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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 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 14 Things To Do In Maheshwar
Here is a list of the best things to do in Maheshwar, from majestic forts to ancient temples and taking a scenic boat ride.
1. Visit The Magnificent Maheshwar Fort
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One of the best things to do in Madhya Pradesh, India, is to explore the iconic Maheshwar Fort, which sits majestically along the banks of the Narmada River. The Maheshwar Fort history dates back to the 18th century when it was built by the great-minded Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, epitomising beauty and reflecting the stunning views of the river and the ghats. Intricately carved temples and palaces throughout the fort narrate its rich cultural heritage.
Location: On the banks of River Narmada
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
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2. Experience Riverside Ghats
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The most famous is Ahilya Ghat, also known as Maheshwar Ghat, named after Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, who transformed Maheshwar into a spiritual and cultural complex. The ghats are a peaceful hub where 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. You can also participate in the evening aarti at the ghat. The Maheshwar Ghat aarti time is between 7:30 PM and 8 PM.
Location: Adjacent to Maheshwar Fort, along Narmada River
Timings: 24*7
3. Take The Boat Ride At Narmada River
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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.
Location: Narmada Ghat, near Maheshwar Fort
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
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4. Visit Ahilyeshwar Temple
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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 Lord Shiva. Beautiful stone-carved walls and serene surroundings make it suitable for meditation and reflection. Its historical importance keeps it top of the list of the famous places to visit in Madhya Pradesh, India.
Location: Within the Maheshwar Fort complex
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
5. Explore Queen Ahilyabai’s Palace
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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.
Location: Inside Maheshwar Fort
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
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6. Shop For Maheshwari sarees
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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.
Location: Maheshwar Local Market, near main ghat
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
7. Watch The Evening Aarti At Narmada Ghat
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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: Narmada Ghat, Maheshwar
Timings: After Sunset
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8. Visit Ek Mukhi Datta Temple
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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.
Location: Near Maheshwar Fort, Maheshwar town
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
9. Attend Maheshwar Festival
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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.
Location: Various
Timings: Varies
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10. Explore The Rehwa Society Weaving Centre
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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.
Location: Rehwa Society, Fort premises, Maheshwar
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
11. Offer Prayers At Shri Raj Rajeshwar Temple
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The Shri Raj Rajeshwar Temple is one of the most revered Maheshwar temples. It is close to the Ahilyeshwar Temple and only 1.5 km from the Maheshwar Bus Stand. Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Rajarajeshwara Swamy, is the focus of this old temple. The temple is famous for its detailed carvings and eleven single-piece Akhanda lamps that have been kept burning for hundreds of years with ghee that devotees have given. People come to the temple to ask for benefits, see the holy lamps, and enjoy the view of the sanctum and smaller shrines.
Location: Near Maheshwar Fort, Maheshwar
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
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12. Visit Kaleshwar Temple
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The Kaleshwar Temple is one of the oldest and most important Shiva shrines in Maheshwar. It is on the eastern shore of the river where the Maheshwari and Narmada meet. The temple was built in the 9th or 10th century and was restored during Akbar’s rule in 1622. It is praised for its old architecture and peaceful location by the river. The temple is close to the river and has a lot of historical value, so anyone interested in Maheshwar’s spiritual history should go see it.
Location: Near the main ghats, Maheshwar
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
13. Trekking And Nature Trails Around Maheshwar
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The hills and farmland around Maheshwar are great places to go trekking and on nature walks. You can see the Narmada River and the town’s historic skyline from these trails, which go through lush landscapes, small villages, and lookout spots with wide views. Trekking here is great for nature fans and people who like to try new things, who want to see more than just the main tourist spots, watch birds, and enjoy Madhya Pradesh’s rural charm. Most trails are best visited during the day, and they can be changed to fit the fitness level of different people.
Location: Varies
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
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14. Seek Blessings From Baneshwar Temple
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The Baneshwar Temple is on a small island in the middle of the fast-flowing Narmada River. You can get there by boat from Maheshwar Ghat. Legend has it that Banasur did penance here to please Lord Shiva. The temple is thought to have been built around a thousand years ago. The peaceful flow of the river and the unique setting give tourists and devotees a mysterious feeling.
Location: Island in the Narmada River, accessible by boat from Maheshwar Ghat
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
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 and an evening aarti experience.
Cover Photo: Vedanth Ravi / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
