Temples in Indore
Indore's temples follow its history. Ahilyabai Holkar, the Holkar queen remembered for building and restoring temples across India, is credited with founding Khajrana Ganesh Temple, and Jain merchants such as Seth Hukumchand added the mirror-covered Kanch Mandir in the early 1900s.
The best-loved temple is Khajrana Ganesh, where the queues are longest on Wednesdays and Sundays. Temples are active places of worship, so dress modestly, remove your shoes and follow each temple's rules on photography.
Famous Temples in Indore
Khajrana Ganesh Temple is said to have been built in 1735 by Ahilyabai Holkar. Local tradition says the Ganesh idol had been hidden in a well during Aurangzeb's reign. The temple has grown from a small shrine into a large complex with silver on the gate and walls of the sanctum, and it is busiest on Wednesdays, Sundays and during Ganesh Chaturthi.
Kanch Mandir, the Glass Temple, is a Jain temple in Itwaria Bazaar, under a kilometre from Rajwada. Built by the merchant Seth Hukumchand from around 1903, it has its floor, pillars, walls and ceiling covered in glass, mirrors and mosaic. Photography is not allowed inside.
Bada Ganpati is known for its Ganesh idol, about 8 m tall and installed in 1875, one of the largest in India.
Annapurna Temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food, and also has shrines to Shiva, Hanuman and Kal Bhairav.
Pitreshwar Hanuman at Pitra Parvat, on Bijasan Road, has a 72-foot statue of Hanuman seated in meditation, cast in ashtadhatu, an alloy of eight metals. It can be seen from far across the city.
For a bigger pilgrimage, Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain, about 55 km away, and Omkareshwar, about 80 km away, are two of India's twelve jyotirlinga temples and easy day trips from Indore.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Indore
- Wear modest clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- Wear shoes that are easy to slip off, as you will remove them at every temple.
- Visit Khajrana Ganesh early on a weekday, and avoid Wednesdays and Sundays if you can.
- Do not take photos inside Kanch Mandir, and ask before taking photos inside other temples.
- Leave leather belts and bags behind for Jain temples, as many do not allow leather inside.
- Book the Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar in advance on the temple's official website.
- Keep your phone and wallet secure in temple queues.
Questions
Indore — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Indore?
The best-known temples in Indore are Khajrana Ganesh Temple, Kanch Mandir, Bada Ganpati, Annapurna Temple and the giant Hanuman statue at Pitra Parvat. Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain and Omkareshwar are popular day trips.
Can non-Jains visit Kanch Mandir?
Yes. Kanch Mandir welcomes visitors of all faiths. Dress modestly, remove your shoes, avoid carrying leather if you can and do not take photos inside.
Can I visit Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain from Indore?
Yes. Ujjain is about 55 km from Indore, usually 1–1.5 hours by road, so it is an easy day trip. If you want to attend the early-morning Bhasma Aarti, book it in advance on the temple's official website.
Which day is best to visit Khajrana Ganesh Temple?
Weekdays other than Wednesday are usually calmer, as Wednesdays and Sundays draw the biggest crowds. Go early in the morning, and expect very long queues during Ganesh Chaturthi in August or September.