The largest and the most populous city in Madhya Pradesh, Indore traces its origin back to the 16th century when it was founded as a commercial hub between Delhi and the Deccan. Since then many empires and dynasties – from the Hindu Maratha Empire and the Holkar Dynasty to the British Empire – played an important role in shaping the history and legacy of this city. Unsurprisingly, there are many historical places in Indore that are worth a visit. These are places where you can get a glimpse into the city’s rich culture and past :

1. Rajwada palace

Built in the year 1766 by the rulers of the Holkar Dynasty, the grand Rajwada Palace is one of the top places to visit in Indore. This seven-storied palace, which exhibits a mix of Maratha, French, and Mughal architectural styles, is a fine example of royal splendor. The entrance of the palace features a grand archway and a huge wooden gate complete with iron studs. The main building comprises a courtyard, ornate balconies and windows, jharokas, elaborately carved wooden jalis, corridors, and galleried rooms.

An interesting feature of Rajwada Palace is that its top floors are made of wood while the lower three floors are carved out of stone. The palace is now a property maintained by the State Archeology Department which also runs a small souvenir shop within the building. The light and sound show held here in the evenings is a major attraction for visitors.

2. Lal Bagh palace

Another one of the prominent historical places in Indore is the Lal Bagh Palace, a grand building which once served as the residence of the Holkar rulers. Built in 1886-1921 by Maharaja Shivaji Rao, this beautiful three-storied edifice is located on the banks of Khan River. The building features a grand entrance, a garden of roses, regal artwork by Indian and Italian artists, and an exquisite ballroom. The ornate décor and interiors of Lal Bagh Palace, complete with beautiful wall carvings, chandeliers, rich carpets, and marble floors, will leave you awestruck.

Today, the palace is converted into a museum where you can see an interesting range of artifacts. Needless to say, a visit to this magnificent palace which spreads over 28 acres is one of the best things do in Indore.

3. Krishnapura Chattris

Another important historical place to visit in Indore is the Krishna Pura Chhatris, which comprises of three chhatris or cenotaphs. These structures house the remains of the deceased members of the Holkar Dynasty and hence are also called the Holkar Chaatris. Built in the 19th century over the place where these rulers were cremated, the place is named after Krishna Bhai Holkar, who was the wife of the famous military leader Yashwantrao Holkar.

Located on the banks of the River Khan or Kahn, these chhatris are a made of stones and also feature statues of soldiers, elaborate carvings of gods and goddesses on the exteriors, and a Krishna temple built for Maharani Krishna Bhai. Krishna Pura Chhatris are located a short walk away from Rajwada Palace, so you can cover both these monuments in one go.

4. Kanch Mandir

Kanch Mandir aka the Temple of Glass is not just a religious place, but also one of the top historical places to visit in Indore. This famous Jain temple, built around 1903, boasts of a history of over 100 years. The place was constructed by Shri Seth Hukam Chand, who was an industrial pioneer and renowned leader of the Jain community.

The exteriors of the temple look like a medieval mansion and feature a shikhara and a canopied balcony. The interiors, however, are fully decorated with mirrors, Chinese glass lamps, and glass panels. And that’s where the temple gets its name from. The structure of the temple and its ornamentation feature medieval and old Jain style. The temple also has the idols of the Thirthankaras installed inside it, with mirrors placed on both sides.  

5. Gandhi hall

When you make a list of places to visit in Indore, don’t forget to include the Gandhi Hall, the most prominent historical building in the city. Built in 1904, the building features the Indo-Gothic style of architecture. The clock tower, minarets, and domes of the structure add to its grand appeal.

The building was initially named King Edward Hall and was renamed as Gandhi Hall shortly after India’s independence. Currently, it serves as the town hall of Indore and many cultural and art exhibitions are held here.

6. Centeral Museum

The Central Museum, also known as Indore Museum, is where you can travel back in time and learn a thing or two about the region’s rich past. But that’s not all. The building also serves as one of the major historical places in Indore.

The museum was established during the colonial period, back in 1929, and features a fine collection of prehistoric objects, relics, coins, Parmar scriptures, medieval and pre-medieval Jain and Hindu scriptures, arms and armors, and others. A must-visit place for history buffs, it is one of the best museums in Indore.