Dhār (Hindi: धार) is located in the Malwa region of western Madhya Pradesh state in central India, and was a Maratha Princely state ruled by the Puars (or Pawars), entitled to 15 Gun Salutes. It is the administrative headquarters of Dhar District. The town is located 33 miles (53 km) west of Mhow, 559 m (1,834 ft) above sea level. It is picturesquely situated among lakes and trees surrounded by barren hills, and possesses, besides its old ramparts, many interesting buildings, some of them containing records of cultural, historical and national importance.