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Shivpuri!

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Population

180,000

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (₹)

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location_on Madhya Pradesh map Central India 🏛️ Heritage 🦁 Wildlife Shivpuri Madhya Pradesh Madhav National Park Scindia wildlife lakes heritage

Shivpuri is a city in Madhya Pradesh, known for its historical significance as the summer capital of the Scindia dynasty. It's also the gateway to Madhav National Park, offering a blend of wildlife and heritage.

Visit Shivpuri for its serene lakes, historical palaces, and the chance to spot wildlife in Madhav National Park. However, the city lacks extensive tourist infrastructure and can feel quite sleepy outside the national park. The summer heat can also be oppressive.

To explore Shivpuri's main attractions, plan for at least 2-3 days. Getting around is best done by hiring a taxi or auto-rickshaw for the duration of your stay.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

10-30 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for sightseeing and wildlife spotting. The days are sunny and the nights are cool.

Why Visit:

This is the best time for wildlife viewing in Madhav National Park due to comfortable temperatures. The lakes are also at their fullest, enhancing the scenic beauty of the city. The weather is perfect for exploring historical sites without the discomfort of extreme heat.

Tip: Expect slightly higher prices for accommodation during peak season. Booking accommodations and safaris in advance is recommended.

Shoulder Season

July to September

25-35 degrees C

Monsoon season with moderate to heavy rainfall. The landscape turns lush green.

Why Visit:

The monsoon season brings a refreshing change to the landscape and fewer tourists. However, some parts of Madhav National Park might be inaccessible due to heavy rains.

Tip: Check road conditions and park accessibility before planning your trip. Carry rain gear.

Avoid

April to June

35-45 degrees C

Extremely hot and dry weather. The heat can be unbearable for outdoor activities.

Why Avoid:

The scorching heat makes it very uncomfortable to explore the city and wildlife sightings are less frequent. The lakes might be partially dried up.

Note: Unless you are very tolerant to heat, it's best to avoid visiting during these months.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Madhav National Park

⏱ 4-6 hours ₹150 (Indians), ₹1500 (foreigners)

Madhav National Park is a diverse ecosystem with lakes, forests, and grasslands. It was once a hunting reserve for the Scindia rulers....

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George Castle

⏱ 1 hour ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

George Castle is a historical hunting lodge built by Jivaji Rao Scindia for King George V of England. The King never actually stayed here, but the cas...

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Sakhya Sagar Lake

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Sakhya Sagar Lake is a large artificial lake within Madhav National Park. It's a popular spot for birdwatching and enjoying the natural scenery....

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Madhav Vilas Palace

⏱ 2 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Madhav Vilas Palace is a historical palace built by the Scindia rulers. It showcases impressive architecture and offers a glimpse into the royal past....

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Bhadaiya Kund

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Bhadaiya Kund is a scenic waterfall and natural pool. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy the natural beauty....

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Chattri of Madhav Rao Scindia

⏱ 1 hour Free

The Chattri of Madhav Rao Scindia is a memorial dedicated to the Scindia ruler. The architecture reflects a blend of Mughal and Hindu styles....

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Tatya Tope Memorial Park

⏱ 1 hour ₹10

This park commemorates Tatya Tope, a prominent freedom fighter in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. He was executed in Shivpuri....

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Things To Do

attractions

Jeep Safari in Madhav National Park

⏱ 3-4 hours 💰 ₹2500-3500 per jeep

Explore Madhav National Park in an open jeep, accompanied by a trained guide. The safari takes you through diverse terra...

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attractions

Birdwatching at Sakhya Sagar Lake

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 Free

Spend time at Sakhya Sagar Lake, observing and identifying various bird species. The lake attracts migratory birds, espe...

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attractions

Boating on Bhoora Khoni Lake

⏱ 1 hour 💰 ₹200-300 per boat

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Bhoora Khoni Lake, located near Shivpuri. The lake offers scenic views of the surrounding ...

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attractions

Trekking in Madhav National Park

⏱ 2-4 hours 💰 ₹500-1000 per person (including guide)

Embark on a guided trek through designated trails in Madhav National Park. The trek offers a closer look at the park's f...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Attend a Local Festival

Varies | Free

Experience the vibrant culture of Shivpuri by attending a local festival. These festivals often invo...

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Visit a Local Village

3-4 hours | ₹500-1000 per person (including transport and guide)

Get a glimpse into rural life in Madhya Pradesh by visiting a local village. You'll have the opportu...

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Cooking Class: Learn Local Cuisine

2-3 hours | ₹1000-1500 per person

Learn to prepare traditional Madhya Pradesh dishes in a hands-on cooking class. You'll learn about l...

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Attend a Religious Ceremony at a Local Temple

1-2 hours | Free

Witness a religious ceremony at a local temple and experience the spiritual side of Shivpuri. Temple...

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Visit a Local Market

1-2 hours | Free (unless you purchase something)

Explore the local market and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Shivpuri. You'll find a variety of...

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celebration

Learn about Scindia History at the Shivpuri Museum

1-2 hours | ₹10 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners)

Discover the history of the Scindia dynasty and their influence on Shivpuri at the Shivpuri Museum....

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Dal Bafla
Dal Bafla

A traditional Madhya Pradesh dish of baked wheat balls served with lentil soup (try at local restaurants).

Bhutte ki Kees
Bhutte ki Kees

Grated corn cooked with spices and milk (available at street food stalls).

Poha
Poha

Flattened rice cooked with spices and vegetables (a common breakfast dish at local eateries).

Jalebi
Jalebi

A sweet, deep-fried dessert (try at sweet shops).

Where to Eat

Shiva Restaurant

Shiva Restaurant

₹₹

Indian

📍 City Center

A popular restaurant known for its North Indian cuisine. Offers a pleasant atmosphere and good service.

Butter Chicken

₹400-600 for two

Green Chilli Restaurant

Green Chilli Restaurant

₹₹

Chinese

📍 Near Bus Stand

Serves a variety of Chinese dishes. A good option for a change of pace.

Hakka Noodles

₹500-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Main Market Area

Main Market Area

💰 Budget: ₹50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Be cautious of hygiene. Choose stalls with high turnover.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Shivpuri

More restaurants & dishes from Shivpuri

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

City Center

Ideal for those who want to be close to markets and local attractions. Offers a mix of budget and mid-range accommodations, but can be noisy.

Best For: Budget travelers, shoppers

Near Madhav National Park

Best for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Offers a peaceful environment and easy access to the park, but limited dining options.

Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Sonchiraiya

📍 Near Bus Stand

A basic but clean hotel with essential amenities. Conveniently located near the bus stand for easy access.

₹800-1200/night

Hotel Landmark

📍 City Center

A simple hotel in the heart of the city. Offers decent value for money and is close to local markets.

₹900-1300/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2000-3000/night

MPT Tourist Village Shivpuri

📍 Near Madhav National Park

A comfortable option with well-maintained rooms and a restaurant. Close to the national park, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.

₹2000-3000/night

Hotel Grand Shiva

📍 City Center

Offers modern amenities and spacious rooms. Provides a comfortable stay in a central location.

₹2500-3500/night

Luxury

₹4500+/night

The Baagh Resort

📍 Near Madhav National Park

A luxurious resort offering a serene and upscale experience. Features a swimming pool, spa, and fine dining options.

₹4500+/night

Shivpuri Jungle Resort

📍 Near Madhav National Park

A premium resort offering luxurious accommodations and immersive wildlife experiences. Includes guided nature walks and safari arrangements.

₹5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Gwalior Airport (GWL), 120km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Shivpuri Railway Station (SVPI)

Located in the city center. Connects to major cities in Madhya Pradesh and other states.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 6-8 hours (₹500-1500)
  • From Mumbai: 16-18 hours (₹800-2500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Shivpuri Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Gwalior: 3-4 hours (₹300-500)

Note: Trains more comfortable for long distances.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

💰 ₹50-150 per ride

Best for: Short distances within the city

Bargain for the fare before starting the ride. Confirm the destination.

local_taxi

Taxi

💰 ₹1500-2000 per day

Best for: Full-day sightseeing, trips to Madhav National Park

Hire a taxi for the entire day for convenience. Negotiate the rate beforehand.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear light and comfortable clothing, especially during summer. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹5000+

ATMs: Available in the city center

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for small transactions, cards accepted at larger hotels and restaurants

Bargaining: Expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants to avoid stomach issues.

Common Issues: Carry insect repellent for Madhav National Park and basic medications for minor ailments.

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Communication

SIM Cards: Available at the airport or in the city. Jio and Airtel have good coverage.

WiFi: Available at some hotels and restaurants

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Language & Tipping

Language: Hindi is the primary language. English is spoken in tourist areas.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

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