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Best Places to Visit near Indore

Experience the serene beauty of nature by visiting Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary when you are in Indore. The place offers some interesting glimpses of rare flora and fauna and serves as a refreshing retreat.

One of the best activities to do here is to hire a bike or book a camel safari to enjoy the beauty of nature with birds and animals. Another attraction that you should not miss while visiting Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is the ancient palace built by the Holkars located here.

Famous for: Wildlife, Nature, Bird watching, etc.

Timings: 9:00 am to 6:30 pm

Entry Fee: INR 60

Distance from Indore: 15 Km

Location: Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, Mirjapur, Madhya Pradesh

Witness the spectacular plummeting waters from a height of 300 feet at Tincha Falls to take home a wonderful experience. Appearing like a stream of milk, Tincha Falls is a magnificent sight to behold and capture in your camera.

The mesmerizing beauty of Tincha Falls is best seen during the rainy season and serves as a great hangout place for a picnic with family and friends near Indore. It is also an exciting spot to enjoy some adventure activities in Indore like trekking with your friends.

Famous for: Nature, Photography, Adventure, Trekking, etc.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Distance from Indore: 20 Km

Location: Berchha, Madhya Pradesh 

One of the most spectacular places to visit near Indore, Patalpani Falls is a wonderful waterfall that should be seen during the monsoon season. It offers a great spot for those who are fond of trekking or looking to have a fun picnic with friends and family. The picturesque surroundings of this waterfall are great for enjoying a day in peace with a dose of adventure.

There is a popular belief that there is a deep gorge that reaches Patal (netherworld) into which the waterfalls and hence, the falls is named Patalpani.

Famous for: Nature, Environment, Trekking, Picnic, Adventure, etc.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Distance from Indore: 40 Km

Location: Patalpani Falls, Mhow Tehsil, Indore, Madhya Pradesh

Some of the best waterfalls in Madhya Pradesh: Dhuandhar Falls, Raneh Falls, Bee Falls and many more.

Generally known as Gulawat Talab, this is another hidden gem near Indore, and is an ideal place for photographers in Indore. It is essentially a lake in the valley of Gulawat that also happens to be the home to in numerous lotuses.

The scenic beauty of this place makes the experience of boating in the calm waters of this lake, teeming with lotus, truly unforgettable. Most importantly, since this is one of the offbeat places, you will not find herds of tourists altering your fun and spoiling the serenity for you. The presence of dense bamboo plantation and exotic birds it attracts makes the place all the more enticing.

Famous for: Views, boating, photography, etc.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Distance from Indore: 17 Km

Satisfy your scientific curiosity by visiting the Ved Shala in Ujjain. The splendid observatory was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II and believed to be India’s first astronomical observatory. One can expect to see a number of instruments used to conduct research here.

The place also has a small planetarium and telescope which will let you gaze at the beauty of the moon and stars when you are here. The most striking feature of Ved Shala is the structure of the monument that shows great craftsmanship and hard work.

Famous for: Scientific Observatory, Astronomy, etc.

Timings: 10 am to 5:30 pm

Entry Fee: INR 40

Distance from Indore: 55 Km

Location: Ved Shala, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

Where to Stay: Best resorts and places to stay in Ujjain.

Things to Do in Ujjain: Shipra aarti at Ram Ghat, attend Kumbh Mela, a tour of various temples of Ujjain and many more.

Famous for Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, this temple is one of the most sought-after religious places to visit near Indore. Constructed in the Bhumija style of architecture, Mahakaleshwar Temple offers a surreal ambiance for all the devotees who come here to pay their respect to Lord Shiva. With the chants of Om Namah Shivay, Mahakaleshwar Temple is a beautiful temple to enjoy a spiritual experience in Indore.

One of the most spectacular things about visiting Mahakaleshwar Temple is attending Bhasma-aarti which is the most famous ritual ceremony of the temple. The temple is spread over five levels and stands magnificently near the serene Rudra Sagar Lake. The calm and peaceful atmosphere of this temple is something that you should not miss when you are in Indore.

Famous for: Hindu Temple, Place of worship, Sights & Landmarks, Sacred & Religious Sites.

Timings: 4 am to 11:00 pm

Distance from Indore: 56 Km

Location: Jaisinghpura, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

Always dressed in spirituality, places to visit in Ujjain are no less than heaven.

Presenting a mind-blowing blend of Muslim and Hindu style of architecture, Dilawar Khan’s Mosque is one of the must-visit tourist places in Mandu. It is known as one of the oldest mosques built here in the year 1405. The mosque was built mainly by the desecrated material of earlier Hindu temples and one can see those pieces in the pillars and ceilings.

Famous for: Sights & Landmarks, Architectural Buildings

Timings: 6:00 am t0 7:00 pm

Entry Fee: INR 5  

Distance from Indore: 65 Km

Location: Jahaz Mahal internal Rd, Mandav, Madhya Pradesh

One of the popular weekend getaways from Indore, Janapav Kuti is the second highest point of Malwa region. Famed for its picturesque landscape and adventure activities, Janapav Kuti attracts a lot of tourists.

The place also holds religious importance as according to a legend, it is the birthplace of Lord Parshuram who was the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu. Janapav Kuti also draws in a number of Ayurvedic doctors who come here in search of Ayurvedic secret herbs as mentioned in different historical legends about this place.

Famous for: Nature, Adventure, Trekking

Timings: Sunrise to Sunset

Distance from Indore: 45 Km

Location: Janapav Kuti, Madhya Pradesh

Figuratively speaking, this is an ancient gate that serves as a gateway to the bygone era. Since the gate is located on a hilltop, the views that you can witness here are picturesque. When it comes to Jam Darwaza, the journey is more beautiful than the destination itself. 

The route that leads to this spot from Indore is quite scenic with lush greenery, curvy roads, and waterfalls, which makes Jam Darwaza a perfect spot to reach after a long drive. You can also find some religious places on the way.

Famous for: Historic gate, long drive, views, and photography.

Timings: Open 24 hours.

Distance from Indore: 25 Km

One of the most popular pilgrimage places near Indore, Omkareshwar is a sacred island shaped in the form of the Hindu symbol 'Om’. Associated with many legends, Omkareshwar is visited for the famous Jyotirlinga in Mamleshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

The place is a must visit if you want to witness the riot of culture and heritage defining Hinduism in India. There are many ancient temples where one can witness some splendid celebrations of festivals like Mahashivratri, Diwali, Navratri, etc.

Omkareshwar is also famous for being on the banks of Narmada River where people can enjoy boating and enthrall themselves with a splendid view of the city. If you are in Omkareshwar do check the list of places to visit in omkareshwar.

Famous for: Religious place, Historical place, Nature etc.

Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm

Distance from Indore: 73 Km

Location: Omkareshwar, Khandwa District, Madhya Pradesh

One of the best places to visit near Indore to appreciate the medieval architecture in Indore, Jahaz Mahal is located in Mandu region of Madhya Pradesh. Constructed in the second half of 15th century, Jahaz Mahal was built to accommodate the 15000 consorts of the Mandu’s ruler Ghiyas-ud-din Khilji.

Jahaz Mahal is a magnificent sight as it is surrounded by pool water and gives the appearance of a floating structure in the water. With a spectacular design and creative patterns of the floor and walls, Jahaz Mahal is a wonderful place for sightseeing near Indore.

There are also artistically designed water channels which one can explore to catch a sight of brilliant medieval architecture. You can go on a road trip from Indore to Mandu as the road is very scenic.

Famous for: History, Architecture, etc.

Timings: 6 am to 6 pm

Entry Fee: INR 5

Distance from Indore: 95 Km

Location: Jahaz Mahal Internal Rd, Sulibardi, Madhya Pradesh

Reputed as India’s first marble tomb, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb offers a great visit for history lovers among weekend getaways from Indore. Built in the 15th century, Hoshang Shah’s Tomb is a splendid example of Afghan art and architecture.

The imposing Hoshang Shah’s Tomb has an important place in India’s history and it is also recorded that Shah Jahan was so impressed by its beauty that he sent the architects here who eventually constructed the Taj Mahal.

The most striking features of Hoshang Shah’s Tomb in Mandu is the magnificently proportioned dome, marble latticework, and porticoed courts and towers.

Famous for: Historical place, architecture, Sights, and Landmarks etc.

Timings: 8 am to 5:30 pm

Distance from Indore: 96 Km

Location: Jahaj Mahal internal road, Mandu, Mandav, Dhar, Madhya Pradesh

Tucked beautifully amidst scenic surroundings, Baz Bahadur Mahal is one of the popular tourist places near Indore. Named after the notable ruler of Mandu Baz Bahadur, this place is famed for its fine amalgamation of Rajput and Mughal architecture.

One of the most awe-inspiring features of Baz Bahadur Mahal is the sprawling courtyards and the octagonal porches that make for a beautiful sight for the tourists. With its arches and porches, Baz Bahadur Mahal in Mandu is a great attraction to not miss out if you are fond of culture and architecture.

Famous for: Sights & Landmarks, Architectural Buildings.

Distance from Indore: 95 Km

Location: Baz Bahadur Mahal, Mandu, Madhya Pradesh

With its vintage grandeur and splendid courtyards, Ahilya Fort is one of the magnificent sights to behold when you are on a vacation in Indore. Over 250 years old, Ahilya Fort is now famed as a heritage hotel where you can bask in luxury and enjoy the royal treatment.

Overlooking the River Narmada, Ahilya Fort is one of the best places to visit near Indore, offering a regal getaway where you can enjoy the cultural extravaganza with a leisurely treatment.

Famous for: Heritage Hotel, Historical landmarks, etc

Timings: 7 am to 7 pm

Distance from Indore: 96 Km

Location: Ahilya Wada, Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh

One of the top places to visit near Indore, Bhopal is the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. It is home to many architectural landmarks like Gohar Mahal, Taj-ul-Masjid, The Great Stupa, etc. It also offers a scenic retreat with a number of natural attractions where one can enjoy serenity at its best.

People can escape the pollution of concrete jungles by escaping to places like Van Vihar National Park and Badi Jheel Lake. For history aficionados, Bhopal has a number of mindblowing places like Golghar Museum, Birla Museum, Bhimbetka Caves, Udayagiri Caves, etc.

Famous for: History, Archaeology, Art, Sights and Landmarks, Religious Places, etc.

Distance from Indore: 190 Km

Location: Bhopal City, Madhya Pradesh

The lake city always filled with tourists has various beautiful places to visit in Bhopal that are no less than heaven.

Where to stay: Best resorts and places to stay in Bhopal.

A must-visit for history lovers in the bucket list of places to visit near Indore, Burhanpur is most famous as the death place of Mumtaz Mahal in whose memory Shah Jahan built the famous Taj Mahal in Agra. Located on the banks of Tapti River, Burhanpur is a historical wonder where people can explore a lot about Mughal history.

Some of the places which you should not miss when you are visiting Burhanpur are Jama Masjid, Asirgarh Fort, Shahi Qila, Dargah-e-Hakimi, etc. With a lot of interesting monuments, Burhanpur is a mind-blowing place to dive into the lanes of Mughal history in Madhya Pradesh.

Famous for: History, Sights, and Landmarks etc.

Distance from Indore: 180 Km

Location: Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh

One of the most beautiful tribal locales of Madhya Pradesh, Jhabua is an interesting tourist destination if you want to get away from the chaos of cities. Some of the famous tourist places in Jhabua are Deojhiri Lord Shiva Temple, Rampanchayat Mandir, Jain Mandir at Rangapura, Gopeshwer Mahadev Mandir, Shri Satya Narayan Mandir, Gayatri Mata Mandir, Shri Gopal Mandir, Devjhiri Shiv Temple, etc.

Famous for: Religious places, nature, etc.

Distance from Indore: 152 Km

Location: NH 59, Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh

With many old forts and splendid waterfalls, Ratlam is a wonderful getaway from Indore for all kinds of tourists. The city is replete with natural marvels and various temples that will help you experience a fun-filled holiday.

A few of the prominent tourist places in Ratlam include Kedareshwar Mandir, Kalika Mata Mandir, Mahalakshmi Temple, Kharmour Wildlife Sanctuary, Dholawad Dam, Hussain Tekri Sharif Dargah, etc. Ratlam is also a wonderful place for shopping lovers who can explore famous markets for gold and silver ornaments here.

Famous for: Nature, Wildlife, Temples, Historical landmarks, etc.

Distance from Indore: 140 Km

Location: Ratlam, Ujjain Division, Madhya Pradesh

Boasting of many ancient places and religious attractions, Khandwa is a famous tourist place near Indore.  The ancient city impresses a lot of people who come here to see the beautiful Jain and Hindu temples.

Some of the most interesting places in Khandwa are the four historic kunds in its four directions namely Suraj Kunda, Padma Kunda, Bhima Kunda and Rameshwar Kunda. Other famous tourist attractions of Khandwa are Bhavani Mata Temple, Nav Chandi Devi Dham, Asirgarh Fort, Gauri Kunj, etc.

Famous for: Ancient Sites, Historical Landmarks, Sightseeing, etc.

Distance from Indore: 130 Km

Location: Khandwa, Nimar region, Madhya Pradesh

Discover some of the earliest evidence of human life on earth when you visit the rock shelters in Bhimbetka. The world heritage site is home to a number of old paintings that are considered to be more than 30,000 years old.

The place is a good vacation spot for tourists of all age groups and interests and features many historic sites for exploration. Surrounded by rocky forests, Bhimbetka is a great place to cherish an archaeological treasure of India located in the state of Madhya Pradesh.

Famous for: Archaeological history, Nature etc.

Timings: 7 am to 6 pm

Distance from Indore: 235 Km 

Location: Bhojpur Raisen, Madhya Pradesh

Known for its ancient Buddhist monuments, Sanchi is a UNESCO world heritage site near Indore. Offering a serene ambiance with an opportunity to explore Buddhist history, Sanchi attracts pilgrims from all over the world.

Sanchi is extremely famous for its beautiful stupas and monasteries where one can witness many relics of the Buddhist religion. Sanchi is a wonderful place to know more about the history of the Mauryan empire and appreciate the magnificent architecture of the ancient monuments.

Famous for: History, Pilgrimage, Archaeology, etc.

Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm

Entry Fee: INR 30

Distance from Indore: 240 Km

Location: Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh

Lying along the serene banks of the river Narmada, Hoshangabad is a famous city near Indore. It is known for its scenic landscape and historical attractions that make it an ideal destination for all kinds of tourists.

Hoshangabad is also known to be a wonderful attraction for shoppers who can find different items like handicraft, silk, leather, and pulses here. Hoshangabad has a number of places to visit that include Pachmarhi, Sethani Ghat, Bandarban, Salkanpur, Hushang Shah Fort, Satpura Tiger Reserve and Adamgarh Hills.

Famous for: History, Nature, Shopping etc.

Distance from Indore: 223 Km

Location: Hoshangabad District, Madhya Pradesh

Boasting of immense historical significance, Vidisha is a must visit a city near Indore. Vidisha is a storehouse for many ancient monuments, inscriptions and sculpture that will directly transport you to the time of Gupta Empire in India. A few of the notable temples in Vidisha are Girdhari Temple, Udayeshwara Temple, Dashavtar Temple, Maladevi Temple, Bajramath Temple, Gadarmal Temple and Sola-Kambi Temple.

Some of the most popular historical remains which you see in Vidisha are Udayagiri caves in Besnagar and the Indo-Greek structure, also known as ‘Heliodorus Pillar’. Vidisha is a treat for history lovers where one can find various ancient monuments in one city.

Famous for: Heritage, Pilgrimage, Historical monuments etc.

Distance from Indore: 248 Km

Location: Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh

Often cited as the Queen of Satpura range, Pachmarhi is a beautiful hill station in Madhya Pradesh. Famed for its salubrious climate, natural beauty, and ancient caves, Pachmarhi has a lot to offer for vacationers. It is nestled among verdant forests and is also listed in UNESCO biosphere reserves for its flora and fauna.

The place also holds religious importance as it is believed that the Pandavas stayed here during their exile. A few famous places to visit in Pachmarhi are Bee Falls, Dhoopgarh, Jata Shankar Caves, Mahadeo Hills, Duchess Falls, Satpura National Park etc.

Famous for: Nature, Hill station, Photography, Waterfalls, Historical Place, etc.

Distance from Indore: 340 Km

Location: Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh

Where to Stay: Best resorts and places to stay in Pachmarhi.

Things to Do in Pachmarhi: Horse Riding at Handi Khoh, Ziplining at Satpura Adventure Club and many more.

Renowned as the setting for the famous Mowgli stories in The Jungle Book, Seoni is a beautiful city with many tourist attractions. The place beautifully cradles hills, forests, and valleys as described by Rudyard Kipling in his famous book.

It is known for its scenic beauty and offers a wonderful escape from the noise and pollution of cities. Some of the popular places which you should explore here are Amodagarh, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Pench Tiger Reserve, Bhimgarh Sanjay Sarovar Dam, Shiva Temple, etc.

Famous for: Pench National Park & other places.

Distance from Indore: 485 Km

Location: Seoni District, Madhya Pradesh