DISCOVER INDIA     Gwalior, Orchha & Mandu The ancient capital of Gwalior in Madya Pradesh has seen a multitude of reigning dynasties of the great Rajput clans. All have left their mark on this city of palaces, temples and monuments. Gwalior's tradition as a royal capital continued until the formation of present day India, with the Scindias having their dynastic seat here. Pride of place goes to Gwalior Fort, dominating the city, its outer walls two miles long and 35 feet high, and housing many marvels of medieval architecture. Medieval Orchha, too, has its past grandeur captured in stone and the palaces and temples built by its Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries retain much of their pristine perfection. From the exquisite Jehangir Mahal palace the view of soaring temple spires and cenotaphs is spectacular. Mandu, perched at 2,000 ft along the Vindhya river, originated as a fort capital and later saw the building of beautiful palaces like the Jahaz and Hindola Mahals, ornamental canals, baths and pavilions. Outstanding are the huge Jami Masjid and Hoshang Shah's tomb, which inspired the master builders of the Taj Mahal centuries later.             Gwalior fort - Gwalior