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.
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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.
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, 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.
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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This 10-day quest through the central state of Madhya Pradesh, India, will take you to numerous off the beaten path archaeological and UNESCO world heritage sites to discover the vibrant cultural traditions of Indian’s expansive inland state.
The exciting 12-day agenda includes numerous stops at historic, lesser-known gems away from the standard tourist-heavy beat with a final stop at Varanasi. Though travelers may opt for this itinerary at any time of year, we highly recommend timing this trip in late October to early November to coincide with Dev Deepawali – an annual celebration that occurs in Varanasi and translates to “Festival of Lights of the Gods” in Hindi.
Especially suited to those who have already been to India and experienced the typical Rajasthan route, this trip takes travelers on a dynamic introductory journey through the heart of the country. The 10-day itinerary includes visits to numerous highlights of the lesser-visited central Indian state, many of which hold special cultural and historical significance.
Let your private jet whisk you away on this exclusive 14-day journey through North India. You’ll take in Mumbai’s world-famous Bollywood scene, catch sunset at one of India’s holiest sites, marvel at the incredible Taj Mahal, and visit an elephant polo camp, all while staying in some of India’s most luxury hotels.
Along the banks of the sacred Narmada River deep in the heart of India lies the opulent Ahilya Fort. Occupying 6 buildings, the renovated 18th-century fort and former royal palace is minutes away from famous Rajarajeshwara Temple by foot. The room’s interiors feature such aesthetic elements as traditional hammered metal decor and ornate wood-carved arches along with such modern amenities as mini fridges and tea and coffee making facilities; upgraded rooms offer air-conditioning, sitting areas, and even balconies that look over the river. The facilities house private gardens, intimate tent spaces, an outdoor pool, and a treatment room where guests can enjoy Maheshwari massages. The hotel’s restaurant serves Indian and International cuisine prepared with ingredients sourced from a local organic garden. The hotel is pet friendly and Wi-Fi equipped.
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