Mandu, the capital of the ancient Malwa region, in the heart of India, with an astounding 48 small and large monuments, remains largely unknown to the rest of the world. Mandu, with many ‘gems’ located in its midst, is in Dhar district, western Madhya Pradesh. Some of the ones that glitter to this day are described here.
Rani Roopmati’s Pavilion:
Legend has it that Baz Bahadur, the last Sultan of Malwa (1555-1562 A.D), who was once out hunting, was so awestruck by the beauty and singing prowess of a shepherdess, Roopmati, that he urged her to marry him. Roopmati had taken a vow of abstinence from food until she could see the River Narmada. She agreed to marry Baz on the condition that a pavilion be built on a hilltop overlooking the Nimar valley and the Narmada. This pavilion offers a glorious view of both the valley and river: it’s perhaps the jewel in Mandu’s crown.
Jami Mosque:
The construction of this mosque was started by Sultan Hoshang Shah Ghori and completed by Mahmud Shah Khilji in 1454 AD. Being one of the largest mosques in India, the building style was modelled upon a grand mosque in Damascus. Lovely jaali work, painted enamel and a fine panorama of domes are its most noteworthy features.
Jahaz Mahal:
Built during the reign of Mahmud Shah Khilji (1436-1469) and surrounded by two artificial lakes, Munj Talao on the left and Kapoor Talao to the right, this palace looks like it is a ship floating on water — hence, the name ‘Jahaz Mahal’, or marine palace.
The lakes served a dual purpose: they look spectacular from the palace and they were also an integral part of an intricate air cooling system for the premises throughout the year. Jahaz Mahal is definitely one of the best surviving examples of innovative Mughal architecture in India, having been extolled even by the great Mughal Emperor Jehangir for its romantic ambience. He has written in his memoir of the wonderful time he spent there with his beloved wife, Nur Jahan, during a trip.
Among other attractions worth visiting Mandu for are: Hindola Mahal, Baz Bahadur’s Palace, Rewa Kund, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb and Neelkanth Mahal.
One can also plan an excursion to the nearby town of Maheshwar and see the immensely popular Shiva Temple and Royal Palace of the Holkars on the banks of the River Narmada.
Mandu is a must-visit for its history, easy accessibility and great food. Indore is the nearest airport and the railway station is about 90 km away from Mandu and is well connected to all the metros and state capitals.