Things to Explore Once You Move To Gwalior

Gwalior, located in the northern part of Madhya Pradesh, is a historically and culturally rich city. If you are planning to move to Gwalior, there are many exciting things for you to explore in this city with a royal past. From magnificent forts to palatial museums, Gwalior has a lot to offer. Here are some of the top things you must experience after moving to the city:

Visit the Majestic Gwalior Fort

The towering Gwalior Fort, perched atop a steep hill, is the most prominent landmark of the city. This imposing hill fortress spreads over an area of 3 square km and consists of two main palaces – Gujari Mahal and Man Mandir. Take a walk through the winding lanes of the fort to admire its magnificent architecture. Don’t miss the sound and light show held every evening at the fort. It narrates the history of the fort in an engaging manner.

With its soaring walls and intricate carvings, Gwalior Fort gives you a glimpse into the glorious past of this city. Spend a few hours exploring the palaces, temples, water tanks, and museums within the fort complex. The splendid views of Gwalior city from the fort’s ramparts are simply breathtaking.

Shop at Sarafa and Patankar Bazaars

Gwalior is known for its traditional markets that sell everything from fabrics to jewellery. Two of the most popular ones are Sarafa Bazaar and Patankar Bazaar. Take a stroll through these lively bazaars to get a taste of old-world charm.

Sarafa Bazaar glitters with gold and silver jewelry. You can also shop for stylish jootis made of soft leather. Patankar Bazaar is famous for fabrics like chanderi silk and Maheshwari. Don’t forget to pick up some aromatic ittar (perfume) as well. End your shopping spree with Gwalior’s famous delicacy – kachoris, at Hazari Lal Kachori shop.

Visit the Mughal-style Jai Vilas Palace

Jai Vilas Palace gives you a glimpse of the opulent lifestyle of Gwalior’s royals. The durbar hall with massive chandeliers, the dining hall with a silver train, and the indoor tennis court are some of the highlights.

The museum within the palace displays an interesting collection of antiques belonging to the Scindia clan. Admire royal memorabilia like swords, documents, crystal, and miniature paintings. Don’t miss the quirky items like a shirt with nine buttons and a carpet weighing over a ton!

Attend the World-Famous Tansen Music Festival

Gwalior has a rich musical heritage as it was the birthplace of legendary singer Tansen. Every year in December, the city hosts a four-day music festival to honor Tansen’s legacy. It is held near his tomb and draws famous classical singers from all over India.

Attending the Tansen Music Festival is a magical experience, especially if you love Indian classical music. Let the soulful notes of Hindustani classical ragas transport you to another realm. Watching Maestros perform against the backdrop of the illuminated tomb at night is simply surreal.

Take a Day Trip to Shivpuri for Wildlife

Just a few hours from Gwalior lies the stunning Madhav National Park in Shivpuri district. Take a day trip to enjoy a safari ride through the park in an open jeep.

You can spot animals like chital, nilgai, langur, wild boar, and reptiles, including marsh crocodiles. Don’t forget to carry your binoculars and camera!

Spend an Evening at Tighra Dam

Tighra Dam, built on the Sank River, is a popular weekend getaway for locals. The shimmering reservoir surrounded by hills makes for a pretty sunset viewpoint. You can also enjoy boating on the dam waters. Go on a serene shikara ride or opt for speed boating for some thrill.

There are numerous food stalls near the dam selling snacks like corn on the cob and chaat. Buy some munchies and find a nice spot along the banks to relax and enjoy the sunset. As evening approaches, the lights from the food stalls reflect prettily on the water.

Marvel at the Rock Sculptures on Urvai Hill

On the slopes of Urvai Hill are ancient rock-cut Jain statues that make for an interesting excursion. Climb up the hill to see the colossal 47-foot statue of the Jain Tirthankara Adinath, carved out of a monolithic stone. There are also images of the 23 other Tirthankaras etched into the stone.

These sculptures were built in the 15th century during the reign of Tomar kings, who were Jain patrons. The site provides lovely panoramic views of Gwalior city. It is a historically significant monument that deserves a visit.

Explore the Archaeological Treasures at Gujari Mahal

Within the fort complex, Gujari Mahal is an archaeological museum that houses a rare collection of ancient sculptures. It was built in the 15th century as a palace for King Man Singh Tomar’s queen, Mrignayani. The most prized exhibit is the Indian Mona Lisa – a sculpture called Shalabhanjika.

Wander through the museum galleries to admire 6th-century Gupta period statues, gracefully carved temple pillars, and heads of Buddha and Jain Tirthankaras. The statue gallery displays some exquisite stonework that reflects the skills of sculptors through the ages.

Relish the Flavours at Chhatri Bazaar

When you want to experience Gwalior’s street food culture, head to Chhatri Bazaar near Phool Bagh. The market is lined with food carts and stalls dishing out piping-hot snacks all through the day.

Try local favourites like samosas, kachoris, jalebis, gulab jamuns and gajak. Wash it all down with a cooling glass of thandai or lassi. You can also sample more substantial fare like bedai, sabzi, and dal baati in eateries around the bazaar. Don’t miss the amazing ‘dahi ke kebabs’ – crisp fried lentil dumplings soaked in curd.

Feel the Adrenaline Rush at Splash – The Water Park

Beat the heat by spending a fun day at Splash – Gwalior’s popular water park. Get your adrenaline pumping on thrilling rides like the Boomerang, Twister, and Kamikaze Slider.

Younger kids will love the gentle rides like the Wave Pool, Mushroom Fall, and Rain Dance. There are also lazy rivers, water slides, and swimming pools for visitors of all ages to enjoy. After splashing around in the water, recharge with snacks and cool drinks from the food counters inside the park.

Enjoy a Performance at Kala Vithika Auditorium

Kala Vithika is Gwalior’s largest auditorium that hosts cultural shows and events throughout the year. From music concerts to plays, you can catch some great performing arts shows at this modern venue. The auditorium has state-of-the-art acoustics, seating over 700 people.

Attending a lively music or dance performance at Kala Vithika is a must. It is a great way to experience Gwalior’s vibrant cultural scene. You may even spot celebrities and renowned artists who come to perform here. Check the schedule online and book your tickets for an entertaining evening out.

Moving to a new city is always an adventure. Gwalior will charm you with its old-world coexistence with the modern. There is so much to see and experience in this historically significant place. Take time to explore the monuments, markets, and natural sites once you move here. Let the music, food, and rich culture of Gwalior grow on you. With so many treasures waiting to be discovered, you will never have a dull moment in this city!

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