If you’re in or around Indore and looking for a quick getaway, you’re in luck. Central India’s cultural capital is surrounded by historical landmarks, wildlife retreats, spiritual centers, and scenic hill escapes, all within a 400 km radius. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, a spiritual journey, or a nature retreat, these destinations cater to every kind of traveler.
This detailed guide lists the 11 best places to visit near Indore, complete with travel tips, how to reach and things to do.
Let’s hit the road!
Ujjain – The Ancient Spiritual Capital
Distance from Indore: 55 km
Ideal For: Pilgrimage, history, cultural exploration
One of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) of Hinduism, Ujjain is an unmissable destination near Indore. Home to the famous Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, the city draws millions of devotees every year. The Kshipra River, ancient temples, and timeless ghats give the city an aura of deep spirituality.
What to Do:
- Attend Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar Temple (advance booking required)
- Visit Kal Bhairav Temple, Harsiddhi Temple, and Sandipani Ashram
- Stroll along Ram Ghat during sunset
- Explore Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum for Ujjain’s literary and astronomical heritage
How to Reach:
Ujjain is easily accessible via road, train, and taxi from Indore.
👉 Read: Char Dham Yatra Travel Tips (spiritual travel)
Mandu – The City of Joy and Romance
Distance from Indore: 95 km
Ideal For: History, photography, couples
Perched atop the Vindhya ranges, Mandu is a romantic blend of Islamic architecture and poetic folklore. The love story of Baz Bahadur and Rani Roopmati, echoed through ancient palaces and tombs, fills the air with a haunting charm. Discover Madhya Pradesh in 8 Days – Plan Your Adventure Today!
Highlights:
- Explore Jahaz Mahal, Hindola Mahal, and Roopmati’s Pavilion
- Walk through Baz Bahadur’s Palace and enjoy panoramic valley views
- Visit Rewa Kund and the lesser-known Hoshang Shah’s Tomb
Travel Tip:
Best visited during or after the monsoon when the surroundings are green and misty—perfect for photography.
Omkareshwar – Island of the Sacred Jyotirlinga
Distance from Indore: 78 km
Ideal For: Pilgrimage, riverside serenity
Omkareshwar is another sacred Jyotirlinga site nestled on an island shaped like the symbol ‘Om’ in the Narmada River. The location, coupled with tranquil water views and spiritual energy, makes it one of the best short spiritual getaways from Indore.
Must Do:
- Visit Omkareshwar Temple and Mamleshwar Temple
- Walk the Om Parikrama around the island
- Enjoy a boat ride on the Narmada during sunrise or sunset
Read: Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple Travel Guide
Maheshwar – Ghats, Sarees & Spiritual Peace
Distance from Indore: 95 km
Ideal For: Spirituality, heritage, handloom shopping
Maheshwar, on the banks of the Narmada, is known for its sacred ghats and its role in the handloom industry, especially Maheshwari sarees. With its peaceful ambiance, royal history, and spiritual depth, it’s a perfect retreat from the city. Plan your trip for 6 Days Ujjain Omkareshwar Maheshwar Indore Tour Itinerary
Top Experiences:
- Visit Ahilya Fort, now a heritage hotel
- Spend time at Narmada Ghat for evening aarti
- Shop for Maheshwari textiles at local weaving centers
Pachmarhi – Queen of Satpura
Distance from Indore: 330 km
Ideal For: Nature lovers, adventure seekers
The only hill station in Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi is a monsoon and summer favorite. From caves believed to be used by the Pandavas to lush forests and waterfalls, the town is a naturalist’s paradise.
What to Explore:
- Trek to Bee Falls, Apsara Vihar, and Jata Shankar Caves
- Explore Pandav Caves, Reechgarh, and Dhoopgarh for sunsets
- Visit Handi Khoh, a stunning canyon
👉 Read: Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh in December
Bhopal – The City of Lakes and Culture
Distance from Indore: 195 km
Ideal For: Urban escape, museums, lakeside leisure
Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is both historic and modern. The twin lakes, wide roads, and museums make it a great weekend getaway.
Things to Do:
- Boating in Upper Lake (Bada Talab)
- Explore Bharat Bhavan and Tribal Museum
- Visit Taj-ul-Masajid and Shaukat Mahal
👉 Read: How to Reach Sanchi Stupa from Bhopal
Sanchi – The Stupa of Enlightenment
Distance from Indore: 250 km
Ideal For: History buffs, Buddhist pilgrimage
Sanchi is one of the most important Buddhist heritage sites in the world. The Great Stupa, built by Emperor Ashoka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by other monasteries and carvings.
Must-See:
- The Great Stupa
- Ashoka Pillar
- Sanchi Museum
👉 Read: Sanchi Monuments Guide
Chanderi – Offbeat Historical Marvel
Distance from Indore: ~360 km
Ideal For: Offbeat travel, architecture, textiles
Nestled between forested hills, Chanderi is a lesser-known town rich in Islamic and Rajput architecture, temples, and the world-famous Chanderi sarees. If you love slow travel and history, this is a must-visit.
Key Highlights:
- Chanderi Fort, Koshak Mahal, and Badal Mahal Gate
- Chanderi Museum
- Traditional handloom weaving visits
Hanumantiya Tapu – MP’s Hidden Island Getaway
Distance from Indore: 140 km
Ideal For: Adventure, water sports, camping
Located in the Khandwa district, Hanumantiya Island on the Indira Sagar Dam is a relatively new addition to MP tourism. Perfect for families and friends, it’s known for water sports, glamping, and the Jal Mahotsav festival.
Activities:
- Jet skiing, kayaking, banana boat rides
- Floating cottages and lakefront camping
- Birdwatching in early morning boat rides
Suggested Itinerary for Madhya Pradesh tour: Explore Khajuraho & Panna in 4 Days – Book Your Tour Now!
Ratlam – Temples, Food, and Gold
Distance from Indore: 140 km
Ideal For: Foodies, religious tourism, weekend break
Known for Ratlami sev, gold markets, and ancient temples, Ratlam is a small city with a big personality. The Kalka Mata Temple and the Jain temples in Sailana are worth the trip.
7-Day UNESCO Heritage Tour of Madhya Pradesh – Reserve Your Spot!
Things to Try:
- Shop for jewellery in Ratlam Gold Market
- Try local snacks and sweets
- Visit Cactus Garden and Sailana Palace
Burhanpur – The Forgotten Mughal Town
Distance from Indore: 210 km
Ideal For: Architecture, history, photography
This underrated town was once a major Mughal outpost. Known as the place where Mumtaz Mahal died (before being moved to Agra), Burhanpur is full of ruins, mosques, baths, and temples that transport you to the past.
Don’t Miss:
- Shahi Qila, Jama Masjid, and Raja ki Chhatri
- Dargah-e-Hakimi, a major Dawoodi Bohra pilgrimage site
- Asirgarh Fort, one of the strongest hill forts in India
Final Thoughts:
Within just a few hours’ drive from Indore lies a world of diversity—from ancient temple towns like Ujjain and Omkareshwar to scenic wonders like Pachmarhi and Mandu, and offbeat heritage gems like Burhanpur and Chanderi. Whether you’re seeking spiritual peace, historical depth, natural beauty, or just a quick weekend escape, these 11 destinations promise experiences that are both enriching and memorable.
Now is the perfect time to explore your own backyard—less travel time, more discovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to visit places near Indore?
While many destinations can be visited year-round, October to March is ideal for most of Madhya Pradesh. Monsoon (June–September) is best for green landscapes and waterfalls, especially in places like Mandu and Pachmarhi.
2. Which nearby hill station is best from Indore?
Pachmarhi is the best hill station near Indore. It’s located around 330 km away and offers lush forests, waterfalls, caves, and pleasant climate.
Related: Things to Do in Pachmarhi
3. Are there good family destinations near Indore?
Yes, places like Ujjain, Maheshwar, Hanumantiya, and Bhopal are excellent for families due to a mix of activities, spiritual spots, and safe accommodations.
4. Which destinations are ideal for a weekend trip from Indore?
- Ujjain (55 km)
- Mandu (95 km)
- Maheshwar (95 km)
- Omkareshwar (78 km)
Each of these can be explored in 1–2 days.
5. Are these destinations accessible by public transport?
Yes, most locations are connected by trains, buses, and taxis. However, having a private car or hiring a cab gives you more flexibility—especially for offbeat spots like Chanderi and Hanumantiya.
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