Gwalior is famous for its old and very large fort. Within the fort walls are several interesting temples and ruined palaces. The dramatic and colourful history of the great fort goes back over 1000 years. City is named after a Saint, who cured the local chieftain from leprosy, the history of Gwalior dates back to the 8th century. A cradle of dynasties, Gwalior changed hands from the Tomars to Lodhis of Delhi. Then the Mughals ruled it, and finally the Marathas laid their hands on this city. Gwalior was the most affected, during the revolt of 1857, as it was one of the centers, to experience fierce encounters between the British and the rebels, after which the British gained complete control over India. Tatiya Tope and Rani of Jhansi were among them. Each era and rulers left their impression on this city, but what remained unchanged and unfazed, is the imposing fort, which withstood all assaults on Gwalior.

A city where the rich cultural tradition, blend with modern life, the princely past of Gwalior lives in palaces and museums, and the past mixes with the present, to offer the visitor, a city of enduring greatness. Gwalior Fort is 100 m above the town, the fort hill is about 3 km long. Its width varies from nearly 1 km to less than 200m. The walls, which encircle almost the entire hilltop, are 10 m high and imposingly solid. Beneath them, the hill face is a sheer drop away to the plains. On a clear day the view from the fort walls is superb. Having a special affinity with classical music and singing, it has been an influence, on the Hindustani classical music. Gwalior has retained the strong musical tradition. Tansen the exponent of Dhrupad style, went on to evolve the Gwalior Gharana, whose contemporary exponent, is the world renowned Sarod player Amjad Ali Khan. As a tribute to Tansen, the great master of classical music, a festival is organised in the month of November / December every year. Renowned musicians from the country, gather to give performances during the festival.

Tourist Places in Gwalior

1. Gwalior Fort
2. Man Mandir Palace
3. Gujari Mahal
4. Telika Mandir
5. Sas-Bahu Temple
6. The chhatris
7. Surya Mandir
8. Kala Vithika
9. Scindia Museum