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Rajgaddi and Rajwada
A life-size statue of Rani Ahilyabai sits on a throne in the Rajgaddi
within the fort complex. This is the right place to begin a tour of
Maheshwar, for this pious and wise queen was the architect of its
revived importance. Other fascinating relics and heirlooms of the Holkar
dynasty can be seen in the other rooms which are open to the public.
Within the complex is an exquisite small shrine which is a starting
point of the ancient Dussehra ceremony which is carried out even today.
The image on this day is installed reverently in a splendid palanquin
and carried down the steep fort road to the town below to receive the
yearly homage of the people of Maheshwar.
 Temples
With their soaring spires, the many-tiered temples of Maheshwar are
distinguished by their carved overhanging balconies and their
intricately worked doorways. Kaleshwar, Rajarajeshwara, Vithaleshwara
and Ahileshwar are the temples to be seen.
 Maheshwari
Sarees were introduced into Maheshwar 250 years ago by Rani Ahilyabai,
and are renowned throughout India for their unique weave. Woven mostly
in cotton, the typical Maheshwari saree has a plain body and sometimes
stripes or checks in several variations. The mat bordered designs have a
wide range in leaf and floral patterns. The pallav is particularly
distinctive with 5 stripes, 3 coloured and 2 white alternating, running
along its width. Maheshwari has a reversible border, known as bugdi. 
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