Ahilya Fort
Magical setting,
Maheshwar Ghats right below
Couples
Solo
Remote, relaxed, simply remarkable: Ahilya Fort is a true hidden gem in a quiet corner of Madhya Pradesh.
Sitting high above the sacred Narmada River, it’s a place to pause, reflect, and soak in the timeless rhythms of rural India.
Once the palace of the legendary Ahilya Bai Holkar and its heart in the community of Maheshwar on its doorstep, this characterful fort delivers a unique stay, complete with spectacular views and people watching on the ghats below. Plus, sensational sunsets like these.
Ahilya Fort suits travellers seeking authentic atmosphere over glossy luxury. It’s perfect for those who appreciate heritage, community connection, and an escape from India’s choatic cities.
Built by Ahilya Bai Holkar in the 1800s, the fort is steeped in fascinating regional history. Maheshwar, for example, has been inhabited for around 4,000 years. The River Narmada is affectionately known as Madhya Pradesh’s lifeline and is a flurry of activity and colour best viewed from the hotel.
You can stroll along the banks, float over the river by boat at dusk, and witness spiritual rituals unfolding in the sacred waters every evening. It’s magic. Baneshwa Shiva Temple and the Rehwa Society are also close by.
The Rooms
Spread across six buildings within the fort walls, the thirteen rooms, suites, and tents each feel distinct and welcoming.
In keeping with their setting, they are lovely and historic, styled with warmth and character: think traditional fabrics and wooden details.
Some even come with verandas overlooking the ghats below.
The grounds have plenty of lovely spots to unwind in, from shaded courtyards to riverside terraces. There’s also an oasis of a pool and organic vegetable patches, which are plucked and used in garden-to-table dining.
What You’ll Find:
Why You'll Love It:
Explore ETG's Sample Itineraries in India
A few of our favourite routes, hand-picked by the team and ripe for tweaking.
Think of them as conversation starters. Curiosity sparkers. Not fixed plans, just ideas for what your holiday could look like, shaped by years of local know-how and the kind of immersive experiences that live long in the memory.
Ahilya Fort on the map
In Our Travellers’ Words
Immersive India
India, exceeded all expectations
Wonderful introduction to India
The Curious Traveller’s Expert Guide to India
Want to know more? With its vast size, rich diversity, and countless possibilities, planning a holiday to India can feel overwhelming – so we’ve created our Curious Traveller’s Guide to India to help make sense of it all.
It’s our experts’ pick of standout experiences and places to stay, with honest advice on the best regions and tips for both first-time visitors and those returning for more.
