Hinglajgarh Fort

Hinglajgarh Fort is a historic hill fort located near Navali village in Bhanpura tehsil of Mandsaur district, Madhya Pradesh, on a plateau overlooking the Chambal River gorge. Known for its ancient ramparts, ruined palaces, temples and a revered Hinglaj Mata shrine, the fort is notable for Gupta-era to Paramara-period sculptures discovered at the site. Surrounded by forested ravines, it offers archaeological interest and scenic natural views.

Visitors can expect a ruined hilltop fort spread over a forested plateau surrounded on three sides by the Chambal River gorge. The site includes weathered ramparts, gateways, ruined palaces and temples, and the active Hinglaj Mata Temple within the fort complex. Sculptural remains and archaeological ruins are scattered across the area. The surroundings are natural and isolated with dense scrub, ravines and panoramic views of the river valley. Exploration involves walking on uneven paths and climbing.

Hinglajgarh Fort is an ancient fort with remains dating from the Gupta period (4th-5th century) onward. It was held by various dynasties including the Paramaras, Hadas and later Marathas including the Holkars of Indore. The fort is archaeologically significant for the large number of stone sculptures ranging from the 5th to 12th centuries discovered here, many now preserved in museums. Its strategic location above the Chambal gorge made it an important defensive stronghold.

The fort houses the revered Hinglaj Mata Temple, dedicated to Goddess Hinglaj, which remains an active place of worship and pilgrimage for local communities. The site reflects the religious and artistic traditions of central India through its temple architecture and sculptural art, and is culturally associated with the folklore of the region.