Gwalior is an important city of Madhya Pradesh. It is an ancient city, famous for its old and large fort. According to a legend, Gwalior derives its name from a great sage Gwalipa who cured a chief of the Kachwaha clan suffering from leprosy. Today, it is the site of factories producing cotton, yarn, paint, ceramics, chemicals, and leather products. Gwalior is also famous for many prestigious educational institutions.

Area: 5214 sq km

Population: 1412.61 thousands (approx.)

Places to see:

The mighty hilltop Gwalior Fort attracts tourists a great deal. Standing 100 m above the city, this fort was built in the 15th century by Raja Mansingh Tomar. Teli-ka-mandir temple, dating 9th century flanks prominent Dravidian architecture. The Sas-Bahu temples are a couple of temples, similar in style but different in size. Man Singh Palace is a delightful blue palace with beautiful mosaic decorations in animal shapes.

How to reach:

• By Air: Gwalior is connected by Indian Airlines to Mumbai, Bhopal, Indore, and Delhi.
• By Rail: Gwalior is on the main Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Chennai rail link. It is well connected with the other important cities of state and nation.
• By Road: Gwalior is well linked with Agra (118 km), Mathura, Jaipur (350 km), Delhi (321 km), Lucknow, Bhopal (423 km), Chanderi (239 km), Indore (486 km), Jhansi (101 km), Khajuraho (275 km), Ujjain (455 km), and Shivpuri (114 km). The most common and cheapest way of moving around the city is the six-seater auto-rickshaws. Taxis and mini buses are also available.