Top historical destinations to visit in Indore
Indore the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh is not only rich in terms of money but also rich in history and architecture. Today, Indore, the state’s largest city, offers a spectacle of majestic palaces co-existing with commercial centres. It is in the first 20 cities to be developed as smart cities. Numerous Maratha era architectural marvels are sprinkled in the city. A nature lover or a tourist with an eye for architectural excellence, Indore is the place to be to admire, enjoy, learn and unwind.
Here are the top historical destinations in Indore that give you an idea about City’s history.
1. Rajwada Palace
Built over two centuries ago, Rajwada Palace is a fine specimen of architectural grandeur of the bygone era. Built by the Holkars of Maratha Empire, it is a fusion of Mughal, French and Maratha styles of architecture. The seven storied palace has two parts, the first one at the city’s center and the second is in the old town. The three lower floors are of stone and the top floors are of wood. Burnt thrice, the last being in the year 1984, the palace was rebuilt.
2. Gandhi Hall
Gandhi Hall is a beautiful town hall built in the Indo-Gothic style and made up of white and red stones. Designed by Charles Frederick Stevens, it was built in 1904 and renamed Gandhi Hall after the death of Gandhi. Today, it serves as a major venue for cultural events and art exhibitions. The central hall can accommodate 2000 people and the grounds are used for bigger events.
3. Central Museum
Central Museum is also known as Indore Museum is a treat for anyone interested in digging deep into the rich history of the place. The museum boasts of a wide range of Parmar sculptures from Hinglajgarh which actually originated here. Also, the museum has a huge variety of coins, proportioned figures and intricate ornamentation. Medieval and pre-medieval Hindu and Jain sculptures also make an impression on the history buffs. These sculptures have been carved with intricate designs and generally date back from the reign of the Guptas to the Paramanas. There are two galleries in the Central Museum where stone tools, quartz sickles, ornaments and items of domestic use are on display in the first gallery and Hindu mythological carvings in the other. There are guides which are available for the convenience of the visitors.
4. Lal Baag Palace
Lal Baag Palace is undoubtedly the most beautiful palace in Indore. The construction commenced in the year 1886 and it was completed in 1921. The architecture of the palace is influenced by European style and is a blend of styles belonging to different periods. The gates of this impressive palace were cast in England and they are the replica of Buckingham Palace’s gates. The interiors spell quality in every inch. Prehistoric artifacts, paintings and sculptures of the past and present are seen here.
5. Krishnapura Chhatris
Talking about what not to miss in Indore, one must mention Krishnapura Chhatris. A group of cenotaphs is the classic remnants of the various Holkar rulers. Featured with the excellent architectural marvel of the Maratha style domes and pyramidal spires, these cenotaphs serve the tourists with a historical enigma which stays in everybody’s heart for a long time. Located on the banks of the Khan river, these cenotaphs, when lit during the night, offer a breath-taking spectacle which is enjoyed by dozens of people every evening. An artificial lake is constructed at Krishnapura Chhatris on the river beds of the Khan river along with beautiful gardens, fountains and boating facility which add different layers of entertainment value to the whole experience of exploring these historically rich exhibitions of the past.
