Hathi mahal simple meaning is Elephant palace. It means its primary usage was to keep duty elephants in this building. It was constructed with an idea to be used as elephant stable. This heritage building is located at Mandu or Mandav or Mandu-durg destination, located at Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. This site lies at hill-top location on Western part of Madhya Pradesh in Malwa region. This building was erected in 15th century, during the rule of Malwa sultanate. On watching its architecture, we will realize that here Indo-Islamic architecture idea was used.
As it is to be used by elephants thus special care has been taken and building was made extra strong with thick columns, tall entrance, wide pathways, provision of fresh air, easy to clean, easy to arrange water etc. From outside, it will look like a domed structure in which central dome is largest one and is surrounded by small decorative domes. Unlike other palace buildings of Mandu like Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Roopmat pavilion etc. here no special attention has been paid on palace decoration. Reason is obvious as it is for elephants.
This palace building has been placed at southern part of Mandu township, approx. 3.6 km from Jahaz Mahal and Hindola Mahal. Possible reason will be that, as it is for animals ideal location is that place which allows disturbance free atmosphere, offers easy access to grasslands, close to waterhole which may not be used by human society. During must stage, often male elephants becomes rogue and shows aggressive behavior thus they should be kept at distance from human society to avert any accident or threat. Due to its location, it is very much possible that this building may not be shown to you during Mandu sightseeing. For its visit, you need to specifically inform your guide so that you may visit the location.
Elephants had their own importance at any kingdom in past thus we will notice that almost all small or powerful kingdoms have maintained their own grand elephant stables. Those who have better resources, they made separate buildings in palace style to establish their glory and impression on society. In 15 century when this building was constructed, Malwa Sultanate was as its glorious period thus they have good reasons to make it grand and attractive. Elephants have many usages like they take part in wars, during visits, kings or their family members uses elephants to establish their impression like having luxury car is a matter of pride in rich society. Elephants also offers additional security to rulers as due to their height, rider can't be easily approached by any invader human being or predator animal species. Mandu was a hilly terrain thus due to hilly terrain, these animals play crucial role in physical movements.
Best time to visit Hathi palace and Mandu destination is from August to March. It is due to pleasant weather conditions and surrounding green views, visit from this hill-top location. Due to plateau based location, here summers are more challenging due to excessive heat and arid views. Here nearest airport facility is at Indore airport (100 km). At this destination has number of monuments thus local sightseeing takes time, around one full day. Here day time visit is recommended for visitors to understand building architecture, location and do photography. If you would like to stay budget or standard category of hotels, then choose Mandu town for overnight stay. If you want luxury hotels then such hotels are not available at present thus choose either Indore city hotels or check for Dhar city hotel options. After visiting Mandu, you may plan for Maheshwar destination as next destination.
9202337070
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