It’s a lesser known fact that not only is Gwalior a fantastic choice for a family holiday because of its historic spots of interest as well as magnificent palaces, but it is also surrounded by a number of other fascinating and popular destinations if you’re up for a quick vacay from Gwalior. By Shubhanjana Das
1. Khajuraho:
The erotic sculptures on the Khajuraho Temple dating back to between 950 and 1050 when they were built by the Chandela dynasty are a site of pilgrimage for both Hindus as well as Jains. This UNESCO World Heritage site is now left with only 25 temples out of the 80. Come February, Khajuraho will host the Khajuraho Dance Festival wherein traditional forms of India will be performed by the leading dancers of the country.
Distance: 281 km
How To Reach: The fastest and easiest way to reach Khajuraho is to hire a taxi or drive all the way.
2. Jaipur:
Nestled in the lap of the Aravalis, the Pink City of India is not an unknown site. Its majestic hilltop forts, palaces, and abundant history make it a must visit from Gwalior, situated at a distance of 6 hours from Gwalior, there isn’t an end to the number of things you can do and explore Jaipur. Amber Fort, the Palace of Winds, and the imposing Hawa Mahal are sights to behold. P.S. the bustling bazaars of Jaipur demand as much attention as the palaces.
Distance: 334 km
How To Reach: Flights from Jaipur to Gwalior as well as trains ply between different stations of Jaipur to Bhadroli in Gwalior.
3. Pushkar:
On the northeastern part of Rajasthan is the town of Pushkar, which borders the Thar desert. This small town has hundreds of temples and as many as 52 ghats on the sacred Pushkar Lake. The Brahma Temple, Jagatpita Brahma Mandir, and the Pushkar adventure camp, which provides camel safaris are some of the must-visit attractions in Pushkar.
Distance: 478 km
How To Reach: The fastest and easiest way to reach Pushkar is to either drive or hire a taxi.
4. Mathura:
Just three hours from Gwalior is the birthplace of Lord Krishna, Mathura. An important pilgrimage site for Hindus, Mathura is a small city located on the banks of the Yamuna which is studded with temples like Krishna Janambhoomi Temple, Dwarkadheesh Temple, Gita Mandir, and Vishram Ghat. For all you foodies, Mathura’s sweets are some of the best in the entire country, so make sure to grab one (or more) of its milk sweets, khurchan and Mathura peda.
Distance: 176 km
How to Reach: Bus and trains ply between Mathura and Gwalior.
5. Ranthambhore:
Cultural and historic sites may bore some, but the abundance of nature’s gifts, its diverse flora and fauna don’t ever fail to fascinate. Other than the Ranthambore National Park, you can also visit Anantpura and Rajbag Talao. The Ranthambore School of Art is a sanctuary of traditional Rajasthani culture, arts, and crafts. After a visit (and some shopping) at the Dastkar Craft Center, indulge in some daal baati churma, flavoured lassi, and malpua for an exquisite Rajasthani culinary experience.
Distance: 280 km
How To Reach: You can either cover the distance in a taxi or you can take the train to Sawai Madhopur, situated at a distance of 16-km from Ranthambore.
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