Indore

The capital city of Madhya Pradesh, Indore is fondly called ‘mini Mumbai’ by its residents. Located in the Narmada river valley, local landlords established Indore as a trading center in around the year 1715. The city was planned and mapped out by Rani Ahilyabai, the Holkar queen. Her home the Rajwada or the Old Palace is now a popular tourist attraction in the city. If you’re one for architecture make sure you don’t miss the Kanch Mandir or the temple of mirrors. Having a plain exterior, the Jain temple has got intricate mirror work on the inside.

Omeshwar, the Island that is known for its Shiva temple is located at the union of the Narmada and Kaveri rivers. It is located approximately 3 kilometers away from the city and is accessible from the mainland by a foot bridge. If you’re visiting Indore during the festival of Navratri (September-October) make sure you visit Bijasen Tekri, near the airport. It is the guesthouse of the Holkar royal family and every year during Navratri a fair is held on the premises.