- Best time
- Oct–Mar
- How long
- 1–2 days
- Stay a night
- ₹800–8,000
- Food a day
- ₹300–1,500
- Nearest railhead
- 0 km away
- Nearest airport
- 10 km away
Plan Gwalior in a minute. Day-by-day plan, stays, budget and trains — free on JrnyLoop.
Plan this tripAbout Gwalior
A massive hilltop fort with tiled palaces and carved temples, the Scindia’s Jai Vilas Palace and a UNESCO City of Music.
Things to do in Gwalior
Gwalior Fort & Man Mandir
Gwalior Fort is a historic 6th-century hill fort complex featuring defensive structures and notable palaces. Within the complex stands the striking blue-tiled Man Mandir palace built by the Tomar ruler Man Singh Tomar.
Tip: Wear comfortable footwear as you will be walking across a large hill complex with uneven stone paths.
Jai Vilas Palace
This nineteenth-century palace in Gwalior was built in 1874 by Jayajirao Scindia, the Maharaja of Gwalior in the British Raj. The major part of the palace is now the Jiwajirao Scindia Museum, featuring giant chandeliers, while a part remains the residence of his descendants.
Tip: Wear footwear that is easy to remove as you enter certain sections of the palace rooms.
Sas-Bahu Temples
These 11th-century carved temples stand proudly on the Gwalior Fort. Despite the popular name, the two structures are actually dedicated to Lord Vishnu and were built close to each other.
Tip: Look out for the detailed sculptural friezes depicting scenes from Hindu epics.
Teli ka Mandir
Teli ka Mandir is the tallest structure on the Gwalior Fort. Dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Matrikas, this 8th to 9th century Hindu temple features a unique rectangular sanctum and a blend of Nagara and Valabhi architectural styles.
Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod
Gurudwara Data Bandi Chhod in Gwalior is a historic Sikh shrine associated with the imprisonment and release of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind. Located within the Gwalior Fort complex, it stands as a peaceful place of prayer and community service.
Tip: Dress modestly and cover your head with a scarf or handkerchief before entering
Tansen’s Tomb
Tansen's Tomb is the final resting place of the legendary classical musician Tansen, who was one of the nine jewels of the Mughal emperor Akbar's court. Set within peaceful gardens in Gwalior, the structure features delicate Mughal architecture and is surrounded by a tamarind tree whose leaves are locally believed to improve the singing voice.
Tip: Check the local schedule for the annual Tansen Music Festival if you are visiting in winter
Fort Light & Sound Show
The Fort Light and Sound Show in Gwalior is an evening experience held at the historic fort. It narrates local history and legends through a dramatic sound and light presentation.
Where to stay in Gwalior
City Centre
Mid-range hotels.
Near the fort
Budget hotels in Lashkar.
Palace hotels
Stay in Scindia-era palaces.
What to eat
Bedai-jalebi
Gwalior breakfast.
Gajak
Sesame-jaggery sweet, best in winter.
Good to know
- Tansen Samaroh music festival is in December.
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