Welcome to Indore, the largest city in the state of Madhya Pradesh in central India. The city is a growing commercial hub with a rich cultural heritage and is home to several tourist attractions that draw visitors from across the world.
Indore boasts of a rich history, and its monuments and temples showcase the architectural brilliance of the bygone era. The city is also known for its delectable street food, which is a must-try for any foodie. In this blog post, we will take you on a virtual tour of the must-visit places of Indore that you should not miss.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Indore is the Rajwada Palace, a seven-story historical palace that was built in the 18th century. Another must-visit place is the Lal Bagh Palace, which was the residence of the Holkar dynasty rulers and is now a museum that showcases their lifestyle and possessions.
Indore is also home to several magnificent temples, including the Kanch Mandir, a temple made entirely of glass, and the Bada Ganpati temple, which houses one of the largest idols of Lord Ganesha.
For those interested in natural beauty, the Patalpani Waterfall, located on the outskirts of the city, is a picturesque spot that is a popular picnic spot. Another serene location is the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to several species of flora and fauna.
With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Indore is a city that should be on every traveler’s list. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore this vibrant city.
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Visit the palaces in Indore
Indore has a rich royal history. The city was once the seat of the Holkar dynasty, which ruled Central India for centuries. As a result, Indore has a number of palaces that attest to the city’s royal heritage.
These palaces have intricate carvings and beautiful designs that blend Indian and European architecture. These palaces provide a glimpse of opulence and grandeur from a bygone era.Two palaces which have become iconic symbols of Indore are the famous Rajwada Palace and the stunning Lal Baag Palace.
Rajwada Palace
Rajwada Palace, also known as the Holkar Palace, is a historical landmark located in Indore. The palace was built in the 18th century by the Holkar dynasty, who ruled the region at the time. The palace follows the Maratha architectural style, and has been beautifully preserved over the centuries.
The palace consists of several courtyards, each with its unique charm and character. You can explore the many rooms and halls, including the Durbar Hall, which was used for official ceremonies and functions. The palace also houses a museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Holkar dynasty. Today, Rajwada Palace is a popular tourist destination and one of the must-visit places of Indore.
Timings: The palace remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week
between 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM except on Monday.
Entry Fee: The visitors need to pay the nominal fee of INR 10 to spend some peaceful time here
Location: Rajwada Circle, Near Holker Cloth Market, Rajwada, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, 452002
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Lalbagh Palace
Lalbagh Palace is yet another iconic structure of Indore, a stunning palace which is a legacy of the Holkar dynasty. The palace was built between 1886 and 1926 by the rulers of the Holkar dynasty. The palace is a fusion of different architectural styles, including European, Mughal, and Maratha. Lalbagh Palace features a grand central hall, a spacious courtyard, and several rooms adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.
The palace was later used by the British as a residence for senior officials. Today, Lalbagh Palace is a popular tourist attraction and has been converted into a museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the Holkar dynasty. You can explore the palace and learn about its fascinating past.
- Timings: The palace remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week between 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: The entry fee for the palace is INR 10 per person.
- Location: Nai Duniya, Revenue Colony, Indira nagar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh,
Go hopping Temples of Indore
Indore is home to a number of temples that draw visitors from across the country. The Khajrana Ganesh Temple, the Annapurna Temple, the Bada Ganapati Temple, and the Kanch Mandir are some of the most popular temples in Indore. These temples are distinguished by their unique architecture, intricate carvings, and religious significance.
They are not only places of worship, but also important cultural landmarks that provide insights into the region’s rich history and traditions. You can explore these temples, learn about their history, and gain an understanding of Indore’s spiritual and cultural significance.
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Khajrana Ganesh Temple
Khajrana Ganesh Temple is one of the most popular and revered temples in Indore. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the Hindu god of wisdom and prosperity. The temple’s history dates back to the 18th century when it was constructed by Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar, a renowned queen of the Holkar dynasty.
The temple attracts thousands of devotees every day who come to seek blessings from Lord Ganesha. The temple’s serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Indore.
- Timings: The temple remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week between 05:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 04:00 PM to 08:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit the temple.
Location: Khajrana Rd, Ganeshpuri Colony, Khajrana, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, 452016
Bada Ganapati Temple
Bada Ganpati Temple is another shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha in Indore. The temple’s history dates back to 1875 when it was constructed by the queen of the Holkar dynasty, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar. The temple’s main attraction is a massive idol of Lord Ganesha, which stands at 25-feet tall and is made of a single piece of marble.
The temple’s stunning architecture and intricate carvings make it a popular tourist destination, attracting devotees and visitors alike. The temple is an important religious site and one of the must-visit places of Indore.
Timings : 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: MG Road, Indore
Also Read: The Splendor of Lalbagh Palace in Indore
Annapurna Temple
Annapurna Temple is a famous Hindu shrine in Indore.. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the Hindu goddess of food and nourishment. The unique feature of the temple is that it follows both Aryan and Dravidian temple architecture. The temple is famous for its unique way of distributing food to the devotees.
Every day, the temple provides free meals to thousands of devotees who come to seek blessings from the goddess. The temple’s serene atmosphere and the aroma of the food make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Indore.
- Timings: The temple remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week between 05:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 02:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Location: Kranti Kriplani Nagar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, 452009
Kaanch Mandir
Kaanch Mandir, also known as the Glass Temple, is a unique temple located in Indore. It is a Jain Temple dedicated to Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. The temple’s main attraction is its stunning architecture and intricate glasswork. The walls, ceilings, and floors of the temple are adorned with millions of pieces of coloured glass, which give the temple a shimmering and ethereal quality.
The temple was built in the early 20th century by Sir Seth Hukumchand Jain, a prominent businessman and philanthropist. The Kaanch Mandir is one of the must-visit places of Indore for anyone interested in architecture, history, and spirituality.
- Famous For: The mirror and glass work of the temple is what makes it popular among the tourists. Kanch Mandir is a religious spot for the Jain community.
- Timings: The mandir remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week between 05:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: The entry remains free for the visitors.
- Location: Hukumchand Marg, Beside Sheesh Mahal, Itwaria Bazaar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, 452002
Enjoy the Nature and Wildlife
Indore also boasts several beautiful waterfalls and national parks. The Patalpani waterfall, located around 36 kilometers from the city, is a popular tourist spot known for its picturesque setting and the refreshing sound of cascading water. Another famous waterfall near Indore is the Tincha falls, located around 25 kilometers from the city, which attracts nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Indore is also home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary and the iconic Indore Zoo where you can explore the natural beauty of the region and observe a variety of flora and fauna.
Undoubtedly one of the must-visit places of Indore Patalpani waterfall is a scenic natural wonder located in Indore district. The waterfall is situated at a distance of about 36 kilometers from the city and is a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers.
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Patalpani waterfall
The name ‘Patalpani’ literally translates to ‘underwater’ and ‘waterfall’ in Hindi, which is fitting as the waterfall plunges down from a height of about 150 feet into a pool of water that appears dark and mysterious. The surrounding lush green forests and the gushing sound of the waterfall make Patalpani a perfect spot for a day trip or picnic with friends and family.
Timings: The waterfall remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week between 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
Entry Fee: The entry to the waterfall is free of cost.
Location: Kekariya Dabri, Madhya Pradesh, 453441
Tincha Fall
Tincha Fall is another beautiful waterfall located in the Indore district. It is situated at a distance of about 25 kilometers from the city and is a popular tourist attraction in the region. The waterfall cascades down from a height of about 300 feet and forms a natural pool at the bottom.
Visitors can take a dip in the cool waters or enjoy a picnic on the rocks surrounding the pool. The area around Tincha Fall is also a great spot for trekking and hiking, with scenic trails leading through the surrounding hills and forests.
- Timings: The palace remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week and can be visited any time of the day.
- Entry Fee: The entry fee for Tincha Falls is INR 30 per car.
- Location: Tincha Falls, Berchha, Madhya Pradesh 452001
Ralamandal wildlife sanctuary
Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in Indore. It is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts, spread across an area of approximately 5 square kilometers. The sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, consisting of a variety of flora and fauna including several species of trees, shrubs, mammals, and birds.
The sanctuary is home to animals like spotted deer, blue bull (nilgai), wild boar, and langurs, among others. Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular spot for nature walks, birdwatching, and photography, offering visitors an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Timings: The sanctuary remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week between 09:00 AM to 06:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: One can visit this wildlife park by paying a nominal fee of INR 5
- Location: Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, Mirjapur, Madhya Pradesh, 452020
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Indore Zoo
Indore Zoo, also known as Kamla Nehru Prani Sangrahalay, is a popular attraction located in Navlakha area of Indore. Spread over an area of approximately 51 acres, the zoo houses a diverse collection of animals from different parts of the world. Visitors can see animals such as lions, tigers, leopards, bears, and several species of birds, reptiles, and mammals.
The zoo also has a museum and an aquarium, making it a great place for families to spend a day. Indore Zoo is committed to the conservation and preservation of endangered species and offers educational programs for visitors to learn more about animal welfare and environmental conservation.
Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM. Closed on Mondays.
Entry Fees: INR 10.
Location: Agra Bombay Road, Navlakha, Indore, Madhya Pradesh
Savour the Street Food of Indore
Indore is famous for its mouth-watering street food, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Some of the popular street food dishes of Indore include poha, jalebi, samosa, kachori, bhel puri, sev puri, pav bhaji, and vada pav. One of the unique dishes of Indore is the Indori-style poha, which is a flattened rice dish cooked with onion, potato, and spices.
Another popular dish is the jalebi, which is a sweet, crispy dessert made from deep-fried batter dipped in sugar syrup. The street food in Indore is affordable and readily available in various parts of the city, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Two places in the city which are the favourite destinations for food lovers are Chhappan Dukan and Sarafa Bazar.
Chhappan Dukan
Chhappan Dukan, also known as 56 shops, is a popular food street in Indore. The street got its name from the 56 shops that line its length, serving a variety of delectable dishes. Some of the famous food joints in Chhappan Dukan include joints serving mouth-watering chaat and sweets, Johnny Hot Dog, serving delicious hot dogs and burgers, and Shree Ganesha Namkeen Bhandar, serving a variety of savoury snacks.
Chhappan Dukan is a favorite hangout spot for foodies, especially in the evenings when the street comes alive with the hustle and bustle of people enjoying the delicious street food. This is one of the must-visit places of Indore which you must not miss.
- Famous For: This place constituting 56 food outlets is popular for its tempting food specialties.
- Timings: The shops remain open for the visitors on all the days of the week between 06:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Location: Chappan Dukan, New Palasia, Indore, Madhya Pradesh
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Sarafa Bazar
Sarafa Bazar is a famous food street located in the heart of Indore. The street comes alive at night with a bustling atmosphere and mouth-watering aromas from the various food stalls. Sarafa Bazar is famous for its chaat, which is a savoury snack made from potatoes, chickpeas, and a variety of spices. Other popular dishes include vada pav, dahi bhada, and kulfi, among others. The street is also known for its jewelry shops, which are open during the day, making it a great spot to visit during the day and night. Sarafa Bazar is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Indore.
- Famous For: The popular Sarafa Market has gained attention for its delicious local dishes & street food.
- Timings: The market remains open for the visitors on all the days of the week between 08:00 PM to 02:00 AM.
Location: Sarafa Bazaar, Near Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holker Cloth Market, Indore, Madhya Pradesh
How to reach Indore
You have several transportation options to reach Indore.
- By Air: Indore has its own airport called Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (IATA: IDR). It is well-connected with major cities in India such as Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, and Jaipur, among others. You can book a flight to Indore from your nearest airport or any major airport in India, and then reach Indore by air.
- By Train: Indore is well-connected by railways with major cities in India. There are regular train services from cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and Jaipur, among others, to Indore. You can check the availability and book train tickets through the official IRCTC website or other online ticketing platforms.
- By Bus: Indore has a well-developed network of roads and highways, and you can reach Indore by bus from nearby cities and towns. There are both state-run and private bus services available. You can book bus tickets through various online bus booking platforms or purchase them at the bus stations.
- By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Indore by car from nearby cities or towns. Indore is connected by national highways and state highways, making it accessible by road. You can use a GPS navigation system or online maps for the best route and driving directions.
- By Taxi: You can also hire a taxi or a cab to reach Indore from nearby cities or towns. There are various taxi services available, including local taxis, intercity taxis, and app-based taxi services, which can take you to Indore comfortably.
Please note that travel options may vary depending on your location and the current transportation regulations and restrictions. It’s always a good practice to check for the latest travel guidelines and availability of transportation before making any travel plans.
When to visit Indore
The best time to visit Indore is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather in Indore is pleasant, with cool temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season in Indore, from July to September, brings heavy rainfall and can cause flooding and travel disruptions, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.
The summer months, from April to June, are very hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit to Indore during the winter season to enjoy the city’s attractions and festivities comfortably.
Travel Tips
- Local Transportation: Indore has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and auto-rickshaws, which are affordable and convenient for getting around the city. However, be prepared for traffic congestion during peak hours.
- Street Food: Indore is known for its delicious street food, such as poha, jalebi, samosa, and more. Make sure to try the local delicacies, but be cautious about the hygiene and cleanliness of the food stalls you choose.
- Safety: Indore is generally considered safe for tourists, but it’s always advisable to take precautions like avoiding deserted areas at night, being cautious with your belongings, and using authorized transportation options.
- Sightseeing: Indore has several popular tourist attractions, such as Rajwada, Lal Bagh Palace, Kanch Mandir, and Khajrana Ganesh Temple. Plan your sightseeing itinerary accordingly and consider hiring a local guide for a better understanding of the city’s history and culture.
- Plan Ahead: Research and plan your trip to Indore in advance, including accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing, to make the most of your trip and avoid last-minute hassles.
Remember to always check for the latest travel advisories and follow local rules and regulations during your visit to Indore. Have a wonderful trip!