A history loving tourist always yearns for places that will let them indulge their fancy amidst monuments, ancient relics and old sites. My husband is one such history addicted soul and why not? He is a professor of the subject and always looks for trips that will let him indulge in historical adventures. Therefore, when my sister invited me for his daughter’s wedding in Gwalior, he took leave from his college so that he could have a heart-to-heart with one of the most majestic cities in India. Surprised at his insistence, it did not take me long to figure out why was he showing such great interest in a wedding, and that too on his in-laws side. Anyway, who does not like a trip with one’s better half and if it is combined with a wedding, you can well understand the joy of the lady.

So I landed with my dear hubby at Gwalior on the precise date and after attending the wedding, we chose a homestay and devoted two entire days to sightseeing. Well, I have never been much of a history lover but I have to say Gwalior is blessed with so many jewels that it is difficult not to fall in love with the city of the Scindias. As is the norm, our sightseeing adventure also began with the popular Gwalior Fort that starts weaving a mesmerizing spell the moment your eyes catch a glimpse of the fort walls. Perched on a hill top, this old 8^th century fort, requires you to take a trek for a long distance to relish its real beauty, which I could do just because of my enthusiastic and energetic better half. The formidable fort with walls all around intrigues you as it also encompasses influences of Chinese architecture.

In the Jai Vilas Palace, you get to watch the glow of European architecture where the Durbar Hall is the most enchanting part with its imposing twin Belgian chandeliers. But for my professor, Jiwaji Rao Scindia Museum was the real treat. How can I ever forget the wide grin and the twinkle in his eyes! It was like he had discovered a treasure all by himself. The same ecstasy was evident at the Sas-Bahu ka Mandir. A temple devoted to Lord Vishnu with thousand hands and Lord Shiva. Impressive due to its massive structure and intricate idol carvings, it creates a fine meeting point of religion, history and mythology.

Having had enough of history, I desired to see something different the next day and on my sister’s advice, we went to Tigra Dam, about 23 km from the city. Based on the Sank River, the gigantic dam gives a fine view of the river and quiet surrounding that is also a bird sanctuary. The chirping and the canoodling of the birds gives a romantic touch to the entire setting and we sat there for hours, indulging in a heart-to-heart with nature.

Gwalior gifted us with an amazing holiday and I will always remain indebted to the city for making us come closer. I feel that this is a must visit place, whether you love history or not. And choose a homestay to get a real taste of the place.