Indore in Madhya Pradesh is known for its rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and warm hospitality, offering a unique blend of traditional charm and modernity, but its structures set it apart from other cities. Here are five architectural gems you must visit when you are in the city next.
This 7-storey structure features the base three storeys built from stone and the remaining four storeys made of wood, completed in 1766. It has been restored many times in the past, most recently in 2007 after the riots of 1884, where it was set on fire, heavily damaging it. The entrance features a giant wooden gate with iron studs under a beautiful arch. The palace takes inspiration from Maratha, Mughal, and French architecture. The palace features multiple jharokhas looking out above the main gate and on the floors above the open courtyard. There is a mix of materials where the floors and base structure are stone with wooden columns, arches, and ceilings with thin bricks of lime mortar for walls. The Durbar Hall distinguishes itself with its high ceiling, beautiful white columns, and flooring with stunning chandeliers. The intricate carvings on stone and wood are eye-catching in their simplicity and attention to attractive details that incorporate rhythm and repetition.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
The palace, constructed in the 19th century by the Holkars as their residential palace, is one of the most stunning places to visit in Indore. They ruled Indore first under the Marathas, roughly from the 17th to the 19th centuries, then independently until 1947. The palace's construction started in 1886 by Tukoji Rao Holkar II and was completed under Tukoji Rao Holkar III 40 years later. The palace displays influences from the Italian Renaissance, French architecture, Palladian, and Baroque styles. The palace uses various capital styles from Classical architecture for the columns in rooms such as the Durbar Hall and Banquet Hall, which rest atop Italian marble shafts. Influenced by Greek mythology, many rooms feature fabulous fresco paintings on the ceilings, mirrors in golden frames and stunning moulding. The enchanting Indian Dining Hall for Ladies showcases the Mughal style, while the Rajput style inspires the Gentlemen's Dining. The ornate furniture, embroidered carpets, lavish chandeliers, and light fixtures, along with wooden floors, prove the elegance and grand lifestyle of the Holkar rulers, offering a glimpse into the historical opulence of the bygone era.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
This Jain mandir built by Sir Seth Hukumchand in 1921, which translates to Temple of Glass, is one of the best places to visit in Indore if you want to witness the grandeur of the past firsthand. The marvellous exteriors are all white, with carvings on the entrance archway, windows, jharokhas, and chhatris. The temple's structure is created using white stone, with glass covering the walls, ceilings, pillars, and domes. The interiors are entirely glass from floor to top, with some use of gold. The multicolour glasswork and mirrors form intricate patterns, religious motifs, and designs, making it a unique and beautiful example of glass art in a religious setting. The glass is said to have been imported from many countries, such as Belgium, and the artisans involved were from Iran. Three statues of Lord Mahavira reflect in the mirrors, which infinitely multiply the statues. The temple's unique architecture and the play of light through the glass create an ethereal ambience that mesmerises visitors. It is at the epicentre of multiple Jain processions and festivals in Indore, which start from or terminate at this location.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
The construction of Gandhi Hall dates back to the early 20th century, with its foundation laid in 1904. The hall was originally named "King Edward Hall" in honour of the British monarch, King Edward VII. However, after India gained independence in 1947, it was renamed "Gandhi Hall". It is an impressive example of Indo-Gothic architecture, blending intricate carvings and ornate details with red sandstone, giving it a beautiful warm hue and white marble. It features a clock tower, open hallways, multiple arched entrances, and prominent windows that add to its majestic appearance. The hall utilises stained glass and has wooden jharokas in the main hall. Gandhi Hall has been integral to Indore's cultural and social scene for over a century. It has hosted numerous cultural events, exhibitions, concerts, and public gatherings, making it a hub of entertainment and community engagement.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
Krishnapura Chhatri showcases a splendid blend of Rajput and Maratha architectural styles. The chhatri, meaning 'cenotaph' in Hindi, is a traditional Indian memorial structure built to honour deceased rulers or noble figures. The entire structure is embellished with exquisite stone carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including various deities, epic characters, and celestial beings. The chhatri is crowned with a graceful and intricately carved dome, surrounding smaller pavilions or spires, each adorned with delicate and detailed carvings that prove the attention to detail given. The chhatri is supported by a series of ornate pillars and columns intricately carved with floral motifs, mythological figures, and other intricate designs, showcasing the artistic prowess of the craftsmen of that era, along with beautiful archways and entrances.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM