
About Maheshwar
Located about 100 kms from Indore, the nearest airport, Maheshwar has recently become
very popular among Bollywood, Tollywood and Web Series' Filmmakers.
The Royal Ancient Heritage Maheshwar
The city of Maheshwarhas been on the map ofIndia since ancient times. Known as the Kingdom of Mahishmati, it resided in the heart of the Indian subcontinent and was mentioned in the Puranas and various Epics. The Buddhist text of Angurutta Nikaya mentions the existence of 16 Mahajanapadas during the 5th and 6th centuries. Mahishmati was the capital of Avanti Mahajanapada. These literature described Mahishmati as a hub of cultural prowess and a beacon of wealth, both material and spiritual.
However, today Maheshwar is known for its history related to the time of the Maratha Rule. After his conquests of Malwa, Peshwa Bajirao appointed Malhar Rao Holkar as the Subedar of the area. Under the rule of the Holkar dynasty, Maheshwar was reinvented as acenter of Marathaculture. Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar took over the reignsof the empire after the sad demise of her husband and her son. With the guidance of her father-in law, Malhar Rao, Ahilya Bai managed to maintain peace and calm in her kingdom even during theturbulent times.

In 1765, she commissioned the building of Rajwada which was the seat for al the administrative work of the kingdom Even today the tourists enjoy the sight of the actual throne of the Holkar Queen in the simplicity of the royal court
surrounded by lush green trees. The Rajwada also displays the traditional palenquins and weapons of those times.
Contact Us
98, Vinoba Marg, Fort Maheshwar 451 224
About Maheshwar
Located about 100 kms from Indore, the nearest airport, Maheshwar has recently become very popular among Bollywood, Tollywood and Web Series' Filmmakers. It was the capital of the Holkars and Rani Ahilya Bai, who built the beautiful Ghats on the banks of the River Narmada. Maheshwar is a holy place with temples of Lord Shiva - one of which is situated on a small island in the middle of the River Narmada. It is known for its famous Maheshwari sarees. Hundreds of weavers in the region, make high-end traditional handloom silk sarees.
RAJWADA
The Rajwada also houses the personal temple of Ahilya Bai Holkar, adorned with a multitude of Shiva Lingas, and features the holy swing of Lord Krishna, crafted from authentic gold. Legend has it that grave misfortune befalls anyone who dares to cast an evil eye upon or attempt to steal this swing. Locals firmly believe that the potent forces of nature, coupled with the wrath of the almighty himself, render would-be thieves blind as punishment for their transgressions. The sacred aura surrounding the temple and its treasures serves as a testament to the divine protection bestowed upon the Rajwada, ensuring its sanctity remains inviolate through the ages.

GOLDEN SWING
In the worship house of Devi Ahilya, one can witness the divine presence of Balmukund seated in a swing of gold, exuding an aura of sacredness and tranquility. This houses the esteemed Dwadash Jyotirlinga, a powerful symbol of Lord Shiva's omnipresence, and the revered Narmadeshwar, a testament to the spiritual heritage of the region. The totem of the Holkar State stands proudly, embodying the rich history and legacy of the Holkar dynasty. Adding to the sanctity and uniqueness of the place is the rare Banyan tree, an ancient and majestic presence that further enhances the spiritual ambiance of this hallowed site.

RAJRAJESHWAR TEMPLE
The Shiva temple stands as a venerable monument atop the samadhi of the ancient king, Sahastrabahu, resonating with the echoes of bygone eras. Within its hallowed halls, the flickering light of 11 Akhand Deepak illuminates the devotion offered to Lord Shiva, while the sanctum sanctorum is embraced by the presence of temples dedicated to Surya, Vishnu, Ram, and Ganapati. Nearby, the Gupteshwar Temple, fashioned in the exquisite Panchayatana style of architecture, stands as a testament to the artistry and spiritual fervor of the region, beckoning devotees and scholars alike to marvel at its timeless beauty and significance.

KASHI VISHWANATH TEMPLE
Situated on the banks of the sacred river Narmada, this temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. The Puranas affectionately refer to it as Gupta Kashi, the secret Kashi, hinting at its profound spiritual significance and hidden sanctity. According to legend, Queen Ahilya Bai herself is believed to have established this shrine and installed the sacred Shiva Linga, endowing it with her divine blessings and unwavering devotion. Over the centuries, pilgrims from far and wide have sought solace and enlightenment within its serene precincts, drawn by the mystique and grace that permeate every stone and prayer offered within its sacred walls.

THE FORT AREA
The majestic Ahilya Fort of Maheshwar rises proudly, its walls fashioned from the very depths of the Narmada river, immortalized in the timeless allure of black stone. Within its ancient halls, a symphony of artistry unfolds, with delicate carvings depicting intricate motifs of lotus flowers, revered deities in divine repose, graceful dance poses frozen in time, and the vibrant life of animals and birds intricately etched into the stone. Each carving whispers tales of devotion, spirituality, and the rich tapestry of life along the banks of the sacred Narmada, inviting visitors to delve into the depths of history and culture preserved within its hallowed confines.

AHILYESHWAR TEMPLE
Commissioned in 1865 by Queen Krishna Bai Holkar, wife of Yashwant Rao Holkar, this temple stands as a resplendent testament to the enduring legacy of Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar. Over the span of 36 years, skilled artisans and devoted craftsmen toiled tirelessly to bring to fruition this magnificent tribute from daughter-in-law to mother-in-law, imbuing it with intricate details and unparalleled grandeur. Today, it stands not only as a marvel of architectural prowess but also as a poignant symbol of familial love and reverence, inspiring all who behold it with its timeless beauty and profound significance.

VITHOBA JI KI CHHATRI
Situated opposite the Ahilyeshwar Temple, this architectural gem was commissioned by Tukoji Rao Holkar-I, the adopted son of Malhar Rao Holkar, as a testament to the grandeur of the Holkar dynasty. Adorned with intricate carvings, the facade of this majestic structure is embellished with the graceful presence of elephant figures, symbolizing strength and regality. As the sun sets, casting its golden hues upon the ornate carvings, the palace exudes an aura of timeless elegance, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of history and culture woven into its very stones.

BANESHWAR TEMPLE
Nestled within the heart of the Narmada river's course, this temple holds a mystical allure that transcends time and space. Local folklore speaks of Banasur's devout prayers to Lord Shiva, echoing through the ages as a testament to the spiritual potency of this sacred site. Additionally, whispers of extraterrestrial origins shroud the temple in an enigmatic aura, captivating the imagination of seekers and scholars alike. Amidst the tranquil surroundings, the awe-inspiring sight of a ferocious lion carved from stone stands as a silent guardian, symbolizing courage and divine protection for all who enter its hallowed precincts.

SHRI DUTTA TEMPLE
Constructed by the devoted followers of Shri Narayan Swami of Maharashtra, this temple stands as a harmonious blend of modern architectural elements and timeless spiritual principles. Through its design, it seeks to embody the ethos of servitude towards society and the spirit of global altruism, inspiring visitors to transcend individual boundaries and embrace the interconnectedness of humanity. As pilgrims flock to its sacred halls, they are reminded of the enduring power of compassion and unity, echoing the teachings of Shri Narayan Swami and fostering a sense of shared purpose and collective responsibility towards a brighter tomorrow.

SAHASTRADHARA
This name, literally translating to "a thousand streams," derives from the river Narmada's meandering path over shallow rocky terrain, creating the illusion of the river dividing into myriad streams. According to ancient lore, the tale intertwines with the legend of Sahasrabahu, the king of Mahishmati, who attempted to halt the mighty Narmada with his thousand arms, only for the resilient river to elude capture by splintering into a thousand streams. This enchanting narrative adds to the mystical allure of the region, where nature's resilience and timeless tales converge to captivate the imagination of all who visit.

KALESHWAR MAHADEV TEMPLE
On the eastern bank of the confluence of the Maheshwari and Narmada rivers stands this ancient temple, steeped in the sands of time, with a history spanning over a millennium. Its weathered walls and time-worn spires bear witness to the passage of centuries, silently preserving the stories and prayers of generations past. Amidst the tranquil embrace of nature's elements, pilgrims and travelers alike find solace in the temple's venerable presence, a beacon of spiritual reverence and historical significance. As the gentle waters of the Maheshwari and Narmada rivers converge, the temple stands as a silent sentinel, honoring the sacred confluence of nature and faith for a thousand years and beyond.

MAHESHWARI HANDLOOMS
The prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag bestowed upon the Maheshwari Saree by the Government of India elevates it to a symbol of the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the region. As one of Madhya Pradesh's exclusive seven GI-tagged products, the Maheshwari Saree embodies centuries of tradition, skill, and artistry, serving as a proud ambassador of the state's unique cultural identity on the global stage. Renowned for its exquisite patterns, vibrant colors, and lightweight texture, the Maheshwari Saree continues to enchant connoisseurs of fine textiles worldwide, ensuring its enduring legacy for generations to come.
