To read the previous blog on Day 07: Mandu (Part 1), click here.
Day 07: Mandu (Part 2)
Jahaz Mahal
Jahaz Mahal , aptly named for its resemblance to a ship, is built on a narrow strip of land between Munj Talao and Kapur Talao, creating the illusion of a vessel anchored on water. Constructed by Sultan Ghiyasuddin Khilji, this elongated palace measures 110 meters in length and 15 meters in width and served as a grand harem for nearly 15,000 royal women. Blending elements of Afghan, Mughal, Hindu, and Mesopotamian architecture, the palace stands as one of Mandu’s most iconic monuments and a major attraction for visitors. Surrounded by reflective water bodies, Jahaz Mahal appears to float, enhancing its unique architectural appeal. Designed to offer privacy and protection from public view, the harem allowed the royal women a life of luxury and freedom within its secluded and opulent confines.
The main entrance of the palace is located on its eastern side, flanked by six arched openings on either side, each topped with a cornice supported by stone brackets. The ground floor features three spacious halls connected by corridors, with narrow rooms positioned at each end. The southern room contains a water channel, thought to have once supplied water to an intricately designed cistern located beyond the northern room. At the rear of each hall are pavilions overlooking the Munj Talao, which are believed to have served the women of the royal harem. These women remained concealed from public view behind curtains that once hung from the arches of the pavilions.
Malik Mughith’s Tomb
Malik Mughith, a prominent general in Sultan Mahmud Khilji’s army, played a key role in both military and administrative affairs of the Malwa Dynasty. Although historical records about him are limited, his tomb stands as a testament to his importance and legacy. Located in the historic city of Mandu, the Malik Mughith’s Tomb is a remarkable example of 15th-century Islamic architecture. It reflects the architectural style and artistic sensibilities of the era, serving as a lasting tribute to Malik Mughith’s contribution to the Malwa regime.
Carvan Sarai
Our next stop was Carvan Sarai, a traveler’s rest house built in the 15th century. This structure, though now in ruins, was once a vital part of Mandu’s infrastructure. As we explored, we could almost picture the weary traders and travelers from the past, taking respite in this historical building. The open courtyard and the stone walls had a story to tell, and we lingered there for a while, imagining the hustle and bustle that must have taken place there centuries ago.
Dai Ki Chhoti Behen Ka Mahal & Dai Ka Mahal
Our last stops before we left Mandu were the Dai Ki Chhoti Behen Ka Mahal and Dai Ka Mahal, two royal ruins that are less frequented by tourists but hold their own historical charm. The quiet ruins tell stories of royal life, and though time has taken its toll on the structures, they still exude a sense of mystery and intrigue. These two monuments were a perfect, peaceful end to our exploration of Mandu’s many treasures.
Dai Ka Mahal
The Dai Ka Mahal, located in the Mandu region of Madhya Pradesh, is more accurately described as a mausoleum than a palace. Built on a raised platform with arched rooms on its western side, it once featured elegant pavilions atop circular towers at the southeast and northeast corners. At the center of a large terrace lies the tomb, while along the western edge are the remains of a beautifully crafted mosque, featuring a double hall with vaulted ceilings and traces of tile decoration. Noteworthy are the projecting windows on the southern and northern walls, which reflect Hindu architectural influence through their balustrades and elephant-tusk-shaped brackets.
The tomb itself follows a square plan with arched openings at the center of each wall, above which is a row of decorative miniature arches. A particularly striking feature is the mosque’s dome, which sits on an elongated octagonal neck enclosed by a detailed parapet, complete with small kiosks at each corner. This style of dome ornamentation is uncommon in Mandu but is frequently seen in Deccan architecture.
Hathi Mahal, Mandu.
Hathi Mahal, named after the massive pillars resembling elephant legs, is distinguished by its grand dome supported by these towering columns. Interestingly, the three recesses on either side of the pillars seem oddly disconnected from the rest of the architectural layout. The dome itself rests on an octagonal base adorned with patterned inlaid tiles, though much of this decorative work has not survived over time. Originally intended as a space for entertainment, the structure was later repurposed as a tomb and now contains a catacomb. It dates back to the late 15th or early 16th century, during the reign of Nasiruddin Khalji. Adjacent to Hathi Mahal is a mosque, where pillars divide its two main halls into ten alcoves, supporting a vaulted ceiling above.
Before we set out for Maheshwar, we returned to the MPT Malwa Resort, Mandu for another quick lunch. It was a delicious mix of light snacks and refreshing drinks, the perfect break before the next leg of our journey.
We hit the road for Maheshwar, our next destination at 2:30pm, and as we drove through the picturesque countryside, we reflected on the incredible stories that Mandu had shared with us. We reached Maheshwar by 3:45pm.
To read the next blog on Day 08: Maheshwar, click here.
