In the morning, visit the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, and take part in the daily Bhasma Aarti, a sacred ritual of offering ash to Lord Shiva. For lunch, try some local street food at the nearby Chhatri Chowk. In the afternoon, visit Siddhavat, a sacred tree that is believed to fulfill wishes, and Harsiddhi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Annapurna. In the evening, visit Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and Kal Bhairav Temple, dedicated to the fierce form of Lord Shiva.
Start the day off at the Rajwada Palace, a historical palace that showcases a mix of Maratha, Mughal, and French architectural styles. For lunch, visit the famous Sarafa Bazaar, known for its delicious street food and jewelry shops. In the afternoon, visit Kanch Mandir, a Jain temple made entirely of glass, and the Central Museum Indore, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits on the history and culture of Madhya Pradesh.
If you have more time, consider taking a side trip to Mandu, a ruined city with impressive forts and palaces. For more family-friendly activities, visit the Kamla Nehru Prani Sanghralaya, a zoo and botanical garden in Indore, or the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of species including leopards and hyenas.
To maximize your fun, try to visit during a festival such as the Mahashivratri festival in Ujjain or the Ahilya Utsav in Indore. Make sure to try the local delicacies such as poha, jalebi, and malpua, and shop for handicrafts and textiles at the local markets.
Other suggestions include hiring a guide to learn more about the history and culture of the region, and staying at a heritage hotel such as the Ahilya Fort Hotel in Maheshwar or the Narmada Jacksons Hotel in Jabalpur.