Indore (India)

Indore has some of the best architectural marvels that belong to the Holkar dynasty. The Rajwada or the Old Palace (a major centre of attraction), Lalbagh palace, (another architectural wonder), Kanch Mandir (a marvellous Jain temple), Chattri Bagh (the memorial with some canopies) and the Bada Ganapati (the largest Ganapati statue in the world) are some of the attractions you must visit in Indore. Moreover, Indore is famous as a shopper's paradise. The Khajuri Bazaar offers you unique shopping options of gold and silver work, cloth, leather work and traditional garments. Moreover, there are the Sarafa Market that specialises in snacks and jewellery and the Kasera Bazaar that specialises in metalwork where you can indulge in the variety displayed for selling. The Chanderi and Maheshwari silks of Indore are the other famous attractions of this city.

Sightseeing:

Chattri Bagh:
Located near the Khan River, the Chattri Bagh is another important place to visit. The place is characterised by a number of chhatris or memorial canopies dedicated to the Holkar rulers and their family members. The Chattris or the canopies are quite attractive especially the Chattri of Malhar Rao Holkar I, the founder of the Holkar dynasty.

Kanch Mandir:
The Kanch Mandir, as the name suggests in the local language, is a temple made of mirrors. Also known as Seth Hukamchand Temple, it is a must visit in Indore. Built by Sir Hukamchand Seth in the early 20th century, it is a wonderful Jain temple with plain exteriors and intricate mirror work done on interiors. The walls, ceilings, floor, pillars and doors are all inlaid with glass. Paintings done in coloured glass are the characteristics of the temple. The paintings of the temple also depicts some of the stories from Jain scriptures. The statue of Lord Mahavir kept here is said to be visible up to 21 times on glass, corresponding to the twenty one tirthankars. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm.

Bada Ganapati:
Built in the year 1875, this temple as the name suggests is famous for housing the largest Ganapati statue in the world. The statue measures 8 m from crown to foot. The statue is made of metallic frames of gold, silver, copper, brass, and iron. This is a must see of Indore.

Lalbagh Palace:
One of the few important monuments built by the Holkar rulers is the Lalbagh palace. The palace, construction of which was carried out in three stages, is a must visit in Indore. This palace was used for holding important functions and celebrations. The gardens all around and the overall make of the palace reflects the taste, grandeur and lifestyle of the Holkars. The palace is open for public from 10 am to 6 pm (Monday Closed).

Rajwada:
The Rajwada or the Old Palace is one of the most important sites to visit in Indore. Located in the old city, the building is a blend of French, Mughal and Maratha architecture. This 200 year old palace belonged to the Holkar dynasty. The palace is characterised by three stone made lower stories, wooden upper stories, well-laid garden with fountains and an artificial waterfall.