Perched along the Vindhya ranges at an altitude of 2,000 feet is Mandu in Madhya Pradesh, which is the biggest fortified city in the world, originally the fort capital of the Parmar rulers of Malwa. Towards the end of the 13th century, it came under the sway of the Sultans of Malwa, the first of whom named it Shadiabad – ‘city of joy’. The City is steeped in history with exquisite palaces like the Jahaz and Hindola Mahals, ornamental canals, baths and pavilions, as graceful and refined as those times of peace and plenty.

Mandu is a celebration in stone, of life and joy, of the love of the poet-prince Baz Bahadur for his beautiful wife, Rani Roopmati. Amongst the most famous historical sites are the Jahaz Mahal, a five-storied palace built between 2 lakes, and the tomb of Mandu’s most famous son, Hoshang Shah. Hoshang Shah’s Tomb, an architectural splendor in marble is the inspiration for Shah Jahan’s Taj Mahal. It is believed that Shah Jehan sent four of his great architects to study the design of and draw inspiration from the Tomb. Among them was Ustad Hamid, who was also associated with the construction of Taj Mahal.

Other architectural wonders are Jami Masjid and the Rupmati Pavillion, a testimony to the love between Rupmati and Baz Bahadur.

The 45 km parapet of walls that encircle Mandu have by 12 gateways called Darwazas. Most notable of these is Delhi Darwaza, Alamgir and Bhangi Darwaza, Rampol Darwaza, Jehangir Gate and Tarapur Gate.

An audience hall, called the Hindola Mahal, derives its name of “swinging palace” from its sloping sidewalls with ornamental facade, delicate work in sand-stone and beautifully molded columns.

There is also an elaborately constructed well called Champa Baoli which is connected with underground vaulted rooms where arrangements for cold and hot water were made.

Other places of interest in this enclave are Dilawar Khan’s Mosque, the Rewa Kund, a water reservoir, the Nahar Jharokha (tiger balcony), Taveli Mahal, the two large wells called the Ujali (bright) and Andheri (dark) Baolis, Gada Shah’s Shop and House, Hathi Mahal, Darya Khan’s Tomb, Dai ka Mahal, Dai ki Chhotti Behan Ka Mahal, Malik Mughit’s Mosque and Jali Mahal are some of the other fascinating monuments. all worth a visit.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year, but best during July to March

Distance from Delhi: 907 km SW of Delhi

Nearest Airport: Indore