Ashrafi Mahal

Ashrafi Mahal is a ruined palace-madrasa complex located in the fortified hill town of Mandu in Dhar district, Madhya Pradesh. Originally built during the reign of Hoshang Shah and later expanded by Mahmud Shah Khilji in the 15th century, it served as a madrasa and royal residence. Now in ruins, it is noted for its Afghan architectural style, arched facades, and the remains of a seven-storey victory tower, forming part of the Mandu Group of Monuments.

Visitors can expect an extensive ruined complex opposite the Jami Masjid in central Mandu, with collapsed halls, arched corridors, courtyards and the base of a former seven-storey tower. The site is open-air with stone ruins, uneven ground and scattered remains of the madrasa and palace structures. It offers views of Afghan-style architecture, photo opportunities and a quiet, less-crowded heritage experience within the Mandu fort complex.

Ashrafi Mahal was originally conceived as a madrasa by Sultan Hoshang Shah (reigned 1405-1435) of the Malwa Sultanate and later enlarged by Mahmud Shah Khilji (reigned 1436-1469) to serve as a palace and Islamic college. It included a grand seven-storey tower built to celebrate victory over the Rana of Mewar, which collapsed in the 17th century. The complex exemplifies the Afghan architectural phase of Mandu and is part of the Mandu Group of Monuments.

The complex represents the educational and architectural heritage of the Malwa Sultanate, functioning as a prominent madrasa and royal residence. It showcases Afghan-style Islamic architecture and is an important component of Mandu's historic urban ensemble, reflecting the town's role as a centre of culture and learning in the 15th century.