Top 10 Best Road Trips From Bhopal
Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, is not only steeped in its historical significance but also serves as a gateway to numerous enchanting destinations. From cascading waterfalls to ancient forts, the road trips from Bhopal offer a diverse range of destinations to explore.
Whether you're seeking a short escape or an extensive exploration, the roads leading from Bhopal promise adventures that cater to every traveller's desire.
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Best Road Trips From Bhopal: Within 100 km
Below is a glimpse into the top 10 road trips near Bhopal:
1. Raisen Fort | 43 km
With its massive walls, imposing gateways, and commanding views of the surrounding countryside, Raisen Fort offers a glimpse into the military prowess and architectural splendour of its medieval period.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Popularity: Ancient forts, palaces and panoramic views
- Activities to do: Fort and palace exploration and photography
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Raisen Fort
2. Bhimbhetka | 46 km
Located near the town of Bhopal, this ancient site is home to more than 700 rock shelters adorned with vibrant paintings depicting scenes from everyday life, hunting expeditions, and religious rituals dating back to the Mesolithic periods.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Popularity: Prehistoric cave paintings
- Activities to Do: Rock climbing, cave exploration, and wildlife spotting
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Bhimbhetka
3. Sanchi | 48 km
Home to one of the oldest and most well-preserved Buddhist stupas in the world, Sanchi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts history enthusiasts, archaeology buffs, and pilgrims from far and wide.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Popularity: Buddhist stupas and monuments
- Activities to Do: Heritage walks, meditation, and architectural tours
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Sanchi
4. Vidisha | 57 km
Steeped in history and adorned with architectural wonders, Vidisha is a quaint town located near Bhopal that offers a glimpse into India's glorious past through its ancient temples, monuments, and archaeological sites.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Popularity: Udayagiri Caves, Bija Mandal and Heliodorus Pillar
- Activities to do: Archaeological exploration
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Vidisha
5. Hoshangabad | 77 km
Nestled on the banks of the majestic Narmada River, Hoshangabad is a town renowned for its natural beauty. Surrounded by verdant forests and rolling hills, this picturesque destination offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Popularity: Sethani Ghat and Narmada River
- Activities to do: Boating, fishing and religious rituals
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Hoshangabad
Best Road Trips From Bhopal: Within 200 km
6. Ujjain | 189 km
Situated on the banks of the holy river Shipra, Ujjain is one of the oldest and most religious cities in India, steeped in mythological significance, spirituality, and cultural heritage. Ujjain is one of Hinduism's seven sacred cities.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Popularity: Mahakaleshwar Temple, Kumbh Mela and Ram Ghat
- Activities to do: Temple visits and river-side rituals
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Dewas - Ujjain
Best Road Trips From Bhopal: Within 300 km
7. Pachmari | 212 km
Tucked away in the Satpura Range of Madhya Pradesh, Pachmarhi is a picturesque hill station renowned for its natural beauty, tranquil lakes, and lush forests. This serves as an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Best Time to Visit: November to May
- Popularity: Waterfalls, caves, Chauragarh temple, and panoramic views
- Activities to Do: Trekking, camping, visiting temples, sightseeing, and paragliding
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Bareli - Pachmarhi
8. Mandu | 290 km
Nestled amidst the Vindhya Range in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh, Mandu is a historical gem that transports visitors back in time to the medieval era. It is dotted with spellbinding Afghan architecture set against a backdrop of lush landscapes.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- Popularity: Palaces, Mosques, step-wells and forts
- Activities to do: Visit Jahaz Mahal, Rani Roopmati Pavilion and Mandu Fort
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Indore - Mandu
Best Road Trips From Bhopal: Beyond 300 km
9. Dhuandhar Falls | 357 km
Dhuandhar Falls is a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty. The falls create a mesmerising misty spectacle, earning them the name "Dhuandhar," which translates to "smoke cascade."
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
- Popularity: Waterfalls and Marble Rocks
- Activities to do: Boating and photography
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Sagar - Dhuandhar Falls (Jabalpur)
10. Gwalior | 433 km
Gwalior, a historic city nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, is a treasure trove of majestic forts and palaces. Gwalior offers a captivating blend of architectural marvels and cultural heritage along the road trip from Bhopal.
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
- Popularity: Gwalior Fort, Jai Vilas Palace and Sun Temple
- Activities to do: Heritage walks, visit places and temples, and light & sound show at the fort
- Ideal Route: Bhopal - Guna - Gwalior
Road trips near Bhopal unveil the rich mosaic of India's heritage, natural splendour, and spiritual depth. Whether you wish to go on short road trips from Bhopal to places like Sanchi or Raisen fort or long route Bhopal road trip to Gwalior, these trips offer a canvas on which to paint memories that last a lifetime.
FAQs about Road Trips from Bhopal
What are some essential items to carry for a road trip from Bhopal?
Essential items for a road trip from Bhopal include a first-aid kit, snacks and water, a map or GPS device, car documents, and emergency tools like a flashlight and tyre repair kit.
Are there any safety tips to remember while on a road trip from Bhopal?
Yes, ensure your car is well-maintained, carry emergency supplies, and adhere to traffic rules for a safe road trip from Bhopal. Additionally, stay informed about weather conditions and avoid driving during late hours or in unfamiliar areas.
Are there any tolls to pay on the road trip routes from Bhopal?
Yes, tolls are typically encountered on the road trip routes from Bhopal, especially on national highways, major expressways and routes like Bhopal - Indore and Bhopal - Jabalpur.
Which is the famous road of Bhopal?
The famous road of Bhopal is the one leading to Sanchi, known for its historical significance and iconic monuments like the Sanchi Stupa.
How can I reach Sanchi from Bhopal?
You can reach Sanchi from Bhopal by road, as it's located approximately 48 km away.
Why is Sanchi Stupa famous?
Sanchi Stupa is famous for being one of the oldest and most well-preserved Buddhist monuments in India. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is revered for its architectural and historical significance.
How to reach Mandu from Bhopal?
To reach Mandu from Bhopal, you can travel by road, covering a distance of approximately 290 km.
How many days are required to visit Gwalior from Bhopal?
To visit Gwalior from Bhopal, typically, 2 to 3 days are required to explore the city's main attractions, including its historic fort, palaces, and museums.
Why is Ujjain crowded?
Ujjain is crowded due to its religious significance as one of the holiest cities in Hinduism, particularly for its association with the Kumbh Mela and the Mahakaleshwar Temple.
Which waterfall is near Bhopal?
Dhuandhar Falls is the nearest waterfall to Bhopal, located approximately 357 km away in Jabalpur. It is known for its breathtaking beauty and the misty effect created by the cascading water.
Which hill station is between Bhopal and Nagpur?
Panchmarhi is the hill station between Bhopal and Nagpur, situated approximately 212 km from Bhopal. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, lush forests, and serene surroundings.
Is Vidisha worth visiting?
Vidisha is worth visiting for its rich historical heritage, including ancient monuments like the Udayagiri Caves, Heliodorus Pillar, and Bijamandal Temple.
Which big city is near Pachmarhi?
The big city near Pachmarhi is Hoshangabad, located approximately 77 km away. It serves as a gateway to Pachmarhi and offers various amenities for travellers.
Which month is good for road trips from Bhopal?
The months of October to March are generally considered good for road trips from Bhopal, as the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.