Mandsaur Fort

About:

Mandsaur Fort, also known as Dashpur Fort,Mandsaur Fort, located in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh, is a historical fort with a rich past that dates back to the medieval era. The fort, also known as Dashpur Fort, reflects the architectural grandeur of the period and has witnessed several dynasties, including the Mughals and Marathas. It is strategically located on the banks of the Shivna River, making it a key historical site in central India.



The town was known as Dashpur in ancient times. The area was ruled by Dasharna people during Mahabharata period. It is probably Dasharna janapada which gave name Dashpur to the Mandsaur town. It is the monolith pillar at Mandsaur that testimonies the victory of Yasodharman, a Jat King of Malwa

Location info:

Address:Mandsaur city, Madhya Pradesh, India.
District: Mandsaur district
Nearest City: Close to the famous Pashupatinath Temple in Mandsaur
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is between October to February when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.

Climate/Weather:

Summer (March to June): Hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. Monsoon (July to September): Receives moderate rainfall, making the landscape lush but also slightly humid. Winter (October to February): Cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it the ideal time for a visit.

History:

Mandsaur Fort holds a deep historical significance, having been under the rule of several dynasties including the Parmars, Mughals, and Marathas. The fort’s strategic location made it a military stronghold, and it was central during the battles fought between these rulers. The Treaty of Mandsaur was signed at this fort in 1818 between the British East India Company and the Maratha Empire, marking the end of the Third Anglo-Maratha War. The fort’s architecture reflects the medieval construction style, and it holds a number of religious and cultural stories that make it a popular spot for history enthusiasts.

Interesting things to do:

Explore the Fort: Walk through the remnants of the fort’s gateways, bastions, and walls to get a sense of its historical importance. Photography: The fort offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Shivna River, making it a great spot for photography. Cultural Tours: Delve into the history of the fort with the help of local guides who can provide insights into the fort’s past and its role in regional history.

Interesting things to Visit:

  • Pashupatinath Temple
  • Gandhi Sagar Dam and Sanctuary
  • Shivna River
  • Hinglajgarh Fort

Mobile range info:

Most major mobile networks, such as Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone, provide decent coverage in Mandsaur town, including around the fort area. However, signal strength may reduce in more remote locations.

How to reach?

By Air: The nearest airport is in Indore, located around 280 km from Mandsaur. Taxis and buses are available from Indore to reach the fort.
By Train:Mandsaur Railway Station is well-connected to cities like Indore, Ujjain, and Ratlam, with regular train services.
By Road:Mandsaur is accessible by road via buses and private taxis from nearby cities like Indore (280 km) and Ujjain (200 km).

Nearest Visiting places:

  • Gandhi Sagar Dam:

A massive dam offering scenic beauty and a calm environment, located around 80 km from Mandsaur.

  • Bhanpura Museum:

Situated near Gandhi Sagar, this museum houses a collection of ancient sculptures, artifacts, and inscriptions.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

There are several petrol pumps in Mandsaur town itself, along the highways and roads leading to the fort.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Budget Hotels::

Mandsaur town has a number of budget hotels offering basic amenities.

Mid-range Hotels:
There are a few mid-range hotels providing comfortable stays with modern facilities.

Government Guest Houses:
Guest houses managed by local authorities are available for a reasonable price, especially for longer stays.

Things to carry:

Comfortable Footwear: Essential for walking around the fort and exploring the area. Sunscreen & Hat: Useful during the hot summer months. Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring. Camera/Smartphone: To capture the beautiful landscapes and historic sites. Light Woolens: If visiting in winter, carry some warm clothes for cooler evenings. Insect Repellent: Helpful if visiting wildlife areas or sanctuaries.

Tips & Suggestions:

Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit during the winter months (October to February) to enjoy pleasant weather for sightseeing. Hire a Local Guide: To learn more about the fort’s history and the stories behind the local landmarks. Start Early: If you’re visiting during the summer, it’s advisable to start your exploration early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat. Respect Local Customs: Particularly when visiting temples and religious sites nearby.

Help Line/Phone Number:

Mandsaur District Collector’s Office:

+91-7422-256301

Mandsaur Police Station:

+91-7422-256100