Have you watched that Akshay Kumar starrer movie Padman or Manikarnika Movie of Kangana Ranaut? What special in those movies? If you notice the scenic locations, most of the scenes are shot at the iconic and divine town of Madhya Pradesh i.e. Maheshwar. It’s Maheshwar fort situated across riverside on the bank of Narmada River is the most famous attraction for tourism in India.
Let’s know more about this destination and other popular attractions to see at Maheshwar.
Maheshwar – Heritage Town of India
Maheshwar is the most peaceful town of India situated in the heart of Madhya Pradesh’s Khargone district. This beautiful town is tucked far from big cities giving serene and natural ambience with a touch of divinity and heritage to all the tourist visiting here. Be its temples, heritage fort located on the riverside, beautiful palaces and ghats give a perfect sight to behold.
In central India, for small getaways from Madhya Pradesh and adjacent states, it’s a great spot to hang out with friends and family. This town is unbeatable for lovers of Indian mythology, powerfully connected to the Indian heritage, cultures and tales.
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History of Maheswar
known for its spiritual significance, Maheshwar is described as Mahishmati in the famous Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. King Sahasrarjun who was a husband of 500 wives is believed to have stopped the river Narmada in his 1,000 arms and made his wives a playing field.
The Shivalinga was created by Ravana on the riverside during this time. The Shivlinga was washed away when he discharged the river water, and that followed the war between them both. But when the king had won the victory, there were ten lamps on Ravana’s head, and one on his hand. Now in the Temple of Sahasrarjun, you will see 11 lamps to keep the event lively.
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Popular Attractions in Maheshwar
You can explore the riverside temples of Maheshwar including Kaleshwara Temple, Rajarajeshwara Temple, Akhileshwara Temple and Vithaleshwara Temple, which are popular for the unique overhanging balconies and beautifully crafted walls.
Explore Holkar Fort & Rani Ahilya Bai Heritage Palace
Holkar Fort or Rani Ahilyabai Holkar Fort are also referred to as the magnificent Maheshwar Fort. Maheshwar holds the distinction during the 18th century of being the capital of the empire of Rajmata Ahilya Devi Holkar. It was the capital of the Malwa during the Maratha Holkar reign till 1818 when the capital was moved to Indore.
This glory is reflected in its Fort and Palaces, a signature mark of this river-side city. Ahilya Bai lived a simple life in this palace and ruled his state with firm determination, establishing her as one of the most powerful female leaders of India, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar. It is also popularly known as the Fort of the Queen.
Relax at Narmada Ghat
The best of all is Narmada Ghat, right next to the Fort. Built by Ahilya Bai Holkar in the 18th Century, Narmada Ghat offers enchanting sights. Ahilya Ghat, Peshwa Ghat, Kamani Ghat are other famous ones. You can go boating in Narmada and visit Baneshwar Temple built on an island within Narmada river. Maheshwar Ghats are a favourite of movie-makers with their own elegance, and many Bollywood and Tamil films have been shot here.
Narmada Ghat is also filled with a large number of tourists who would like to see the calmness and beauty that it has to bring, being spiritually recognized and due to its rich historical heritage.
Shiv Bhakts Must Visit Jaleshwar Temple
Jaleshwar Temple is also dedicated to the third god in the Hindu trio, Lord Shiva, following the patterns of the multiple temples in Maheshwar. He’s got many kind and horrific forms. Shiva is infinite, unstoppable, unchanging and invincible at the highest stage. So, in honour to pacify the horrific forms of Shiva, the Temple of Jaleshwar was constructed.
Many Lord Shiva Devotees visit this temple during Maha Shivratri and on Monday to pay religious tribute. The location and the beautiful touch of divine make this great temple a wonder on its own.
Admire the Beauty of Rajwada
Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, considered to be the most powerful and fearless female leader of India, created this mesmerizing architectural wonder. To be visited with friends and family, this has to be a great tourist attraction and this place makes you believe that if there is a heaven, then it shouldn’t be any different from the beautiful yet peaceful Rajwada.
The building demonstrates not only the architectural styles of Maratha but also interestingly the designs that are considered to be influenced by French and Mughal trends. There is a lot to explore in Rajwada but the Rani Ahilyabai statue, located just at the entrance of the building, must be among the most important attractions of this beautiful monument.
Interesting Facts
- It is recognized for its huge production of Maheshwari sarees and this makes this popular tourist destination a perfect paradise for shopaholics.
- The city has several Shiva temples ad thus numerous devotees across the world pay a religious visit.
- The scenic beauty of the town and Narmada River is captured in loads of Bollywood and Tamil Movies.
Best Time To Visit Maheshwar is during the winter season.
Modes of Reaching Maheshwar
By Air: The closest airport to Maheshwar is Indore Airport located approximately 91 km away.
By Train: The closest railway junction to the destination, which is about 40 km away, is Marwaha Railway Station.
By Road: Maheshwar is well linked to different Madhya Pradesh cities by road. Numerous private and state government buses, such as Nasik, Mumbai, Pune, and Kolhapur, link to major state cities.
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