History of Maheshwar

This city has its present significance & identity due to religious & generous nature and wisdom of Ahilyabai's. She declared this holy city as capital, due to its glorious past. Maheshvar was also famous for the great Pandit. Mandan Mishra and his wife Bharti Devi. Jagatguru Shankaracharya defeated the couple in a debate to lead Hinduism to its peak. Hyhay destiny king Sahastrarjun was a brave emperor. He had 500 Queens .He could stop the stream of Nanda river by his thousand arms. He defeated Ravan in a war and arrested him.The Ravan eshwar temple is symbolic to that victory. Maheshvar is situated on the banks of sacred river Narmada, the daughter of Lord Shiva hence also called Gupta kashi.

This is one of the most picturesque cities in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Located in Khargone District, it is situated on the banks of Narmada River. The city is famous as the place ruled by the legendary queen Maharani Ahilya Bai, the ruler of Holkar dynasty. The history of Maheshwar dates back to more than 4000 years back. The city also finds a mention in Mahabharat and Ramayana as well but the name of the city in these epics is 'Mahishmati'. Akbar built the fort after he came into power in the year 1601. In the late eighteenth century, Maharani Ahilya Bai took over as the queen of Holkar Dynasty. She transformed this riverside city into a peaceful and prosperous land when the rest of India was facing an uneasy time. She built many temples and buildings that still lend the city the aura of times of yore. The Ghats of the city, named after the dynasties like Peshwa Ghat, Fanase Ghat, Ahilya Ghat are another feature that give Maheshwar a distinctive look. Experience the real life of rural India, moving past you at a leisurely pace.

Connectivity to reach

By Air: Nearest airport is the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport. The nearest airport is at Indore; located about 91 km from Maheshwar. The airport is well connected by flights to cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Bhopal. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi to reach Maheshwar.

By Train: The nearest railhead is at Barwaha, located about 39 km from Maheshwar. Indore is the nearest major railhead. Trains from Mumbai, Delhi, Bhopal and many other Indian cities halt at the station. From the station, visitors can hire taxi for Maheshwar.

By Road: Maheshwar is well connected by road to various cities of the state, and hence it is also easy to visit Maheshwar from any part of the country. State-run buses start from Barwaha, Indore and Khandwa are available.

Climate & Best time to visit

In Winter: Winter season is the most favorable if one plans on visiting Maheshwar. The temperature range is moderate, with it fluctuating between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Mornings are usually a bit chilly, but the weather overall is pleasant for wandering around all day. It might be a good idea to visit Maheshwar then to experience the grandeur of the place.

In Monsoon: The monsoon season starts from the end of June, and the temperature drops. The place can be a little humid during this time, which might make your stay a little uncomfortable. Apart from that, Monsoon can be your second-best option to visit to this city.

In Summer: The temperature during summers can hit a high of 45 degrees Celsius, which might not be comfortable for exploring the city. The days are usually scalding and dry, and this time of the year should be avoided to visit Maheshwar.