Stunning Shivpuri

Stunning Shivpuri

Shivpuri, formerly known as Sipri, is a quaint city renowned for its tropical deciduous forests, peaceful surroundings, and old-world charm. Located approximately 120 km south of Gwalior, the city is blessed with diverse flora and fauna, as well as marvellous architectural complexes.

Legend has it that the city derives its name from Lord Shiva and served as the ancestral homeland of the Kachhawaha Rajputs until 1804 when it came under the rule of the Scindias.

Shivpuri's lush forest cover made it a favourite hunting spot for royal families and Mughal emperors. Rulers visited to hunt tigers, and huge antelopes, and to relish the natural splendour of the forest.

In addition to its untamed wildlife beauty, Shivpuri is also home to several architectural gems that bear witness to its long history of governance by various families, including the Mughals, Marathas, Rajputs of Narwar, and Scindias. These include the intricately embellished Royal Chhatris, George Castle, and the nearby Narwar Fort, among other architectural marvels.

Tourist Places To Visit In Shivpuri

1. Madhav National Park

Nestled in the Vindhya hills, Madhav National Park boasts a diverse ecosystem that includes lakes, forests, and grasslands, making it a perfect haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Covering a rich forest area of 355 sq km, the park is home to distinct wildlife such as Tigers, Sambar, Chausingha, Blackbuck, Sloth Bear, Chinkara, the Indian Gazelle, and the Chital. Currently, the park is home to three tigers, with plans to introduce two more. The park also hosts many migratory bird species, including migratory geese, pintail, teal, mallard, and pochard.

Enhancing the park's beauty are man-made lakes like Madhav Sagar and Sakhya Sagar. Sakhya Sagar Lake serves as a permanent water source for wildlife in the park, accommodating various migratory waterfowl and mugger crocodiles. Along the lake's shore is a boat club, providing visitors with a captivating view of migratory birds, especially during winter when many birds rest on the shore. Additionally, visitors may spot marsh crocodiles sunbathing on the lake's shore during winter.

2. George Castle

The stunning George Castle is situated deep within the untamed forests of Madhav National Park. The castle was constructed by the Scindia ruler, Maharaja Jivaji Rao Scindia, as a place to host the British King George V for an overnight stay during his tour of India in 1911

The castle is located near the point where two lovely lakes in the forest-Sakhya Sagar and Madhav Sagar-converge. Tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the lakes and a panoramic sight of the Kardhai forest from this vantage point.

3. The Royal Chhatris

The Royal Chhatris, which stand opposite each other across a water tank, are dedicated to Madhav Rao Scindia and his mother, Maharani Sakhya Raje Scindia.

Featuring exquisite white marble detailing, impeccable Rajputana-style art, and intricate jali work, the Royal Chhatris gracefully rest on Mughal-styled pavilions, representing a spectacular blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

Built in memory of the members of the Scindia Royal Family, these magnificent Chhatris are a beautiful amalgamation of history and architecture, providing a visual treat for tourists visiting Shivpuri.

4. Tatya Tope Memorial Park

Built in the memory of great freedom fighter Tatya Tope, the museum reflects in honour of the place where he was commemorated. Tatya Tope Memorial Park is a major tourist site in Shivpuri. A life-sized bronze statue of Tatya Tope is also installed in the park premises, representing his valour and sacrifice for the country.

Nearby Attractions of Shivpuri

1. Survaya ki Garhi

Survaya ki Garhi, located 20 km outside of Shivpuri, is one of the Narwar town's historical jewels.

Noteworthy for the remains of a fort, three Hindu temples, a monastery and a step-well, the fort complex was earlier referred to as "Saraswati Pattam." Among the many stone-carved statues in the temples, one particularly attractive statue is of Lord Vishnu riding on Garuda. The ceiling here has carvings of flowers and the pillars here stand out with the most beautiful architecture of stone carved sculptures.

ASI recognised Survaya ki Garhi is truly a hidden heritage gem of the state, representing the beautiful Kachchhapaghata architectural style.

2. Narwar Fort

Dating back to the mediaeval era, the Narwar fort lies atop a hill. Located at a distance of 41km, the fort was said to have been rebuilt by the Kachhwaha Rajputs when they took control of Narwar town in the 10th century

The fort is a spectacle of beauty, featuring stunning Rajputana-style architecture with flat ceilings, fluted columns, and gracefully crafted multifold arches that echo the rich heritage of the town.

3. Sheopur Fort

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Sheopur town, the Sheopur Fort stands as a reminder of the past, with marks on its walls narrating stories of a bygone era. On the top, outdoors, you get the feel of Diwan-e-Khas, overlooking the small river as you gaze down upon the fort walls.

The detailed architecture inside the fort is a testament to the town's historically rich heritage that is bound to leave you enchanted.

4. Dob Kund

Situated on the Goras-Sheopur road, approximately 55 km from Sheopur town, Dob Kund beckons tourists with its scenic allure. This enchanting water body, formed by the union of two natural ponds, serves as a serene escape near Shivpuri. Its historical tapestry unfolds across civilizations, spanning from the prehistoric age to the present day, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

5. Kuno National Park

Situated at a distance of 62 km from the Shivpuri city, Kuno National Park, is the only habitat to the Southern African Cheetahs in the country.

With a wildlife cover spread over an area of 344 sq km, the park has a diverse range of flora and fauna. The wild meadows of the forest are graced by trees like Kardhai, Khair, and Salai, adding a touch of elegance to the jungle's vast beauty.

The park's extensive biodiversity boasts inhabitants such as Spotted deer, Sambar, Chousingha, Indian wolf, Hyena, Jackal, and Nilgai, among other captivating wildlife species. Kuno's diverse wildlife also includes easily spotted species like a Blackbuck, Gaur, Chinkara, Wild dog, Indian mongoose, Indian hare, Indian porcupine, and Ubiquitous Common langur.

6. Gwalior

A captivating destination near Shivpuri is the majestic city of Gwalior, located approximately 120 km from the city centre. Steeped in a history of regal grandeur, Gwalior stands as a city where heritage reigns supreme. It has also earned the prestigious title of the City of Music within the UNESCO Creative Cities network, thanks to the indelible contributions of warrior kings, poets, musicians, and saints who have collectively elevated its name across the nation and beyond.

Gwalior unfolds a tapestry of breathtaking attractions, including the majestic Gwalior Fort, the enchanting Gujari Mahal, the opulent Jai Vilas Palace and Museum, the serene Gopachal Mandir, the iconic Teli ka Mandir, and many more. The city, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse landmarks, promises a truly spectacular and immersive experience for those seeking to explore its historical treasures.

Best Time to Visit Shivpuri

Shivpuri welcomes visitors throughout the year. The best time to visit this location is during winter because it offers comfortable travel conditions and cooler temperatures compared to other seasons.

Summers generally bring temperatures as high as 40 degrees Celsius, and the scorching heat could be deemed uncomfortable for sightseeing.

During the monsoons, an arid climate prevails in the region, resulting in low to moderate rainfall. The temperature drops a little during this season, favouring a pleasant travel experience.

How To Reach Shivpuri?

By Air - The nearest airport to Shivpuri is the Gwalior airport, located at a distance of 130 km from the city centre. Gwalior is well-connected by air travel to other major cities in the country.

By Road - Shivpuri is very well-linked by roads to the nearest major cities and towns of Madhya Pradesh and other neighbouring states. You can take public transport from any major surrounding cities like Gwalior (approx 120 km), Jhansi (approx 100 km), Bhopal (approx 300 km), and Indore (approx 400 km).

By Train - The nearest railway stations are Jhansi Junction (97 km) and Gwalior Junction (120 km).