Gwalior Fort. Visitors can marvel at the temple’s intricate carvings and learn about its history.
Take a day trip to Chambal Ravines: The Chambal River Sanctuary is located near Gwalior and is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can take a day trip to the sanctuary and explore its natural beauty, wildlife, and birdlife.
Attend the Gwalior Trade Fair: The Gwalior Trade Fair is an annual event that attracts visitors from across the region. The fair showcases local handicrafts, textiles, and food and is a great place to experience the local culture and traditions.
These are some of the popular things to do in Gwalior. The city has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant history, making it an exciting destination to explore.
How to get around in Gwalior
Gwalior is a city located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. There are several modes of transportation available in Gwalior that you can use to get around the city:
Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are one of the most common modes of transportation in Gwalior. They are affordable and can take you to almost any part of the city.
City buses: Gwalior has a good network of city buses operated by the Madhya Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (MPSRTC). The buses are affordable and can take you to most parts of the city.
Taxis: Taxis are also available in Gwalior, and they are a good option if you want a more comfortable and private mode of transportation. You can book a taxi through various mobile applications or local taxi operators.
Cycle rickshaws: Cycle rickshaws are also available in Gwalior, and they are a good option if you want a more eco-friendly mode of transportation. They are usually used for shorter distances.
Private vehicles: You can also rent a car or a scooter to get around in Gwalior if you have a valid driving license.
It’s important to note that traffic can be quite heavy in Gwalior, so plan your journey accordingly and try to avoid peak traffic hours.
where to eat in Gwalior
Gwalior is a city known for its rich history and culture, and it also has a diverse and delicious food scene. Here are some popular places where you can find good food in Gwalior:
Kwality Restaurant: Kwality is one of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Gwalior. It serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes, and is especially known for its kebabs.
Agarwal Puri Bhandar: Agarwal Puri Bhandar is a popular street food joint in Gwalior that serves delicious and crispy puris with aloo sabzi and chole. It’s a great place to grab a quick and tasty breakfast.
Daawat-e-Khaas: Daawat-e-Khaas is a fine-dining restaurant in Gwalior that serves authentic Mughlai and Awadhi cuisine. It’s a good place to go if you want to indulge in some rich and flavorful food.
Vyanjan Family Restaurant: Vyanjan is a popular family restaurant in Gwalior that serves a variety of North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese dishes. It’s a good place to go if you’re looking for a casual and affordable dining experience.
The Central Courtyard: The Central Courtyard is a rooftop restaurant located in the center of Gwalior. It offers a beautiful view of the city and serves a variety of Indian and Continental dishes.
These are just a few examples of the many great places to eat in Gwalior. You can also explore the local street food scene and try out some of the delicious chaat, samosas, and other snacks that Gwalior is famous for.
famous street stalls in Gwalior
Gwalior is a city known for its rich history and culture, and it also has a vibrant street food scene. Here are some popular street stalls in Gwalior where you can find delicious and affordable food:
Jayendraganj Golgappa Wala: Located in the Jayendraganj area of Gwalior, this street stall is known for its crispy and spicy golgappas (also known as pani puri or puchka). The vendor also serves other chaat items like dahi bhalla, aloo tikki, and papdi chaat.
Radhe Lal Kachori Wala: This street stall is famous for its crispy and flavorful kachoris (deep-fried stuffed bread) served with spicy chutneys and aloo sabzi. The stall is located in the Naya Bazar area of Gwalior.
Shri Ram Chat Bhandar: This street food joint is located near the Gwalior railway station and is known for its lip-smacking chaat items like sev puri, bhel puri, and dahi bhalla. The chaat is served with a tangy tamarind chutney and spicy green chutney.
Mama Ke Chinese: Mama Ke Chinese is a popular street food stall located in the Lashkar area of Gwalior. It serves a variety of Chinese dishes like noodles, fried rice, and Manchurian. The food is spicy and flavorful, and the portions are generous.
Raja Juice Corner: This street stall is located in the Hazira Chowk area of Gwalior and is known for its refreshing and flavorful fruit juices. The vendor uses fresh and seasonal fruits to make the juices, which are a great way to beat the heat during the summer months.
These are just a few examples of the many great street stalls in Gwalior. You can also explore the local markets and neighborhoods to discover more hidden gems.
where to stay in Gwalior
luxury accomodation
Gwalior has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. If you are looking for luxury accommodation, here are some options you can consider:
Taj Usha Kiran Palace: Taj Usha Kiran Palace is a luxurious heritage hotel located in the heart of Gwalior. The hotel is housed in a 120-year-old palace and offers opulent rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a spa, and multiple dining options.
Radisson Gwalior: Radisson Gwalior is a five-star hotel located on the outskirts of the city. The hotel offers modern and spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
Clarks Inn Suites Gwalior: Clarks Inn Suites Gwalior is a luxury hotel located in the city center. The hotel offers elegantly designed rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
The Vinayak: The Vinayak is a boutique hotel located in the city center. The hotel offers spacious and stylish rooms and suites, a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, and a bar.
Deo Bagh: Deo Bagh is a luxurious heritage hotel located on the outskirts of Gwalior. The hotel is housed in a 17th-century palace and offers spacious and elegant rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a spa, and multiple dining options.
These are just a few examples of the luxury accommodation options available in Gwalior. You can also explore other high-end hotels and resorts in the city to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
where to stay in Gwalior
budget accomodation
If you are looking for budget accommodation options in Gwalior, here are some options you can consider:
Hotel Suruchi: Hotel Suruchi is a budget hotel located in the city center. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.
OYO 4887 Hotel Saya: OYO 4887 Hotel Saya is a budget hotel located in the Lashkar area of Gwalior. The hotel offers clean and cozy rooms, free Wi-Fi, and basic amenities like 24-hour room service and a restaurant.
Hotel Sita Manor: Hotel Sita Manor is a budget hotel located in the city center. The hotel offers basic but clean rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.
Hotel Ambassador: Hotel Ambassador is a budget hotel located in the city center. The hotel offers simple and clean rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.
Hotel Shelter: Hotel Shelter is a budget hotel located in the city center. The hotel offers basic but clean rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service.
These are just a few examples of the budget accommodation options available in Gwalior. You can also explore other budget hotels and guesthouses in the city to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Travel Tips Gwalior
If you’re planning a trip to Gwalior, here are some travel tips that may be helpful:
Visit the Gwalior Fort: Gwalior Fort is one of the major attractions of the city and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. The fort is located on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the city.
Explore the local markets: Gwalior is known for its local markets that offer a variety of goods, including textiles, handicrafts, and traditional jewelry. The Sarafa Bazaar and the Laskar market are some of the popular markets in the city.
Try the local cuisine: Gwalior has a vibrant street food scene, and trying out the local cuisine is a must-do when you’re in the city. Some of the popular local dishes include kachori, bedai, and chaat.
Dress appropriately: Gwalior is a conservative city, and it’s important to dress modestly, especially when you’re visiting religious sites.
Hire a local guide: Hiring a local guide can be helpful when exploring the city, especially if you want to learn more about its history and culture.
Plan your trip during the winter season: Gwalior experiences extreme temperatures during the summer months, and it can be difficult to explore the city in the heat. The winter months (October to March) are the best time to visit Gwalior, as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Carry cash: While some establishments in Gwalior may accept credit or debit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash, especially when you’re exploring the local markets and street food stalls.
These are just a few travel tips for visiting Gwalior. With a little planning and preparation, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to this historic and culturally rich city.