With its lush parks, breathtaking temples, and glittering bazaars, Indore is a city that never fails to delight. From touring jaw-dropping palaces to rambling through the bustling markets, there is plenty to see and do in this brilliant metropolis in central India. Indore is the capital city of the Madhya Pradesh state, and it brims with astounding architecture and historic attractions. As you explore the city, discover magnificent landmarks like Lal Bagh Palace and the Mahatma Gandhi Town Hall, or visit the immense statues at Gomatgiri. After a busy morning shopping in the busy bazaars, enjoy a peaceful moment at the shrines in Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga or in the Annapurna Temple. Indore is filled with both iconic attractions like Rajwada and plenty of gems off the beaten trail. Read the list below for the roundup of the 10 best historical places to visit in Indore, India.
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1. Rajwada Palace
One of the most iconic landmarks of the city, Rajwada Palace is a stunning architectural marvel made of stone and wood. Also known as the Holkar Palace, this unique building spans seven floors and blends Maratha, European, and Mughal architectural elements to create a truly unique attraction. Built over two centuries ago, Rajwada Palace is one of the oldest buildings in the city and is a popular venue for religious functions and cultural events. Admire the exterior architecture, then stroll through the palace’s majestic garden and ramble past fountains, sculptures, and even an artificial waterfall!
Rajwada Palace
Address: Rajwada, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452002, India
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 9pm (closed on Sun)
2. Central Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The Central Museum is a fantastic institution that is filled with all kinds of unique surprises. This extraordinary museum delves into Indian history at the regional and national levels, and it features many interesting exhibits and artifacts. The museum was established in 1928, and the two galleries include objects that span from prehistoric times to the present day. One of the gems of the museum is the extensive collection of medieval and pre-medieval Hindu and Jain sculptures, which is unparalleled in the state.
Central Museum
Address: Near GPO Square, Residency, Navlakha, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452001, India
Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)
3. Meghdoot Gardens
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
A day in the picturesque Meghdoot Gardens is a wonderful way to unwind in Indore. This tranquil area is one of the oldest gardens in the city and it is filled with peaceful walking paths. Stroll through the lush grounds and enjoy the natural scenery as it unfolds around you. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with a wide variety of trees and flowers, and it includes many sparkling fountains. The park is also family-friendly and it has a children’s play area.
Meghdoot Gardens
Address: Main Gate, Entrance, Maguda Nagar, Scheme No 54, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452011, India
Opening hours: 5am - 10pm (daily)
4. Krishnapura Chhatri
The dome-shaped pavilions of the Krishnapura Chhatri have stood by the banks of the Khan River since the 17th century. These unique landmarks feature ornately carved exteriors and elegant columns and they were established by the ruling family of Indore, the Holkar dynasty, as monumental tombs to past leaders and family members. The complex of chhatris sits close to the other famous Holkar establishment, the Rajwada Palace, and includes three chhatris and five cenotaphs. The most famous of these is the Krishnapura Chhatri that was named for the ruling queen, Krishna Bai Holkar, who was the wife of renowned military leader Yashwantrao Holkar. At night, the chhatris are illuminated, throwing their elaborately carved details into brilliant relief.
Krishnapura Chhatri
Address: Mahatma Gandhi Road, Rajwada, Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holker Cloth Market, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452007, India
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
5. Footi Kothi
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The massive red palace of Footi Kothi is a unique site with a rumored haunted history. While the first floor of the temple was built with ease, the construction was abandoned by Maharaja Holkar after builders repeated reports of mysterious happenings. According to local legend, one of these instances was an eerie gale that removed all the doors of the building every time they were installed! Visitors today can walk through the open site and admire the unfinished, yet beautiful, architecture.
Footi Kothi
Address: Phooti Kothi, Sudama Nagar, main road, Indore 452009, Madhya Pradesh
6. Gandhi Hall
The beautiful Gandhi Hall is an impressive architectural feature of Indore’s downtown. This magnificent building was constructed in 1904 and serves the city today as the town hall building, often hosting cultural events and art exhibitions. The red and white building was designed by architect Charles Frederick Stevens and it was originally called King Edward Hall, but the building was renamed after Mahatma Gandhi’s death in 1948. With its stately domes, frescoed ceilings, and ornate minarets and moldings, this Indo-Gothic style building is an extraordinary landmark, and a must-see while you are in town.
Gandhi Hall
Address: 51, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Shastri Market, New Siyaganj, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452007, India
7. Indore White Church
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The gleaming building of the Indore White Church stands out as a unique example of pre-Independence architecture. This bright building was constructed in 1858 and is made of pale stone and marble. Funded by Englishman Sir Robert North Hamilton, the structure showcases British design and stands in distinctive contrast to many other buildings throughout Indore.
Indore White Church
Address: Pipliyahana Road, White Church Colony, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452001, India
8. Annapurna Temple
Dedicated to the Hindu goddess Annapurna, the deity of food, this ornate temple is one of the region’s most visited landmarks. Tourists and pilgrims alike flock to this outstanding architectural marvel, which is renowned for its elaborate façade and gilded gate. The exterior of the temple is adorned in intricate carvings of characters from local legends, and four life-size statues of elephants embellish the gate. Within the temple complex, visitors can see shrines celebrating the Hindu figures of Sivan, Hanuman, and Kalabhairava, and admire the four Vedas.
Annapurna Temple
Address: Annapurna Mandir, Kranti Kriplani Nagar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452009, India
Website: Annapurna Temple
9. Gomatgiri
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Located atop a picturesque hillock, Gomatgiri is a sacred site to the followers of Jainism. This holy site was dedicated to the religious group in 1981, and it houses an immense statue of Gomateshwara. This massive 21-foot (6m) statue is believed to be an exact replica of the Bahubali statue that is located in Shravanabelagola. There are also 24 magnificent marble temples here, each of which are dedicated to one of the 24 tirthankaras of the Jain religion. Gomatgiri is situated just 10 minutes from the Indore Airport, and also has a guest house and a restaurant on-site. The architecture and panoramas of the city are particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset!
Gomatgiri
Address: Major district Road, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 257112, India
10. Sukh Niwas Palace
Another impressive attraction built by the Holkar dynasty, this lovely palace was used as the summer residence by the ruling family. The mansion is connected to the Holkar’s Old Palace, by way of an underground tunnel. Sukh Niwas Palace features both Indian and Western architectural designs, and it reflects the unique cultural heritage of the time and area. Lush gardens surround the palace, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day.
Sukh Niwas Palace
Address: Sukh Niwas Palace Sukh Niwas Road, Indore 452009, India
The interesting, immense history of Indore
There is so much to discover in the beautiful city of Indore. With its plethora of historical places, beautiful parks, and family-friendly activities, this Indian metropolis delights with its endless entertainment options. Indore is awash with astounding architecture, and the area’s rich cultural heritage is evident from every corner of the city. From gorgeous palaces to fascinating museums, these attractions need to be added to your bucket list. Start planning your getaway today and add these historical places to do to your itinerary in Indore, India!
History
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