Mandavgarh or Mandu is an ancient city that is located in the State of Madhya Pradesh. Lush greenery and thin forest cover a huge part of the city. Home to the best defined Afghan architecture, this plateau is coined as a World Heritage property place that has various types of tombs, palaces, and monuments that prove to be some amazing places to visit in Mandu. It can be a great place for exploring ancient Afghan architecture and learning about them in deep. A wonderfully rural setting will also give complete peace of mind. The more you will explore this place the more you will feel like delving deeper into it. In all, Mandu is a place that merges history and the element of romance in the best possible way.
20 Best Places To Visit In Mandu
Mandu, the ancient city has a lot to explore, and the historical places and establishments scattered in the different parts of the city are nothing less than a treat. This ancient fort city is known for its Afghan architectural heritage and famous buildings include Hoshang Shah’s Tomb. Check out the below list of the best Mandu tourist places that you must visit on your trip.
- Jahaz Mahal: Built By Ghiyas-Ud-Din-Khilji
- Rani Roopmati Pavilion: Built By Baz Bahadur
- Hindola Mahal: Built By Hushang Shah
- Jami Masjid: Built By Hoshang Shah
- Munja Talao: Built By Ghiyas-Ud-Din-Khilji
- Baz Bahadur’s Palace: Built By Raja Bhoj
- Bagh Caves: Built By Dataka
- Nilkanth Mahadev Temple: Built By Shah Bagh Khan
- Shree Mandavgarh Tirth: Built By Ghiyas-Ud-Din-Khilji
- Hathi Mahal: Built By Nasir-Ud-Din
- Ashrafi Mahal: Built By Mahmud Khilji
- Dilawar Khan’s Mosque: Buily By Dilawar Khan
- Hoshang Shah’s Tomb: Built During The Reign Of Hoshang Shah
- Rewa Kund: Built By Baz Bahadur
- Darya Khan’s Tomb: Built By Darya Khan
- Sagar Talao: Built By Malik Mughith
- Lohani Caves: Built By Khilji Sultan Nasir-ud-Din
- Caravan Sarai Monument: Built By Mandu Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji
- Rupayan Museum: A Well-Maintained Museum
- Champa Baoli: Built By Mandu Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji
1. Jahaz Mahal: Built By Ghiyas-Ud-Din-Khilji
It is one of the main attractions of Mandu where tourists make their way. This Mahal was built under the supervision and reign of Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din-Khilji for keeping 15000 women who were his consorts. Built-in the 15th century, this palace sets an example of fine Afghan architecture that is rare to witness in the entire country. Surrounded by ponds on all sides, it is not hard to guess why the place gets its name. The image of the palace seems like it floats on the water like a ship. Standing mighty in the shape of a ship, it presents the best amalgamation of Afgan, Mughal, Hindu, and Egyptian architecture. It won’t be wrong stating that this place carries the main essence of the ancient city Mandu and missing this point of attraction will be a huge loss.
Address: Jahaz Mahal Internal Rd, Sulibardi, Madhya Pradesh 454010
Timings: 6.00 AM-6.00 PM
Entry fees: INR 5 per person
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2. Rani Roopmati Pavilion: Built By Baz Bahadur
This place holds a beautiful view of the Narmada River. This pavilion consists of a backstory of a medieval romance that started between King Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. There is a hilltop structure in front of the pavilion and during the early period, it was guarded by the skilled army men. Two watchtowers are located in the Pavilion. Apart from this, there is a courtyard that is present within the pavilion. Many have said and believed that Roopmati was a great classical singer. It is one of exceptional places to be visited in Mandu. The pavilion was mainly made so that Rani Roopmati could sing in a better way.
Address: Mandu, Mandav, Dhar, Madhya Pradesh 454010
Timings: 8.00 AM-6.00 PM
Entry fees: INR 5 per adult
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3. Hindola Mahal: Built By Hushang Shah
The “T” shaped Mahal was a great place and was mainly used as an Audience hall and an open-air theatre. The English meaning of the Hindola Mahal is “Swinging Palace.” The 77-degree wall gives a striking look at the overall palace. The construction of this building was made during 1425. The aesthetic appeal of this monument is very catchy and amazing. Although there is no such existence of this Mahal, it still stands in a dignified position. Most of the people come here to visit this Mahal in particular as it has a name in the list of the most amazing architecture.
Address: Sulibardi, Mandu, Madhya Pradesh 454010
Timings: 6.00 AM-7.00 PM
Entry fees: INR 5 per person
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4. Jami Masjid: Built By Hoshang Shah
It is a colossal landmark that has witnessed the prosperous history of Mandu is a great example of Afghan art. It was the main place where hordes of worshippers would arrive every day in the bygone area and they can see many domes and chambers. They were used for various purposes. It is a marvelous construction that was made by the Ghauri Dynasty. It is one of the best places to visit Mandu and also viewing the famous holy reservoir Rawa Kund. The marble work of the building still attracts people from all over the world. It is one of the best places that are present in Mandu. It is located on a top-location of Mandu. The artisan work is very beautiful, especially in this Masjid.
Adress: Jahaz Mahal internal Rd, Mandu, Mandav, Madhya Pradesh 454010.
Timings: 7.00 AM-7.00 PM
Entry fees: None
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5. Munja Talao: Built By Ghiyas-Ud-Din-Khilji
This Talao is located in the western part of the Jahaz Mahal. Another significance of this place is that the water body is quite large. During the monsoon period, the whole area remains filled with water. Sometimes, the area also gets over-flooded when there is continuous rain for a few days. Jahaz Mahal surrounds the Talao. If anyone goes to the top of this palace, they can get a clear view of the Talao. The water is so transparent that one can see their clear reflection on it. The place adjacent to the Talao is well maintained till this date. This Talao was quite famous during the ancient period and there are ample stories about this place.
Address: Internal Rd, Sulibardi, Madhya Pradesh 454010
Timings: 6.00 AM-7.00 PM
Entry fees: None
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6. Baz Bahadur’s Palace: Built By Raja Bhoj
Constructed in the year 1508-1509, this palace is the best place where one can see beautiful architecture. This palace was constructed by Khilji Sultan Nasir-ud-din. This palace shows a perfect blend of Afghan and Rajasthani architecture, which is a rare combination. The king was very fond of this palace due to his eternal love and attachment with Rani Roopmati. She used to visit the Rewa Kund regularly. To reach this palace, one has to climb steps and cover 40 broad steps.
Address: Mandav, Madhya Pradesh 454010
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry fees: None
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7. Bagh Caves: Built By Dataka
This name has been derived from the stream of Baghani that runs across the Buddhist sculptures. It consists of a series of sculptures and most of them are Buddhist by origin. It is situated in the Bagh town of Dhar District. One can also spot them on the southern slopes of Vindhya Ranges. There is also a set of 9 rock-cut monuments that are said to have been established by the Buddhist Monk named Dataka during the 4th and 6TH Century AD. The ceiling is filled with a thick cover of mud plaster. This place is said to be one of the most amazing and commanding sites to be visited during the Mandu trip.
Address: Bagh Cave Road, Naingaon, Dhar, Madhya Pradesh 454221
Timings: 24 hours
Entry fees: INR 5 per person
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8. Nilkanth Mahadev Temple: Built By Shah Bagh Khan
This temple was constructed by Shah Bagh Khan for the Hindu wife of Akbar. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The whole temple has beautiful architecture that attracts people from all across the world. It also serves as a major center of pilgrimage. The whole area is surrounded by trees and there is a big pond in front of the temple. The shrine of Lord Shiva faces this pond. The local people of Mandu visit this temple regularly and have great faith in this temple. It is one of the best Mandu places to visit.
Address: Nilkantheshwar Temple, Mandu, Madhya Pradesh, Mandu, Mandav, Madhya Pradesh 454010
Timings: Any time during the day
Entry fees: None
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9. Shree Mandavgarh Tirth: Built By Ghiyas-Ud-Din-Khilji
It is a very renowned temple that is dedicated to Lord Shri SuparshawnathBhagwan. There is a white stone inside the temple on which the Lord Suparshawnath Bhagwan sits. The temple is situated within the Mandavgarh fort and the idol is estimated to be about 3 feet tall. It is one of the perfect places where peace seekers can sit for a long time and perform some meditation. One can get Bhojanashalas and Dharamshalas inside the temple. The ambiance of the temple is quite relaxing and nice. It is preferred by visitors and tourists who need peace. This place can be easily reached by bus. Most of the time, the place remains crowded with devotees. The maximum crowd is mainly observed during the weekends and the special period.
Address: Inside Mandavgarh Fort, Mandu, India
Timings: Any time
Entry fees: None
10. Hathi Mahal: Built By Nasir-Ud-Din
Hathi Mahal is one of the most famous places to see in Mandu. Located in Mandu, Hathi Mahal is also known as the Elephant Palace and attracts a lot of tourists all round the year. The huge dome and large pillars give an illusion of an elephant and history enthusiasts from different countries visit this palace. Its resemblance to an elephant makes it a prominent tourist attraction in Madhya Pradesh as well.
Address: Elephant Palace, Mandav, Madhya Pradesh, India
Timings: 24 hours.
Entry fees: None
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11. Ashrafi Mahal: Built By Mahmud Khilji
Among the several tourist places in Mandu, Ashrafi Mahal is the most interesting one that you should pay a visit on your vacation. There is a fascinating story behind the name of this palace. As per the stories, Ghiyasuddin Khilji made his queens climb the stairs of this palace and rewarded them with Ashrafi. To help his queens reduce weight, Ghiyasuddin Khilji came up with this plan and since then the palace is known as the Ashrafi Mahal. The next time you visit Mandu, you must head to this beautiful palace and go burn some calories as the queens used to do.
Address: Opposite Jami Masjid, Mandu, Mandav, Madhya Pradesh 454010, India
Timings: 24 hours
Entry fees: None
12. Dilawar Khan’s Mosque: Buily By Dilawar Khan
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An incredible structure influenced by Islamic and Hindu architecture, Dilawar Khan’s Mosque was built-in 1405. Dilawar Khan was the ruler of Mandu in 1405 and during his reign, this mosque was built. You can visit this ancient mosque for half an hour and have a look at the impressive paintings carved on the walls of this mosque. Don’t forget to add this mosque on your list of places to visit in Mandu.
Address: Jahaz Mahal Internal Road, Mandav, Mandu, Madhya Pradesh 454010.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: INR 5 per adult
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13. Hoshang Shah’s Tomb: Built During The Reign Of Hoshang Shah
Image Credit: Bernard from Wikimedia
Constructed in the 15th century, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb is an ideal place to visit in Mandu for history buffs. The tomb is India’s first marble tomb and holds an important position in the history of India. It is famous for its wonderful Afghan art style and the unique and amazing decoration of the southern doorway.
Address: Jahaj Mahal internal road, Mandu, Mandav, Dhar, Madhya Pradesh 454010
Timings: 8 am to 5.30 pm
Entry fees: INR 5
14. Rewa Kund: Built By Baz Bahadur
Image Credit: Bernard from Wikimedia
Rewa Kund is a monument dedicated to the legendary love story of Roopmati and Baz Bahadur. This artificial lake was constructed to ensure regular water supply to Roopmati Pavilion. The kund has different styles of pillars and arches under which tourists and pilgrims can rest and enjoy the beautiful surrounding. A visit to Rewa Kund is definitely included in the itineraries of the places to visit in Mandu.
Address: Near Baz Bahadur Palace, Mandav, Madhya Pradesh 454010, India
Timings: Sunrise to sunset hours
Entry fees: Free
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15. Darya Khan’s Tomb: Built By Darya Khan
Image Credit: Sagar from Wikimedia
Darya Khan’s Tomb features impressive Islamic art and is one of the best places to see in Mandu. The dome is built on a raised platform similar to that of Hoshang Shah’s tomb. Before Darya Khan died, the tomb was already constructed. The centre tomb is the main tomb which is cornered with four small tombs. Around the tomb, you can find ruins and corridors.
Address: Darya Khan’s Tomb, Mandu, Mandav, Madhya Pradesh, India
Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
Entry fees: Free
16. Sagar Talao: Built By Malik Mughith
The largest lake in the citadel of Mandu, Sagar Lake is one of the best places to visit in Mandu besides forts and palaces. The lake is bordered by many popular monuments. Due to the perennial water system, the pristine lake never dries up. Besides relaxing and enjoying the view, you can also indulge in an awesome boating ride and create happy memories while you are here.
Address: Mandu, India
Timings: Sunrise to sunset hours
Entry fees: Free; boating charges separate
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17. Lohani Caves: Built By Khilji Sultan Nasir-ud-Din
Image Credit: Hitarth from Wikimedia
Lohani Caves are rock cut caves and temples located near Mandi site. These simple excavations without much of carvings dates to the 11th and 12th century. The archeological studies have found Hindu statues and carvings like those of Pravati, Vishnu and Shiva. It is one of the best places to see in Mandu and is quite a unique archaeological site.
Address: Nalchha Tehsil, Mandu, India
Timings: Anytime during the day
Entry fees: Free
18. Caravan Sarai Monument: Built By Mandu Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji
Image Credit: Zishaan from Wikimedia
Mandu is famous for its monuments and Caravan Sarai is one of them. It is a large inn located in front of Jama Masjid. It has a spacious open court in the centre and located adjacently are the twin halls. The halls provided living accommodation where visitors would rest and the rooms were used to store goods.
Address: Mandu Road, Mandav, Madhya Pradesh 454010
Timings: Any time of the day
Entry fees: Free
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19. Rupayan Museum: A Well-Maintained Museum
Image Credit: LRBurdak from Wikimedia
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Rupayan Museum is one of the best places to see in Mandu especially for history buffs, archaeologists or anyone interested in knowing more about the life and culture of locals in Mandu during past centuries. The museum houses a wide variety of tools and crafts used by the native people in ancient times. The museum is spread on 10 acres of land and is taken care of by the State Government.
Address: Nalchha Tehsil, Mandu, India
Timings: 10 am to 5 pm (except Monday)
Entry fees: INR 10
20. Champa Baoli: Built By Mandu Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji
Image Credit: Nikhil from Wikimedia
Located next to Hindola Mahal, Champa Baoli is a beautifully constructed step well. It is inspired by the style of Turkish baths and is an excellent piece of Mughal architecture. It not only serves as a water tank but also as an air conditioner. It is one of the best Mandu places to visit for all tourists roaming in Mandu.
Address: West Of Hindola Mahal, Mandu, Madhya Pradesh 454010, India
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
Entry fees: Free
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Mandu is a great place to view the architectural buildings, tombs, and palaces. It is the only place in Madhya Pradesh where one can come across various types of ancient buildings. The most important part of this place is that the architectural works of these places are made with a perfect blend of Indian and Afghani styles. Every year, many come to Madhya Pradesh to explore wildlife and most importantly the tiger life. Thus, a small trip to Madhya Pradesh can be made for visiting Mandu. One day will be enough for having a glimpse of this place. Although this city is said to be the ruined city, still people from all over the world come here to visit the palaces that still holds its tradition and culture.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Mandu
What are some of the best places to visit in Mandu?
There are plenty of historic and other places to visit in Mandu. Some of the most popular ones include Hindola Mahal, Jahaj Mahal, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb and Baz Bahadur’s Palace.
Why is Mandu famous?
Mandu happens to be a small city in the state of Madhya Pradesh in India. It is famous among tourists because of the fort built by Baaz Bahadur in memory of his queen Rani Roopmati. It was also the capital of a Muslim state in North India between the years 1401 and 1561.
How should you reach Mandu by train?
The nearest railway station to Mandu is Ratlam which is 124 km on the Delhi-Mumbai mainline. To reach Mandu, you have to reach Ratlam station. Almost all trains stop at the station.
Can you reach Mandu by air?
Yes, you can travel to Mandu by air. The nearest airport is at Indore. You can get regular flights from Delhi, Bhopal, Gwalior, and Mumbai that connects Mandu.
What are the best things to do in Mandu?
Mandu is mainly known for its historical places. You can have a great time with your family or fellow travelers by exploring all these old places. From Jama Masjid to the Jahaz Mahal, you can visit all of them.
What is there in Mandu other than forts and palaces?
Mandu has a few natural areas including Kakra Khoh waterfall, Sat Kothari Cave and Sagar Talao. You can visit these places to feel close to nature.
Is there any museum in Mandu?
Yes, you will find several museums in Mandu. But the two most popular ones are the Chappan Mahal museum and Ruppayan museum.
What is the best time to visit Mandu?
The best time to visit Mandu would be in October and March. Winter is the most pleasant time to visit.
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Exploring new places and trying out new food cuisines are two things that bring Seema all the happiness. Travel freak and a die-hard foodie are the synonyms that define her the best. Popular on social media by the name of ‘PandaReviewz’, lazing around the beaches, exploiting the sunset points, visiting the farthermost villages, exploring the renowned cities, trying out new food cuisines, and blogging about them are few things that keep Seema occupied, and happy!
