Welcome to Indore – The City of History and Namkeen
Hello, my dear foodies and travel lovers. Hold on a little tighter, because today we are going to explore a city packed with culture, colour, and chaat – Indore, the heart of Madhya Pradesh.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor, nature lover, Instagram influencer, or a food blogger, Indore will charm you with its royal history, colourful bazaars, architectural marvels, and (let’s not forget) some of the best street food in India.
Indore is the largest city of Madhya Pradesh, situated between the Malwa Plateau and Narmada River, the underrated gem of India. The city takes us back to its origins in the 16th century, the city was once a part of Holkar dynasty and now in modern era, it’s grown into a commercial hub of Central India. Indore was also named as one of the cleanest city in India for several years in a row. So I guess while visiting Indore we will get less pollution, and let me tell you a fun fact that even pani puri stalls are more clean.
Best Time to Visit Indore
Let’s be honest – Indore can get HOT. So, if you’re planning your trip, visit in the months between October and March. The weather is cool, windy, and breezy perfect for your aesthetic photographs to post (Likes are very important on Instagram, and we will take care of this because we also want you to look beautiful, gorgeous and handsome (for men)).
Top Places to Visit in Indore
Let’s talk about the bucket list. If you’re in Indore, these are the places you just can’t miss –
1.Rajwada Palace
Rajwada Palace, is a 200-year-old palace in the center of the city. It is a beautiful mix of Maratha, Mughal, and French styles. It’s a perfect place for photography lovers.
- Entry Fee – Rs.10 (per person) for Indians and Rs.250 (per person) for foreigners
- Timings – 10 AM to 5 PM
2.Lal Bagh Palace
Imagine shiny jewels, big staircases, and pretty gardens. This palace shows how the Holkar kings lived a rich and beautiful life filled with fresh air, and greenery. When you walk inside, you can find a small glimpse of their royal and beautiful world.
- Entry Fee: Rs.20 (per person) for Indians
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on Mondays)
3.Kanch Mandir (Glass Temple)
This Jain temple is made completely of glass and mirrors. It has beautiful designs, feels calm and quiet, and is a great place for your Insta – worthy photos.
4.Patalpani Waterfall
A perfect place for a small picnic or to just enjoy nature. If you want some fresh air, take a short drive to this beautiful waterfall, surrounded by greenery and breezy winds.
- Best Time: Monsoon and post-monsoon months
Now Let’s Talk Food – Indore’s Real Superpower
Forget counting calories – Indore is all about making more calories with tasty treats. The city is famous for its spicy, tamatari, and crunchy snacks that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Must-Try Indori Foods –
1.Poha-Jalebi: Start your day with Indore’s yummy combo. Soft, spicy poha with sweet, crispy jalebi – a perfect mix of sweet and namkeen for breakfast.
2.Sabudana Khichdi: This isn’t the plain khichdi you know. Indore makes it special with peanuts, lemon, coriander, and crunchy toppings.
3.Bhutte ka Kees: The chopped corn cooked with milk and spices. A new and delicious way to enjoy corn.
4.Garadu: Fried yam mixed with spicy masala. People of Indore love it, especially in winters.
5.Malpua, Gulab Jamun, and Rabdi: If you love sweets, these will make you super happy.
Street Food Heaven – Sarafa Bazaar & Chhappan Dukan
1.Sarafa Bazaar (Foodie Wonderland at Night)
In the daytime, Sarafa Bazaar is a jewellery market. But at night, it becomes a famous food market that stays open till 2 AM.
Must-Try Foods at Sarafa –
Joshi Dahi Bada – Just watch Joshi ji, the way Joshi Ji throws the dahi bada in the air like a magic trick, and the taste is amazing.
Khopra Patties – Khopra Patties crunchy on the outside, munchy inside with tasty coconut filling inside.
Hot Gulab Jamun, Kachoris, and Pav Bhaji – It’s so yummy, that it feels like a treat on a plate.
2.Chhappan Dukan (56 Shops)
A perfect place for breakfast or evening snacks. It’s clean, well-managed, and always full of local people.
Places you should visit –
Vijay Chaat House, Young Tarang, Johnny Hot Dog (don’t worry, it’s all veg), and Apna Sweets (Not your sweets, it’s the name of shop).
Must-try foods –
Poha, Shikanji, and Moong Bhajiya (crispy fried snack).
Wanna do shopping? Shop like the locals
MT Cloth Market – The market is full of beautiful sarees, dress materials, and traditional clothes at reasonable prices.
Sarafa and Topkhana – This place is not only for food, but Sarafa also has amazing traditional jewellery.
Khajuri Bazaar – If you are a book lover, then this market is perfect for you. It has second-hand books, comics, and rare finds.
Heritage Handlooms and Cotton Fabrics – Do not forget to check out the soft cotton fabrics and block prints that Indore is famous for.
Hidden Gems You Shouldn’t Miss
- Choral Dam – Choral Dam, a peaceful place perfect for a picnic with your loved ones, with boating available, just 40 km from Indore.
- Janapav Kuti – Janapav Kuti, is the second highest point in the Malwa region, believed to be the birthplace of Parashurama.
- Bijasan Tekri – Want to experience the amazing views of the city? This is a temple on a hilltop with all the nature’s guidance and love.
- Kamla Nehru Prani Sangrahalaya (Indore Zoo) – Kamla Nehru Prani Sangrahalaya, one of the oldest zoos in India, a must visit place if you are an animal lover. This zoo has a wide range of ancient animals (still kept safe).
Indore is Not Just a City, It’s a Vibe
If you love stories in old buildings, tasty food in every meal, and friendly faces everywhere, Indore is the perfect place for you. Whether you stay for a day or a week, the city will leave you with unforgettable memories.
So pack your bags, come hungry, and charge your phone (because your Instagram is going to love all the photos).
Happy travels and enjoy your food
