Things To Do
in Indore
Indore is a bustling fusion of royal heritage and modern commerce in central India. It draws travelers with a legendary street-food scene and historic landmarks. The old city around Rajwada and the night market Sarafa Bazaar showcase its culinary culture, while Lal Bagh Palace and Kanch Mandir highlight architectural variety.
With hot summers, mild winters, and a year-round active vibe, Indore is easy to explore on foot or by auto.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Rajwada, the iconic palace showcasing Indore's royal heritage. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local delicacies like poha and jalebi. Take a stroll through the bustling markets nearby, immersing yourself in the vibrant morning atmosphere.
Head over to Lal Baag Palace, where you can explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the history of the Holkar dynasty. For lunch, indulge in the famous Indori street food at Sarafa Bazar, where the flavors burst with every bite. Post-lunch, visit the Indo-Gothic architecture of Gandhi Hall and the clock tower nearby, taking in the colonial charm.
As the sun sets, make your way to the serene Kanch Mandir, a stunning Jain temple adorned with intricate glasswork. Experience the magic of the evening at Sarafa Bazar, where food stalls come alive, and enjoy local treats like bhutte ka kees. Wind down your day with a refreshing drink at a local café, reflecting on the rich history you've experienced.
Visit the Indore Museum to start your day, where you can discover artifacts and exhibits that narrate the city’s cultural evolution. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, sampling dishes like sabudana khichdi and chai. Take a walk around the area, observing the daily life of the local populace and their unique practices.
After lunch, explore the vibrant Lal Baag Palace, a striking example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Engage with local artisans at the nearby markets, learning about their crafts and perhaps picking up a souvenir. Spend the remainder of the afternoon at the Bada Ganpati Temple, one of the largest Ganesh idols in the world, where you can experience local spirituality.
As night falls, visit the rooftop of a local restaurant for stunning views of the city skyline. Savor an array of regional dishes while enjoying the cool evening breeze. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk around the city's illuminated streets, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨1-night hotel (budget) | $20-40 |
| 🚕Taxi or rideshare (short ride) | $2-6 |
| 🛍️Local snack or clothing item | $4-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant street-food scene and cultural heritage
- Relatively affordable compared to larger metro cities
- Hot summers and heavy traffic in peak hours
- Limited late-night entertainment outside hotel/pubs in many areas
- "Namaste" - Hello / Good day
- "Aap kaise ho?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyavaad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Indore
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic Holkar-era palace complex offering grand exteriors and atmospheric city views.
An opulent palace with well-kept gardens and stately interiors for portraits and wide-angle shots.
Jain temple with glass mosaics and mirrored walls creating striking patterns.
Forested hills with trails and overlooks suitable for nature photography and wildlife shots.
Food in Indore
Indore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grated corn simmered with milk and spices, a signature Indore street snack.
Must-Try!
Light, fluffy poha served with a crispy, sugary jalebi for a classic breakfast pairing.
Spicy sprouts curry served with soft bread, a beloved street-food staple.
A hearty MP dish of dal served with baked bafla bread, especially popular in rural-inspired eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A famed night market where dozens of stalls serve a spectrum of Indori snacks and sweets.
A historic row of farsan shops offering traditional Indore snacks, chaats, and nibbles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs; remove shoes where required and avoid bright clothing in sacred spaces.
A polite Namaste is preferred; address elders with Ji.
Avoid loud behavior and public displays of affection in busy or sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Indore
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service is not already included.
Cash is widely accepted; cards and mobile wallets (UPI, digital wallets) are common in hotels and larger shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry; wear light clothing, carry water, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
Humid with seasonal rain; lush landscapes, but some trails can be slippery—carry rain gear.
Mild to cool with pleasant days; ideal for outdoor sightseeing and longer walks.
Indore at Night
Hiking in Indore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hike and waterfall destination about 35-40 km from Indore; best in the monsoon.
Seasonal waterfall site with broad viewpoints, accessible as a day trip from Indore.
Airports
How to reach Indore by plane.
Main airport serving Indore with domestic and limited international flights; connected to major Indian cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major religious community with a diverse urban presence.
Significant minority contributing to the city’s culture and cuisine.
Active community with temples and business networks.
A large presence of students from MP and neighboring states and professionals moving to Indore.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular national sport with local matches and clubs throughout the city.
Common in clubs and schools; many courts available for public use.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Indore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Indore’s cuisine is highly vegetarian-friendly; most dishes can be adjusted for vegan preferences by omitting ghee or dairy where possible.