Once referred to as the `city of joy’ now as a `lost world’, the fortress city of Mandu narrates many stories of romance and battles.
Built on the south-western edge of the Malwa plateau overlooking the Narmada valley, Mandu is spread out over 22 sq km. The fort encloses a number of palaces, mosques and other buildings within a wall nearly 45km long and featuring 12 gates.
Mandu was founded as a fortress retreat in the 10th century by Raja Bhoj. It was subsequently captured by Afghan rulers who turned it into royal capital before Mandu entered a period of decline. Its architectural grandeur is evident in its swaying palace, pavilions and ship-like harem. Add to these the tragic love story of a ruler and his lover and you’re served with romance in st
+ more about ManduOnce referred to as the `city of joy’ now as a `lost world’, the fortress city of Mandu narrates many stories of romance and battles.
Built on the south-western edge of the Malwa plateau overlooking the Narmada valley, Mandu is spread out over 22 sq km. The fort encloses a number of palaces, mosques and other buildings within a wall nearly 45km long and featuring 12 gates.
Mandu was founded as a fortress retreat in the 10th century by Raja Bhoj. It was subsequently captured by Afghan rulers who turned it into royal capital before Mandu entered a period of decline. Its architectural grandeur is evident in its swaying palace, pavilions and ship-like harem. Add to these the tragic love story of a ruler and his lover and you’re served with romance in stone.
Love had blossomed in Mandu when Sultan Baz Bahadur laid his eyes on Rupmati, a peasant girl and a singer. A pavilion offering the most romantic sights was built in Mandu for the sultan’s beloved and the lady was brought to live there. However, the story did not have a happily ever after ending. When Akbar decided to invade Mandu and succeeded, Baz Bahadur fled the city. Inorder to avoid capture by Akbar and remain true to her lover, Rupmati drank poison and died. The pavilion alone remained to narrate the sweet romance to its visitors.
The pavilion along with the other buildings and ruins of the fort city is especially enchanting during the monsoon season. The palaces, mosques, reservoirs, ravines, the earthy browns and the greens all washed with rain make for a splendid sight.
Not quite thronged by tourists, Mandu offers limited accommodation options which, however, provide value for money
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