Madhya Pradesh


Dhar Fort

Dhar Fort

About:

Dhar Fort, located in the town of Dhar in Madhya Pradesh, is a significant historical structure reflecting the legacy of the Marathas, Mughals, and Paramaras. Built in the 14th century by Muhammad bin Tughlaq, it was later occupied by the Marathas and served as a military stronghold. The fort showcases a unique blend of Mughal and Maratha architectural styles, with its massive walls, bastions, and gateways standing tall as a symbol of the region's history.



In 1933 Shri Raghunath Krishna Fadke and well known Murtikar was invited to Dhar by Maharaja of Dhar to prepare some Murti's (statues) in chhatri of Maharaja. Shri Fadke established his studio at Khanderao Tekri which was called as FADKE STUDIO later. Shri Fadke was given PADMASHRI for his famous Murti "Tatwa Chintana" in 1961. In 1971 he was also awarded with Doctorate. He died in 1972. Statues Made by him were established at Dhar, Indore, Dewas, Ujjain, Mumbai. Presently also several statues made by him & his successors are plased at FADKE STUDIO. These Statues give feel of reality. Almost 25,000 people visit to FADKE STUDIO every year.

Location info:
State: Madhya Pradesh
District: dhar

Climate/Weather:
Summer: Hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 45°C between March and June. Monsoon: The region receives moderate rainfall from July to September, cooling down the atmosphere. Winter: Cool and pleasant from October to February, with temperatures ranging between 10°C and 25°C, ideal for visiting the fort.

History:

Dhar Fort was built in the early 14th century by the Delhi Sultanate ruler Muhammad bin Tughlaq as a part of his defensive strategy. Over time, it saw the reign of several dynasties, including the Malwa Sultans and the Mughals. In the 18th century, it came under the control of the Marathas, who fortified the structure. The fort played a vital role in regional politics and served as a stronghold for military defense. It is a testament to the many architectural influences that have passed through Dhar over the centuries.

Interesting things to do:
Explore the fort's ancient structures, including palaces and temples. Walk along the fort's massive stone walls and enjoy panoramic views of Dhar. Appreciate the blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. Visit the fort's old mosques and witness the historical blend of Hindu-Muslim culture. 

Interesting things to Visit:
  • Bhoj Shala
  • Killa (Old Fourt)
  • Kalica Mata Mandir (Temple)
  • Ladh Masjid
  • Man-Tung-Giri (Jain Tirtha)
  • Nityanand Ashram
  • Bandichod Dargaha
  • Maulana Kamalludin Chisti Dargaha
  • Vijay Mandir
  • Bada Ganpati Mandir
  • Puratatva Sangrahalay

Mobile range info:
Mobile networks like Jio, Airtel, and BSNL are available in Dhar town, and connectivity is generally good around the fort area.  

How to reach?
Nearest Railway Station:Convenient railhead is Ratlam (124 km) and Indore (94 km) on the Delhi-Bombay mainline.
Nearest Airport:the nearest airport is Indore, about 100 km away which is connected to Delhi, Bombay, Gwalior, and Bhopal.

Nearest Visiting places:
Mandav (Mandu): A historical town with forts, palaces, and temples, located 35 km away.
Bhojpur: Famous for the Bhojeshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, approximately 100 km away.
Indore City:A bustling city with markets, temples, and parks, around 65 km away.

Nearest Petrol Pump:
Several petrol pumps are available in Dhar town, close to the fort. The nearest one is located approximately 2-3 km from the fort on the main Dhar road.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:
Thira Bagh Palace, former British residency.

Things to carry:

Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the fort and surrounding areas. Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to protect from the sun. Light clothing during the summer months, and warmer clothes for winter visits. Water bottles and snacks, as there may be limited food options near the fort. A camera for capturing the stunning architecture and landscapes.

Tips & Suggestions:
The best time to visit is during the winter months (October to February), when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring. Hiring a local guide can enhance your visit by providing detailed information about the fort’s history and significance. Plan to visit nearby Mandu for a more comprehensive historical experience, as both places are rich in heritage. Be mindful of the historical significance of the site and avoid littering or disturbing the ruins.

Help Line/Phone Number:

Police Station:

1.Dhar police station
Officer's colony, Dhar, Madhya Pradesh 1.1 km

2.Police Petrol Pump
Sadar Bazar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 57.6 km

3.Police Thana
South Tukoganj, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 60.1 km

4.BARTALEN
dhar, Madhya Pradesh 6.6 km

5.1.POLICE STATION
Madhya Pradesh 62.0 km

Society/Community Phone Number: 9145897645