38 Places to Visit near Bhopal within 300 kms (2024)

Ujjain is an ancient city situated in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. About 56 km from Indore, and 197 km from Bhopal, it is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in India, and among the best places to visit near Bhopal.

Situated on the banks of the Kshipra River, the ancient city is known as the temple city for its numerous temples from different eras including one of the 12 Jyotirlingas the Mahakaleshwar Temple, among the must-include places in Ujjain packages. Kal Bhairava Temple, Ram Ghat, Harsiddhi Temple, Kalideh Palace, Pir Matsyendranath, Jantar Mantar, Bhartrihari Caves, ISKCON Temple, Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, etc., are some other tourist paces in Ujjain.

Ujjain is among the top places to visit in Madhya Pradesh. Also, Ujjain is one of the four sacred sites in India, where the famous 'Kumbh Mela', one of the largest religious festivals in the world, is organized once in 12 years. Ujjain is considered the Greenwich of India, with the first meridian of longitude passing through it.

Distance from Bhopal: 197 Kms

At a distance of 24 km from Sanchi, and 44 km from Bhopal Junction, Raisen Fort is a historical edifice located in the town of Raisen, Madhya Pradesh. Situated atop a hill, it is one of the ancient forts in Madhya Pradesh, and among the popular places to visit near Bhopal.

Built-in 11th Century AD, Raisen Fort was an important center of administration from the period of its foundation from Hindu times. In the 15th century CE, this fort was ruled by the Sultans of Mandu, from whom it passed to the Rajputs. In 1543, Shershah Suri captured th fort from Puranmal. In Akbar's time, Raisen was the headquarter of a Sarkar in the Subah of Ujjain in Malwa. Fiaz Mohammad Khan, the third Nawab of Bhopal State occupied the fort in about 1760, later got himself recognized as Faujdar of Raisen by Emperor Alamgir II. Now, this fort is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.

The Raisen Fort is spread over ten sq. km on a hill of more than 1500 high. The fort has a massive stone wall pierced with nine gateways. Adorned with a large courtyard and a beautiful pool in the middle, the Raisen Fort has four palaces namely Badal Mahal, Rohini Mahal, Itradaan Mahal & Hawa Mahal within its boundaries. The ancient fort also houses a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a shrine dedicated to Muslim saint Hazrat Peer Fatehullah Shah Baba. The doors of the temple open every year on the occasion of Shivratri. The fort also had ...

Distance from Bhopal: 44 Kms

At a distance of 39 km from Bhopal, Halali Dam is a manmade reservoir located at Khoha village in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the famous picnic spots near Bhopal, and among the best places to visit near Bhopal.

Also known as Samrat Ashok Sagar Project, Halali Dam is constructed in 1973 across Halali River, a tributary of the Betwa river. The river was earlier known as the Thal River. According to local legends, Dost Muhamad Khan a Nawab ruler killed a rival force from Rajput near Jagdishpur on the bank of the tributary. In consequence, since it appeared red with the victim's blood, hence the name Halali which means the river of slaughter.

The dam is 945 m long with a maximum height of 29.57 m above the foundation level. With a catchment area of around 699 sq. km, the colossal dam is quite popular among the locals of Bhopal as an excellent spot for picnics and boat rides. Apart from this, the reservoir is home to aquatic life. Mainly used for irrigation and fishery, the reservoir attracts a large number of birds during winter. The dam has an MP tourism hotel - Halali Retreat that has about 6 - 8 rooms with nice ambiance, a restaurant, playground for children, Meeting and Party Hall.

Timings: 8 AM - 4 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bhopal: 39 Kms

At a distance of 8 km from Maheshwar Bus Station, Mandleshwar is a town and Nagar panchayat in the Khargone district, Madhya Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the Narmada River, it is one of the popular heritage places in Madhya Pradesh, and among the top places to visit near Indore.

Mandleshwar is a 'Pavitra Nagri' as termed by the government of Madhya Pradesh, as it is an ancient town. It is the education center as well as the political center of Maheshwar block, the location of the district court and district jail of Khargone. The 8th-century philosopher Mandana Misra reportedly lived in the town and debated with Aadya Guru Shankaracharya at the Gupteshwar Mahadev Temple. Mandleshwar was the headquarters for the Nimar Agency and cantonment from 1819 to 1864.

The town is well-known for its temples, fort complex, and bathing Ghats. The temples and fort of Mandleshwar have a remarkable charm due to the grandeur of its wonderful architecture that attracts many tourists. Shree Gupteshwar Mahadev Mandir, Chhappan-Dev, Shree Ram Temple, Shree Datta Temple, Ganga-Zira, and Kaashi Vishweshwar Temple are the popular temples situated in Mandleshwar. Dhawal-kunda and Hathani (islands), Sahastradhara, and Ram Kund are other places of historical significance. A flight of 123 steps leads down to the river and expands into the Ram Ghat, where the Ram, Hanuman, Dattatraya, and Ratneshwar Temples are located.

Besides, ...

Distance from Bhopal: 271 Kms

At a distance of 7 km from Maheshwar Bus Station, Sahastradhara Waterfall is a wonderful waterfall located in Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh. Situated in Jalkoti, it is one of the popular waterfalls in Madhya Pradesh, and among the must-visit Maheshwar tourist places.

Sahastradhara literally means a thousand streams. Narmada river flows over a rocky patch here and so the main flow breaks down into many streams. With sunlight falling over the streams, it creates a silvery and gleaming river. Visitors won't see this sight in the monsoon as the river will have a lot more water to break down. Hence, winter is the best season to visit the waterfall where one gets totally engrossed in the mesmerizing play of the streams of Maa Narmada.

Besides, there are numerous streams of crystal clear water, and it is very pleasant to sit by the side of the water and enjoy the peace. One can visit this place by boat ride or by road. A 15-20 minute boat ride away from Ahilyabai Ghat and then one should walk in the river towards water over the rocks for some distance. Since the place does not require climbing, it can be visited by elders also.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bhopal: 292 Kms

At a distance of 24 km from Maheshwar, Navdatoli is an archaeological site located in Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh. Situated on the opposite side of the shores of River Narmada, it is one of the important places of heritage near Indore, and among the top places of sightseeing in Maheshwar.

Discovered in 1950, it is regarded as a pre-historic site, which used to be the home for the various cultures starting from the Paleolithic period till the 18th century. The third period of occupation has been dated between 1500 BC and 1200 BC. Artifacts such as painted pottery of a forgotten age as well as many microliths were found on this site during the excavation. The site was excavated between 1957 and 1959 over two seasons.

The ruins of the ancient houses found here were either rectangle in shape or circular of around 3 m in circumference. These houses had bamboo walls and the roof was made of mud. Most houses had a fireplace and a stone slab that was used for grinding and mashing grain. Pottery of varying styles including Malwa, Jorwe, Black and Red Ware, Cream-Slipped Ware, and Grey-Ware were also commonly found within the houses. Similarities between Navdatoli pottery and certain Iranian ceramics have led some to believe the area was colonized by immigrants from the Northwest. It is estimated that on average roughly 150 individuals lived in the village in its earliest stage. Evidence of domestic ...

Distance from Bhopal: 287 Kms

At a distance of 35 km from Indore Junction, Patalpani is a scenic waterfall located in the Mhow Tehsil of Indore district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the beautiful waterfalls in Madhya Pradesh, and among the most visited tourist places in Indore.

Formed by the Choral River, the Pataipani Waterfall is cascading down from a height of about 91 meters (300 ft). The depth of the pond that forms at the bottom of the waterfall is unknown and legend has it that it goes as deep as patal. Therefore, the falls are called Patal-Pani, where Patal means the underworld and Pani means water in Hindi.

Surrounded by dense forest covers, majestic hills, and lush green landscapes, it is one of the popular picnics spots near Indore, and an ideal photography spot too. The waterflow is magnanimous during the monsoons and the area is prone to flash floods. It is best to maintain a cautious distance from the waterfall during the rain. However, the waterfall goes almost dry in the summer season, and the stream is reduced to a trickle. A railway line passing along the area adds to the charm of the place.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bhopal: 226 Kms

At a distance of 30 km from Indore Junction, Tincha Waterfalls is a seasonal waterfall situated at Tincha village near Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the scenic waterfalls in Madhya Pradesh, and among ideal weekend getaways from Indore.

Tincha Fall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls near Indore. The water drops from a height of about 300 feet and is a season waterfall. From a distance, the waterfall appears like streams of milk rushing down the mountainside. The falls also have a small pond near the foot of the falls. You might not be able to go in the plunge pool because of government restrictions, but you can still get pleasure from trekking and photography at this place.

This is a popular scenic destination for locals as well as outsiders who need relief from their stressful city life. If you want to catch the most stunning views of the place, visit during monsoon season when the waterfall comes alive with gushing water and a sea of green that envelops all the surrounding hills. With the abundance of natural beauty, Tincha Falls captivate the hearts of photography lovers & adventure seekers.

There are several vendors selling eatables like roasted corn and vegetable fritters along with tea and coffee near the falls. So, better to pack your lunch.

Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free, Rs. 20 for Car

Distance from Bhopal: 209 Kms

At a distance of 40 km from Indore Junction, Gidiya Khoh waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located at Shiwni village near Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the tallest waterfalls near Indore.

Cascading down from a height of 600 ft, the Gidiya Kho waterfall is a monsoon-fed waterfall. The whole region is picture flawless as it is encompassed by a lavish green valley. From the top of the hill, the 600 feet smoky fluent flow of water is just recalling the memory of Bhedaghat of Jabalpur. Surrounded by lush greenery and forests, the waterfall and the area around it are considered as one of the most beautiful places for a picnic near Indore that attracts many people.

To reach the waterfalls, one needs to go to Double Chowki from there the waterfall is 9 km away. There is a steep trek to the waterfall and the whole trek is full of beautiful flora and fauna and the path is lush green. To reach the main path that starts about 2 km before the waterfall, you have to cross a stream and you should carry a stick with you to gauge the depth of the stream in some areas. The splashes of water that greet you when you arrive at the place are just one of the many amazing things that you can experience here.

The most ideal time to visit the waterfall is during the rainy season when the gurgling rush of water is in all its glory and splendor.

Timings: 10 AM - 5.30 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bhopal: 193 Kms

At a distance of 12 km from Indore Junction, Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected reserve situated at Ralamandal in the outskirts of Indore city. It is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh, and among the most visited tourist places as part of Indore tour packages.

Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular places of wildlife in India. Earlier, it was the hunting ground for the royal family members of Holkars as it had a huge population of tigers, leopards, and deers. It was established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1989 for the conservation of plants and animals. The holy River Narmada graces the sanctuary with its presence. It has an ancient palace built by Holkars which was primarily used as a hunting lodge also known as shikargah.

Spread over 5 sq. km, the sanctuary is home to different species of birds and other wildlife like Leopards, Black Bucks, Chitals, Blue bulls, Hyena, Barking deers, Peacock, Palm-civet, Porcupine and Hare. To protect animals and birds from noise and air pollution emanating from the nearby highway, a green wall of about 8,000 trees was created. There are several trails present in the Wildlife Sanctuary which are ideal for trekking, by both amateurs and professionals. There is also the facility of camel rides inside the sanctuary, which is one of the top highlights among the tourists.

There are several trails present in the Wildlife Sanctuary ...

Distance from Bhopal: 194 Kms

At a distance of 40 km from Indore, Bamniya Kund is a picturesque waterfall located at Melendi near Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the beautiful waterfalls in MP, and among the best waterfalls near Indore.

Bamniya Kund is a captivating waterfall falling from a height of 300 feet. The water here spouts down making a beautiful pool of clear blue water surrounded by brown rocks and verdant green bushes. The waterfall settled in the profundity of thick woodlands and is an ideal place for nature lovers. The water here is cool and the nature around is sound quiet. Besides, Bamniya Kund waterfall makes for a perfect site for several activities like trekking, rappelling, flying fox, camping, and great photography.

Visitors will have to take road transport from Indore to reach the Badgonda Village. From here, one needs to walk about 4 km to the Nakheri Dam, which is the starting point of the trek. Walk for about 7 to 8 km to finally reach the waterfalls amid all the wilderness. The trekking trail, however, is marked through the beautiful woods and you can spot several birds, animals, and exotic plants native to the region.

This place remains evergreen and magnificently worth visiting all around the year but it is best suitable to visit the Bamniya Kund waterfalls from September-December. The rains can make the terrain extremely slippery and thus, unsafe and inconvenient to walk. Also, there is an increase in mosquitoes and other insects during monsoons.

Timings: ...

Distance from Bhopal: 230 Kms

At a distance of 9 km from Bamniya Kund, and 41 km from Indore Junction, Choral Dam is an earthen dam situated at Mhow near Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the ideal places to visit near Indore for a picnic.

Choral Dam was built across the Choral river, a tributary of the holy Narmada River. This dam water is mainly used for irrigation as well as drinking purposes. A large number of lush green trees and small hills surround the place making it even more attractive. Sunrises and sunsets are quite beautiful at the dam when different hues of the sky make for an amazing backdrop for the lush green trees.

Choral Dam is the perfect place to spend some time relaxing and unwinding. The clear blue water, lush green trees, and the endless cloudy sky provide a great backdrop to have a picnic. You can sit by this enchanting water body with your feet dangling in the cool water and enjoy a scrumptious meal in the lap of nature, a perfect way to relax and enjoy the tranquility. Visitors can also enjoy a ride in a speed boat or paddle boat. The boating experience will let you witness the beauty of the water more closely and help you appreciate it better. This place also has a resort where you can spend some quality time with your friends and family and a picturesque view of the pious River Choral.

Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bhopal: 232 Kms

At a distance of 50 km from Indore, Janapav also known as Janapav Kuti is a mountain located near Janapav Kuti village in the Mhow Tehsil of Indore district, Madhya Pradesh. Situated in Mumbai-Agra National Highway, it is one of the popular places for trekking in Madhya Pradesh, and among the scenic places to visit near Indore.

Situated at an altitude of 881 m, Janapav is the highest peak in the entire Vindhayanchal range. As per the legend, it is the birthplace of Lord Parshurama, the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu, and is considered sacred by the Brahmin community. At the top of the hill, there is an ashram of Jamadagni, the father of Parashurama who used to live here with Renuka, the mother of Parshurama. It is said that the variety of medicinal herbs and plants found here were actually first grown by her. As per some reports, even today, many Ayurvedic doctors from across the country arrive at the hill in search of herbs.

As per the folklore, twelve rivers originate from the tank situated on this hill, including Chambal, Saraswati & Nakheri. Surrounded by dense forest, the place is quite popular among trekkers for its scenic beauty and adventurous routes. Besides, Janapav Kuti also happens to be the place of a colorful fair organized every year on Kartik Purnima, which is the first full moon after Diwali.

With its amazing view from the top and its cultural importance, the government of Madhya ...

Distance from Bhopal: 236 Kms

At a distance of 4 km from Tincha Waterfall, and 28 km from Indore, Mohadi Falls is a picturesque waterfall located at Berchha near Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the beautiful waterfalls near Indore, and among the scenic places to visit as part of Indore sightseeing packages.

Located on the Indore-Khandwa road, Mohadi Falls offers a breathtaking sight of water falling from a height of about 250 feet amid a verdant valley. Untouched by commercialization, this spectacular waterfall near Indore is a treat to your senses and is a sight to behold. The lush green valley surrounding this mighty waterfall adds grace to the sight and makes it an amazing place for nature and landscape photography.

One can easily visit the falls on a one or even a half-day trip from Indore. The location of this divine waterfall also makes for an exemplary trekking route for adventure junkies. Though the trek looks fun, it is advisable to take necessary precautions. You must not hike through grassy roads, as they are often slippery and filled with water. Visitors can walk around the waterfall reaching close to the flowing water. However, do not try to cross the river as it is not safe.

To reach this place you have to go to Tinchafall via Khandwa road or the Ralamandal route. This place is 4 km from Tincha Falls. With the pleasant breeze and smooth roads, the ride to Mohadi waterfall is quick and easy. However, when the highway ends, there is no direct road to Mohadi. Travellers ...

Distance from Bhopal: 209 Kms

At a distance of 30 km from Indore, Mohadi Falls is a stunning waterfall located at Telyakhedi village near Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the best waterfalls near Indore, and among the scenic places to visit near Indore.

Hatyari Khoh Waterfall is something that you should not miss out on your Indore trip. Dropping from a great height of about 600 feet, the waterfall is famed for the serenity and tranquility that is spread all around them. Due to the water falling from such a great height, a mystical fog-like effect is generated which makes the waterfall look even more magical. The amazing pool that is formed at the bottom of the waterfall is perfect to take a plunge into.

Hatyari Khoh translates to Killer Gorge in English. There are several myths behind the unique name of this waterfall. One legend says that a monarch held people captive here during a war and buried them alive in this valley while the other says that it was a secret passageway used by the kings. There is also another tale that claims that at night, pigs fell into the valley and their shrieking voices echoed throughout the place.

To reach this place you have to go to Telyakhedi village. This place is 2 km from the village, and one can reach Hatyari Khoh in 15 minutes through the muddy road of the village. This place is still untouched by industrialization which makes it even more beautiful. This is an amazing place to break ...

Distance from Bhopal: 200 Kms

At a distance of 55 km from Indore Junction, Sheetla Mata or Sitlamata Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located at Rampuriya Bujrg village near Indore, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the scenic places to visit near Indore.

Sitlamata Waterfall is cascading down from a height of about 500 feet and is one of the most famous waterfalls near Indore. It is visited by a large number of tourists as well as devotees due to the presence of Sheetla Mata Temple. Various folk tales revolve around the existence of the fall. This place also has 3 beautiful caves, and it is also believed that Holkar state Pindaris hid there.

The popularity of the waterfall is owed to the mesmerizing aura that it creates, combined with plentiful greenery around it. The waterfall is in its full glory in the monsoon season. The water depth here is about 3 to 6 feet, and is safe for bathing, and swimming. One has to trek around 1-2 km to reach the waterfall from the parking area. Stairs are available to go down to fall. There were lots of monkeys on the way.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bhopal: 246 Kms

At a distance of 36 km from Mandu, and 65 km from Indore, Dhar Fort is a historical fort situated in the Dhar city of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the top heritage sites near Indore, and among the must-visit places as part of Mandu holiday packages.

Dhar is an important medieval town and the erstwhile capital of Malwa Kingdom ruled by the Parmar dynasty from 800 - 1327 AD. Raja Bhoj, the most illustrious of the Parmaras shifted his capital from Ujjain to Dhar, where he established a university for Sanskrit studies, known as the Bhoja Shala. During the time of King Bhojdev (1010-1055), this fort was known as Dhar Giri Lilodyan. When Alauddin Khalji ascended the throne of Delhi, Islamic influence began to spread in Dhar, as a result of which in 1305 Ainul Mulk Multani, the general of Alauddin Khalji, attacked Malwa and killed the Parmara ruler Mahalakdev and ended the Parmar dynasty. Captured later, he renovated the fort and completed the work of fortification. In 1346, Muhammad bin Tughlaq also stayed for some time in this fort while going to Devgiri.

The Pawar dynasty captured this fort in 1732 AD and used it as a royal palace. During the Maratha struggle, Raghunath Rao's wife Anandi Bai took shelter here, and she gave birth to Peshwa Bajirao II at this place. Dara Shikoh, the eldest son of Shah Jahan, also took refuge in this fort during the war with Aurangzeb. During the Revolt of 1857, Dhar ...

Distance from Bhopal: 262 Kms

At a distance of 19 km from Chanderi, Budhi Chanderi is a historical site located at Nidanpur near Chanderi, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the most popular places of heritage in Madhya Pradesh, and among the must-visit tourist places near Chanderi.

Situated on the right bank of the Urr River, Boodhi Chanderi was a large settlement of the Gurjara Pratiharas and possibly their capital. Earlier called Chandrapuri, it was first discovered in 1865 by Alexander Cunningham, the first director of the Archaeological Survey of India. Later, the German traveler Claus Boone also visited the place. The ASI Museum of Chanderi was associated with the place of Budhi Chanderi.

The site consists of the ruins of around 55 Jain temples, most of which are in ruins. The temples here are believed to have been built between the 9th - 11th centuries by the Pratihara kings. The architecture is similar to that of the Badoh Pathari Jain temple. Surprisingly, some of the structures possibly saw restoration during the Bundela period as some of the superstructures have features of the Bundela architectural style. One inscription, dated to the beginning of the 16th century, has been found carved on a sati pillar which mentions the name of the place as Nasirabad, after the ruler Nasiruddin Khilji. This implies that a small settlement might have existed even during the Muslim rule and it might not have been as abandoned as it is today.

The ASI has collected more than 2500 artifacts from Budhi ...

Distance from Bhopal: 238 Kms

At a distance of 20 km from Jabalpur, Dhuandhar Falls is a scenic waterfall located at Bhedaghat near Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Also known as Smoke Cascade, it is one of the stunning waterfalls in India, and among the must-visit places as part of Jabalpur tour packages.

Formed by the holy Narmada River, Dhuandhar falls is one of the major attractions in Jabalpur. The waterfall cascades from a height of 98 feet that gives mesmerizing views to the tourists. The word Dhuandhar is derived from two Hindi words- Dhuan means smoke and Dhar means flow meaning a waterfall where we get a smoke flow-like feeling. The tremendous force with which the waters of Narmada cascade down the rocky surface lends the fall its name Smoke Cascade.

The sight of the Narmada River cascading down from a great height is a sight to behold. The white water pummels down to form a gorge known as the Marble Rocks, one of the must-visit Jabalpur tourist places. One can take a dip in the cool water along the banks upstream, roam around the viewpoints, click photographs or just sit back and enjoy nature's tranquility. Visitors never miss out on the shopping aspect, as marble artifacts, jewelry and soap-stone carvings from the local vendors close to the waterfalls make for great souvenirs.

Boating here is an amazing ...

Distance from Bhopal: 300 Kms

At a distance of 21 km from Jabalpur, Chausath Yogini Temple is a Hindu temple situated at Bhedagaht near Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Situated near Dhuandhar Falls, it is one of the oldest heritage sites in India, and among the must-visit places as part of Jabalpur packages.

Mainly dedicated to Goddess Durga, the Chausath Yogini Temple was built in the 10th century by the Kalachuris kings and it still stands tall atop a hill, enticing tourists and devotees from different parts of India. As the name ('Chausath' meaning sixty-four) suggests, the temple has 64 shrines built along the walls of its circular premises, each containing a carved figure of a Yogini, and a central shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The Kalachuri-built structure had only the Yoginis while the central shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvati was built around two years later. According to the inscriptions, Queen Alhanadevi, the widowed wife of Kalachuri King Gayakarna built the Gauri-Shankara temple in 1155 CE during the rule of her son Narasimhadeva. However, in the later centuries, with the advent of Islamic rulers, like many other Hindu temples of India, the Chausath Yogini Temple also went through partial destruction and disfiguration of idols. However, the central shrine remains unblemished.

The architecture of the temple is simple and bears a similar ...

Distance from Bhopal: 300 Kms

At a distance of 27 km from Burhanpur, Asirgarh Fort is a historical fort situated at Asirgarh village near Burhanpur. Located on Asha Devi Road, it is one of the major places of heritage near Indore, and among the prime places to visit as part of Burhanpur packages.

Stands impregnable in the Satpura Ranges, Asirgarh Fort is said to have been built by a king named Asa Ahir in the early 15th century. He was murdered by Nasir Khan of Khandesh. Nasir Khan's descendant Miran Bahadur Khan (1596-1600) declared independence and refused to pay homage to Mughal emperor Akbar. Enraged, Akbar marched Burhanpur in 1599 and captured the entire city. He then also besieged the fort and captured it in 1601. The fortress was later held by the Marathas, and it was twice captured, in 1803 and 1819, by the British. This fort has been deserted following the departure of the British.

This is the fort where Mughal Emperor Jahangir imprisoned his eldest son, the rebellious Prince Khusraw after blinding him, and he was allegedly murdered by Prince Khurram, the third son of Emperor Jahangir. History came haunting back when Shah Jahan's beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal died here while giving birth to her fourteenth child. Mumtaz Mahal was first buried in Burhanpur, before ultimately finding a place to rest at the inimitable Taj Mahal. Asirgarh was also the seat of Emperor ...

Distance from Bhopal: 300 Kms

At a distance of 8 km from Bhimbetka, and 51 km from Bhopal, the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected reserve located in the Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in India, and among the major places to visit as part of Bhimbetka Tour Packages.

Situated in Vindhya Range in central India, the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary stretches across 823 sq. km in the Raisen and Sehore districts of Madhya Pradesh. The area was declared as a sanctuary in 1976 and got the status of tiger reserve under the Project Tiger by the Government of India recently. The landscape is undulating, with hills, plateaus, valleys, and plains. Many seasonal streams irrigate the site in the monsoon, and water is retained in some pools along these streams even in the summer. Two large reservoirs, namely Barna Reservoir and Ratapani Dam (Barrusot lake) are among the major water bodies adjacent to or inside the sanctuary.

The forest of Ratapani is a dry deciduous and moist deciduous type, with teak (Tectona grandis) as the main tree species. About 55% of the area is covered by teak, the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the finest teak forests in Madhya Pradesh. The regal striped cat is the apex predator here and estimates suggest that 40 tigers roam these forests. Besides, the sanctuary is also home to animals like Panther, Hyena, Jackal, Indian Fox, Wild Dog, Jungle Cat, Small Indian Civet, Blue Bull, Chinkara, Black Buck, Chausingha, Spotted Deer, ...

Distance from Bhopal: 51 Kms

At a distance of 30 km from Bhopal Junction, and 34 km from Bhimbetka, Bhojpur Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located at Bhojpur in Madhya Pradesh. Also known as Bhojeshwar Temple, it is one of the beautiful shrines located near Bhimbetka and among the popular places to visit as part of Bhopal Tour Packages.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Bhojeshwar Temple is an incomplete Hindu temple believed to have started in the 11th century CE, during the reign of the Paramara king Bhoja. The Jain writer Merutunga, in his Prabandha-Chintamani, states that Bhoja constructed 104 temples in his capital city of Dhara alone. However, the Bhojpur temple is the only surviving shrine that can be attributed to Bhoja with some certainty. The construction was abandoned for unknown reasons, with the architectural plans engraved on the surrounding rocks. The temple has been protected and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Bhojpur Mandir is a simple square with an outside portion of 66 feet. Although the temple is incomplete, it has a magnificent soaring strength of line and is supported by four pillars. The doorway is richly carved and, has two exquisitely sculpted figures on either side. The other three sides are balconies each supported by massive brackets and four intricately carved pillars.

Also known as the 'Somnath of North India', the Bhojpur Temple houses a 7.5 feet (2.3 m) high Shivalingam, carved out of a single rock. Set upon a massive platform of ...

Distance from Bhopal: 30 Kms

At a distance of 7 km from Vidisha, and 10 km from Sanchi Railway Station, Udayagiri Caves or Udaigiri Caves are a group of rock-cut caves located at Udaigiri village in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in India, and among the must include places in Sanchi Tour Packages.

Udayagiri, literally means the 'sunrise mountain', was a Buddhist and Hindu site by the 2nd century BCE. The place is also referred to as Visnupadagiri which means the hill at 'the feet of Vishnu'. The Udayagiri Caves are a group of 20 rock-cut caves near Vidisha from the early years of the 5th century CE. They contain some of the oldest surviving Hindu temples and iconography in India. Besides, these caves have rock-cut water tanks, and some have shrines and monuments on top.

Out of 20 caves, one is dedicated to Jainism, while others to Hinduism including Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and Shaivism. The Jain Cave is notable for one of the oldest known Jaina inscriptions from 425 CE, while the Hindu caves feature inscriptions from 401 CE. Cave 1 is the southernmost cave which is also considered to be a false cave since the side and the front were added later on. There are four pillars and the back wall has a deity carved onto it. Cave 2 is located north of Cave 1 but is still in the southern group and has traces of two pilasters. And there is also evidence of a structural mandapa underneath its roof.

Cave 3, also known as Skanda Temple, is the first one of the ...

Distance from Bhopal: 57 Kms

At a distance of 11 km from Sanchi, Sonari is an archaeological site of an ancient monastic complex of Buddhist stupas in Madhya Pradesh. Positioned on a hill, it is one of the must include places in the Buddhist Circuit of Central India, and among the top places to visit near Sanchi.

Like Sanchi, Sonari is again a complex of Buddhist stupas comprising two large and five smaller stupas. The stupas were excavated around 1850 by Alexander Cunningham, who discovered two boxes containing relics. One of the reliquaries, which is very ornate, is visible nowadays at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

The date of construction of Stupa 1 and Stupa 2 must therefore be equivalent to those of Sanchi Stupa No.2, i.e. 125-100 BCE. About 15 meters in diameter, Stupa No.1 is a solid hemisphere of dry masonry and is the largest stupa in the complex. It is made over a cylindrical plinth of about four feet high with fragments indicating traces of railings. The stupa contained a miniature soapstone reliquary.

Alexander Cunningham and FC Maisey searched Stupa No.2 in 1851. The stupa contained three miniature reliquaries, two in soapstone and one in rock crystal, as well as a certain amount of bone ash and a piece of wood. The main reliquary is shaped to resemble a lotus bud, with incised petals decorating the lower half of the reliquary. It was turned on a lathe and then carved in bas-relief. The reliquary of Stupa No.2 presents has inscriptions in Brahmi mentioning the ...

Distance from Bhopal: 40 Kms

At a distance of 14 km from Sanchi, Satdahara is an archaeological site of an ancient monastic complex of Buddhist stupas in Madhya Pradesh. Overlooking Halali River, it is one of the must include places in the Buddhist Circuit of Central India, and among the top places to visit near Sanchi.

As the Buddhist community flourished around Sanchi, new settlements of worshippers appeared in the region. Although these settlements had a physical and spiritual link to Sanchi, they also built their stupas and monasteries. There are four groups of stupas surrounding Sanchi within a radius of 20 km - Bhojpur and Andher to the southeast, Sonari to the southwest, and Satdhara in the west. Further south, about 100 km away, is Saru Maru.

There are 8 stupas spread across 28 acres of land on the banks of Halali River. The main stupa is almost as large as the Great Stupa of Sanchi and would have also been built during Emperor Ashoka's reign. The main Stupa of the site is similar to that of Sanchi having remains of railings. It is 13.65 m high excluding the platform with a diameter of 32.80 m. Recent excavations have revealed brick pradakshinapatha & staircase of the Stupa.

There are some ruins near the stupa comprising a monastery and temple remains which are collectively called siddh ka makaan which is indicative of Satdhara's most enlightened monks once having lived there.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bhopal: 42 Kms

At a distance of 19 km from Sanchi, Murel Khurd is an archaeological site of an ancient monastic complex of Buddhist stupas in Madhya Pradesh. Also known as Bhojpur Stupas, it is one of the must include places in Buddhist Circuit in Madhya Pradesh, and among the top places to visit near Sanchi.

As the Buddhist community flourished around Sanchi, new settlements of worshippers appeared in the region. Although these settlements had a physical and spiritual link to Sanchi, they also built their own stupas and monasteries. There are four groups of stupas surrounding Sanchi within a radius of 20 km - Bhojpur / Murel Khurd and Andher to the southeast, Sonari to the southwest, and Satdhara in the west. Further south, about 100 km away, is Saru Maru.

The Bhojpur Stupas, also called Murelkhurd Stupas are a group of about 37 stupas located at Bhojpur (Pipalia) near Murelkhurd on the top of a hill. All these stupas were discovered in the 19th century by Major Cunningham. The biggest stupa at the site has a 2.3 m hemisphere. The center of the stupas was hollow to accommodate small relics, and the stupa would have been wearing an umbrella. These stupas probably date from the 1st century BCE.

The stupas have had adorned relic caskets with relics of Buddhist educators and senior disciples. One of the reliquaries is made of rock crystal and comes in the form of a Buddhist stupa. Rock crystal, a material of extreme purity, was often used to make containers for sacred relics. ...

Distance from Bhopal: 62 Kms

At a distance of 13 km from Murel Khurd, and 30 km from Sanchi, Andher is an archaeological site of an ancient monastic complex of Buddhist stupas in Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the must include places in Buddhist Circuit in Madhya Pradesh, and among the top places to visit near Sanchi.

As the Buddhist community flourished around Sanchi, new settlements of worshippers appeared in the region. Although these settlements had a physical and spiritual link to Sanchi, they also built their own stupas and monasteries. There are four groups of stupas surrounding Sanchi within a radius of 20 km - Bhojpur / Murel Khurd and Andher to the southeast, Sonari to the southwest, and Satdhara in the west. Further south, about 100 km away, is Saru Maru.

The Andher Stupas are a group of three stupas perched atop a hill near Karhod village in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The site overlooks the magnificent Murel Khurd Stupas or Bhojpur Stupas. The Stupa No. 1 is dated to about 150 BCE and is the largest of the 3 stupas. This stupa has a railing that now has the remains of a barrier of stone surrounding it. Stupas No. 2 and No. 3 have inscriptions in the Brahmi script with the names of the same monks whose relics were found in Sanchi Stupa No. 2 and Sonari. Just like other Buddhist sites, stupas here also revealed the inscribed relic caskets but surprisingly all were empty.

Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free

Distance from Bhopal: 70 Kms