If you love to travel and are visiting the great country of India, do not just do the usual bandwagon destinations like Agra, Goa, Mumbai, New Delhi, Jaipur, and Calcutta; instead, add an usual destination to your itinerary. Indore is a great option, and here’s why.
In addition to being the commercial capital of the State of Madhya Pradesh, Indore is also one of the fastest developing cities in the country. Known as a Mini Mumbai for its major Marathi-speaking population, the city has a lot to offer in terms of sightseeing, activities, and things to do. Every traveler dreams of exploring different facets about the country he or she is visiting, and this city poses a perfect opportunity for you to do the same. Here’s a list of things you simply shouldn’t miss out on when visiting this wonderful city.
Palaces to visit
The Lal Bagh Palace is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, and was built between 1886 and 1921 by the Holkar dynasty. Exuding European style architecture, the structure boasts of a beautiful entrance with a 28 hectare garden and a statue of Queen Victoria. The interiors are just as European with leather armchairs, rococo dining rooms, and ripped sofas.
You may also want to take the public transport or hop into one of the metro cabs to go to Sukh Niwas Palace.
Rajwada Indore is another site not to be missed. Located in the heart of the city, it is a serene structure that has been well restored. Though small in size, it is worth you visit. Plus, you can take a walk around the palace to visit local shops for souvenirs and knick-knacks.
Religion
You haven’t seen anything, if you haven’t visited religious sites in India. The country is secular and home to people belonging to different religions including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, and Sikhism. When in the city make it a point to visit the Hindu Khajrana Ganesh Mandir, Annapurna temple, Kanch mandir, Indore White Church, Bijasen Mata temple, Bada Ganpati, and Iskcon temple. We suggest you do all the temples in one day so as to realize the different types and differences in architecture and building styles. You may notice that the older temples are build using stones that keep it cool on the inside. Also, pay attention to the sculpture work done and the detailed emphasis on making every inch of the structure beautiful. You are going to be in complete awe on visiting the Kaanch Mandir, so make sure not to skip this wondrous building which is entirely inlaid with glass; from ceilings and floors, to pillars and even door knobs.
Other places to see
The Krishnapura Chhatris are stone tombs located on the banks of river Khan. Dedicated to the Holkar rulers, this place is a popular tourist destination. Another historic site is Bijasen Tekri. Situated close to the airport, the place is a celebrated picnic spot for locals and should be avoided on the weekends.
You should surely visit the Central museum and the Indore Museum.
For fun
No visit to a city is complete without a pinch of salt, well food. Visit Sarafa or 56 Dukaan for local delicacies and general Indian snacks. Chappan Dukaan is a place for shopping and eating during the day, while Sarafa is at its best from 9 to 12 in the night.
If you want to witness the development in the city, the best thing is to visit its commercial areas or contact a real estate agency selling Indore flats. Real estate is one of the most booming sectors in the city, and none can give better information about the city’s progress than a person who works in this sector.
Sharon K. is a freelance journalist and a travel anchor for a local television show. She often writes about her travels to different places in the world. She recently rented two Indore flats for herself and her friends and fell in love with the city. She wishes to spend more than a few months in different parts of the country starting with Goa.
