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Maheshwar is a quaint town on the Narmada River’s holy banks. Things to do in Maheshwar offer travellers to unwind and rejuvenate their souls. Alongside historical landmarks, scenic boat rides, and colourful handloom markets, Maheshwar has many things to do, making it an excellent getaway for a peaceful riverside sojourn. Whether you are out to study ancient forts, you wish to have a picnic with your family by the riverside, or you would love to witness the evening aarti, it can be said that Maheshwar is a perfect way for one to get away from the daily shenanigans of life.
Top 10 Things To Do In Maheshwar
Here is a list of things to do in Maheshwar, from majestic forts and ancient temples or taking a boat ride and appreciating traditional handlooms.
1. Visit The Magnificent Maheshwar Fort
Photo: Abhishek Tanwar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the best things to do in Maheshwar is to explore the iconic Maheshwar Fort, which sits majestically along the banks of the Narmada River. This 18th-century fort was built by the great-minded Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, epitomising beauty and reflecting the beautiful views of the river and the ghats. Intricately carved temples and palaces will bring rich cultural history throughout the fort.
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: On the right side of Ahilya Ghat, Maheshwar
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to photograph.
2. Experience Riverside Ghats
Photo: Narin Chauhan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The most famous is Ahilya Ghat, named after Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, who transformed Maheshwar into a spiritual and cultural complex. The ghats are a peaceful hub by which locals and tourists rest on the waters of the Narmada River. This is one of the great options to avoid the urban chaos by walking along these ghats at sunset.
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: Ahilya Ghat, Maheshwar
Best Time To Visit: Sunset
3. Take The Boat Ride At Narmada River
Photo: Rachel Claire / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the best relaxing activities at the riverside is a boat ride on the Narmada River. Imagine drifting along the tranquil Narmada waters in front of you, where you can see Maheshwar Fort and ancient temples against the serene backdrops of ghats. The ride is refreshing, especially in the more excellent hours of the day. Therefore, this is the perfect outing for those looking to be close to nature and history while looking for what to do in Maheshwar.
Entry Fee: ₹50-100 per person
Location: Maheshwar Ghats
Best Time To Visit: Morning or late afternoon
4. Visit Ahilyeshwar Temple
Photo: Teja J / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the most sacred things to do in Maheshwar is a visit to Ahilyeshwar Temple. This grand temple, built in the 18th century by the pious hands of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar and placed right next to the Maheshwar Fort, is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. Beautiful stone-carved walls and serene surroundings make it suitable for meditation and reflection.
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: Near Maheshwar Fort
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or evening
5. Explore Queen Ahilyabai’s Palace
Photo: Ankush Rathi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Queen Ahilyabai’s Palace forms part of the much-needed things to see in Maheshwar. This might be a simple yet majestic palace telling the life stories of the most revered ruler, Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, in her time. Inside is a museum with numerous artefacts, historical accounts, and property belonging to the Holkar dynasty. Its fundamental architecture and rich heritage make it unique for curious minds who want to know what to do in Maheshwar and feel its royal past.
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: Inside Maheshwar Fort
6. Shop For Maheshwari sarees
Photo: cottonbro studio / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This elegant and intricately woven saree has a glorious history going back to the days of the great Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, who contributed to its excellence. With a lovely silk and cotton lining, Maheshwari sarees are famous for their designs, which are mostly inspired by local architecture. Several regional shops and handloom centres accommodate viewing the weaving process, which forms an authentic shopping experience.
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: Local markets of Maheshwar
7. Watch The Evening Aarti At Narmada Ghat
Photo: sunaina ravikumar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Devotees rush the banks of the Narmada River at dusk to participate in the aarti (prayer ceremony) in honour of the river goddess. The sight of oil lamps floating in the water and praying chanters is magical and resonates with mysticism. If you are here and still wondering what to do in Maheshwar to get the spiritual flavour of the place, this ritual must be noticed.
Location: Ahilya Ghat, Narmada River
Best Time To Visit: Evening
8. Visit Ek Mukhi Datta Temple
Photo: Tanmoy Pal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visiting Ek Mukhi Datta Temple is yet another spiritual activity that finds its place in the list of things to do in Maheshwar. Dedicated to Lord Dattatreya, a unique idol of the god is displayed here, having a single face, which is different from most other temples where he is exhibited with three faces. This temple can be taken as a treasure for travellers who look out for things to see in Maheshwar and yet find both serenity and religious importance.
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: Near Maheshwar Ghats
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or early evening
9. Attend Maheshwar Festival
Photo: Tom Fisk / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This festival takes place annually within the town to bring the much-vibrant arts and culture, featuring classical musicians, dancers, the display of tradition-based crafts, and demonstrations of local heritage. This ancient town, as with other celebrations, is the best time to visit the Maheshwar Utsav, as it immerses a person in the artistic soul of this ancient town.
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: Maheshwar Fort
Best Time To Visit: February
10. Explore The Rehwa Society Weaving Centre
Photo: Pew Nguyen / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A visit to the Rehwa Society Weaving Centre is one of the best things to do in Maheshwar for connoisseurs of traditional crafts. The Holkar family established the not-for-profit centre to help artisans who weave Maheshwari sarees. Here, you could see skilled weavers, soak up the intricate techniques passed down over generations, and even learn a few stitches yourself.
Entry Fee: N/A
Location: Near Maheshwar Fort
This place is quite an attraction and offers many things to do in Maheshwar for those staying here looking for riverside relaxation. It has old historical landmarks and scenic ghats that create an aura for deeply immersed enrichment through the local vibrancy. Plan a trip with TripXL and have a serene riverside picnic or experience, the evening aarti and study the intricacies of Maheshwari handlooms.
Cover Photo: Vedanth Ravi / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
