The ancient city of Mandu in Madhya Pradesh is experiencing an unexpected revival this year, drawing travelers seeking authentic experiences away from crowded tourist spots. As the 2025 monsoon season approaches, this forgotten architectural marvel perched on the Vindhya ranges is being rediscovered as one of India’s most enchanting destinations during the rainy season.
Mandu, also known as Mandavgarh, sits at an elevation of 2,000 feet and transforms dramatically during the monsoons. The entire plateau comes alive with greenery, waterfalls cascade down ancient walls, and the numerous lakes and pools within the historic monuments fill with fresh rainwater. The romantic ruins of palaces, mosques, and tombs take on a mystical quality when wrapped in monsoon mist, creating scenes that seem straight out of a period film.
What makes Mandu particularly special this year is the renewed attention it’s receiving from both domestic and international travelers looking for offbeat destinations. While popular spots like Goa and Kerala get overcrowded during peak season, Mandu offers solitude and spectacular beauty without the chaos. The Madhya Pradesh tourism department has also stepped up efforts to improve infrastructure and promote the destination, making it more accessible than ever before.
The city’s history adds depth to its physical beauty. Once the capital of the Malwa Sultanate during the 15th and 16th centuries, Mandu was home to passionate love stories, particularly that of Sultan Baz Bahadur and his beloved Rani Roopmati. Their story of romance and tragedy is woven into the very stones of Mandu’s monuments. Roopmati’s Pavilion, perched on a cliff edge, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and becomes even more dramatic during monsoons when clouds float at eye level.
The architectural treasures of Mandu are remarkably well-preserved considering their age. The Jahaz Mahal, or Ship Palace, appears to float between two artificial lakes during the monsoons, living up to its name. This narrow palace, built for the sultan’s harem, stretches 120 meters in length and is one of the most photographed monuments in central India. When both lakes are full during the rainy season, the reflection of the palace in the water creates a mirror image that mesmerizes visitors.
Another highlight is the Hindola Mahal, known for its sloping walls that give it a swaying appearance. The massive stone structure stands as a testament to the engineering skills of medieval Indian architects. During monsoons, the surrounding gardens burst into bloom, and the entire complex takes on a different character with water dripping from carved stone channels and rainwater collecting in ancient reservoirs.
The Jami Masjid in Mandu is one of India’s finest examples of Afghan architecture. Modeled after the great mosque in Damascus, its vast courtyard and impressive domes create a sense of grandeur that few other structures can match. The acoustics within the mosque are remarkable, and the sound of rain echoing through its halls creates an almost meditative atmosphere.
Beyond the monuments, Mandu offers experiences that connect visitors with nature and local culture. The surrounding countryside becomes a patchwork of green during monsoons, with small waterfalls appearing on hillsides and streams flowing through valleys. Local villages around Mandu offer homestay options where travelers can experience rural Madhya Pradesh life, enjoy traditional Malwa cuisine, and learn about local crafts.
Food enthusiasts will find Mandu surprisingly rewarding. The local cuisine blends influences from various periods of history, and monsoon brings special seasonal dishes made with fresh corn, local greens, and traditional recipes passed down through generations. Small eateries around the monuments serve hot pakoras and chai, perfect companions for rainy day exploration.
Getting to Mandu has become easier with improved road connectivity from Indore, which is about 100 kilometers away and well-connected by air and rail. The drive itself is scenic, especially during monsoons when the landscape transforms into endless shades of green. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to comfortable mid-range hotels, with more options appearing as tourism grows.