Maheshwar
Though Maheshwar is a small town, it is known as a spiritual hotspot and commonly referred to as “Varanasi of Central India.” The quaint town lies on the north bank of the peaceful Narmada River where more than 100 temples spread along its bank. It draws both pilgrims and Hindu holy men to its ancient temples and ghats. Life here revolves around the ghat and fort, with local activity at sunrise and sunset lending a charm to the quiet setting.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Ahilya Fort
Located in the center of town, Ahilya Fort is impossible to miss. Ahilya is an 18th-century fort built by the famed queen Ahilya Bai. It sits right on the banks of the Narmada, its ramparts reaching the water. In 1971, the restoration work began and in 2000, was opened as a hotel with four rooms. Now it offers 13 rooms, including a Maharaja Tent overlooking Ahilyeshwar Temple and the river.
Old City
Maheshwar is known mainly for its Holkar queen Ahilya Bai, the most popular rule of the Malwa dynasty, and its woven sarees. A tour through the sleepy old city reveals its many mosques and temples, locals relaxing and doing housework by the river, trading goods at the markets, and centers where handloom weaving still takes place. A craft prominent in the city since the 5th century, the colorful Maheshwari sarees are weaved with distinctive and intricate designs involving stripes checks, and floral borders. Around sunset, kids can be seen swimming in the river while adults gather to wash, pray, chant, sing, and socialize.
Omkareshwar
Omkareshwar, meaning Lord of the Om Sound, is one of twelve revered shrines of Shiva and is visited every year by a large number of pilgrims. It sits on an island shaped like the holy Hindu Om symbol in the middle of the Narmada river and is approachable only by boat.
Daytrip to Mandu
An off the beaten path treasure trove of ruins, Mandu is an abandoned city from the Mughal-era spread over a 2,000 feet high hilltop and surrounded by a stretch of wall. It is known for its Afghan architectural heritage as well as impressive baobab trees, originally from Africa. Once the home of the Parmar rulers of Malwa, it was subsequently occupied by a succession of Mughal rules, until the capital of Malwa was moved to Dhar and the city’s vitality declined. The once powerful Mandu is now a collection of grand and beautiful architecture in a relaxed rural setting.
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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
India Unexplored: Heritage at Maheshwar
- Author
- Travelogues
From the Mahabharata and Ramayana to the families of Indore, Maheshwar is filled with Indian heritage.
Richard Holkar on Maheshwar and Ahilya Fort
- Author
- Travelogues
Richard Holkar grew up in a piece of Indian history: Ahilya Fort. The story Holkar’s family, is deeply ingrained in Maheshwar.
India Unexplored: Remote Lands Launches 2020 India Issue
- Author
- Tyler Roney
Nowhere in Asia has such a diversity of wonders — tribes, mountains, deserts, beaches — and for travelers willing to go a little further, India is alive.
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