Places to Visit Near Bhopal | Weekend Getaways from Bhopal

Known For : Bee falls Jata Shankar caves Pandava Caves

Pachmarhi is the only hill station and is the highest point in Madhya Pradesh. Pachmarhi is also often known as "Satpura ki Rani" or the "Queen of the Satpura Range". Situated at an altitude of 1,067 metres, the picturesque town is a part of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to leopards and bison. One can catch a train to Pipariya station, 50 Kms from Pachmarhi. Once there, a short ride by taxi can be taken to reach Pachmarhi.

Distance from Bhopal: 206 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

18 Pachmarhi Attractions

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. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 2003. 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.

Distance from Bhopal: 44 km

Best Time: October to April

4 Bhimbetka Attractions

Known For : Nakki Lake Guru Shikhar Toad Rock

The only hill station of Rajasthan, its cool atmosphere and lush green surroundings make it a major tourist spot within the state. The most important attraction, however, are undoubtedly the Dilwara temples, which is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in the country. If you are a history or architecture buff, this is one of the places you should absolutely not miss out in India.

Distance from Bhopal: 686 km

Best Time: October to March

21 Mount Abu Attractions

Known For : Sanchi Stupa The Great Bowl Ashok Pillar

Located in Madhya Pradesh, the Buddhist monuments of Sanchi are one of the oldest stone structures in India. Designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO, the Great Stupa was installed in the 3rd century BC by Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. The sculptures and monuments present at the site are a fine example of the development of Buddhist art and architecture in Madhya Pradesh. This large hemispherical dome was constructed to honour Lord Buddha and houses many important Buddhist relics.

Distance from Bhopal: 48 km

Best Time: July to March

6 Sanchi Attractions

The enigmatic temple of Bhojpur is an incomplete Hindu temple situated in the Bhojpur Village of Madhya Pradesh. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it houses a 7.5 feet high lingam in its sanctum and is believed to have been constructed in the 11th century during the reign of King Bhoja. The temple's construction was left abandoned for reasons that are still unknown. The temple has been designated as a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Distance from Bhopal: 31 km

Known For : Rajwada Lal Bagh Palace Khajrana Temple

Indore is the largest and the most populous city of Madhya Pradesh. Located on the Malwa Plateau, the charm of this city lies in its rich cultural heritage which has been preserved over centuries and along with the hints of urbanisation.  One of the educational hubs in the country, Indore has both an IIT and an IIM. Indore is also the cleanest city of India. Indore has over the years established itself as the hub of trading and industrial practices in the state. The city of Indore gets its name from Indreshwar Mahadev temple. It is believed that Lord Indra meditated on this land and led Swami Indrapuri to establish this temple. Try out some local delicacies like Indori Poha at Sarafa Bazaar while you are in Indore.

Distance from Bhopal: 192 km

Best Time: July to March

40 Indore Attractions

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. The best way to reach Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary fro Bhopal is to take a private car or hired taxi. 

Timings : 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 5 per person

Distance from Bhopal: 195 km

'Udayagiri' means the mountain of the sunrise, and is a historical Hindu ritual site home to twenty rock-cut caves near Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh. Otherwise known as 'Vishnu Padagiri' meaning "the feet of Vishnu", the Udayagiri Caves are extensively carved with iconographies of Hindu Gods, namely Vishnu, Durga and Shiva containing legendary stories of the gods and their shrines. Udayagiri hills hold twenty caves dedicated to Hinduism and Jainism sculptures from the Gupta Era.

Distance from Bhopal: 57 km

Best Time: October-March

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. Famously known 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 Bhopal: 342 km

Best Time: July to March

16 Orchha Attractions

Known For : Marble Rocks Dhuandhar Falls Chausath Yogini Temple

Bhedaghat is known for the Dhuandar Falls (Dhuan means smoke and Dhar means flow), a huge cascade of water that falls from a height of 98 feet. Also regarded as the Marble Rocks of Bhedaghat, this small town has earned a reputation for the massive 100 ft rocks on either side of the Narmada. Boating in Bhedaghat especially during the moonlit nights is recommended. The boatmen of these place are storytellers that will tell you about the place in the form of interesting stories. One can drive to Bedaghat or take a train to Jabalpur and continue onwards by taxi to reach Bedaghat.

Distance from Bhopal: 286 km

Best Time: November to March

5 Bhedaghat Attractions

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

Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Madhya Pradesh, is known around the world for its stunning temples adorned by erotic and sensuous carvings. A small town located in the Bundelkhand region, Khajuraho is a brilliant example of Indian architecture and its culture back in the medieval period. The architecture of these Hindu and Jain temples depict the erotic forms of love, the carvings on the walls display passion in the most sensuous yet aesthetic ways.

Distance from Bhopal: 375 km

Best Time: July to March

25 Khajuraho Attractions

Known For : Dhuandhar Falls Boat ride to Bhedaghat Sea World Water Park

Jabalpur is an ancient city located on the shores of river Narmada in Madhya Pradesh. An industrial city, Jabalpur is now gaining popularity as a tourist destination because of its splendid ghats, the 98-foot high Dhuandhar waterfall, marble art, and historical and cultural structures. The best way to reach Jabalpur from Ahmedabad is to take a train.

Distance from Bhopal: 325 km

Best Time: August to March

20 Jabalpur 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. he beauty of Mandu is visible in its palaces, monuments and widespread lawns.

Distance from Bhopal: 276 km

Best Time: October to March

11 Mandu Attractions

Known For : Bhimkund Melghat Tiger Reserve Narnala Fort

At an altitude of 1118 m, Chikhaldara is one of the most favourite summer retreats near the city of Bhopal. The scent of coffee enchants you as you enter the hill station city of Chikhaldara in the state of Maharashtra. Being the only coffee-growing area in the region, Chikhaldara also boasts of beautiful lakes, breathtaking panoramic viewpoints and exotic wildlife. Driving to Chikhaldara from Bhopal is the best option of travelling between the two places.

Distance from Bhopal: 306 km

Best Time: July to February

12 Chikhaldara Attractions

Lying along the banks of river Narmada in Madhya Pradesh, the district of Hoshangabad is a charming tourist destination which has a number of tourist destinations located in and around it. Hoshangabad is blessed with a mix of natural sightseeing and historical monuments such as the prehistoric Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Pachmarhi - a cool hill station, and the refreshing Adamgarh Hills. 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 Bhopal: 76 km

The Satpura National Park is located in the beautiful and diverse suburbs of Madhya Pradesh and is one of the most diverse and stunning national parks in Central India. One of India's most beautiful tiger reserves, the sanctuary was the winner of the TOFT Wildlife Tourism Award for the most visitor-friendly wildlife destinations in the year 2010. Located in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh in India, Satpura Tiger Reserve spreads over an area of 202 square miles and gets its name from the Satpura Hill ranges, or Mahadeo hills.

Timings : Winters: Mornings: 6:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Evenings: 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM, 
Summers: Mornings: 5:45 AM - 9:30 AM, Evenings: 3:00 PM - 06:30 PM

Time Required : 3-4 hrs

Entry Fee : Jeep Safari: Indians: INR 3,800
Foreign Nationals: INR 5,800

Distance from Bhopal: 201 km

Known For : Gwalior Fort Jai Vilas Palace Gujari Mahal (State Archaeological Museum)

Gwalior is a historic city located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Popular because of the hilltop fort, Gwalior is full of palaces and glorious temples giving this city a majestic charm which speaks volumes of its glorious past. Visit the various monuments and museums, eat the local delicacies like namkeen and go boating in Tighra Dam while you are in the city.

Distance from Bhopal: 401 km

Best Time: July to March

34 Gwalior Attractions

Located in the Bawani district of the southwestern Madhya Pradesh, Bawangaja is a popular Jain pilgrimage site. Situated just in the vicinity of River Narmada, the spot is best known for the world's second-largest megalithic statue of Lord Rishabhadeva which has been carved out of a mountain. The statue of the very first Jain Tirthankara is believed to have been built in the early 12th century, is around 84 feet high and is supported at the back.

Distance from Bhopal: 355 km

Best Time: October-April

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 of Madhya Pradesh. Ujjain is one of the four sites for the Kumbh Mela, the largest peace-time gathering on the planet that attracts 100 million people to the festival.

Distance from Bhopal: 191 km

Best Time: October to March

26 Ujjain Attractions

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. The water flow is magnanimous during the monsoons and slopes may become slippery and treacherous. Patalapani is best reached by road via Indore. One can take their own car or private taxi.

Distance from Bhopal: 224 km

Located 25 kilometres from the bustling city of Indore, Tincha Falls are one of the most popular waterfalls in the region. The waterfall is located in the Tincha village, also where the falls derive their name from. At a height of 300 feet, it is a rain-fed waterfall and is primarily a monsoon destination. Surrounded by lush green vegetation on all sides and an exhilarating experience in itself, Tincha falls attracts a wide array of visitors all year. The falls are also a canyon, nuzzled in between valleys Tincha is an ideal picnic destination and monsoon break away from the chaos that ensues in the cities.

Distance from Bhopal: 206 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. Located on the Mumbai-Indore highway and in the Mhow Tehsil of Indore district, Janapav experiences footfall from all areas of country throughout the year, especially during monsoons.

Distance from Bhopal: 236 km

Madhai is a quaint town located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Madhai is serene and peaceful because of which this place becomes an ideal holiday destination to get away from the pell-mell of the city. The place is rich in biodiversity and the lush greenery that wraps the whole place is mesmerizing. Madhai is also a treat for nature lovers as the myriad variety of flora and fauna that is found here will leave you enchanted.

Distance from Bhopal: 5 km

Hanuwantiya is one of the islands amongst the archipelago situated in the Indira Sagar river. Hanuwantiya island is full of scenic beauty and the cool water that surrounds this island is an added bonus. The adventurous activities and the serenity of this place will makes this place a great holiday destination. During the Jal Mahotsava, this place is thronging with people and the colourful kites and hot air balloons that fly ornate the sky making the whole place look mesmerizing.

Distance from Bhopal: 192 km

Located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, Hatyari Khoh is home to 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. This place is still untouched by industrialization which makes it even more beautiful. This is an amazing place to completely break free from city life and devote some time gazing at the enchanting waterfall and verdant trees.

Distance from Bhopal: 194 km

At a distance of 60 kms from 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 Bhopal: 193 km

Bamniya Kund is a captivating waterfall 50 kms from Indore in Madhya Pradesh. Falling from a height of 300 feet, the waters gush down creating a colourful pool of clear blue waters, brown rocks and verdant green bushes. The waterfall is hidden away from the clearing. You will have to reach the Nakheri Dam at the base of the hill and the cascading waters are still a considerably long trek away. The trekking trail, however, is marked through the beautiful woods and one can spot several birds, animals and exotic plants native to the region.

Distance from Bhopal: 226 km

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

Stradling the confluence of the rivers Narmada and Kaveri, the holy city of Omkareshwar houses one of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas. Shaped in the form of Hindu religious symbol 'Om', due to the merging of two valleys and a central pool of Narmada waters, it derives its name from 'Omkara' which is just one other name of Lord Shiva. It has two ancient shrines - Omkareshwar and Amarkareshwar. The sacred town also boasts of architectural wonders and scenic beauty, in addition to the pilgrim sites. One can first take a day train to Indore and then continue onwards towards Omkareshwar by hired taxi.

Distance from Bhopal: 257 km

Best Time: October to March

5 Omkareshwar Attractions

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'. One can enjoy many different experiences along with the wildlife safari on the boat rides, such as catching a glimpse of the tribal life and viewing some famous local dams and temples along the way. One can take a train to Nagpur junction and then hire a taxi to reach Pench National Park.

Distance from Bhopal: 382 km

Best Time: October to June

Known For : Ranthambore Tiger Reserve Jeep Safari Ranthambore Ranthambhore Fort

This is one of the best tiger reserves of the country, known to have "friendly" tigers and chances of sighting one here is reasonably better than many other tiger reserves of India. Along with this Ranthambore has one of the richest flora and fauna making it an absolute must-visit destination with friends or family. It is an absolute delight for birdwatchers as well, especially for those who chase sightings of migratory birds in the winters.

Distance from Bhopal: 426 km

Best Time: October to Apr

20 Ranthambore Attractions

Eklingji Temple is one of the most popular temples of Rajasthan and is situated at a distance of 22 km to the north of Udaipur. Eklingji Temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion and its brilliant architecture drives several tourists here every year. This double-storied temple looks magnificent with its pyramidal style of roof and uniquely carved tower. The outer walls of the temple are stretched with steps that lower touching the serene waters.

Distance from Bhopal: 542 km

Now known as the Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur National Park is a famous avifauna sanctuary and a bird watching paradise listed among UNESCO's World Heritage sites. The 29 km reserve is locally known as Ghana and is a mosaic of dry grasslands, woodlands, woodland swamps, and wetlands. These diverse habitats are home to 366 bird species, 379 floral species, 50 species of fish, 13 species of snakes, 5 species of lizards, 7 amphibian species,7 turtle species, and a variety of other invertebrates. Every year thousands of migratory waterfowl visit the park for winter breeding.

Distance from Bhopal: 536 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. The city was also known as the entry point into south India as a result of its strategically poised position. Taking one of the daily trains is the best way to reach Burhanpur from Bhopal.

Distance from Bhopal: 326 km

Best Time: October to March

5 Burhanpur Attractions

Known For : Taragarh Fort Moti Mahal, Bundi Badal Mahal, Bundi

A princely state for a princely stay, in the northwest of India, lies the district of Bundi, in the Hadoti region of the royal state of Rajasthan. In ancient times, the area around Bundi was apparently inhabited by various local tribes. Bundi is blessed with a plethora of nature along with a beautiful pattern of rivers and lakes and some enchanting waterfalls. The lush lands of this area are host to a huge variety of flora and fauna.

Distance from Bhopal: 381 km

Best Time: October to March

14 Bundi Attractions

Located in a central region of Madhya Pradesh, Kanha National Park is the largest National Park in central India and has been ranked as one of the best parks in Asia. Among the 22 species of large mammals, the royal Bengal tigers are one of the major attractions. One of the best tiger reserves in India, the present-day area stretches over the 940-kilometre square which is divided into two sanctuaries: Hallon and Banjar.

Distance from Bhopal: 416 km

Best Time: October to June

Located on the outskirts of the regal city of Jaipur, Galtaji Temple is a prehistoric Hindu pilgrimage site. Outlined by the striking Aravalli hills, it consists of several shrines, holy kunds, pavilions and natural springs. Galtaji Temple was built using pink colour sandstone and is a vast temple complex housing varied shrines. The Galtaji temple is unique in its architecture in the sense that is has been constructed like a palace.

Distance from Bhopal: 596 km

Located in the Ashoknagar district of Madhya Pradesh, Chanderi is a city with a rich history that dates back to the 11th century. Surrounded by magnificent hills, forests and beautiful lakes, Chanderi boasts of a kind of scenic beauty which should be experienced by travellers of all sorts. The city is also famous for its vibrant weaving industry and the proliferation of looms draw visitors from across the globe.

Distance from Bhopal: 214 km

Best Time: November to February

Known For : Chittorgarh Fort Padmini Palace Kalika Mata Temple

The capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Mewar, Chittorgarh is a land of forts, citadels, ruins, and immortal folklore of sacrifice and heroism. Located in South-Eastern Rajasthan, Chittorgarh is known for Chittorgarh Fort, the largest fort in India built on a hilltop, spreading over an area of around 700 acres. The magnificent fortress will always be remembered for the courageous self-sacrificing Jauhar performed by Rani Padmini to thwart the conquest of the fort by Alauddin Khilji.

Distance from Bhopal: 460 km

Best Time: October to March

19 Chittorgarh Attractions

Chand Baori is a major tourist attraction site in Abhaneri village that belongs to 10th-century monuments that showcase Rajasthani architectural expertise and talents. It is a humongous step well with flights of steps on the three sides that lead to the water reserve. The stepwell is more than 13 storeys deep and is adorned with more than 3500 steps. In spite of it being more 1000 years old, the stepwell has remained in a remarkable condition. The best way to reach Chand Baori from Bhopal is to take a hired taxi although it might not be cheap.

Distance from Bhopal: 351 km

Bhivgad (or Bhimgad) is a hill fort in Maharashtra. Located in the district of Raigad, this fort offers a nice trek in close companionship to the fort of Dhakbahiri. There are two caves and a few water cisterns at the top. During monsoon, this fort offers the scenic view of a seasonal waterfall. There are some fortifications still left, and the remnants of some old structures near the top. The top of the citadel offers a panoramic view of the trek route to Dhakbahiri.

Distance from Bhopal: 415 km

Formerly a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Rewa, the Bandhavgarh National Park is world-renowned as a tiger reserve and it is known to have the highest density of Bengal tigers in the world. The frequent sightings of royal tigers make this national park a must-visit for all wildlife enthusiasts. In 2012, around 44-49 tigers were living in the park. There are more than 22 species of mammals and 250 species of avifauna.

Best Time: October to June

Known For : Madhav National Park Chhatri The Madhav Vilas Palace

Shivpuri is another legendary city in the state of Madhya Pradesh with immense historical significance because it is around this area where both Hindu and Mughal Emperors ruled for a long time. Shivpuri is a city and a municipality in Shivpuri district in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It also holds significance to the pre-Independence times because it is here that the great freedom fighter Tatya Tope was hanged to death.

Distance from Bhopal: 284 km

Best Time: November to March

9 Shivpuri Attractions

Nestled in the heart of the mighty Satpura range of hills, Chhindwara is the largest district of Madhya Pradesh. Filled with Chhind or white date palm trees, Chhindwara city has thick plantation surrounding the region along with different tribal communities like Gond, Pradhan Korku and others inhabiting harmoniously together.

Distance from Bhopal: 286 km

Best Time: June to August

Amravati, also known as Ambanagari, is a place of great religious significance. It is aptly called the Cultural Capital of Vidarbha. It is also known as the city of Lord Indra and is home to numerous temples dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Ambadevi. Apart from being known for its religious significance, Amravati is also known for its Varhadi cuisine and grand celebrations of prominent festivals.

Distance from Bhopal: 351 km

Best Time: October to February