Gwalior Fort, Madhya Pradesh

Few cities carry their past vividly as Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh. Towering over its skyline, Gwalior Fort is a 6th-century hilltop stronghold. Nicknamed 'the Gibraltar of India,' this fort was praised by Mughal emperor Babur as the 'pearl among the fortresses of Hind' for its strength and grandeur. The fort has witnessed rulers from the Tomars and the Mughals to the Scindias, each leaving echoes of their reign, and remains tied to tales of battles, royal intrigue and whispered treasures.

The fort has six mahals, two of which were built by Raja Man Singh Tomar, who reigned from 1486 to 1516. The architecture reflects a seamless blend of Hindu grace and Mughal symmetry. Key landmarks include the Man Mandir Palace, with its turquoise-tiled exterior, and the Sas-Bahu Temples, dedicated to Lord Aniruddha and Lord Shiva. The Teli ka Madir, a rectangular shrine without pillared pavilions, stands out with its unique Dravidian touch. Secret passages and hidden vaults hint at treasures long rumoured to be stored inside.

As the sun sets behind the walls, a sound and light show brings the fort alive, narrating stories of rajas, warriors and dynasties. The majestic Gwalior Fort draws visitors into history that lingers long after they have left.