The largest city in Madhya Pradesh, Indore is located in the Narmada River Valley in the western fringes of the state. The city was founded by a rich zamindar named Rao Nandlal Chaudhary in the early 18th century. It is a perfect blend of modernity and cultural heritage with some of the finest historical monuments and a rapid-growing industrial sector. Indore is famous for its textile industry, thanks to its rich black soil of the surrounding Malwa Plateau.
Things to do in Indore
You can trek to Janapav Temple located atop the highest point of the Malwa Plateau to get a stunning view of the surroundings. Marvel at the majestic Rajwada Palace featuring an amalgamation of French, Mughal and Maratha architecture and design. The palace is a storehouse of historical artefacts that will fascinate any traveller. Savour the popular dishes of Indore, such as Khatta Samosa, Moong Bhajia and Poha Jalebi.
Tourist attractions in Indore
Indore boasts of numerous tourist attractions, including nature parks, waterfalls, temples, museums and palaces. The most prominent ones among them are Lal Bagh Palace, Indore Museum, Annapurna Temple, Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, Chokhi Dhani, Patalpani Waterfall and Sirpur Lake.
Places to shop in Indore
Moolchand Market and Sitlamata Bazaar are two of the most popular shopping destinations in Indore. You will find a variety of cotton fabrics, readymade outfits, as well as, Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees featuring delicate zari work. Sarafa Bazaar is famous for its jewellery shops, where you can shop for designer bangles and earrings. You can head to Jail Road to buy electronic gadgets and goods. Government Emporiums are the best place to go if you want to purchase handicrafts and souvenirs. For those looking for high-street brands, Indore has many fancy malls. The most popular ones are Central Mall, C21 Mall and Treasure Island Mall.
Best time to visit
October to March is the best time to visit Indore as the weather remains extremely pleasant and favourable for sightseeing and outdoor activities during this period.
Modes of transport
Auto-rickshaws, taxis and vans are the commonest and cheapest modes of transportation in Indore. The city also boasts of a decent network of local buses to get you around easily.
Weather in Indore
Summers in Indore last from March to June. The weather during this time is very hot with temperatures soaring to a scorching 40 degrees Celsius. Winters, lasting December through February, are pleasant and cold with temperatures dropping to 10 degrees Celsius. The city receives adequate rainfall during monsoon, between July and September.
Airport in Indore
Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (IATA: IDR) is the main and only airport in the city. IndiGo operates over 140 weekly flights between Indore and other major cities in India. To check various flight routes, visit the ‘flight schedule’ page on the IndiGo website.