Exploring Ujjain, Indore, and Omkareshwar: A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary
Monday, October 16: Ujjain
Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual aura of Ujjain, a city known for its ancient temples. In the morning, visit the Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the mesmerizing Bhasma Aarti, where the deity is adorned with sacred ash. Afternoon can be spent exploring the serene and picturesque Ram Ghat on the banks of the Shipra River. Enjoy a boat ride and witness the evening Aarti ceremony. Wrap up the day by visiting the Kal Bhairav Temple and experiencing the vibrant street markets of Ujjain.
Mahakaleshwar Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Ram Ghat: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Kal Bhairav Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Ujjain is Pandit Sneh Bhojanalaya, known for its delicious homemade Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
For lunch, head to Sheel Bhojnalaya, a local favorite that serves traditional Rajasthani and Gujarati thalis. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
In the evening, dine at Shivam Restaurant, known for its wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Indore
Head to the bustling city of Indore, known for its rich history and culinary delights. Start your morning by visiting the majestic Rajwada Palace, a splendid blend of Mughal and Maratha architecture. Explore the nearby Chhatri Bagh, a royal cremation ground with beautiful cenotaphs. For the afternoon, dive into the vibrant culture at Sarafa Bazaar, Indore's famous street food market. Sample delicious local snacks and sweets. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll in Lal Bagh Palace, a stunning architectural marvel with lush gardens.
Rajwada Palace: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Chhatri Bagh: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sarafa Bazaar: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Bapu Ki Kutia. This cozy restaurant offers a range of traditional Indori breakfast items like poha and jalebi. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch option, head to Bafna Bakers & Restaurant. Known for its delectable Gujarati thalis, this restaurant also serves a variety of vegetarian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Nafees Restaurant. Famous for its Mughlai cuisine, this restaurant offers a wide range of kebabs and biryanis. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Omkareshwar
Embark on a spiritual journey to Omkareshwar, located on an island in the Narmada River. Begin your day by visiting the Omkareshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the unique architecture and serene atmosphere. Enjoy a boat ride on the Narmada River to explore the island's beauty. In the afternoon, visit the Siddhanath Temple and seek the blessings of Lord Siddhanath. End the day by exploring the local markets and savoring delicious street food.
Omkareshwar Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Siddhanath Temple: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Shri Omkareshwar Misal House, known for its authentic Maharashtrian misal. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Rajhans Restaurant located near the Narmada Ghat. They serve a variety of North Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Govind Hotel and Restaurant, known for its delicious vegetarian thali. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Ujjain, make sure to visit the serene Harsiddhi Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance. In Indore, don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the architectural marvel that is the Krishnapura Chhatris, a group of cenotaphs dedicated to the Holkar rulers. These off-the-beaten-path attractions will offer a unique insight into the local culture and history, while still being family-friendly.