Credit: S Nadeem A Jafri
Kati Ghati Gateway is one of the top attractions for sightseeing in Chanderi. Situated at a distance of 3km from the Chanderi Bus station the Gateway is an ancient marvel that leads to the entrance into the Chanderi town. The rich history and craftsmanship speak to how skillfully a gateway was carved out of a single rock.
The grand entrance is of a height of 80 feet with an impressive width of 39 feet. At an elevation of 230 feet, the colossal passage serves as a vital link between Malwa and Bundelkhand.
A Historical Glimpse: Commissioned by Jiman Khan
There were two inscriptions that say the historical significance of the Kati Ghati Gateway. One of the inscriptions is written in Devanagari that reveals the gateway was commissioned in the year 1495 AD by JIman Khand, the son of Sher Khan, Governor of Chanderi.
A fascinating tale says once upon a time the sultan of Malwa was arriving in the Chaderi, He thought of a gateway that would impress upon his arrival. The task of bringing his vision to life and creating a lasting symbol of grandeur was given to Jiman Khan. He embarked on a quest to find a skilled craftsman who will take this insurmountable challenge. Finally, one man emerged to undertake the task.
Tirelessly working day and night, the craftsman finally made the construction complete and Jiman Khan was summoned to Inspect the masterpiece. However, after inspection, his joy quickly turned to despair when he found there was no door incorporated into the gateway. It was exposed to potential enemies by providing them an easy passage into the kingdom.
With unwavering determination, the craftsman labored day and night, tirelessly working on the colossal gateway. Finally, the moment arrived when the construction was complete, and Jiman Khan was summoned to inspect the masterpiece. However, his joy quickly turned to despair when he realized that there was no door incorporated into the gateway. This inadvertent oversight exposed Chanderi to potential enemies, inadvertently providing them with an easy passage into the kingdom.
Overwhelmed by remorse, the grief-stricken craftsman could bear the weight of his make and tragically took his own life. As a mark of respect and the price he paid in the making, his lies rested in close proximity to the gateway.
As you step into the gateway, the place offers the echoes of the past transporting you into an era of kings, battles, and grandeur. So whenever you visit Chanderi, explore this remarkable site and immerse yourself in the stories it holds.
Location of Kati ghati gateway
By Train:
For those who prefer train travel, Chanderi has its own railway station, ensuring convenient access to the Kati Ghati Gateway. Here’s how you can reach by train:
By Air:
If you prefer air travel, the nearest airport to Chanderi is the Gwalior Airport, which offers regular flights from major cities in India. Here’s how to reach the Kati Ghati Gateway by air: