Indore is a city with a royal past and a dynamic present. Here, gastronomy, culture, and history all unite in the most delightful ways. Considered India’s cleanest city, Indore blends the heritage of the Holkar Dynasty with modern energy. Among its many attractions, the spectacular Krishnapura Chhatris and the vibrant Sarafa night market stand out for their unique charm. While one offers a feast for the taste buds, the latter tells the tales of Indore’s regal past. If you’re in the city, these are not just places to visit, but essential experiences that truly define the spirit of Indore.
Sarafa Night Market: A Street Food Paradise After Dark
By day, the Sarafa Bazaar is a jewellery market, but at night, it turns into a street food haven that draws foodies from all over the region. Located close to the historic Rajwada Palace in the centre of Indore, this busy market is where the city’s food scene comes to life after sunset. With its aroma of freshly fried treats and sweets, this market’s eclectic vibe is simply contagious—a feast for the senses and the soul.
Around 8 PM, when the jewellery market closes, street food vendors set up shop and transform the streets into the liveliest part of Indore’s nightlife. The narrow streets turn into a paradise for street food enthusiasts that is only accessible on foot. It guarantees a memorable experience where the foodies can hop from one stall to another, indulging in mouthwatering flavours.
Enjoying street food here is about more than just taste; it is also about experience. For instance, enjoying the dahiwada at Joshi Ji ka Dahiwada is like watching a performance! The vendor flips soft, tangy dahiwadas into the air and seasons them with a spice mix using just one finger. Other must-try dishes here include bhutte ka kees at Sawariya Stall, Indori khopra patties, and fried garadu, an Indore special yam-based dish available in winter.
The market also offers delicious and iconic sweets such as khopra pak and malpua. Additionally, the nagori shikanji is a must-try for anyone searching for something out of the ordinary. It is not your typical shikanji; instead, it is a sweet and spiced milkshake that is packed with dry fruits. Whether you are gorging on sabudana khichdi or savouring every bite of the popular poha-jalebi combo, Sarafa Bazaar offers you a memorable dose of local history and flavour at every turn.
Where: Yashoda Mata Mandir Rd, Bada Sarafa, Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holker Cloth Market, Indore
When: 9 pm – 2 am
Also Read: Rewa, A Must-Visit In Madhya Pradesh, Is Home To Bagheli Flavours And The Beauty Of Keoti Falls
Krishnapura Chhatris: Indore’s Royal Tribute To The Holkars
Beyond its cuisine, Indore is significant historically because of the magnificent Krishnapura Chhatris. It is a group of cenotaphs that serve as silent reminders of the Holkar Dynasty’s splendour. To honour three important members of the Holkar family, Shivaji Rao Holkar (d. 1906), Tukoji Rao II Holkar (d. 1886), and Krishnabai Holkar (d. 1849), these structures were constructed in the middle of the 19th century.
Also known as Holkar Chhatris, they are located near Rajwada, close to the Kahn River. These chhatris are constructed over the burial sites of the Holkar rulers and provide a serene escape into the city’s regal past. Adding to their opulence, the structures are decorated with elaborate carvings and life-size statues in the traditional Maratha architectural style.
These chhatris not only pay tribute to the rulers of the dynasty but also represent the spirit and resilience of the Marathi people who bravely fought the British and Mughal powers for independence. It is a must-see location in Indore, offering an opportunity to honour the bravery and commitment of the dynasty and its citizens.
Where: PV95+G66, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Rajwada, Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holker Cloth Market, Indore
When: 9 am – 5 pm
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The blend of modernity and tradition in Indore certainly makes it stand out. While embracing urban development, the city has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage. In addition to its rich history and mouthwatering cuisine, Indore is also known for its welcoming people. While you stroll through the calm Krishnapura Chhatris or explore the bustling Sarafa Bazaar, you can feel the warmth of Indore locals. The Lalbagh Palace, once the royal residence of the Holkars, and the historic Rajwada Palace, a symbol of Indore’s regal past, further add to the city’s architectural splendour. Whether you have a passion for history, food, or a combination of the two, Indore provides an experience that will never be forgotten.
So pack your bags and get ready for a journey to the heart of Madhya Pradesh; Indore awaits!
Cover Image Courtesy: Supplied and Wikimedia Commons
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