Indore is the largest city in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The city lies to the west of the state and is one of the most well planned cities in India. This city is located in the Narmada River valley nestled on the banks of two small rivers Saraswati and Khan. The city derives its name from the ‘Indreshwar Temple’ built on the banks where the two rivulets unite at the centre of the city. The city is known for its rich heritage which is evident in its majestic temples and magnificent monuments.
Indore is dotted with many historical edifices which narrate the story of its glorious past under the rule of Holka. The most notable among them is Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar under whose patronage many magnificent temples and monuments were built in the city.
Indore today is a bustling city and is the commercial capital of the state. The city is a beautiful blend of traditional past and vibrant present. It serves as the headquarters of both Indore District and Indore Division. It is also called as mini Mumbai because of the similarities it shares with Mumbai like the cultural diversity combined with shopping, foods, entertainments and jovial lifestyle. Indore is also called the ‘Food City’ of Madhya Pradesh since it offers multiple cuisines like Punjabi food and some authentic Indian sweets. The city is a popular academic hub in central India and is renowned for housing both the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and the Indian Institute of Management (IIM).
The city is famous for its unique handicraft articles like the terracotta idols and paper Mache products, glass bangles, silk and satin apparels and the ethnic jewellery. Chanderi and Maheshwari silks of Indore are very famous.
The city is located on the surroundings of Malwa plateau at an altitude of 553m. The city is endowed with a beautiful landscape and enjoys a salubrious climate throughout the year. Because of its strategic location Indore is a major tourist destination in the state.
Places to visit in Indore
Lal Baag Palace
Lal Baag Palace is one of the wonderful and most impressive monuments in Indore. The palace was commissioned by Tukoji Rao Holkar II in 1886 AD. It was built in there phases and was completed in 1921 AD during the tenure of Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holkar III. The palace which reflects the life style and royal taste of the Holkar Rulers served as a venue for many important celebrations and social functions. This imposing three storeyed structure is spread on extensive area of 28 hectares. The interiors of the place which resemble the Versailles Palace is adorned with Italian marble columns, grand chandeliers, rich Persian carpets, Italian style wall paintings, motifs of flying nymphs on the ceiling, Belgium stained glass windows and Greek mythological reliefs that transfers the visitors into a magical world. Lal Baag Palace of Indore has now been converted into a museum.
Kanch Mandir
Also known as Seth Hukamchand Temple, Kanch Mandir is a Jain Temple. The interiors of this temple are decked with exquisite glass and mirror work. From pillars to the ceiling everything here is decorated with glass. The presiding deity here is Mahavir Swami, the 24th Tirthankara. The idol of the deity is adorned with precious gems and colourful glass beads. Glass chamber on the upper floor has three statues of Lord Mahavir, Lord Shantinath and Lord Adinath.
Rajwada
Rajwada is the historical palace of the Holkars. This opulent seven storied edifice was built approximately 200 years ago. Rajwada has a beautiful blend of Maratha, Mughal and French architecture. In this opulent structure the lower three floors are made out of stone whereas the upper four floors are of wood. Well laid out gardens, artificial waterfall and fountains add to the beauty of this building.
Sukh Niwas Palace
Sukh Niwas Palace is located on the banks of the Sukh Mahal Lake. It served as the summer retreat of the Holkar Kings. The palace is built in Indo-Western architecture and is surrounded by a beautiful garden and lake. This palace is connected with the old palace of Indore through an underground tunnel.
Krishnapura Chhatris
Krishnapura Chhatris are the cenotaphs built in the memory of the Holkar rulers and are the finest example of Maratha’s architecture with their characteristic domes and pyramidal spires. These chhatris are fascinating remnants of the Kings of Holkar and their glorious reign in the city. Situated on the banks of the Khan River this complex is divided into two compounds and consists of the mortal remains of the Holkar Kings and their family members. The most significant among all is the mausoleum dedicated to Sardar Chimnaji Appa Sahib Bolia also Known as ‘Bolia Sarkar’s Chhatri. An artificial lake has been constructed on the river beds of Khan River with fountains, gardens and boating facilities.
Annapurna Temple
Annapurna Temple is one of the oldest temples in the city and is dedicated to the Goddess Annapurna. Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman and Lord Kalabhairava are also enshrined in the temple. The architectural style of this temple resembles the famous Madurai Meenakshi Temple of Madurai. Outer walls of the temple are adorned with motifs of legendary characters. The temple also has a huge Pravachan Hall.
Bada Ganpati
Bada Ganpati is a famous religious destinations in Indore. The temple was built in the year 1875 and is famous for its huge 8 meter high statue of Lord Ganesh statue. The idol is made up of a mix of limestone, jaggery, bricks, and mud from the stables of elephants and horses and holy soil and water from the major pilgrim places in the country. Metallic frame of the statue consists of metals like Gold, copper, silver, iron and brass.
Central Museum
Central Museum also known as the Indore Museum is a major tourist attractions of the city. The museum boasts of some of the finest collection of Parmar sculptures from Hinglajgarh which are characterized by well-proportioned figure and intricate and detailed ornamentation. The museum also has excellent collection of medieval and pre-medieval Hindu and Jain sculptures, idols of Gods and Goddesses, and artefacts that belonged to the Indus Valley Civilization like terracotta sculptures, holographs, paintings, coins, metal wares.
Chokhi Dhani
Chokhi Dhani and Nakhrali Dhani are Rajasthani heritage resorts with all modern amenities on the outskirts of Indore. This place is a perfect place for a family outing where one can enjoy delicious Rajasthan cuisines. Horse rides, bullock-cart rides, puppet shows and camel rides are also organised here.
Gomatgiri
Gomatgiri is a place of great religious importance for the Jain devotees. It is a cluster of 24 Jain Temples dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras perched atop the Gommateshwara Hill. The small hillock is located about 10-12 km away from the heart of the city. On the hill lock a 21 feet statue of Lord Gomateshwar which is a replica of the Bahubali statue of Shravanbelagola is also erected.
Gandhi Hall - Town Hall
Gandhi Hall - Town Hall was established in 1904. It was originally named King Edward Hall and in the year 1948, it was renamed as Mahatma Gandhi Hall. This imposing building has an Indo-Gothic structure and is built in regal red Seoni stone. Town hall has a has a four-faced clock tower in front and also houses a library, a children's park and a temple. Town hall serves as the venue for the various exhibitions, fairs, festivals and host of other cultural celebrations.
Bijasen Mata Temple
Bijasen Mata Temple is about 9 kilometres away from the Indore Railway Station. Is a small Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Bijasen. The temple situated atop the Bijasen Tekri was built in the year 1920. During the Navaratri Festival a grand fair is held at the temple. One can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and beautiful view of the sunset from here. There is also an ancient Holkar Guest House perched atop the Bijasen Tekri. This is now converted to a Border Security Force Arms Museum.
Nehru Park
Kamala Nehru Park of Indore, also known as the Chidiya Ghar is a zoological park is located on the banks of the Khan River. The park which was built by the British was earlier known as Biscow Park and was open only to British prior to independence. The park shelters many wild animals, birds and amphibians. The other attractions here include elephant rides, pony rides, camel rides and buggy rides. The zoo also accommodates a library, a swimming pool, a beautiful rose garden and children’s playing area.
Tourist Attraction around Indore
Omkareshwar
Omkareshwar is located about 81 kilometres away from Indore town. Omkareshwar is a sacred island which is shaped like the holy Hindu symbols, 'Om'. The island is situated at the confluence of the Narmada and the Kaveri rivers. This place is renowned for the Omkar Mandhata temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple enshrines one of the twelve 'jyotirlingas' of India. The island also has some other Hindu and Jain temples.
Patal Pani
Patal Pani is 36 km from Indore. The place is famous for its waterfall which falls from a height of 150 feet into a kund. The depth of the kund remains unknown till date. It is believed by the locals that this Kund directly reaches the nether world or patal. Hence the name Patal Pani. The waterfall is surrounded by splendid natural beauty and attracts many trekkers and hikers.
Wanchoo Point
Vanchu Point is located about 30 km from Indore. This is a high dam on Narmada and is the main source of water supply for Indore. It was built during the reign of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar. The picturesque surroundings near the dam make it an ideal picnic spot.
Mandu
Also known as Mandavgad, Mandu is located at a distance of 99 kms from Indore. It is a fortes town located amidst the Vindhya Ranges at a height of 2000 ft. above the sea level. Mandu has more than 40 historical forts and monuments known for their Afghan style of architecture. Mandu is famous for the legendary love story of Prince Baz Bahadur and Roopmati. Champa Baoli, Jahaz Mahal (ship palace), the Hindola Mahal or swing palace, Jami Masjid, Baz Bahadur's Palace, Roopmati's Pavilion and Hoshang Shah's Tomb are some of the major attractions here.
Mhow
Mhow is a small cantonment town located at a distance of 23 kms from Indore. The word Mhow stands for Military Headquarters of War (MHOW). It is as one of India’s most prestigious military training establishments for senior officers.
Maheshwar
The town of Maheshwar is named after Lord Shiva. Maheshwar is located 91 kms from Indore. Situated on the northern bank of the Narmada River this temple town has a more than 100 temples and the most the prominent ones are Sahastararjun Temple, Rajrajeshwar Mandir, Kashi Vishwanath Mandir and Chaturbhuj Narayan Mandir. The royal throne of Ahilya Bai Holkar, Maheshwar Fort and Sahastradhara are the popular tourist attractions here. This place is also renowned for the Maheshwari saris.
Ujjain
Ujjain is about 55 kilometres from Indore. Ujjain city also known as Avantikapuri, Avanti or Ujjayini is a popular Hindu pilgrimage centre. The city situated on the banks of the sacred river Shipra is famous for the Kumb mela which is held here once in twelve years. Lord Mahakaleshwar temple is the most venerated Shiva temple here which enshrines one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. The city is associated with renowned historical figures like King Vikramaditya, Raja Bhoj and great scholars such as Brahmagupta, Bhakaracharya and Kalidasa etc. Gopal Mandir, temple of Har Siddhi Mata, Ashram of Maharshi Sandipani, Bhartrihari Caves and the Vedha Shala are some of the other major tourist attractions of this place.
Dewas
Dewas is 36 kilometres away from Indore. Dewas is situated at the foot of a hill known as the Chamunda Tekri. Goddess Chamunda Temple perched atop the hill is the major attraction here.
How to reach Indore
Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore is 10 km from city centre which is connected to all major Indian cities. Indore junction Railway Station falls under the Ratlam Division of the Western Railways and is connected to the major cities in India. Indore has a widespread network of state and national highways that connect it with all the towns and cities of Madhya Pradesh and the neighbouring states by road. Regular private and public bus services are available from Ujjain, Delhi and Mumbai to Indore.
Accommodation
Indore offers plenty of accommodation options that range from luxury hotels and resorts to budget hotels and lodges from which the tourists can choose according to their requirement and budget.