Last Updated on October 12, 2022 by admin
Wondering what are the best places to visit in Indore or things to do in Indore while on a short trip? This Indore itinerary covers the highlights the city has to offer.
Once called Mini Bombay, Indore is one of the fastest-growing cities in India. While Bhopal is the capital, Indore is known as the financial capital of Madhya Pradesh and has an aura larger than life. Happy-go-lucky attitude and helping the needy are the ethos of the inhabitants of this place. Sightseeing in Indore includes indulging in local food and shopping which keeps the tourists busy throughout the course of the day.
Table of Contents
About Indore
Indore has been witness to the rise of the Holkar dynasty which gave the country a dynamic ruler like Ahilyabai Holkar. She was one of the finest female rules in Indian history who brought harmony and prosperity through her insight and wit.
This city is a perfect union of culture and modernisation with a hint of artistic fervour. Big names like Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar and Salman Khan are associated with this city.
Indore also offers an array of region-specific, delectable food items hence making it a heaven for food lovers.
Indore is also amongst the hundred smart cities taken up by the government of India, ranking number one. Indore has been the cleanest city in India for 5 years in a row.
Places to visit in Indore
Here are the top 11 places to visit in Indore in one day.
Rajwada Indore
Standing tall amidst the hustle-bustle of the city is the Rajwada Palace of Indore, it is a reminder of the city’s glorious past. It is a seven-storied architectural piece of beauty which retells the skills that prevailed 200 years ago.
The Holkar dynasty of the Maratha Empire built the seven-storied Rajwada. Also known as Holkar Palace, it is one of the oldest structures and a major historical site in Indore. As beautiful as it looks from the outside, try to get a glimpse from the inside.
A part of the palace is now converted into a museum on the first floor where the history of the dynasty is displayed along with murals, clothes, war equipment, etc. On the ground floor is the original courtyard with a temple. It is so peaceful and makes you reminisce about the bygone era and a simple yet elegant life led by the Holkars.
Sheesh Mahal & Kaanch Mandir
As the name suggests, both the palace and the temple are made of glass and they stand adjacent to each other. These structures have a beautiful statue of Lord Mahavir with spellbound work of cut glass throughout the structure. They were built by Sir Seth Hukumchand ji who was a prominent industrialist of India.
Kanch Mahal is one of the best places to visit in Indore
Chappan Dukan
One of the most favourite places to visit in Indore is the Chappan Dukan. Chappan (meaning 56 in Hindi) has significance in spiritualism and is said to spread positivity and give guidance during difficult times.
Chappan is a series of shops in Indore. This market area originally started off with 56 shops and is supposed to give happiness and positivity through food. This place is full of energy which continues to spread vibrance throughout the day. Evenings come humming with a large number of people who get to taste sweet and savoury items. It’s a complete one-stop-shop, a place of enjoyment for a family.
Chappan Dukan Indore
Chhatris of Indore
Chhatris are the cenotaphs built by the rulers during ancient times in memory of their royal family members after their demise. These Chhatris of Krishnapura in Indore have been built by Holkars.
While Krishnapura is more popular with locals and tourists, the more beautiful and peaceful is Boliya Sarkar ki Chatri which is in the memory of Bolia Sahib. It was constructed after his death near Chattri Bagh. Amidst the city’s chaos stands these chhatris which remind the city’s inhabitants of their proud yesterday.
Similar Chhtaris are also found in Bhuj which have survived the devasting earthquake.
Boliya Sarkar ki chhatri, Indore
Lal Bagh Palace
While planning things to do in Indore, Lal Bagh Palace has to be on your list. The palace was the residence of Maharaja of Indore state until 1978. It is now converted to a museum exhibiting lots of Indian and Italian paintings.
The architecture of Lal Baag Palace reflects the opulence of the Holkars. The palace complex is spread over 28 acres.
History and art enthusiasts would love this palace as the palace comprises Georgian style decorations and finds resemblance to Buckingham Palace in many aspects. The palace also has a rose garden which is one of the finest in India. There is a lot of similarity in the style of architecture with the Versailles Palace with Italian marble columns, grand chandeliers, rich Persian carpets, nymphs on the ceiling, Belgium stained glass windows, Greek mythological reliefs and Italian style wall paintings. This made me remember my visit one day trip to Brussels and the beautiful palaces.
Sarafa Bazar
Sarafa Bazar is one of the famous places in Indore. Sarafa Bazar is a place which offers two different experiences at the very same place but at different times of the day. During the day it is a jewellery market like any other in the city however after the day’s activities are over, this very same market turns into food heaven. The street is very similar to Manek Chowk of Ahmedabad whose history is known through Ahmedabad Heritage Walk.
Sarafa Bazaar, Indore offers region-specific, mouth-watering dishes which satisfy one’s appetite for awesome food. Food items like Bhutte ka kees, Garadu, Sabudana Khichdi and Dahi bada are some of them. This place also offers amazing food combinations like Poha-Jalebi, Rabdi-Jalebi, Doodh-Jalebi. Not only the region-specific items but also items like Soya chaap, Malpua and Gulab Jamun along with chaupati items like pav bhaji and barf gola also form an important part of the food items on the serving platter.
Annapurna Temple
Mata Annapurna is the goddess of food and nourishment. She is known as the goddess of Kashi where her biggest temple is located. This temple in Indore finds a special place as it looks quite similar to that of a temple in South India and resembles ancient Dravidian architecture making it, special. It is one of the oldest temples in Indore which was built around 1959 by Mahamandleshwar Swami. The temple premises also have idols of Shiva, Hanuman and Kalabhairava. The height of this temple is 100 ft and the walls of the temple depict mythological stories.
Annapurna Temple Indore – Things to do in Indore
Bada Ganpati
As the same suggests, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganpati or Ganesha. Bada translates to big. The height of the Ganesha Idol is around 25 feet which are supposedly the tallest in the world. The idol is made of bricks, limestone and a paste made of jaggery, methi dana and soil. The soil is collected from the seven holy places across India.
Extremely popular amongst the locals, this is one of the Indore tourist places that should not be missed.
Bada ganpati Indore
Khajrana Mandir
This temple is a place of immense faith and worship for the people of Indore. It goes back in history were to protect the idol of Ganesha from the invasion of Aurangzeb, it was hidden and later found in a well by Ahilyabai Holkar. The temple premises houses a big Ganesha temple and surrounding it are temples of other Gods and Goddesses.
According to a popular legend, it is said worshippers coming to this temple with complete devotion, can get their wishes fulfilled.
On weekends the temple premises are crowded with lots of devotees in and around the place however on weekdays it’s relatively quiet. On Ganesh Chaturthi, the place is vibrating with lots of people who come to seek the blessings of Ganesha and seek divine guidance.
Khajrana Mandir Indore_places to visit in Indore
Footi Kothi
It is the only architecture of the Holkar era which are in ruins. Its construction actually started to counter and overpower the British Empire stationed in Mhow during the early 1900s. But currently, the place has many idols of Gods and Goddesses.
The tales about this place bear the rumours of supernatural happenings. Its dilapidated architectural structure is quite famous among tourists and archaeological enthusiasts.
Phooti kothi Indore
Lotus Lake, Gulawat
Wondering about offbeat things to do in Indore? Gulawat is the answer!
Gulawat is a photographer’s delight and birdwatcher’s haven. If you are a nature lover and like to click beautiful pictures of the flora and fauna, Gulawat Talab will fascinate you. This is one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in Indore.
Gulawat is a lake located at a distance of around 20 km from Indore. It is especially popular in winters when the entire lake gets filled with pink lotuses as far as the eyes can see.
On weekends, this place can be noisy and bustling with visitors, however, on weekdays it’s serene. So, if one is looking for some solace to be enjoyed nature, Gulawat is one of the offbeat places in Indore and popular among places to visit in Indore for couples.
Gulawat lake is one of the Offbeat places to visit in Indore
Places to visit near Indore
Have more than one day in Indore and want to explore one day trip from Indore, there is no dearth for the same. Check out these beautiful places worthy of visiting.
Maheshwar
Located 90 km away from Indore, Maheswar is a culturally rich place which speaks its own story of once being the capital of Holkar state. Also known as Varanasi of Central India, Maheshwar is located on the banks of river Narmada and has beautiful ghats. Alongside the ghats, stands tall the Maheshwar fort which has been witness to the evolving of its own from the capital of Holkars to developing as a centre of handloom weaving in central India to now a major tourist attraction because of many Bollywood and Tollywood movies shot here.
Omkareshwar
On the banks of river Narmada, lies the Mandhata town which is better known as Omkareshwar. This place actually is a confluence of two rivers Narmada and Kavery. It is famous for Shiva Jyotirlinga which is listed among the sacred twelve jyotirlingas in India and is considered one of its own. This place is also famous for Jhula Pul which is a bridge built on the river Narmada which resembles Laxman Jhula of Rishikesh. One can reach here nearly after a three hours drive and experience the sacred vibe of this place.
Waterfalls around Indore
One may wonder how a culturally rich city can have the best of nature in every corner of the place. Be it lakes or small hills or waterfalls. There are beautiful and scenic waterfalls around Indore which are picturesque and worthy of photography. During monsoon, the area surrounding these waterfalls becomes lush green and the flow of water is at its peak. Places like Sitlamata Falls, Tincha Falls and Patalpani are to name a few. All of them are at a distance of fewer than 50 km.
Mandu
Whenever one is talking about Indore places to visit, Mandu is always on the top of the list. Mandu is short form of Mandavgarh. The place is absolutely serene and stands tall narrating the story of its glorious past of which it was once a part. It is located on top of the hills and illustrates a beautiful and breathtaking view from the palaces. The best time to visit is during monsoons when the whole place becomes lush green. There are amazing palaces here in Mandu which take visitors deep down in history like Rani Roopmati Mahal, Baaz Bahadur Mahal, Hindola Mahal, Jahaz Mahal, Asharfi Mahal etc. Along With these palaces, there are mosques, temples and beautiful lakes too which give the edge of beauty to this historic town. Read this in detail: Plan a trip to Mandu Madhya Pradesh
Mandu fort is one of the places to visit near Indore
What to buy in Indore | Shopping in Indore
Indore has been a major textiles hub as it houses various markets which are specific to cloth buying. Markets like MT Cloth Market, Sitlamata Bazar and Kothari Market offer the best cloth available from the nearby textile mills at a cost-effective rate. Sarees, Dress materials, home furnishings, bath accessories etc are the major items that can be bought in these markets. For shopping in Indore, do buy the following:
Maheswari and Chanderi sarees
Madhya Pradesh is home to the two most beautiful forms of Sarees namely Maheshwari and Chanderi. The former hails from Maheshwar and the latter from Chanderi. Both of them are produced in Silk, Cotton and Cotton Silk fabrics which are much desired among women. Along with Dupattas and stoles, both the fabrics can be accessorized into Cushions, Curtains and Bed covers.
Indore Namkeen
Indore being a foodie’s heaven offers many varieties of namkeen like laung sev, khatta meetha mixture among others. Many namkeen shops like Aggarwal Sweets, Jain ke Namkeen, Om sweets and Madhuram sweets offer lip-smacking varieties of Sev, snacks and other namkeens.
Handicrafts
Madhya Pradesh is home to a large tribal population which expertise in handicrafts and other terracotta items. Places like the Topkhana market line these items which are favourites amongst the tourists.
Books
Khajuri Bazar, a market which is located right behind the Rajwada is a huge market for books. One can get course books of all kinds and other reader-friendly books as also an amazing variety of stationery items.
Indore namkeens are very famous
Must-try food in Indore
Wondering about things to do in Indore at night? Food is the answer!
Indore always seems like my hometown Vadodara to me. And just like the array of must try street food of Vadodara, there are umpteen options in Indore too. In all my visits to Indore, street food is an integral part. These are some of the most popular must try food in Indore.
- Kopra Patties – Native to Indore is Khopra Patties which is a snack item, deep-fried, to be eaten with lots of green and tamarind chutney. Available at Vijay Chat House at both locations in Sarafa Bazar and also at 56 Dukan. Out of all the places to visit in Indore and things to do in Indore, this should not be missed.
- Bhutte Ka Kees – This dish mainly looks like Upma, made from Corn cob. Green chillies and coriander add to its taste. Available in many shops at both Sarafa Bazar and 56 Dukan
- Shikanji – Shikanji usually is a lemon drink however Shikanji of Indore is quite different from the conventional one. It’s a creamy drink of milk with lots of dry fruits.
- Garadu – It’s a type of Yam, like sweet potato especially grown during winters. It is deep-fried and eaten as chat with a good blend of chutneys.
- Sabudana Khichdi – Another delectable item to have in Indore is Sabudana Khichdi. It is loaded with deep-fried potato crisps and chutney. Easily available in all food markets in Indore.
- Dal Bafla – Very similar to the Dal Baati of Rajasthan, is Daal Bafla of Malwa region where Indore belongs. It’s more like a Baati however Bafla is boiled.
- Mawa Bati – It’s typically Gulab Jamun but a dry version. This is available in all sweet shops in Indore.
- Poha-Jalebi – An amazing combination which can be eaten at any time of the day. However, most of the sweet shops offer Poha Jalebi during breakfast time.
- Moong Bhajiya – These are yellow lentil fried dumplings. They can be an amazing evening snack to be eaten especially with tea.
- Hot dog (Johny Hotdog) – Very specific to 56 Dukan, there is a shop called Johny Hotdog. It offers amazing Hotdogs and is very special to the people of Indore.
Must try food in Indore – Malpua & Gulab jamun
Best time to visit Indore
Ideal time to visit Indore is in winter from October to March. It is an amazing time to explore all the lakes, parks and forts. However, as Indore falls in Malwa region during monsoons it becomes lush green and fresh. Avoid summers as Indore is quite hot, making it uncomfortable for visitors.
How to reach Indore
By flight
Indore has its own domestic airport and has good connections with Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai and other major cities.
By train
Indore is well connected to different parts of the country and is an important junction.
By bus
Indore is well connected within and outside the state with AC and non-AC buses with sleeper facilities.
Hotels in Indore
Luxury: Sayaji, Radisson Blu Indore, Indore Marriot
Mid range: Ginger, Avadh Residency, Hotel Ambassador
Budget: Krishna Residency, Malwa Inn, Atithi Niwas
Frequently Asked Questions about Places to visit in Indore
Why Indore is called Mini Mumbai?
Indore has striking similarities with Mumbai in terms of cosmopolitan cultures, similar food habits and bazaars.
Is Indore worth visiting?
Indore is a beautiful and clean city with a very vibrant culture and food scene. Indore is worth visiting for a weekend trip.
What is best about Indore?
The laid-back nature, food and pleasant weather make Indore a beautiful tourist destination.
How can I spend my day in Indore?
Visiting Rajwada, Lal Bagh, Chhattris, a few temples, shopping in Sarafa and having street food in Chappan is the best way to spend a day in Indore.
What is famous to buy in Indore?
There is no dearth of shopping in the markets in Indore. Maheshwari and Chanderi sarees, Indori namkeen and tribal handicrafts are famous to buy in Indore.
Is Indore a safe city?
Yes, Indore is an extremely safe city for tourists of all kinds. If you are planning a solo trip in Indore then it should be on your list.
Sustainable tips for places to visit in Indore
- Indore ranks first in the waste management and sanitation index. As tourists, we need to maintain the same.
- Eat local. Indore has an amazing range of lip-smacking tangy food items. Ditch those restaurant chains of pizzas and instead indulge in chats and samosas.
- The locals around Gulawat sell the lotuses, that you go to watch. Do not encourage them to harvest the lotuses and enjoy them in their natural habitat.
- The structures of Mandu and Chattris have stood the test of time. It’s good to respect them by not writing names or scratching the surface.
Read More posts from Madhya Pradesh
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3 comments
wow it’s a wonderful guide to explore Indore. Enjoyed
I visited indore last year and explored few sights as mentioned in your article.I loved visiting old city and there is more than food.This post is helpful for first time visitors to experience it beyond food.
Good info for nature and adventure lover