MAHESWAR FORT
AT
KHARGONE
Maheswar or Ahilya fort is
situated in the metropolitian city of Khargone district of Madhya Pradesh State
of India. The history of Maheshwar dates back to more than 4000 years back. The
city also finds a mention in Mahabharta and Ramayana as well but the name of
the city in these epics is 'Mahishmati'.
Akbar built the fort after
he came into power in the year 1601. In the late eighteenth century, Maharani
Ahilya Bai took over as the queen of Holkar Dynasty.
This place is associated
with several myths and was known as Mahishmati in ancient times. Now it is
known with the name ‘Maheshwar’ which is derived from God of Gods ‘Mahesh’
which is a name of Lord Shiva. The word Maheshwar is means in Hind “abode of
Lord Mahesh”.
She transformed this
riverside city into a peaceful and prosperous land when the rest of India was
facing an uneasy time. She built many temples and buildings that still lend the
city the aura of times of yore. The Ghats of the city, named after the
dynasties like Peshwa Ghat, Fanase Ghat, Ahilya Ghat are another feature that
give Maheshwar a distinctive look. Experience the real life of rural India,
moving past you at a leisurely pace.
The Fort is the most visited
attraction in the city. The magnificent fort houses an archaeological museum
that displays antiques and different possessions of Holkar Dynasty. The main
attraction of the fort is the life-size statue of Rani Ahilyabai seated of the
throne. The festival of Dusshera is special in the fort as procession carrying
a small shrine is taken down the fort for public viewing.
This sprawling Fort now has
turned into a luxurious 4 star hotel with very few luxury rooms for tourists
who are coming to visit Maheshwar and its adjoining tourist attractions like
Mandu, Omkareshwar, Indore, Ujjain etc.
By Air
Nearest airport is Indore (91 km), connected
with Bombay, Delhi, Bhopal and Gwalior.
By Rail
Nearest Railway stations are Barwaha (39 km),
Khandwa (110 km), Indore (91 km) and Mhow on the Western Railway.
By Road
Regular buses are available from Barwaha,
Khandwa, Dhar and Dhamnod
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