Indore

The trade centre grew rapidly under the Holkar dynasty (1733-1818). The remains of their two century old palace still stand in the main square (called Rajwada). The city became the capital of the Indore princely state in 1818 after the British forces under Sir John Malcolm defeated the Holkars led by Rani Krishnabai Holkar at Mahidpur. She signed the treaty of Mandsaur by which the control of Indore went in the hand of the East India Company. Between 1948 and 1956, Indore served as the summer capital of the former Madhya Bharat state. Currently, it is the commercial capital of M.P.

Chhatri Baug: Chhatris or cenotaphs erected in memory of the Holkar rulers and their families are incomparable examples of Maratha architecture and sculpture. These Chhatris were the temples where Holkars used to attend Poojas. The largest and the most impressive is that of Malhar Rao Holkar I lavishly decorated with frescoes.

Indore Museum: The Indore museum housing the finest collection of Parmar sculptures from Hinglajgarh is also known for its collection of coins, arms and armours. The Parmar style originated here and is characterized by proportionate figures, carefully and ornately depicted in stone.

Kala Kund: Kala-kund is another beautiful spot on the way to Khandwa by train. After crossing the river in Shanker Valley there is a beautiful fall, above which is a natural swimming pool - like 'Kunda'. A dip and bath in the 'Kunda’ gives great pleasure.

Kamala Nehru Park (Zoo): Popularly known as Chidiya Ghar, it combines the pleasure of a park and zoo. Evening attractions include elephant rides, camel rides, pony rides, goat cart and buggy rides. It has a restaurant and an ice cream parlour overlooking the Khan river.

Kanch Mandir: This Jain temple is an architectural marvel in glass, built by The “Cotton King” Sir Hukamchand in the early 20th century. The walls, ceiling, floor, pillars and doors are entirely inlaid with glass. There are paintings done in coloured glass depicting stories from Jain scriptures. At the top is a special glass chamber, which multiplies the three statues of Lord Mahavir, into an infinite number.

Lal Baug Palace: It is one of the grandest monuments the Holkar dynasty reflecting the taste, grandeur and lifestyle of the Holkars. It is the ancestral palace of the rulers. Many royal receptions were held here and at one time it contained one of the best rose gardens of the country.

Rajwada: The Holkar Palace (Rajwada) is close to the Chhatris, in the main square. It is a seven-storied building (only facade remains) built over two centuries and is built in a mixture of Maratha, Mughal and French style.

Sukh Niwas: Sukh Niwas Palace is a historical building made by Holkar rulers with a mixture of Indian and Western styles in its architecture. It was converted into a Picnic Resort.