Architectural monuments fill this land, the reason why it is so popular among tourists.

Strolling through this town, it is easy to wax lyrical about antique and artistic architectural abundance dotting the fairytale landscape. The town is closely associated with the legend of star-crossed lovers, Muslim Prince Baz Bahadur and Hindu shephedess beauty Singer Roompati. This ancient love tale is celebrated in the intricate designs of the various palaces, baths and pavilions. 

History of Mandu

Founded as a fortress cum retreat by Raja Bhoj in the 10th century, Mandu was originally called Mandavgarh throughout the Parmaran rule in the 11th and 12th century. It was later called ‘Shadiabad,’ by the new ruler Alauddin Khilji when he seized power in the 13th century, which means happiness, and possibly led to the nickname- City of Joys’. Mandu has also been ruled by the Mughals. The last independant ruler Baz Bahadur fled upon attack from Akhbar leaving Mandu to turn into a neglected town.

Tourism in Mandu

The various structures found in Mandu can be grouped accordingly into - The Royal Enclave, the Village group and the Rewa Kund. As one travels the various tour attractions, it is interesting to note how the quaint and rustic villages contrast with the grand monuments. 

The Royal Enclave

The Royal Enclave is made up of palatial monuments (mahals). One of them Ship Palace, which is the Jahaz Mahal structured like a two-storeyed ship. It was built by Mohammed Shah’s son for his harem of maiden that numbered around 1500 women. The two lakes on the eastern and western sides of this mahal form a rectangle shape thus creating an impression of a ship. The glossy walls and floor constructed centuries ago give an insight to the lavish days enjoyed among the opulent halls. Taveli Mahal is situated at the south of Jahaz Mahal. Its past functions include being a stable and guardhouse during the Mughal Empire. It is now home to the antique gallery belonging to the Archaeological Society of India.

Hindola Mahal, meaning the Swing Palace, built in sand stone boasts uniquely constructed ceiling structure and exquisitely carved colums . The innovative technique and superb sculpture is admired by all visitors as there is a swaying impression of the walls’ inward slopes. The other monuments, also part of this group are Mosque of Dilawar Khan, Hathi Pol (meaning Elephant Gate), Gada Shah’s Shop and Champa Boli.

The Village Group

Renowned as the finest specimen of Afghan architecture found in India, Jama Masjid is modeled after the magnificent Omayyed Mosque of Damascus. Its high plith with an enormous domed porch are imposingly amazing and the background and within the grounds are guarded by such grand domes. Behind this mosque is the Hoshang’s Tomb. Hoshang Shah was responsible for initiating the construction of the Jama Masjid. The tomb is reputed to be the first marble monument in India and also rumored to be the inspiration for Taj Mahal. The well balanced design structure, the intricate designs of marble latticework and other exquisite carvings and artwork on the doorway are appreciated by all who tour the magnificent monument. The other exceptional venues, part of the Village Group, are the Ashrafi Mahal and Jain Temple, which is actually a complex of various buildings.

Rewa Kund Group

This is the group of monuments that depict the tragic love story of Rani Roopmathi and the last independant ruler of Mandu, Sultan Baz Bahadur. The buildings are situated close to the Grand reservoir- a sacred tank of water whose source is Rewa, another name for the river Narmada. The most significant building in this group may possibly be the Palace of Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmat’s Pavilion. Besides the artistic architecture, these buildings are the remaining witnesses of the ancient love story of a king and his wife who tragically poisoned herself to avoid capture by the enemy who was besotted by her beauty.

Indeed tours to Mandu replay the love story as one travels to the magnificently styled buildings with myriad of influences such as the Rajasthani, Afghan and Mughal architecture.