A turbulent and pretty eventful pas, the Gwalior Fort

The impregnable fort of Gwalior is located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh. It was named as “ the pearl amongst fortresses in India” by the Mughal emperor Babar. The fort spreads out over an area of 3 sq. km and is bounded by solid walls of sandstone, which enclose three temples, six palaces and a number of water tanks. The fort got constructed by Raja Man Singh Tomar in the 15th century. The imposing citadel has changed hands many times, from the Tomaras in the 8th century, to the Scindhias who were its masters when India became independent. and each of these dynasties adorned and embellished the fort.

It is built on a hill of sandstone and towers 100 m from the plain. The outer wall of the fort is almost 2 miles in length and the width varies from one kms to 200 meters. The walls of the fort gives way onto the steep slopes. This fort has been a witness to many ups and downs of the period.The Gwalior Fort is the perfect blend of the Hindu and Muslim architecture that characterises the fort and finds its fullest expression in this brilliant monument.

The De Facto
Location - Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh
Built In - 15th Century
Area - 3 sq . km
Best Time To Visit - October to early March
Entrance Tariff - US $ 2 for foreigners
Access
By Air
Gwalior has its own airport that is situated 8 km. from the main city. Gwalior is connected by Indian Airlines to Mumbai, Bhopal, Indore, and Delhi. The services are operational three days a week.
By Rail
The Gwalior Railway Station lies within the city area. It is on the main Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai rail link. Among major trains, the Taj and Shatabdi Express connect Gwalior with Delhi and Agra.
By Road
Gwalior is very well connected by a network of roads and road transport to all major towns of Madhya Pradesh and surrounding areas. Gwalior is well linked with Agra (118 km), Mathura, Jaipur (350 km), Delhi (321 km), Lucknow, Bhopal (423 km), Chanderi (239 km), Indore (486 km), Jhansi (101 km), Khajuraho (275 km), Ujjain (455 km), and Shivpuri (114 km).

Did You Know?

• The city derives its name from the hermit sage 'Gwalipa' who according to a legend cured the chieftain Suraj Sen of a deadly disease in 8 A.D.
• The fort also has an unlimited water supply, as there are many water tanks on the plateau.