Indore, a city in Madhya Pradesh, India, has been named the cleanest city in the country six times. It’s a big city covering an area of 3,898 square kilometers. Indore is famous for making beautiful cotton textiles and has stunning palaces and temples to visit. But what really makes it special is the amazing street food and fun night markets.
In 2023, Dr. Ilayaraja T is the person in charge, known as the Collector, making sure things run smoothly in the city. Indore has a lot to offer and is worth a visit.
In today post we will walk you on tour of Indore through our writings. Make sure you read the complete information till the very end to know the heritage of Indore, Famous places, foods, customs and more.
Overview Of Indore City
| State | Madhya Pradesh |
| District/Area | Indore |
| Area | 3,898 Sq. Km. |
| Total Population | 3,276,697 |
| Language | Hindi |
| Villages | 676 |
| Male Population | 1,699,627 |
| Female Population | 1,577,070 |
| Municipal Corporation | 1 |
| Nagar Parishad (Municipalities) | 8 |
| Tehsils | 10 |
| Blocks | 4 |
| Police Stations | 49 |
| Collector Name | Dr. Ilayaraja T (IAS) |
Indore City Map
Indore is located in western Madhya Pradesh, India, on the Malwa plateau, alongside the Saraswati and Khan rivers. It has a population of around 1,994,397 people and covers an area of 530 square kilometers. The city is situated at an elevation of 1,814 feet (553 meters) above sea level, making it the most densely populated major city in the region.
Indore was established by the Holkars of the Maratha Empire about two centuries ago. It’s recognized as India’s first “water surplus” city and is known for its effective garbage segregation in six categories.
The city is governed by the Indore Municipal Corporation and is striving to become a smart city by integrating digital technology, knowledge, and assets into its urban infrastructure.
Indore Demography: Area, Population and Literacy
The Indore demography data says that it has a 3,898 sq km area with a population of 3,276,697, with 2,427,709 in urban areas and 8,4898 in rural regions. It features 10 revenue subdivisions, 5 tehsils, and 312 gram panchayats, with 9 urban local bodies.
This dynamic city holds significant government and industrial land, along with extensive agricultural areas. The male-female ratio stands at 928, and the literacy rate is a strong 80.87%.
| Item | Description | Item | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Area | 3898 sq.Km | Total Population | 32,76,697 |
| Revenue Subdivisions | 10 | Urban Population | 24,27,709 |
| Revenue Tehsils | 5 | Rural Population | 84,8988 |
| Gram Panchayats | 312 | Male Female Ratio | 928 |
| No.Of ULB | 9 | Literacy Rate | 80.87% |
| No.Of Municipalities | 1 | ||
| Govt. Land | 92,960 Hect | No. Of Revenue Villages | 676 |
| Industries Land | 576.45 Hect | No. Of Development Villages | 621 |
| Agriculture land – | 290,138 Hect | No. Of House Hold |
Indore Famous For Place, Food, Culture, and Activities
Indore has a rich history as a trading hub and offers a blend of culture, architecture, and natural beauty. Here’s a concise guide to what makes Indore famous:
Famous Places in Indore:
- Rajwada Palace: Also known as Holkar Palace, this iconic seven-floor structure boasts Maratha, Mughal, and French architectural influences. Don’t miss the massive wooden entrance adorned with iron studs.
- Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary: Nature enthusiasts will love this sanctuary with a diverse range of flora and fauna, including blue bulls, leopards, and various bird species.
- Annapurna Temple: The Annapurna Temple, a spiritual gem, is famous for its stunning architecture and the shrines it houses, dedicated to various deities.
- Mayank Blue Waterpark: Beat the heat and enjoy thrilling water rides, a swimming pool, water slides, and more at this popular waterpark.
- Safari Adventure Park: Get your adrenaline pumping with low and high-rope activities, splash pools, and other adventure offerings in this exciting park.
- Shri Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga: Visit this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva on an island shaped like the Hindu symbol ‘Om’ and experience its spiritual ambiance.
- Indore Museum: Explore the city’s history at the Central Museum, showcasing artifacts from both modern and prehistoric eras.
- Kanch Mandir: Admire the beauty of this Jain temple made entirely of mirrors and glass, offering a visual treat.
- Janapav Temple: Hike to the second-highest viewpoint in the Malwa region, with stunning views, and explore the nearby Jamadagni Ashram.
- Pipliyapala Regional Park: Enjoy an artificial lake surrounded by lush landscapes, mist fountains, and various recreational activities, including boating.
- Lal Bagh Palace: Marvel at the grandeur of this 19th-century palace with European architectural influences and a rich historical collection.
Popular Things in Indore (Food, Culture, and Activities):
- Daal-Baati-Churma at Chokhi Dhani: Savor authentic Rajasthani cuisine and experience cultural activities at Chokhi Dhani.
- Rang Panchami: Join the colorful celebration of Rang Panchami, an extension of Holi, outside Rajwada.
- Kothari Market: Indulge in shopping at Kothari Market, offering a variety of items from electronics to clothing and more.
- Chappan Dukan: Discover street food delights at Chappan Dukan, a hub of delectable snacks and dishes, perfect for food enthusiasts.
All Awards Of Indore City Year Wise
| Award | Year | Recognition and Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Best Smart City | 2023 | Named the best smart city at the 2023 National Smart Cities Conclave. |
| National Smart City Award | 2022 | Won the 2022 National Smart City Award among 100 smart cities. |
| Best City | 2022 | Named the best city in the 2022 India Smart Cities Awards. |
| Cleanest City | 2022 | Ranked India’s cleanest city. |
| Cleanest City | 2021 | Ranked India’s cleanest city. |
| Water Plus City | 2021 | Declared India’s first “water plus” city. |
| Cleanest City | 2020 | Ranked India’s cleanest city. |
| Cleanest City | 2019 | Ranked India’s cleanest city. |
| the Cleanest City | 2018 | Ranked India’s cleanest city. |
| Cleanest City | 2017 | Ranked India’s cleanest city. |
History and Heritage Of Indore
Indore, initially known as Indreshwar, was named after the ancient Indreshwar Temple, the city’s oldest shrine, dedicated to King Indra III of the Rashtrakuta dynasty in the 10th century. In 1741, Subedar Malhar Rao oversaw the temple’s restoration during a period when Indore served as a trading post and guerrilla base.
His attempt to rename the city as Malharnagari was unsuccessful, and the original name ‘Indore’ prevailed, giving birth to ‘Juni Indur.’
In the late 15th century, Indore began as a humble riverside village on the Sarasvati River, now known as Juni Indore. It soon evolved into a crucial pilgrimage stop, connecting religious centers like Ujjain along the Holy River Kshipra and Omkerashwar along the Narmada River.
Indore also became a strategic base for Mughal and Maratha forces on expansion missions. The Zamindars of the nearby village Kampel, located about 10 km southeast, recognized the settlement’s potential for thriving trade.
They built a fortress to safeguard against foreign invasions, giving the village the appearance of a walled town. This, in turn, spurred trade and led to Indore’s growth as a prominent trade center.
Early Establishments (1720-1732)
- In 1720, the local pargana’s headquarters shifted from Kampel to Indore due to increased commercial activity.
- On May 18, 1724, the Nizam recognized the Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao I’s right to collect taxes from the area.
- Malhar Rao Holkar was appointed the Subhedar of the province by the Peshwa in 1733.
- In 1732, Bajirao Peshwa-I merged 28 and a half parganas to grant Holkar State to Malhar Rao Holkar.
Expansion and Independence (1734-1811)
- Malhar Rao established Malharganj in 1734 and began building the Rajwada in 1747.
- Ahilyabai Holkar succeeded Malhar Rao (r. 1767-1795) and shifted the capital to Maheshwar.
- Yashwantrao Holkar (r. 1797–1811) signed the Treaty of Rajghat in 1805 with the British.
- In 1811, Maharaja Malharrao Holkar II took the throne.
Conflict and Treaty (1811-1818)
- In 1815, Tulsabai Holkar beheaded Dharama Kunwar and Balaram Seth, appointing Tantia Jog as Dewan.
- Malharrao Holkar III entered Indore in 1818, with the capital moving to Indore in November 1818.
- The Treaty of Mandsaur was signed on January 6, 1818, but Bhimabai Holkar did not accept it, leading to continued hostilities.
British Annexation (1818-1857)
- After the Third Anglo-Maratha War, the Holkars lost much of their territory to the British.
- Malharrao III was succeeded by Martandrao Holkar, but Harirao Holkar, nephew of Yashwantrao, ascended to the throne in 1834.
- The period of Maharaja Tukoji Rao Holkar II (1852–86) saw efforts for planned development and industrialization in Indore.
Modernization and Independence (1857-1950)
- During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the Holkars remained loyal to the British East India Company.
- In 1956, Indore became part of Madhya Pradesh state.
Post-Independence (1947-1950)
- Yashwantrao Holkar II ruled until India’s independence in 1947 when he acceded to the Indian Government.
- On January 1, 1950, the territories of Indore State became part of the new Indian state of Madhya Bharat.
Colonial Developments (1906-1918)
- Electric supply was introduced in Indore in 1906.
- The city established a fire brigade in 1909.
- Architect Patrick Geddes drew the first master-plan for the city in 1918.
Establishment of Today Indore
- The establishment of the Indore Residency, with a British resident, transformed the city into the headquarters of the British Central India Agency.
