Shiva’s Abode

As you linger over a lavish breakfast on a grand palatial terrace of Ahilya Fort, overlooking the banks of the Narmada River, you cannot help but soak in the old-world and grand charm of Maheshwar, which literally means the Abode of Lord Shiva. Mentioned in the epics of Mahabharata and Ramayana as Mahishmati, this temple town that’s popular as a quiet pilgrimage site was once the seat of the Holkars and enjoyed a glorious phase in history during the reign of Rani Ahilyabai of Indore. The famous handwoven Maheshwari saris are believed to have been introduced in Maheshwar 250 years ago by Rani Ahilyabai herself.

Residing at what was once the queen’s very own fortress you can almost sense the royalty that once characterized Maheshwar’s golden era. The reflection of towering temples and the fort complex upon the still waters of the Narmada are hauntingly silent yet palpable remnants of Maheshwar’s glorious past.