Surwaya Monastery

Surwaya Monastery is a collection of five historical structures situated in the village of Surwaya in Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur district. Two of the structures are temples that honor Lord Shiva, while another is a stepped well, and the other two are a water tank and a decorative gate. The temples are constructed in the style of North Indian architecture, and they showcase intricate sculptures and carvings. The stepped well, known as baori, is a unique feature of the complex that was most likely utilized for water storage and irrigation. Additionally, the water tank was employed for ritualistic cleansing, and the torana served as an ornamental entrance. Surwaya Monastery, which is believed to have been constructed in the 10th century AD, was a significant religious and pilgrimage center during the medieval era. As a result of its cultural and historical importance, the site draws visitors from all around India and the world.

Surwaya Monastery was built in the 10th century AD, during the medieval era in the village of Surwaya, located in the Mandsaur district of Madhya Pradesh, India. It was a significant religious center and pilgrimage site that held spiritual importance for people living in the area. The complex consists of five monuments including two temples devoted to Lord Shiva, a stepped well or baori, a water tank, and a gate or torana, all of which were constructed in the North Indian architectural style with intricate carvings and sculptures. Over time, the site was neglected and fell into disrepair, but in recent years, there has been a renewed interest in its preservation and restoration. Today, the Surwaya Monastery is recognized as an important cultural and historical site in the region, attracting visitors from across India and the world who come to admire its stunning architecture and discover its fascinating past.

As Surwaya Monastery is a historical monument, the visiting hours are usually from sunrise to sunset, which is generally from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. However, it's always recommended to confirm the visiting hours before planning a visit, as timings can sometimes change depending on weather conditions or any other unforeseen circumstances.

• The Madhav Vilas Palace is an exquisite palace situated in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, which is around 120 km from Surwaya Monastery. It was erected in the early 20th century and functioned as the summer palace for the Scindia rulers. The palace showcases a fusion of Mughal and European architecture and is surrounded by picturesque gardens.
• Sankhya Sagar s a sizable lake found in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, which is around 120 km away from Surwaya Monastery. It is a famous picnic spot and offers breathtaking views of the nearby hills.
• Bhadaiya Kund is a stepwell situated in Bhadaiya town, approximately 10 km from Surwaya Monastery. It is considered to have been constructed in the 16th century and has exquisite carvings and sculptures.
• Bhoora Khon Waterfall is a stunning waterfall located in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, approximately 115 km away from Surwaya Monastery. It is a prevalent destination for hiking and picnicking.
• Pawa Waterfall is another waterfall located in Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, around 135 km from Surwaya Monastery. It is situated amidst verdant greenery and is a well-known spot for trekking and camping.
• Sitvaya ki Garhi is an old fort situated in Kolaras town, around 45 km away from Surwaya Monastery. It is speculated to have been constructed during the 10th century and gives insight into the area's rich history and culture.
• Narwar Fort is another ancient fort located in the town of Narwar, around 70 km away from Surwaya Monastery. It was built in the 16th century and served as a crucial military stronghold for the Rajput rulers.
• Madikheda Dam is a massive dam located in the town of Madikheda, approximately 75 km from Surwaya Monastery. It is a prevalent spot for fishing and boating.
• Patel Park is a stunning park located in the city of Indore, around 230 km away from Surwaya Monastery. It highlights lush green gardens, a lake, and various recreational activities, including boating, cycling, and horseback riding.

• Mandsaur is home to Hotel Shree Ram Residency, located about 24 km from Surwaya Monastery. This hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, and a restaurant.
• Hotel Neelkanth Residency is situated in Mandsaur and is approximately 24 km from Surwaya Monastery. It provides rooms with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, along with a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free parking.
• Hotel Kalpana Palace, which is around 27 km from Surwaya Monastery. This hotel features air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi, as well as a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free parking.
• Hotel Manohar Palace is located in Ratlam, which is roughly 90 km from Surwaya Monastery. It offers air-conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi, as well as a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free parking.
• Hotel Shivansh Palace, situated in Neemuch, about 100 km from Surwaya Monastery. This hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi, as well as a restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and free parking.

• Gokul RestaurantSituated near the Surwaya Monastery, this eatery is a vegetarian restaurant that provides a diverse range of dishes, including North Indian and South Indian cuisine, Chinese, and Continental dishes.
• Prakash Restaurant: Another vegetarian restaurant in close proximity to the monastery is Prakash. They offer a wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes that include appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
• Bansi Restaurant: This restaurant is famous for its vegetarian Rajasthani thali which comprises a variety of small-portioned dishes. The establishment serves only vegetarian food.
• Sanwariya Fast Food: This fast food joint is located near the Surwaya Monastery and offers a variety of snacks, sandwiches, burgers, and beverages.
• Hotel Neelkanth Residency: The hotel has a restaurant that serves Indian and Chinese cuisine, as well as snacks and beverages. It is located in Mandsaur, approximately 24 km from the Surwaya Monastery.

The most suitable period to visit Surwaya Monastery in Madhya Pradesh is during the winter season, between November and February. The weather during this time is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, which is favorable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It's best to avoid the monsoon season, which occurs from June to September, due to the heavy rainfall, which may make it difficult to explore the area. Similarly, the summer months from March to May are hot and humid, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C, which can be unpleasant for outdoor activities.

• By Air: The nearest airport to Surwaya Monastery is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is approximately 142 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Surwaya Monastery.
• By Train: The nearest railway station to Surwaya Monastery is Mandsaur Railway Station, which is about 23 km away. You can take a taxi or a bus from the railway station to reach Surwaya Monastery.
• By Bus: Surwaya Monastery is well connected by road to major cities in Madhya Pradesh. You can take a bus from Mandsaur or Neemuch to reach the monastery. You can also hire a taxi or a private car to reach the monastery from nearby cities.