Here’s why Madhya Pradesh’s Mandu is an architectural marvel

When we talk about forts or royal residences, it’s easy to think about Rajasthan. But we are here for an ancient city which is not in Rajasthan but in Madhya Pradesh. Located in Dhar district, in the Malwa and Nimar region, is the small town of Mandav or the erstwhile Mandu.

Also read: India’s most underrated places for your 2023 wishlist

This ancient city is best known for its grand and timeless architecture. Located approximately 100 km from the city of Indore, Mandu is a quick and fun getaway for those interested in timeless architecture.



As per old inscriptions, sometime around 6th century, Mandu was a bustling town.


The present-day town of Mandav is what’s left of the erstwhile town of Mandu. Several rulers came and went, from the Paramaras to the Delhi Sultanate and the Ghuri Dynasty, Mandu was a favoured seat of these kingdoms. And we can see why.



Perched on the lofty Vindhya Range, overlooking the Malwa Plateau and the Narmada river valley, Mandu enjoyed a strategic position.


When in Mandu, one can’t help but notice the 37 km battlemented wall with 12 gateways placed in strategic places. They were pretty serious about being a military outpost!



The wall encompasses several forts and palaces, reservoirs, mosques and temples. Some of the most striking ones are Roopmati’s Pavilion, Baz Bahadur’s Palace, Rewa Kund, Jami Masjid, Shri Mandavagadh Teerth (Jain Temple), Hoshang Shah’s Tomb (India’s first marble structure), Jahaz Mahal (the venue for the famous Mandu Festival - January 7-11), Hindola Mahal, and the 12 darwazas punctuating the 37 km wall. To reach Mandu, you will have to go through several of these darwazas.


What a stunning military outpost it must have been during its heyday! These remainders of the kingdoms past will definitely take you back in time.