Places to Visit Near Indore For a Much Needed Vacation

The oldest sanctuary of Madhya Pradesh, the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary packs a treat for wildlife and avifauna enthusiasts alike. The River Narmada, which is 150 million years older than River Ganga, graces the sanctuary with its presence. Home to deer, wild hare, tigers and an umpteen variety of birds, this sanctuary is nothing short of paradise.

Distance from Indore: 11 km

The Patalpani Waterfall is located in the Mhow Tehsil of Indore district and is a popular picnic spot for the locals of the area. Surrounded by dense forest covers, majestic hills, clear skies and lush green landscapes Patalpani is perfect for anyone looking for a time out from their mundane schedules.

Distance from Indore: 34 km

Known For : Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga temple Kedareshwar Temple Parikrama on the Island

Situated at the confluence of the rivers Narmada and Kaveri, the holy city of Omkareshwar is shaped in the form of Hindu religious symbol 'Om', due to the merging of two valleys and a central pool of Narmada waters. It is the perfect place to visit near Indore for those looking for a spiritual experience. Situated on the Mandhata islands, Omkareshwar houses one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas and hence, draws thousands of devotees each year.

Distance from Indore: 78 km

Best Time: October to March

5 Omkareshwar Attractions

The architectural marvel Jantar Mantar (also called the Vedh Shala Observatory), established in the 17th century is the oldest to be constructed among the group of five observatories (Jaipur, Delhi, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi). Jantar Mantar, an outcome of great diligence has not only served as the research station to astronomers in the old times but also continues to serve its astronomical as well as tourism purpose even today.

Distance from Indore: 55 km

Narmada Ghat is another off-beat destination in close proximity to the town of Maheshwar surrounded with lush green environs. It is a nice spot for picnicking and to enjoy a day off from all the worries and stress one has.

Distance from Indore: 96 km

Located 25 kilometres from the bustling city of Indore, Tincha Falls are one of the most popular waterfalls in the region. The milky white cascade is located in the Tincha village, also where the falls derive their name from. The roaring plunge of water at a height of 300 feet is a rain fed waterfall and is primarily a monsoon destination.

Distance from Indore: 23 km

The splendid architecture of Jahaz Mahal occupies an expanse in the Mandu region of Madhya Pradesh. Jahaz Mahal best captures the medieval history of Mundu. Here 'Jahaz' refers to a ship and 'Mahal' refers to a palace, which is a reflection of the edifice itself. Surrounded by pond water, it seems to be floating gently above the surface of the water.

Distance from Indore: 94 km

Mahakaleshwar Temple, located in the ancient city of Ujjain in the state of Madhya Pradesh, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Mahakal lingam at this temple is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested), obtaining currents of Shakti (power) from within itself. Mahakaleshwar is also one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas in India.

Distance from Indore: 56 km

Largely regarded as the oldest marble edifice in India, this architectural phenomenon has been said to have influenced Shah Jahan by leaps and bounds. It is also said that Shah Jahan had sent his workmen and Ustad Hamid to inspect the structural site and draw inspiration from it to build his marvel - The Taj Mahal. The crescent that is crowned on the top of the tomb is considered to have been imported from Mesopotamia or Persia.

Distance from Indore: 95 km

Legend has it that this splendid architectural wonder was constructed for the last independent leader of Mandu, Baz Bahadur much before he came into power in the year 1509. Surprisingly, the edifice does not only display Islamic architectural styles but it also boasts of designs inspired from Rajasthani trends.

Distance from Indore: 99 km

An enchanting sight awaits you at Lotus Lake locally known as Kamal Talao which is covered with beautiful lotus flowers. A stream originating from this lake flows into the Sita Khai presenting a wonderful sight of waterfall.

Distance from Indore: 220 km

Chidiya Bhadak Falls is one of the unexplored and secret gem of Indore. Enveloped in lush greenery, and rocky cliffs, the waterfalls is a mesmerizing sight to watch and is a picture worth capturing. The waterfall also offer good trekking and hiking opportunities.

Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, Choral Dam is a hidden gem that will definitely provide you with quietness and tranquility. Constructed around the backwaters of River Narmada, Choral Dam is replete with cool and clear water. A large number of lush green trees and small hills surround the place making it even more attractive. This place is full of jovial water activities that will interest young and old alike.

Distance from Indore: 41 km

Jam Darwaza aka Jam Gate, located at the Mhow- Mandaleshwar Highway in Bhagdara, is an uphill picnic spot. This huge gate was constructed back in 1790 AD. It's in a lush green, hilly region. The view from the top of its adjacent mountains is immensely scenic. There's fresh air, calmness and epic sunrise and sunset views. A perfect place for a relaxing getaway to spend quality time with friends or family, and click awesome pictures!

Perched on the edge of a cliff in the town of Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh, and overlooking the pristine river Narmada in the background, Ahilya Fort, also known as Holkar Fort, is a 250 years old monument which was the capital of the Maratha Queen Ahilyabai Holkar between 1766 and 1795. Besides the striking Maratha architecture and the age old charm, the fort also offers magnificent views of the quaint Maheshwar town and its gorgeous ghats

Distance from Indore: 90 km

Nestled among similar hills of the Malwa region, Janapav, or Janapav Kuti, is the ideal getaway for lovers of nature and trekkers alike. If you're looking to traverse through twisty bends in Central Indian forests while peacefully gazing over distant hills and the crimson sunset, then this hill station should be your destination.

Distance from Indore: 44 km

Known For : Upper Lake Van Vihar, Bhopal Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya

Amidst two beautiful man-made lakes, the capital of Madhya Pradesh is a sprawling city with the right blend of culture, heritage and modern life. Bhopal is a vibrant place to visit near Indore which steps into the future with a rich heritage and vibrant history tracing its footsteps. It is highly ornamented with the majestic mosques which showcase classic Mughal architecture such as the Taj-Ul-Masjid, one of the largest in India, built by the third female ruler Bhopal had, Shah Jahan Begum, Moti Masjid and many more.

Distance from Indore: 194 km

Best Time: July to March

30 Bhopal Attractions

You might be thinking why would someone want to visit a place to relax with such a lurid name. But Hatyari Khoh is anything but uncanny. Rather it is the most beautiful place you can visit to getaway from the hustle bustle of the city. Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh,, Hatyari Khoh with fascinating horror stories, lush green trees, mesmerizing waterfalls and majestic hillocks, Hatyari Khoh is a must visit place to be in the lap of nature.

Distance from Indore: 29 km

Known For : The Rock Caves Hoshangabad Bhojpur

The Bhimbetka rock shelters are an archaeological site, exhibiting the earliest traces of human life on the Indian subcontinent, and thus the beginning of the South Asian Stone Age. Bhimbetka is home to more than 500 rock shelters and caves which have a large number of paintings. The oldest paintings are considered to be 30,000 years old, but some of the geometric figures date to as recently as the medieval period. It is an ideal place to visit near Indore for archaeology lovers.

Distance from Indore: 238 km

Best Time: October to April

4 Bhimbetka Attractions

Hanuwantiya is one of the island amongst the archipelago situated in the Indira Sagar river. This place is vibrant and colourful that will surely be a good break from the hustle bustle of the city life. Hanuwantiya island is full of scenic beauty and the cool water that surrounds this island is an added bonus.

Distance from Indore: 4 km

Known For : Asirgarh Fort Jama Masjid, Burhanpur Dargah-E-Hakimi

Burhanpur is a historical town based on the banks of the Tapti River in Madhya Pradesh. The most interesting piece of trivia would be that Mumtaz Begum, the reason why the Taj Mahal was built, died in Burhanpur while giving birth to her fourteenth child.

Distance from Indore: 180 km

Best Time: October to March

5 Burhanpur Attractions

Another stunning waterfall, located approximately 37 kms from Indore, Bamniya Kund is a three-tier charming wonder of nature - a campsite, a cascade and a waterfall. Enjoy a walk through the luscious green jungle to double your appetite to savour those freshly packed sandwiches for your picnic. In pleasant weather when the grey clouds loom above, spending time in the cool stream is the picture-perfect moment at this tourist spot.

Distance from Indore: 37 km

The breathtaking sight of water falling from a height is always thrilling, and Mohadi Waterfalls are just the perfect spot where you would take your family to visit for a picnic. Easily accessible, the Waterfall is located at a distance of 30 kms from Indore, it is an idyllic picnic spot if you are looking for a break from the monotony of life and want to be with your family.

Distance from Indore: 26 km

Known For : Jehangir Mahal, Orchha Fort Ram Raja Temple Raja Mahal, Orchha Fort

Orchha is a historical town located on the banks of river Betwa in Madhya Pradesh, known for its grand palaces, and intricately carved temples. Famous as the city of palaces, it is world-renowned for the classic mural paintings, frescos and Chhatris (cenotaphs) that were constructed to commemorate the Bundela rulers. Orchha's old-world charm casts a spell on tourists from all around the world.

Distance from Indore: 492 km

Best Time: July to March

16 Orchha Attractions

Known For : Bee falls Jata Shankar caves Pandava Caves

The only hill station in Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi is often known as the queen of the Satpura ranges. Being at an elevated height of 1,067 feet and surrounded by beautiful forests of the Satpuras, Pachmarhi is a great place to visit near Indore. With streams and waterfalls dotting this town, it gives any tourist a serene and memorable experience.

Distance from Indore: 338 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

18 Pachmarhi Attractions

Known For : Sanchi Stupa The Great Bowl Ashok Pillar

A symbol of the vast heritage present throughout the culturally rich India, the Buddhist monuments of Sanchi are one of the oldest stone structures in India. The sculptures and monuments present at the site are a fine example of the development of Buddhist art and architecture. This is one of the mystical places to visit near Indore surrounded by lush gardens, providing visitors peace and serenity as they pay tribute to Buddhism.

Distance from Indore: 238 km

Best Time: July to March

6 Sanchi Attractions

Known For : Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Kal Bhairava Temple Ram Mandir Ghat

Ujjain, considered to be one of the holiest cities of India, is an ancient city situated on the eastern bank of the Shipra River in the Malwa region. Ujjain is one of the four sites for the Kumbh Mela, the largest peace gathering on the planet that attracts 100 million people to the festival. It is one of the best religious places to visit near Indore to experience ancient Indian traditions.

Distance from Indore: 56 km

Best Time: October to March

26 Ujjain Attractions

Known For : Jahaz Mahal Rani Rupmati's Pavilion Baz Bahadur's Palace

Mandu is the epitome of architectural excellence that our ancestors seemed to have achieved. This city is testament to the unconditional love between Prince Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati. Mandu also boasts of the oldest erected monument of India.

Distance from Indore: 95 km

Best Time: October to March

11 Mandu Attractions

Known For : Holkar Fort Mandleshwar Rajwada

Based on the banks of the River Narmada, this gorgeous town is largely referred to as the temple town of Madhya Pradesh. It also holds a lot of mythological and historical importance given the fact that it has found a mention in the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Distance from Indore: 89 km

Best Time: October to March

15 Maheshwar Attractions

Known For : Light and Sound Show, Khajuraho Dulhadev Temple Kandariya Mahadev Temple

Khajuraho is known around the world for its stunning temples adorned by erotic and sensuous carvings. The architecture of these Hindu and Jain temples depict the innocent form of love, the carvings on the walls display passion in the most erotic yet aesthetic ways. Art in this small town is engrained in all of its structures and it is a spectacular place to visit near Indore to witness a classic example of the finesse of India's cultural and artistic heritage.

Distance from Indore: 565 km

Best Time: July to March

25 Khajuraho Attractions

Lying along the banks of river Narmada in Madhya Pradesh, the district of Hoshangabad is a charming tourist destination which is blessed with a mix of natural sightseeing and historical monuments. In addition to being a beautiful location in itself, Hoshangabad is a gateway to a number of other popular destinations as well. A notable fact about Hoshangabad is that it trades in some exquisite pieces of handicraft, silk, leather and pulses, which make it's shopper's delight.

Distance from Indore: 222 km

A delightful town situated in the district of Mandla, Kanha National Park is the haven of an exceptionally wide variety of wild animals, including the majestic creature tiger. Wide open grass plains with a backdrop of the city scrapers, scattered bamboo forests play host to a wide variety of wildlife and diverse birdlife with over 300 species recorded. One of the best places to visit near Indore for wildlife enthusiasts, it is the largest National Park in central India and has been ranked as one of the best parks in Asia.

Distance from Indore: 619 km

Best Time: October to June

Dharampuri is a quaint little town filled with historical gems in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh set along the banks of river Narmada, was also said to be the birthplace and abode of Narmada's daughter Roopmati who married the ruler of Mandu; Baz Bahadur. The town was established by the oldest Pandava; Yudhishthir and is rich in legends and folklores.

Distance from Indore: 100 km

At a distance of 60 kms from the madding crowd of the city of Indore, Sitlamata Falls is located near a village called Manpur. The Waterfalls make a lovely spot for a picnic with a majestic view of the water gushing at a tremendous speed where you can also take a dip in the freezing water once the monsoon season arrives. There are three natural caves in the area which is believed to be the hiding place of Holkar State Pindaris.

Distance from Indore: 1 km

Known For : Sita Khai Lotus Lake Yashavant Lake

Toranmal is a hill town nestled in the lap of nature in Maharashtra and is adorned with nature's best elements. Salubrious weather, lush green surroundings, tranquil lakes and gushing cascades of waterfalls along with several man-made marvels narrate their astounding tales charm to visitors.

Distance from Indore: 220 km

Best Time: October to February

9 Toranmal Attractions

Vidisha, a quaint town in Madhya Pradesh is one of the few, less heard of, unconventional places of historic importance. Located near the state capital, Bhopal, it has a rich cultural heritage a number of magnificent monuments, temples and ruins. This place is a huge tourist spot in MP and if you’re a history enthusiast or intrigued by archaeology, this is one place you cannot miss out on!

Distance from Indore: 246 km

With the majestic Pench river flowing through the greens and a variety of wildlife to be spotted in the rocky terrains, Pench National Park served as an inspiration for the famous novel 'The Jungle Book'. An open jeep Jungle Safari is available for both day and night. There is also the option of taking a beautiful boat ride or boat safari to explore Pench and the surrounding areas, across a stretch of 17 km.

Distance from Indore: 518 km

Best Time: October to June

The 22nd tiger reserve of India and the fifth in the state of Madhya Pradesh, Pana National Park is located in Panna and Chhatarpur districts. Panna Tiger Reserve was found as the best managed and maintained national park of India by the Ministry of Tourism of India, and therefore, it was rewarded with the Award of Excellence in the year 2007. The park is famous for its attractions like wild cats, including tigers as well as deer and antelope. It is also an abode for more than 200 species of birds.

Distance from Indore: 583 km