Shahi Qila — Attraction in Burhanpur

Shahi Qila at Burhanpur is a historic Mughal fort located on the banks of the Tapti River. The place has beautiful views and fresh air, but sadly it’s not well maintained—many parts have collapsed and no proper restoration is done. Entry fee is small. Still, worth a one-time visit for history lovers and to enjoy the peaceful riverbank scenery.

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The Shahi Qila in Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh, is a significant Mughal-era heritage site built by the emperors of that time. Overlooking the Tapti River, the fort offers breathtaking views, refreshing breezes, and a calm environment that makes the visit memorable.

Unfortunately, the fort has not been preserved well. Large sections have collapsed, and authorities have made little effort to restore or maintain its grandeur. The entry fee is nominal, but facilities and informative displays are missing, which could have added value to the experience.

Despite the neglect, the Shahi Qila remains a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It’s a place where one can feel the essence of Mughal architecture, enjoy the scenic river backdrop, and soak in the heritage charm. A good spot for a one-time visit, especially if you appreciate history and...

The Shahi Qila was a majestic palace in Burhanpur, located to the east of the Tapti River. History of the Shahi Qila states that it was originally built by the Farooqui rulers and resided by Shah Jahan, at a time when he was the governor of Burhanpur. Shah Jahan became so fond of the fort that it was here, in Shahi Qila that he establishes his court for the first three years of his ascending the throne.Shah Jahan spent a considerable time in this city, and helped add to the Shahi Qila. Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas were built on the terrace of the Qila. The main attraction at the palace is the hamam or the royal bath. It was specifically built for Shah Jahan’s wife, Begum Mumtaz Mahal, so that she could enjoy a luxurious bath in water scented with khus, saffron and rose petals. Hammam Khana was constructed during Mughal Period.

One of the amazing facts is that the Taj Mahal was originally supposed to have been built at Burhanpur. The site chosen for it still lies vacant near the tapti river. Mumtaz, in whose memory the Taj Mahal was built, died in burhanpur while giving birth to her...

Shahi Qila is a majestic palace originally built by the Faroqui rulers. The six storeyed structure housed over 400000 soldiers. Shah Jahan built the Diwan-i-am, Diwan-i-khaas & a splendid hammam specially for his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. This royal hamam is the main attraction at the palace. It is a rectangular marble hall with honeycombed domes. Ceilings & walls are studded with paintings. At either end of the hammam are water cascades. Central bathing pool was filled with perfumed water for the queen’s royal bath.

Many of the floral paintings of the royal hamam have been replicated in pietra dura in the Taj Mahal. On the ceiling is a tiny painting of a domed structure with minarets which was the first model of the Taj Mahal.

Shahi Qila is mostly in ruins now. The Shahi Qila is often referred to as Bhulbhulaya by the locals because of its puzzling architecture.

Mumtaz Mahal died in this Shahi Qila at the age of 40, giving birth to her 14th child. Burhanpur was supposed to be the original site for...