Located at an altitude of 2000 feet, Mandu, in Madhya Pradesh, was originally the fort - capital of the Parmar rulers of Malwa.Towards the end of the 13th century, it came under the rule of the Sultans of Malwa. The first of these kings renamed it Shadiabad - the City of Joy. The subsequent ruling clans built grand palaces like the Jahaz and Hindola Mahals, ornate pavilions, and other architectural gems.

Mandu is a celebration of life and love, a tribute to the tender love of the poet - prince Baz Bahadur for his consort, Rani Roopmati. The balladeers of Malwa still sing of their love, and perched atop a hill, Roopmati's pavilion still gazes down fondly upon Baz Bahadur's palace, an outstanding example of Afghan architecture. The other structures of interest are the massive Jami Masjid and Hoshang Shah's Tomb, which served as models for the masterbuilders of the Taj Mahal, centuries later. The magic of Mandu lives on in its palaces, mosques, and in its ballads.

By air: The nearest airport is at Indore (100 km), connected to Mumbai, Delhi, Gwalior and Bhopal.

By rail: The nearest railheads are Ratlam (124 km) on the Mumbai - Delhi main line, and Indore (100 km).

By road: Regular bus services connect Mandu with Indore, Dhar, Mhow, Ratlam, Ujjain and Bhopal.

Tourist Cottages (MPT), Traveller's Lodge (MPT), Taveli Mahal Rest House (ASI), SADA Rest House, Jain Dharamshala, PWD and Forest Rest Houses are the available means of accomodation.