Indore – City of Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar

Indore city is the perfect blend of holistic rich history and mesmerizing modern lifestyle. This city is situated on the edge of southern Malwa Plateau. One of the key and striking highlight is that this is the only city in India to have both Indian Institute of Management (IIM) andIndian Institute of Technology (IIT). This is the street food capital of Indiawhich takes proud of the local cuisine and finger-licking delicacies.

History of Indore:

The history of Indore originated from the time when the Mughals, Marathas and the Britishers were fighting to gain control over central India. Rao Nandlal Chaudhary who founded the city of Indore, he was among the prominent landlord. The years when Mughal power was everywhere, they found this small place which was far away from any kind of natural mishap. They found this place so safe, secure and calm, a troop of people shifted here and the place was Indore.

After that, Marathas came into the power and mainstream and fought with Mughals and won the battle of Panipat and the whole land was captured by the Marathas. Maharaja Malhar Rao Holkar becomes the ruler of central India and from then Indore has grown up with the touch of Marathas.

Here are top historical places to visit in Indore

1. Rajwada

Rajwada is also known as Holkar Palace, its a prominent historical property in Indore that was built by the Holkar Family nearly two centuries ago. This place is the perfect example of fine architectural and engraving arts. Rajwada Palace is one of the oldest palaces of ruler of a whopping 7 storey structure at that time. This amazing palace was built under the supervision of the king Malhar Rao Holkar who was the founder of Holkar Dynasty in the year 1747 A.D.

2. Lal Bagh

The Lal Bagh Palace is the symbol of beauty, fine art and luxurious lifestyle which was constructed under the supervision ofMaharaja Shivaji Rao Holkar in the year 1886-1921. This magnificent Palace is situated a few miles from the main Indore city. This is a three storey place near banks of the River Khan (Kanh). Spread over an area of 27 acres which has vibrant lush gardens, Italian marble decor, bed made of silver and gold, giant library and much more.

3. Krishnapura Chhattris

The Krishnapura Chhattris of Indore is the legendary monument that resembles bravery, sacrifice and courage. The Chhatriswere constructed in the year of late 1800s in the memory of the Holkar kings and rulers, the tombs were built near to the Rajwada Palace. These beautifully engraved Chhattris were built in the memory of the king Bolia Sahib over the ashes of another woman ruler of Malwa, queen Krishnabai.

4. Central Museum

You must visit the Central Museum if you love ancient things. The Central museum also known as Indore Museum is having a vast variety of Parmar sculptures from Hinglajgarh. If you love coins then this museum is heaven for you as it is having a plethora of ancient coins, paintings and priceless ornamentation. The sculptures and fossils here are just worth experiencing.

5. Kanch Mandir

Kanch Mandir is a popular Jain temple famous for it’s extraordinary glass paintings and multi-coloured glass cuttings engraved in every inch of the temple. It reflects the prosperity and rich culture of the Holkar Dynasty. The paintings here at the Kanch Mandir especially shows the different aspects of Jainism religion and people. To experience this place fully, visit here at the time of the sunrise when the sun rays create a mesmerising reflection effect from the glasses.

6. Mahatma Gandhi Hall

The Gandhi Hall or King Edward Hall was built by a famous architect Charles Frederick Stevens from Mumbai at a whopping cost ofRs. 2,50,000 at that time(in the year 1905) and was inaugurated by George V who was the Prince of Wales. The hall is made in the Indo-Gothic fashion having White stones, plush marbles. One of the great attraction of this Gandhi Hall is a huge clock-tower.