Chanderi Fort

About:

Chanderi Fort, located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, is an iconic historical landmark that offers a panoramic view of the town of Chanderi. The fort is perched on top of a hill and has been a strategic military post for centuries. It is known for its blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles and its role in the region's rich history.



Below the fort, not far from the banks of the Betwa is a gigantic black-painted statue of Shantinath, one of the Jain pontiffs whose symbol, as at Gwalior, is an Antelope.

Location info:

Address:"Chanderi fort located at Chanderi in Ashoknagar District of Madhya Pradesh state in India is situated at a distance of 127 km from Shivpuri
District: Ashoknagar
Coordinates: 24.72° N, 78.13° E
Best time to visit: October to March

Climate/Weather:

Summer: Hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 45°C between March and June. Monsoon: From July to September, the area experiences moderate rainfall. Winter: Mild and pleasant from October to February, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it the best time to visit. 

History:

Chanderi Fort has a long and storied history, dating back to the 11th century. It was ruled by the Bundela Rajputs and later became an important strategic location for Muslim rulers during the Mughal period. The fort witnessed numerous battles, including the famous siege by Babur in 1528, which played a key role in shaping the region's history. It has seen multiple rulers, including Pratihars, Khiljis, and Mughals, before coming under the Scindias of Gwalior.

Interesting things to do:

Explore the Fort: Walk through the historical gates, bastions, and palaces within the fort and enjoy the scenic views of Chanderi town and the Betwa river. Photography: The stunning views from the fort and the architectural beauty offer great photography opportunities. Heritage Walk: Explore the nearby historical town of Chanderi, which is full of monuments and ancient temples. Trekking: Hike up the hill to the fort, experiencing the landscape and the fort's defenses along the way. 

Interesting things to Visit:

  • Shri Choubisi jain mandir
  • Jami Masjid
  • Shahzadi ka Rauza
  • Jageswari devi Temple
  • Chanderi Museum
  • Khandar Giri Atishay Khetra
  • Malan Kho
  • Baiju Bawra's Samadhi(Cenotaph)

Mobile range info:

Mobile networks are generally available in and around Chanderi town. However, connectivity may be weak inside the fort due to its elevation and remote location.  

How to reach?

By Air:The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport, around 200 km away.
By Train:Lalitpur Railway Station is the closest major railhead, located about 40 km away.
Road Transport:Bus and Cars for hire

Nearest Visiting places:

Jain Temples at Thubon:
A popular pilgrimage site located 32 km from Chanderi.

Badal Mahal Gate:
A monumental gate in Chanderi that showcases excellent craftsmanship.

Shahazadi ka Rauza
Built by the Malwa Sultans in the memory of a princess, the building has intriguing arches and geometrical designs. The exterior of the Shahazadi ka Rauza is decorated with ornate arches and a band of geometrical designs.

Parmeshwar Tal
The Placid Parmeshwar Tal rests half a mile to the north-west of Chanderi town. The credit goes to the Bundela Rajput Kings for the construction of this impressive tank. An ancient temple and many memorials built in the honor of the royal Rajput kings are also present here.

Battisi Baowdi
Built in 1485 by Sultan Ghyasuddin Shah, the place derives its name from a flight of thirty-two steps.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

The nearest petrol pump is located in Chanderi town, around 2-3 km from the fort.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Check out the Circuit House, Dak Bungalow and Rest House near the bus stand. Also

  • Hotel Shrikunj
  • Hotel Sadabahar
  • Shri Digambar Jain Dharamshala
  • Shri Parshunath Dharamshala
  • Shri Yugal Kishore Dharamshaladeri is connected by regular bus services with Gwalior, Indore, Guna, Shivpuri, Ashok Nagar, Jhansi, Lalitpur, Tikamgarh, Vidisha, Sanchi and Bhopal.

Things to carry:

 Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the fort. Water bottles and snacks, as there are limited food options near the fort. Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen for protection from the sun. Camera and binoculars for capturing views and wildlife. A light jacket or shawl during winter months.

Tips & Suggestions:

The best time to visit is during the winter months (October to February) to avoid the scorching summer heat. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing, as the trek up to the fort involves steep paths. It’s advisable to carry water and food, as there are limited shops near the fort. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and to avoid the heat. Respect the heritage site by not littering and maintaining decorum during your visit. 

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:

1.Habib Ganj Police Station
MP Nagar Zone-II, MP Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

2.Police Station

Nishat Pura, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462030

3.Police Thana
Gotame Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462001

4.Piplani police station
Piplani, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

5.Cantonment Police Station
NH 26, Sagar Cantt., Sagar, Madhya Pradesh

Society/Community Phone Number:9678543675