The seat of the mighty Scindhiyas (one of the chief clans of the Marathas), Gwalior is one of the most famous cities of Madhya Pradesh. The city was founded by the Kachwaha chieftain Suraj Sen.
The new city of Gwalior has three large areas, namely, Lashkar, Morar and Gwalior. Lashkar is much known for business activities while Morar is a major market for the farmers and villagers of the adjoining areas. Gwalior, also called Old Gwalior, boasts of most of the tourist places.
The mammoth 15th century Gwalior Fort, called the ‘Gibraltar of India’, is the pride of Gwalior. A significant portion of the fort was built during the reign of the greatest of the Tomar rulers, Man Singh, for his queen Mrignayani. The strong and well-built fort, which is located atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the city.
The Gwalior Fort was one of the main locations where the freedom fighters, led by the brave Rani Laxmi Bai, had fought a fierce battle against the British inspiring others to follow suit to drive the foreigners out of the country. Gujari Mahal and Man Mandir located inside the fort are key tourist hotspots which have greatly added to the fort’s appeal.
Jai Vilas Palace, Mia Tansen Tomb and Mohammad Ghaus Tomb are some other attractions of the city. Jai Vilas Palace is an amazingly eye-catching palace. Built on the pattern of Palais de Vieillesse, France, this palace is the Scindhia family's present residence.
Gwalior is well connected by rail, road and air and is only 122 km away from Agra which is much famed for the one and only Taj Mahal.
