Introduction:
Indore has some of the best architectural marvels that belong
to the Holkar dynasty. The Rajwada or the Old Palace (a major
centre of attraction), Lalbagh palace, (another architectural
wonder), Kanch Mandir (a marvellous Jain temple), Chattri
Bagh (the memorial with some canopies) and the Bada Ganapati
(the largest Ganapati statue in the world) are some of the
attractions you must visit in Indore. Moreover, Indore is
famous as a shopper's paradise. The Khajuri Bazaar offers
you unique shopping options of gold and silver work, cloth,
leather work and traditional garments. Moreover, there are
the Sarafa Market that specialises in snacks and jewellery
and the Kasera Bazaar that specialises in metalwork where
you can indulge in the variety displayed for selling. The
Chanderi and Maheshwari silks of Indore are the other famous
attractions of this city.
Sightseeing:
Chattri Bagh
Located near the Khan River, the Chattri Bagh is another important
place to visit. The place is characterised by a number of
chhatris or memorial canopies dedicated to the Holkar rulers
and their family members. The Chattris or the canopies are
quite attractive especially the Chattri of Malhar Rao Holkar
I, the founder of the Holkar dynasty.
Kanch Mandir
The Kanch Mandir, as the name suggests in the local language,
is a temple made of mirrors. Also known as Seth Hukamchand
Temple, it is a must visit in Indore. Built by Sir Hukamchand
Seth in the early 20th century, it is a wonderful Jain temple
with plain exteriors and intricate mirror work done on interiors.
The walls, ceilings, floor, pillars and doors are all inlaid
with glass. Paintings done in coloured glass are the characteristics
of the temple. The paintings of the temple also depicts some
of the stories from Jain scriptures. The statue of Lord Mahavir
kept here is said to be visible up to 21 times on glass, corresponding
to the twenty one tirthankars. The museum is open daily from
10 am to 5 pm.
Bada Ganapati
Built in the year 1875, this temple as the name suggests is
famous for housing the largest Ganapati statue in the world.
The statue measures 8 m from crown to foot. The statue is
made of metallic frames of gold, silver, copper, brass, and
iron. This is a must see of Indore.
Lalbagh Palace
One of the few important monuments built by the Holkar rulers
is the Lalbagh palace. The palace, construction of which was
carried out in three stages, is a must visit in Indore.
This palace was used for holding important functions and celebrations.
The gardens all around and the overall make of the palace
reflects the taste, grandeur and lifestyle of the Holkars.
The palace is open for public from 10 am to 6 pm (Monday Closed).
Rajwada
The Rajwada or the Old Palace is one of the most important
sites to visit in Indore. Located in the old city, the building
is a blend of French, Mughal and Maratha architecture. This
200 year old palace belonged to the Holkar dynasty. The palace
is characterised by three stone made lower stories, wooden
upper stories, well-laid garden with fountains and an artificial
waterfall. |
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