Located inside the majestic Mandu Fort in Mandu, Madhya Pradesh, Hindola Mahal in an ancient palace known for its architecture and is one of the most visited heritage places in Mandu. Hindola Mahal is an exquisite heritage structure which is one of the edifices that make up the royal palace complex at Mandu comprising of Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Taveli Mahal, and the Nahar Jharokha. The construction for Hindola Mahal might have begun in 1425 during the rule of Hoshang Shah but was later modified to its present state and may date to the end of 15th century during the reign of Ghiyas-ud-din. The palace was used by the Mughals majorly for leisure purpose. It is also known as the ‘Swinging Palace’ because of its slanting walls and arches which gives it the impression of being on a swing. The structure is a Malwa Sultanate style of architecture and was probably used as a meeting hall by the king to address his citizens. It is constructed entirely of sandstone with stunningly carved columns and the walls are inclined at an angle of 77 degrees, giving the palace its name. Hindola Mahal is now a T-Shaped edifice which is being used as an audience hall or an open-air theatre. It is a great place for the history and architecture afficionados and for tourists interested in our country’s culture and history.
The exquisite Hindola Mahal is located in the ruined city of Mandu inside the Mandu Fort complex and is an architectural visual. The name translates to ‘Swinging Palace’ because of its inclined walls and arches and is a specimen of the Malwa Sultanate style of architecture. The palace was built as an audience hall and is renowned for its unique architecture and intricate carvings. Its initial construction dates back to the 1425 CE during the rule of Hoshang Shah but it was later modified towards the end of the 15th century under the rule of Ghiyasuddin Khilji. The palace shows a stunning architecture with detailed and exquisite sculptures which can be seen in its carved columns. It was built to accommodate a large audience. Hindola Mahal is one of the first monuments which comes across when you enter through the Delhi Darwaza. The innovative structure of the palace along with the superb technique attracts thousands of tourists to witness it every year.
Hindola Mahal is a remarkable example of Indo-Islamic architecture, which blends Hindu and Islamic styles. The palace is built entirely of red sandstone and is supported by massive pillars, which create a series of large halls. The most distinctive feature of the palace is its sloping walls, which give the impression of being in motion, and thus the palace is also known as the "Swinging Palace." The sloping walls are created by a series of parallel arches, which increase in size from bottom to top, giving the palace a tapering effect. The palace has two large halls, one on the ground floor and the other on the first floor. The ground floor hall is larger and is supported by four massive pillars, while the first-floor hall is smaller and is supported by six pillars. The pillars are intricately carved with floral patterns and geometric designs. The palace's interior has intricate carvings on the walls, including scenes from Hindu mythology and Arabic inscriptions. The palace's windows and arches are also decorated with intricate carvings and lattice work. The palace's design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. The sloping walls allow for better ventilation and reduce the heat inside the palace, making it a comfortable place for the royals to reside in during the hot summer months.
Timing – 6am to 7pm
Entry Fee – INR5 for Indians and INR100 for Foreigners
The palace remains open throughout the year from sunrise to sunset and can be visited at any season. But the best time to visit the impressive structure is from October to April as the climate remains pleasant during this time and attracts a lot of tourists from across the country. If you want to avoid the crowd, then the summer months from April to June are also feasible but the heat can be uncomfortable to explore the entire fort while the monsoons may create hinderance in your excursion to explore the sight.
Hindola Mahal is in the ruined city of Mandu in Madhya Pradesh state. It is one of the structures in the Mandu fort complex along with the other palaces.
The construction of Hindola Mahal began in 1425 under Hushang Shah reign but it was modified to its present state in the end of the 15th century under the rule of Ghiyasuddin Khilji.
Hindola Mahal is characterised by its simple yet fascinating architecture with minimal ornamentation which stands out boldly through massive inclined buttresses. Its walls and arches are inclined at 77 degree which gives it an impression of being on a swing.
The Mandu fort complex comprises Jahaz Mahal, Taveli Mahal, and Nahar Jharokha apart from Hindola Mahal.
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