Boasting rich history and rapid industrialization, Indore is famously known for its cotton handloom industry, magnificent palaces and temples, street food, night markets, and more. No wonder the city is slowly becoming a preferred destination for travelers from across the county. With a plethora of places to visit and things to do in Indore, planning an itinerary may look like a tiresome task.
Worry not! In this blog, we have compiled a list of things you can do in the city alone or with your friends and family. So, book your rooms at one of the best hotels in Indore and get ready for a memorable experience. Here you go.
Things to Do in Indore:
1. Visit Rajwada Palace
#1 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
A historical edifice that once belonged to the Holkars of the Maratha Empire, Rajwada Palace is one of the oldest structures in Indore. This seven-storey palace, built over two centuries ago, displays a splendid amalgamation of the Mughal, Maratha, and French styles of architecture. Make sure that you visit the place during the evening hours so that you can attend the light and sound show held here. And guess what? The show is voiced by none other than Amitabh Bachchan!
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day
- Entry fee: ₹ 10
- Light and sound show timings: 06:30 pm (Hindi) and 7:45 pm (English)
- Light and sound show charges: ₹ 200
2. Enjoy the Architectural Grandeur of Lal Bagh Palace
#2 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Counted among the top 10 places to visit in Indore, Lal Bagh Palace is an everlasting testimony to the lifestyle, art, and architecture of the Maratha rulers. This three-storey building that once served as the abode of the Holkars is now a museum. It features stunningly designed interiors complete with Indian and Italian paintings, grand chandeliers, furniture that belong to late Regency and early Georgian styles, Persian carpets, and an exquisite ballroom.
- Location: Indira Nagar
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry fee: ₹ 10
3. Walk Down the Lanes of History at Central Museum
#3 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Situated in the heart of the city, Central Museum (also known as the Indore Museum) is a paradise for history buffs. Established in 1929, the museum displays artifacts and relics from both the prehistoric era and modern times. The major exhibits here include sculptures, coins, stone sculptures, cannons used by Babur, Jehangir and Humayun, and armors used in wars. If you want to get a glimpse into the rich regional history, this is one of the must-visit museums in Indore.
- Location: Navlakha
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry fee: ₹ 10
4. Get Your Share of Fun at Amusement and Water Parks
#4 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Looking for some fun things to do in Indore? Head off to the amusement and water parks in the city where you can feel the flow of adrenaline as you go splashing, rafting, and falling through amazing rides and slides. If you are not a thrill seeker, you can simply relax and chill out at the wave pools. Here are our suggestions:
Mayank Blue Water Park
- Location: Indore Bypass Road
- Timings: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day
- Tickets: ₹ 250 (adults); ₹ 150 (children)
Shell City Water Park
- Location: Khandwa Road
- Timings: 10:00 am to 8:30 pm; every day
- Tickets: Starting from ₹ 250 per person
Crescent Water and Amusement Park
- Location: Gram Jamniya, Khurd Kapmle Road
- Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
- Tickets (water park + amusement park): ₹ 350 per person
5. Explore Patalpani Waterfalls
#5 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
This magnificent cascading marvel surrounded by dense forests is among the must-visit places on a trip to Indore. During monsoons, it flows down in its full glory, leaving tourists mesmerized. Descending from a height of 300 feet, this roaring, gurgling, and foamy waterfall creates a spectacular sight, to say the least. Entering or bathing in the fall is strictly prohibited due to the sudden flash floods. If you are looking for a one-day picnic spot near Indore, Patalpani Waterfalls is your best bet.
- Location: Mhow Tehsil
- Distance from Indore: 35 km (approx.)
- Best time to visit: July to October
6. Take a Tour Through Chappan Dukaan
#6 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Explore the flavors of Indore and be prepared to delight your taste buds at Chappan Dukaan, one of the most iconic food streets in the city. Chappan in Hindi means “56,” and as the name goes, the street once had 56 shops. Today, however, there are several shops in the street selling a wide range of delicious grubs. Evening and nights are the busiest and most happening times of the day here, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Timings: 08:00 am to 11:00 pm; every day
- Must-try Items: Paani Puri, Egg Rolls, Momos, Khopra Patties, Dahi Puri, Mutton Burgers, Gond Ke Laddu, Kachori, Paan
7. Stimulate Your Taste Buds at Sarafa Bazaar
#7 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Want to experience more of Indore’s authentic flavors? Make your way to Sarafa Bazar, another popular street food market in the city that sells the best of local culinary delights. A jewelry market by day and foodie’s haven by night, this food street is where you can eat, eat, and repeat all day, without burning a hole in your pocket.
- Timings: 09:00 pm to 01:00 am; every day
- Must-try Items: Rabri, Khopra Patties, Kulfi, Ratalu, Jalebi, Garadu, Poha-Jalebi, Bhutte Ka Kees
8. Experience Amazing Wildlife at Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
#8 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
How about spending a day with your friends or family, engaging in wildlife spotting? Pack your bags and head off straight to Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, a green lung in Indore that offers you a respite from your busy schedule. Home to many wild animals like leopards, blue bulls, barking deer, and sambars, it is one of the favorite places for nature lovers and photo fanatics. The place also has trekking trails, making it popular among trekkers and adventure enthusiasts as well.
- Location: Mirjapur
- Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
- Entry fee: ₹ 60
9. Enjoy a Relaxing Evening at Pipliyapala Regional Park
#9 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Also known as Atal Bihari Vajpayee Regional Park, this man-made marvel is located on the shores of Pipliyapala Lake. Boating, musical fountains, jumping jet fountains, artists’ Village, gardens, mist fountains, fast food zones, lake-view point, and an amphitheater are some of its major crowd-pullers. Another key attraction here is the mini-cruiser, named Malwa Queen, which has a restaurant and private party rooms. You can spend an evening at the park, walking through the gardens, enjoying the fountains, drifting through the waters, and munching on some delicious snacks. Sounds cool?
- Location: Near Choithram Square
- Timings: 11:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day
- Entry fee: ₹ 25 (adults); ₹ 10 (children)
10. Explore Your Adventurous Side at Safari Activity Park
#10 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Transform your boring weekends into an adventurous one at this creatively designed activity park. With an exciting range of high and low rope activities, Safari Adventure Park is where you can plan a day out with your family. You can have fun at the splash pool, compete with your fellas at the Mud Run, find your balance at the artificial wall climbing or try your hand at tug of war. If you are not an adventure junkie, unwind in the serene environment with a variety of flowering plants, shrubs, and trees.
- Location: Dakachya
- Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
- Entry fee: ₹ 325 per person
11. Take a Spiritual Trip to Ujjain
#11 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Want to take a one-day trip to connect with your spiritual side? Then Ujjain is your best bet while you are in Indore. Situated on the banks of the Kshipra River, this ancient city is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage center, thronged by worshipers from all over the world. You can seek the blessings of Lord Shiva at the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple, take a dip at Ram Ghat, enjoy a refreshing boat ride on the river, take a stroll around Sinhasan Battisi and Vikramaditya Temple or pay a visit to the Vedh Shala Observatory (Jantar Mantar).
- Distance from Indore: 55 km (approx.)
12. Watch the Sunset at Gomatgiri
#12 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
With 24 marble temples dedicated to the 24 Thirthankars, Gomatgiri is a sacred place for the Jain community. This small hilltop also has two other attractions – a huge 21-feet statue of Gomateshwar and the famous daal-baati served on Sundays inside the temple. Make sure that you visit the place during the evening hours to witness the surreal beauty of the setting sun while you unwind.
- Distance from Indore: 11 km (approx.)
13. Plan a Picnic to Choral Dam
#13 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Constructed on the backwaters of a seasonal river, Choral Dam deserves a place in your list of must-visit places in Indore and for all the right reasons. The panoramic view of the crystal clear-waters and the lush green surroundings will help you relax. Plan a picnic with your near and dear ones and go for a boat ride for the best experience. Apart from this, there are various water sports activities here for your merriment.
- Distance from Indore: 45 km (approx.)
14. Trek to Janapav Hill
#14 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Located on Mumbai-Indore Highway, Janapav Hill is one of the favorite getaways of travelers in the Malwa forest region. You can either opt for a drive or trek your way to the top. Though it may be a tiresome task, the mesmerizing views from the hill make it all worthy. While you are here, unleash the nature enthusiast in you by going for forest exploration. You may be lucky to see a black buck or a brown fish owl. You can also visit Jamadagni Ashram dedicated to the Hindu sage Parashuram, who is believed to be born in these hill ranges.
- Distance from Indore: 45 km (approx.)
15. Spend a Day at Kamla Nehru Prani Sangrahalay
#15 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Kamla Nehru Prani Sangrahalay, also known as Nehru Park, Indore Zoo, and Chidiya Ghar, is one of the oldest such places in Madhya Pradesh. Established in 1974, the park has a wide range of animals, including white tigers, Asian elephants, peacocks, and bears. The pony and camel rides at the park make it an ideal spot to spend some time with your kids.
- Location: Navlakha
- Timings:
- March to June – 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
- July to February – 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee: ₹ 10
16. Soak in the Beauty of Kanch Mandir
#16 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
A Jain temple built in 1903 by Seth Hukam Chand, one of the well-known leaders of the Jain community, Kanch Mandir is another must-visit attraction in Indore. Just as the name suggests, the temple is made out of glass and mirrors. The Chinese glass lamps used for decorating the interiors enhance its visual appeal, making it a preferred destination for devotees as well as art connoisseurs.
- Location: Itwaria Bazaar
- Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm; every day
17. Get a Glimpse of Bada Ganpati
#17 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
A famous temple, Bada Ganapati was built more than a century ago by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. One of the key attractions of the temple is its 25-feet high idol of Lord Ganesha, which apparently is the largest in the world. Wait, there’s more! The idol is made using an interesting mix of materials, including bricks, limestone, jaggery, and soil from various sacred places in the country.
- Location: Malhar Gunj
- Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm every day
18. Have Fun at Gaming Zones
#18 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Indore is not just about temples, historical edifices, gardens, parks, and sacred places. The city promises a great time to fun seekers and gaming enthusiasts as well. Whether you are looking for escape games, arcade games or VR games, the gaming zones in the city have it all. Our top suggestions include:
The Mystery Rooms
- Location: Satya Sai Square, Vijay Nagar
- Timings: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm; every day
- Highlights: Escape games
Funplex Game Zone
- Location: Treasure Island Mall, MG Road
- Timings: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm; every day
- Highlights: Bowling, laser tag, VR games, arcade games
19. Enjoy a Sumptuous Dinner at Chokhi Dhani
#19 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Chokhi Dhani is where you get to experience Rajasthan and its culture in the most authentic way. This village-themed resort serves the best of Rajasthani dishes, including the iconic Dal-Baati-Churma. That’s not all! You can also go for camel rides, attend folk art performances, and watch magic shows. Sounds like a perfect plan for a great evening, doesn’t it?
- Location: Khandwa Road
- Timings: 11:00 am to 11:00 pm; every day
20. Witness the Beauty of Annapurna Temple
#20 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
A favorite for devotees and tourists alike, Annapurna Temple deserves a place in your itinerary for its architectural splendor. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to the deity of food, Goddess Annapurna. You can also find shrines dedicated to other deities, such as Shiva and Hanuman here.
- Location: Kranti Kriplani Nagar
- Timings: 5:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm; every day
21. Eat and Drink at the Best Pubs and Restaurants in Indore
#21 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
One of the best ways to experience a city is by treating yourself to some flavorsome food and finely mixed drinks at local restaurants and pubs, respectively. Indore is known for a fabulous range of local delicacies that will tantalize your taste buds. Make the most of your Indore trip by visiting the restaurants and pubs given below.
- Vrindavan (Vijay Nagar and New Palasia)
- Shri Gurukripa (Sarwate Bus Stand and Vijay Nagar)
- Nafees (Old Palasia)
- Indore Kitchen (Indore Marriott Hotel, Meghdoot Garden)
- The Monroe (New Palasia)
- Trance the Pub (Vijay Nagar)
- Ethyl Bar (Vijay Nagar)
- Sky Blue Sports Bar (Vijay Nagar)
- Quorum (Vijay Nagar)
- Bollywood Theka (Vijay Nagar)
22. Shop at the Best Markets and Malls in Indore
#22 of 22 Best Things to Do in Indore
Your trip to Indore cannot be called complete if you haven’t shopped at the city’s best bazars. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, handicrafts, branded items, jewelry or others, the malls and markets in Indore will give you a truly satisfying shopping experience. Here are a few places where you can shop till you drop:
- Kothari Market (clothes and shoes)
- Sarafa Market (jewelry and knick-knacks)
- MT Cloth Market (Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees)
- Pakiza (clothes and jewelry)
- Khajuri Bazar (books)
- Treasure Island Mall (branded items)
- Moolchand Market (readymade garments)
- Topkhana Market (handicrafts)
- C21 Mall (branded items)
With all these places to visit and things to do in Indore, you won’t have any boring moments during your trip. Have a great time exploring the city, and let us know of your experience in the comments box below.
My friends from Indore always mentioned that Indore is known as food capital of India and I was always curious that what is so special about this Indori food so I visited Indore few days back and visited the famous 56 dukan and sarafa street. Being a chocolate lover, my friend insisted me to go to this café in Vijay Nagar named as The Chocolate Room though I am not crazy lover of chocolate but I just tried the Chocolate Avalanche from there menu and oh my god!! the taste was amazing, I haven’t tried such delicious chocolate flavoured dish ever. No wonder why they blabber a lot about indori food.