Located in the heart of the country, Madhya Pradesh is one of the richest states in terms of beauty, heritage and wildlife. It's capital city Bhopal is known to be one of the greenest cities in India. Bhopal is also known for its beautiful lakes and heritage treasures. While that may be so, it's a good idea to take a break every once in a while and explore the other incredible destinations around you. If you love exploring places take a pick from these incredible weekend getaways from Bhopal.
1. Dewas
PC: Deepa Chandran2014
Distance from Bhopal: 153 km
The former princely state of British India, Dewas is one of the largest cities in Madhya Pradesh. The place also holds a great significance in the history of the Maratha kingdom, as it was ruled by the Pawars. Travellers visiting Dewas can see the Pawar Chhatris - one of the fine examples of Maratha architecture in the region - along with Meetha Talab, Kaila Devi Temple, Tekri and the hilltop temple, amongst many others.
2. Sagar
PC: Kareer
Distance from Bhopal: 169 km
Located about 170 km from Bhopal, the city of Sagar is located in the central state of Madhya Pradesh. Sitting on the edge of the Vindhya Range at an altitude of 536 m, Sagar is also fondly called the Switzerland of MP. It is famous for the Sagar University which is located on a hilltop from where one can get a panoramic view of the entire Sagar city. A number of forts, lakes, temples, and waterfalls can also be visited when in Sagar.
3. Indore
PC:Anvesh Sharma
Distance from Bhopal: 193 km
The most popular and largest city of Madhya Pradesh, Indore is known for one too many things. The Indori language, the street food and shopping, are all unique experiences for the travellers. It is also associated with the Holkar dynasty - the Hindu Maratha royal house of Indore - and therefore, the interested ones can find plenty of literature, historical monuments and structures, heritage buildings, etc., around the city and get to know all about it.
4. Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
Distance from Bhopal: 195 km
Established in 1989, the Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Mirjapur, 15 km from Indore. With beautiful flora and fauna, the sanctuary is home to numerous species of birds, and animals like deer, rabbit, etc. Thickets of teak, eucalyptus and bamboo plantations make quite a landscape, ideal for photography enthusiasts. The park also houses an archaic palace built by the Holkars of Indore. Winter months between October and February are ideal to visit Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary.
READ MORE ABOUT RALAMANDAL WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
5. Pachmarhi
PC: Sayan Bhattacharjee
Distance from Bhopal: 206 km
Fondly called Satpura ki Rani or Queen of Satpura, the charming hill station of Pachmarhi sits cozily amidst the Satpura Range. With an altitude of about 1100 m, Pachmarhi is the only hill station in Madhya Pradesh. Filled with picturesque views, waterfalls, forests, and a rich wildlife, Pachmarhi is home to some of the ancient caves in the region.
6. Chanderi
PC: Minks123
Distance from Bhopal: 213 km
The historical town of Chanderi is located in the Ashoknagar district of Madhya Pradesh. It is famous for the Chanderi Fort - a massive fort perched on a hill that offers a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding landscape filled with lakes and forests. With an interesting history, Chanderi Fort is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The town is also famous for the beautiful, hand-woven Chanderi sarees.
7. Omkareshwar
PC: Shampa Chaturvedi
Distance from Bhopal: 257 km
Located in the Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh, Omkareshwar is an important place of pilgrimage. It is well-known for the Omkareshwar Shiva Temple which is believed to be one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlinga Shiva temples in India. The temple is located on the Shivapuri or Mandhata Island, which is shaped as the Om symbol, in the Narmada river. One can witness huge gatherings and colourful traditions during numerous festivals and occasions.
8. Khandwa
PC: indrajitdas
Distance from Bhopal: 258 km
Situated in the south-west of Madhya Pradesh, the ancient city of Khandwa is now a smart city in the Nimar region of the state. Interestingly, Khandwa was the only place in olden India that cultivated cannabis. It is famous for its four historic kunds or reservoirs - located in the four directions - numerous temples and rustic beauty. Khandwa is also famous for being the birthplace of the renowned singer Kishore Kumar.
9. Jhalawar
PC: Siddharth Tiwari
Distance from Bhopal: 259 km
Located in south-eastern Rajasthan, close to the Rajasthan-Madhya Pradesh border, Jhalawar was once known as Brijnagar. As with many destinations of Rajasthan, Jhalawar, too, is famous for its beautiful Jain temples, and historic forts and palaces. But unlike many destinations of Rajasthan, Jhalawar is also home to thick forests, rich flora, and exotic wildlife.
10. Tikamgarh
PC: Rajibnandi
Distance from Bhopal: 266 km
Previously known as Tehri meaning a triangle, as it consisted of three hamlets forming a rough triangle, Tikamgarh is a small town in Madhya Pradesh. Totally offbeat, Tikamgarh is an ideal place for explorers with its old, beautifully constructed Hindu and Jain temples. The ornately designed Tikamgarh Fort and Tikamgarh Palace are two major places to witness the rich heritage of Madhya Pradesh.
11. Baran
Distance from Bhopal: 281 km
Located in the south-eastern region of Rajasthan, Baran is an unusual place to travel. The most interesting place to visit near Baran is the beautifully carved Bhand Deva temple that dates back to the 10th century. The striking feature of this temple is that it is located on the banks of a pond that is right in the middle of a huge crater. With a radius of 3.5 km, the Ramgarh crater is believed to be formed long ago by a meteorite strike in this region of the Kota plateau in the Vindhya range.
12. Mandu
PC: Shivam S
Distance from Bhopal: 286 km
The ancient fort city of Mandu is located in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. It is studded with incredible historical monuments and is an ideal place for history, art, architecture and photography enthusiasts. The impressive structures at Mandu are some of the finest examples of the Afghan architectural heritage. Jahaz Mahal Palace, Hindola Mahal, Darya Khan's Tomb, Hoshang Shah's tomb are few of the landmark structures of Mandu.
13. Maheshwar
PC: Jean-Pierre Dalbera
Distance from Bhopal: 287 km
Situated on the northern bank of river Narmada, the town of Maheshwar is a religiously, as well as, historically significant place in Madhya Pradesh. With numerous temples and places of pilgrimage strewn across, Maheshwar is also well known for the being the ancient capital of Malwa region during the reign of Holkars - the royal Maratha dynasty. Ahilya Fort, Holkar Palace, Maheshwar Fort, Narmada Ghats, Sahastarjun Temple, Ek Mukhi Dutta Temple are few of the many places to visit in Maheshwar.
14. Ratlam
PC: Official website
Distance from Bhopal: 293 km
Historically known as Ratnapuri or the city of gems, Ratlam city is located in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Foodie travellers will find it exciting to know that it is famous for Ratlami sev - a savoury made of gram flour. Ratlami sari is another thing Ratlam is famous for. It is home to some beautiful Jain temples and Kedareshwar Shiva Temple set at a picturesque location.
15. Shivpuri
PC: DeepakSanakt
Distance from Bhopal: 299 km
Located in the north-west part of Madhya Pradesh, Shivpuri is a city in the Shivpuri district. With its lush greenery and large forest cover, it is not difficult to understand why Shivpuri was the summer capital of the Scindia rulers of Gwalior in the past. Today, it is a popular monsoon destination for a number of tourists and travellers with its charming charming waterfalls, lakes and streams. Madhav National Park is another popular tourist attraction here, which is open to the visitors throughout the year.
16. Chikhaldara
PC: Manishjghurde
Distance from Bhopal: 306 km
With its mention in the Indian epic of Mahabharata, Chikhaldara located in the Amravati district of Maharashtra is a charming hill station, favoured by tourists all around the year. With deep valleys, mist-covered forests, sparkling waterfalls and a pleasant weather, especially from monsoon to winter, Chikhaldara is a perfect getaway to cool off the summer heat, as well as, to enjoy the monsoons and the cool winters.
17. Amravati
Distance from Bhopal: 315 km
Believed to be the city of Lord Indra, Amravati is located in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. Amravati also means ‘abode of the immortals' in Sanskrit and is filled with numerous temples. One of the popular tourist attraction around Amravati is the Melghat Tiger Reserve - one of the last habitat for the Indian tigers in Maharashtra. Wan Sanctuary is another attraction around with a rich flora and fauna and splendid landscape.
18. Burhanpur
PC: Camaal
Distance from Bhopal: 326 km
Burhanpur city is located on the banks of the Tapti river in Madhya Pradesh. The historic town of Burhanpur was known as the Dakkhan ka darwaza meaning gateway to Deccan or gateway to southern India, given its strategic location. The city has an extremely rich store of heritage in the form of forts, palaces, mosques and tombs etc., showcasing the elegant Mughal architecture. Asirgarh Fort and Shahi Qila some of the popular tourist spots in Burhanpur.
19. Jabalpur
PC: Anshikasjv12
Distance from Bhopal: 328 km
Jabalpur is one of the famous cities in Madhya Pradesh. Not only is it a popular destination for pilgrimage because of the holy river Narmada that flows through the city, Jabalpur is well known for the stunning marble rock gorge formations and the glorious Dhuandhar Falls. It is also known for numerous ancient temples, magnificent forts and palaces that are strewn across the region.
20. Ujjain
PC: Gyanendra Singh
Distance from Bhopal: 191 km
Ujjain is one of the largest and popular cities of Madhya Pradesh. It is a famous pilgrimage destination as the city is home to Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Shiva Temple - one of the 12 Jyotirlinga Shiva temples across the country. Located on the banks of Kshipra river, Ujjain is also one of the oldest cities of India and therefore, rich in heritage and culture.
21. Chhatarpur
PC: Deepa Chandran2014
Distance from Bhopal: 331 km
For someone with an inclination towards art and history, Chhatarpur is an ideal place to visit. The heritage city of Chhatarpur is located in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its numerous heritage monuments as well as natural beauty. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho along with incredible Hindu, Jain and Buddhists temples and structures is located about 40 km from Chhatarpur. Pandav Falls and Raneh Falls are two other beautiful places to visit around Chhatarpur.
22. Jhansi
PC: Wikijib
Distance from Bhopal: 332 km
The historic city of Jhansi, located in Uttar Pradesh is synonymous with the brave Queen of Jhansi, Rani Laxmibai. Situated between the Pahuj and Betwa rivers, Jhansi was one of the important cities under the Maratha kings in the 1800s. Hear the legends and stories and learn more about the valiant queen by visiting the impressive Jhansi Fort, Rani Mahal and other historic structures. Visit the nearby towns of Orchha, Deogarh, Barua Sagar etc., if you are into exploration.
23. Orchha
PC: Dennis Jarvis
Distance from Bhopal: 335 km
Located on the banks of river Betwa, the historic town of Orchha is located in the Tikamgarh district of Madhya Pradesh. It was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela Rajput chief. The numerous historical monuments dotted across the town take you back into the glorious past of Orchha. One can visit the number of beautifully constructed temples, palaces, forts and cenotaphs along with the Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary.
24. Pench National Park
PC: Graf orlok2004
Distance from Bhopal: 343 km
Stretched across the lush forests of Seoni and Chhindwara districts in Madhya Pradesh, Pench National Park is one of the finest tiger reserves of India. In case you don't know, it is here where Rudyard Kipling's famous work "The Jungle Book" is inspired from and where BBC's wildlife series "Tiger: Spy in the Jungle" is documented and shot. So one can imagine the exotic wilderness this park is home to and the thrill it offers.
READ MORE ABOUT PENCH NATIONAL PARK
25. Barwani
PC: Tarang 0808
Distance from Bhopal: 347 km
Situated on the left bank of river Narmada in the south-western part of Madhya Pradesh, Barwani is a town in the Barwani district of this central state of India. Pronounced as Badwani, the place gets its name from archaic words "bad" and "wani" meaning forest of banyan trees. Barwani is especially beautiful to visit in monsoon, as it is surrounded by the lush hills of Satpura and the landscape turns into a picturesque one in monsoon.
26. Seoni
PC: Akhlesh Naveen Gathoria
Distance from Bhopal: 351 km
Pronounced as "Siv-ni", Seoni is a city in the Seoni district of Madhya Pradesh. It is most famous for the forests that inspired Rudyard Kipling to write the story of a man-cub Mowgli in his famous work "The Jungle Book". With thick forest covers, Seoni is blessed with natural beauty that is home to forests, wildlife, rivers and more. Pench river and Pench Tiger Reserve are other two important places to visit when in Seoni.
27. Nagpur
PC: Kailash Mohankar
Distance from Bhopal: 352 km
One of the important and biggest cities of Maharashtra, after Mumbai and Pune, Nagpur is known for one too many things. It is nicknamed as the orange city of India given its abundant produce of the Nagpur oranges. The city is also called the winter capital of Maharashtra. A number of historical, religious and archaeological sites strewn around the city make it an interesting place to visit for all kind of travellers. A zero milestone, representing the geographical centre of India, is a must-see when in Nagpur.
28. Kota
PC: Rushil Fernandes
Distance from Bhopal: 361 km
Situated by the banks of the Chambal river, Kota is a famous city in the south-eastern part of Rajasthan. It is primarily known for its number of coaching centres and institutes assisting students preparing for competitive examinations. For the tourists and travellers, Kota has several attractions including the Jagmandir Palace, Umed Bhawan Palace, etc. Cruising on the Chambal river and spotting birds and crocodiles is a must-have experience.
29. Khajuraho
Distance from Bhopal: 376 km
Famous for its centuries-old treasure of heritage, Khajuraho is a tiny town in the Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh. The group of monuments at Khajuraho consisting of ancient Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist temples is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known to be one of the finest temple art in the world, the Khajuraho group of monuments is also known for its unusual style of architecture which includes erotic designs and carvings and is one of the most popular tourist spots in Madhya Pradesh.
30. Panna
PC: Minakksi
Distance from Bhopal: 385 km
Situated in the heart of India, Panna is a town in the Panna district of Madhya Pradesh and is most famous for its diamond mines. Panna was the erstwhile princely state of the British era and holds a great historical significance. The region is also blessed with abundant natural beauty and is home to the Panna National Park which is famous for Panna Tiger Reserve. The gorgeous Pandav Falls and Raneh Falls are also popular tourist spots that can be visited, especially around monsoons.
31. Bundi
PC: Antoine Taveneaux
Distance from Bhopal: 407 km
A treasure trove for history and heritage lovers, Bundi is a rustic town located in Rajasthan. It is well known for its impressive architectural beauty that can be seen in the numerous forts, palaces and baoris - the ornate stepwells. If slow travel while absorbing the essence of a place is your travel style, then Bundi is an ideal destination for you. Visit the Garh Palace, Sukh Mahal, Raniji ki Baori, Taragarh Fort, etc. when in Bundi.
32. Kanha National Park
PC: Dey.sandip
Distance From Bhopal: 410 km
Stretched across the Madla-Balaghat districts of Madhya Pradesh, Kanha National Park is one of the largest national parks in the state. It is well known for the Kanha Tiger Reserve and is home to a large population of the royal Bengal tigers. Apart from the majestic big cat, a number of other birds, mammals and reptiles are found in the park. Go on a safari of a lifetime and explore the wilderness of Kanha National Park on your next weekend from Bhopal.
READ MORE ABOUT KANHA NATIONAL PARK
33. Gwalior
PC: rahulchowdhary
Distance From Bhopal: 414 km
The historic city of Gwalior is located in the northernmost region of Madhya Pradesh. With spectacular monuments including the famous Gwalior Fort, Saas Bahu Temple, Man Singh Palace, Jai Vilas Mahal and more, visitors will definitely be impressed with the sheer beauty and heritage the city is home to. Explore the centuries-old temples and go on a heritage walk to learn about the numerous other historical structures that are spread in and around Gwalior.
34. Ranthambore National Park
PC: Sanjay tiwari khamore
Distance from Bhopal: 441 km
Surrounded by the Vindhyas and the Aravallis, Ranthambore National Park is one of the largest and popular national parks of India. It is located 17 km from the town of Sawai Madhopur, which is also known as Gateway to Ranthambore. Ranthambore is a haven for wildlife and adventure enthusiasts. Primarily home to leopards, tigers and crocodiles, the park has a rich flora and fauna. Once a hunting ground for the maharajas, one can also see the archaic Ranthambore Fort in the park's premises.
READ MORE ABOUT RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK
35. Bandhavgarh National Park
PC: Nakul Shinghal
Distance from Bhopal: 453 km
Known to have the highest population of the royal Bengal tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park is one of the most famous national parks in India. Located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh has a rich biodiversity. The tigers and tigresses of Bandhavgarh are some of the most-photographed ones in the world. Apart from the celebrity tigers, the park is also home to a number of species of birds and numerous other animals.
READ MORE ABOUT BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK
36. Bhind
PC: Hari Mohan Meena
Distance from Bhopal: 467 km
With a landscape full of extensive ravines, the town of Bhind is located in the Bhind district of Madhya Pradesh around the Chambal river. It is not a very popular tourist destination and therefore, is excellent for explorers and offbeat travellers. Bhind has a number of impressive historical monuments including ornate chattris or cenotaphs of the Holkar dynasty, ancient forts, beautiful Jain temples and a Sun temple. The National Chambal Sanctuary, famous for crocodiles, gharials and Ganges dolphins, is located about 22 km from Bhind and is a must-visit.
37. Rewa
PC: Syedzohaibullah
Distance from Bhopal: 484 km
The city of Rewa is located in the north-eastern region of Madhya Pradesh. Rewa is another name for Narmada, one of the holy rivers of India. Blessed with abundant natural beauty, Rewa became famous when a mutant variant of the royal Bengal tiger, the white tiger, was first seen here. The world's first white tiger sanctuary is also located in Rewa, making it a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts and biologists.
38. Tadoba National Park
PC: Saumitra Newalkar
Distance from Bhopal: 491 km
Located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, Tadoba Andhari is the oldest and largest national park in the state that was established in the year 1955. With a rich wildlife and dense woodlands, Tadoba Andhari is an ideal getaway for nature and wildlife lovers. One can visit the tribal inhabitants and settlements in and around the forest and listen to some interesting myths and lore about the tigers and brave chiefs of the tribe.
READ MORE ABOUT TADOBA NATIONAL PARK
39. Chitrakoot
PC: vaticanus
Distance from Bhopal: 494 km
With its name loosely translating into "hills of many wonders", the town of Chitrakoot is situated in the northern mountain ranges of Vindhya. Located in the Satna district of Madhya Pradesh, Chitrakoot is known for its cultural, religious, historical and archaeological significance. As per legends, the town is also associated with a mythology and has been mentioned in the epic Ramayana.
40. Lonar
PC: Praxsans
Distance from Bhopal: 498 km
The little town of Lonar, located in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra, has caught the attention of NASA and Geological Survey of India with its crater and a spectacular crater lake. It is believed that a meteorite that hit the earth at this spot, 52000 years ago, has created the Lonar crater. The spectacular colour of the water, dense forests with beautiful chirping birds and ancient temples in and around the crater make it an unusual, offbeat and interesting place to visit.