Explore the Magical Land of Mandu on Wheels!

By Outlook Traveller

------------------------

There is no better way to romance Mandu than on a bicycle.

It was an epic love story... A timeless romance celebrated through the ages, between Sultan Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. One that Mandu continues to honour even today through its architecture and folklore. Come monsoon, the Jahaz Mahal still looks like a majestic ship sailing through deep waters - as imagined by Sultan Ghiyas-ud-din-Khilji. Even the grand baobab trees take us back to the days when they made it to Mandu as gifts borne by African traders. Frozen in time, Mandu is uncorrupted by the pace of life outside its walls. The best way therefore to explore this historical gem is at its own pace. Unhurried, on a bicycle. 

After a night under the stars at a glamp, we set out early the next morning for a bicycle tour with our guide Parvez Qureshi. He tells us that Mandu's unique position - perched on the Vindhyas overlooking the Malwa plateau - made it an ideal citadel. The first imprint of its legacy greets you right at the gates or 'darwazas' that are now faint remainders of what may have been imposing doorways back in the day. Once inside the gates, you will see rows of baobab trees with bulbous trunks lining the roads. These are now integral to Mandu's identity, and are popularly known as Khurasani imli. Also lining the roads are humble clay cottages - homes of the Bhil community. A ride through the town therefore straddles two worlds - one of a regal past and the other a more modest present. 

Love notes

Speaking of the regal heritage, the Baz Bahadur Palace is a must-see for its ingenious architecture, but also for the tribute that it pays to the romance of Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. Brought together by their love for music, the two are said to have enjoyed many melodic evenings in one of the halls, the acoustic strength of which shines through even today. Parvez sings us an old Bollywood couplet and his voice, as one would expect, reverberates through the halls. Right outside the palace, pilgrims gather at the Rewa Kund, a spot visited by Rani Roopmati twice a day to offer prayers to the Holy Narmada. 

Royal vestiges

A few minutes away on bicycle, we make our way to the Jahaz Mahal, a beautiful palace standing tall amidst a dry pond. But it is in its full glory in the monsoon, when the ponds fill up and the palace looks like a ship in the waters. Likewise, Hoshang Shah's Tomb, Jami Masjid, Hathi Mahal, Rani Roopmati's Pavilion, Hindola Mahal and many more vestiges of the past connect Mandu's history to its present. Cruising leisurely on a bicycle, away from the rush and noise of the city, is the best way of letting Mandu grow on you.

Rural Charms near Mandu

To experience another side of Mandu, and its rural charms, visitors can also explore the villages of Bhilakheda, Sulibardi, Songadh Gate, Malipura and Undakho. MP Tourism is supporting local communities to host travellers in these idyllic villages. 

The Information

How to get there: Indore railway station and airport, at 98 kms and 124 kms respectively, are closest to Mandu.

Best time to visit: Monsoon months from July to September are the best time. The Mandu Festival is held usually in December-January and is also a good time to visit Mandu.

Contact: +91-8819077812 (for cycling tours)

Website: https://www.mandufestival.com lists dates, accommodation options and other activities to look forward to during the Mandu Festival.

Suggested accommodation:  

Contact: 07292-263235, +91-9977113354

Source URL: https://www.outlookindia.com/traveller/mp/wellness/read/mandu-on-wheels/