Surwaya is an ancient site identified with Sarasvati-pattana and Shankhamathika. An inscription at Surwaya refers to it as Sarasvati-pattana, while Shankhamathika is mentioned in the Ranod Inscription, which dates to around the 10th-11th century CE. According to the Ranod inscription, Shankhamathikadhipati, the lord of Shankhamathika, succeeded Kadambaguhadivasi, the first Acharya who founded a disciple lineage and established a significant Shaiva sect. During the 11th-12th century CE, a monastery was built for the monks of this sect.
Surwaya features a fortified structure locally known as Garhi, which dates to the late medieval period. The fort is accessed through three zig-zag entrances with Mughal arches and is surrounded by a rampart wall and moat. Inside this fort, there are three temples and a monastery, along with a Sarvatobhadra miniature temple located on the roof.
According to the inscription, the ancient Hindu monastery and temples in this fort were repaired by order of His Highness Maharaja Mukhtar-ul-Mulk, Azim-ulqtidar Rafiuush-Shan Wala Shikoh, Mohatasham-i-Dauran Umadat-ul-Umara, Maharajadhiraja, Hisam-us-Saltanat Major-General Sir MADHAVA RAO SCINDIA Alijah Bahadur Srinath, Mansuri-Zaman Fidwi-i-Hazrat-i-Malik-i-Muazzam-i-Rafiud-Daraja-i-Inglistan. G.C.S.I., G.C.V.O., A.D.C. to His Majesty the King-Emperor LL.D. (Cambridge & Edinborough) and D.C.L. (Oxford). The Cost of repairs was Rs.9280 dated Samvat 1973 A.D. 1916.
The monastery is a notable large solid masonry structure with an open courtyard surrounded by pillared corridors and halls. It represents a rare example of a medieval Hindu monastery and was originally a two-story building; however, only portions of the upper story remain today.
The monastery is a notable large solid masonry structure with an open courtyard surrounded by pillared corridors and halls. It represents a rare example of a medieval Hindu monastery and was originally a two-story building; however, only portions of the upper story remain today.
The three temples at Surwaya display exquisite examples of the Kachchhapaghata style from the early 10th century CE. Their door jambs are adorned with foliage designs and deity images, most commonly Ganesha, prominently placed in the center of their lintels. Unfortunately, all three temples have lost their sikhara.
Temple No. 1: It is distinguished by its open-pillared mandapa, boasts intricate carvings of deities, celestial beings, and mythological motifs. Constructed in the Nagara-style, it features exquisitely sculpted pillars and a richly detailed lintel, reflecting the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient artisans. Though partly in ruins, its weathered stones and expansive complex underscore its profound historical importance.
Temple No. 2
In front of Temple No. 3, there is a rectangular Baoli or stepwell constructed with dressed sandstone blocks.
Additionally, the site features an open-air museum displaying fragments of carvings, pillars, brackets, lintels, ceiling slabs, and broken figures. These artifacts were recovered from debris during the conservation of the monuments. This historically significant site is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, Bhopal Circle, Bhopal.
How to Reach.
Surwaya ki Garhi is located in the Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The best way to reach Surwaya is:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Gwalior Airport (about 120 km away). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Shivpuri and then to Surwaya.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Shivpuri Railway Station (about 25 km away). It is well-connected to major cities like Gwalior, Bhopal, and Jhansi.
- By Road: Surwaya is easily accessible by road from Shivpuri (25 km). You can take a private taxi or a local bus to reach the site. Shivpuri is well connected by National Highway NH-46, making road travel convenient.
Where to Stay
Since Surwaya is a small village, there are limited accommodation options available nearby. However, visitors can stay in Shivpuri, which has several hotels, resorts, and guest houses. Some recommended options include MP Tourism Tourist Village, A government-run resort with good facilities.
When to visit
The ideal time to visit Surwaya ki Garhi is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant for exploration. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot, while the monsoon season (July to September) enhances the landscape with lush greenery, creating a soothing atmosphere.
Other Places to See Around Surwaya
If you’re visiting Surwaya, you can explore several nearby historical and natural attractions, including Madhav National Park (30 km), the Chhatris of Shivpuri (25 km), Bhadaiya Kund (27 km), George Castle (35 km), Narwar Fort (40 km), Ranighati (95 km) and Gwalior (120 km) and Chanderi (128 km).
Surwaya ki Garhi is an offbeat historical destination perfect for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a peaceful retreat away from the usual tourist crowds.
Beautiful research based story about surwaya garhi in shivpuri district. your hard work such a beautiful inspiration for me and thanks for increasing my knowledge about ancient Indian heritage place.
This article is a great resource—well done!