The cosmopolitan city, Indore, is a busy place where everyone is running towards achieving their goals and fulfilling their dream. However, the tiring days and city chaos is sometimes more than enough to put up with. It is here when one desires some day off in peace and tranquillity. Thankfully there are several hill stations near Indore serving as the ideal escapades to enjoy a laid-back holiday in nature's lap.

These places have topped the definition of lush valleys, verdant green, and serene lakes. Keep reading to know more about these places and what they offer.

Offering the required escape from the mundane life, some of the top hill stations near Indore will fill you with an adrenaline rush while leading you to a spiritual path. The destinations offer a surreal vibe that will drench your soul in calmness. So, let's now look at the list to get more ideas:

1. Khandala

If you are already humming the famous Bollywood song, you know how big a deal is to visit Khandala. Cuddled in the foothills of the Sahyadri ranges, Khandala is the perfect honeymoon spot. It features vast stretches of green valleys, pristine lake views and gushing waterfalls. Apart from this, this little hamlet 632 km away from Indore is also surrounded by abundant flora and fauna.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Top Things to Do: Refreshing Yourself Under the Falls, Trekking up to the Forts, Seeking Blessings at the Temple, Light Hiking, Sightseeing, Birdwatching
• Top Places to Visit: Tiger's Leap, Pavana Lake, Lohagad Fort, Duke's Nose, Bhaja Caves, Kune Waterfalls, Shingroba Temple, Bushi Dam
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 13,000 to ₹ 14,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

2. Lonavala

Lonavala is a top option to escape the maddening rush of the metropolises. This beautiful retreat packed with views of the urban cityscape, valleys covered in green blanket and peaks of the misty hills is a treat to nature lovers. It is 636 km from Indore and well connected by roads and rails. The place boasts natural untamed beauty and is crowned by enchanting waterfalls.

• Best Time to Visit: October to May
• Top Things to Do: Sightsee, Stroll through the Park, Hot Air Balloon Safari, Camping at the Lake, Admire Waterfalls, Trek to Duke's Nose, Try Light Hiking
• Top Places to Visit: Lohagad Fort, Tikona Fort, Pavana Lake, Lion's Point, Della Adventure Park, Bushi Dam, Kune Falls, Ryewood Park
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 13,000 to ₹ 14,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

3. Mount Abu

The pride of Rajasthan, Mount Abu, is a beautiful hill station snuggled in the mighty ranges of the Aravalli. It is adorned with green surroundings and loaded with the beauty of pristine lakes, a heritage of ancient temples or forts and majestic architecture. Apart from this, there are many adrenaline-boosting activities to try for adventure enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: November to March
• Top Things to Do: Rowing Boat at Nakki Lake, Camping, Exploring Wildlife, Praying at Temple, Trekking, Light Hiking
• Top Places to Visit: Guru Shikhar, Nakki Lake, Dilwara Jain Temple, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunset Point, Peace Park, Treavour's Tank Toad Rock, Abu Road
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 7,000 to ₹ 10,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

4. Matheran

Matheran, meaning 'forest on the forehead,' is one of the smallest hill stations of the Western Ghats, perching at an altitude of 800 m above sea level. It is at a distance of 599 km from Indore and is sure to deliver you a wonderful weekend. Its top drawcard includes Panoramic Point, where you can witness the 360-degree sight of nature. Additionally, there are other spots to discover.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Strolling through the Lake, City Shopping, Witnessing Sights from Viewpoints, Trekking up to Forts, Hiking, Photography
• Top Places to Visit: Alexander Point, Echo Point, Monkey Point, Prabal Fort, Louisa Point, Panorama Point, Charlotte Lake, Honeymoon Hill
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 15,000 to ₹ 16,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

5. Toranmal

Toranmal, nestled in nature's lap, is blessed with some of the best components of mother earth. It is located amidst the mighty ranges of Sahyadri and at a distance of 221 km from Indore. Standing at 1150 m, it allows you to peek at abundant greenery, pristine lakes and mystical hills from its viewpoint. Lastly, there are lots of attractions to discover.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year
• Top Things to Do: Seeking Prayer at the Temples, Strolling Beside the Lake, Shopping, Sightseeing, Photography
• Top Places to Visit: Sunset Point, Yashwant Lake, Lotus Lake, Check Dam, Sita Khai, Gorakhnath Temple
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 6,000 per person cab cost for a round trip (1 Night/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

6. Pachmarhi

Sitting proudly on a throne of a rocky cliff, Pachmarhi, also known as the 'Queen of the Saputara', boasts about its rich history, thick forest and heritage. It is blessed with calming pools, glistering waterfalls, soaring mountain cliffs, and soft riverbeds. Not to mention, it is only 403 km from Indore, so you can even consider it for your weekend plan.

• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• Top Things to Do: Seek Blessing in Shiva Shrine, Admire Falls, Picnic at Apsara Vihar, Trekking, Sightseeing, Photography
• Top Places to Visit: Dhoopgar, Satpura National Park, Bee Falls, Pandava Caves, Jata Shankar Caves, Handi Khoh, Mahadeo Hill
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 10,000 to ₹ 11,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

7. Igatpuri

Igatpuri is a little hill station near Indore honoured with beautiful magnificence and a haven for aficionados and nature lovers. Located at a distance of 463 km from the city, it serves as an ideal escape for people to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are several things to admire about this place, like its pleasant weather, indescribable beauty and tranquillity.

• Best Time to Visit: December to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking to Kalsubai Peak, Visiting Vipassana Centre, Exploring Fort, Offering Prayer at the Temple, Sightseeing, Hiking
• Top Places to Visit: Bhatsa River Valley, Ghatandevi Temple, Camel Valley, Tringalwadi
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 9,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

8. Bhandardara

Situated at a distance of 490 km, Bhandardara is one of the top destinations to consider for Indore residents if they are looking to experience tranquillity and serenity. It is considered the Queen of Sahyadri, blessed with greens, thick forest and a majestic background of the hills. This, combined with the beauty of the flowing river, pristine surroundings and dam, puts a cherry on top.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June
• Top Things to Do: Discovering Dam, Admiring Falls, Boating at Arthur Lake, Sightseeing, Trekking, Photography
• Top Places to Visit: Wilson Dam, Randha Falls, Umbrella Falls, Ratanwadi Village, Arthur Lake, Kalsubai Peak
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 9,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

9. Suryamal

Tucked away in the outskirts of Thane, Suryamal is another great option to visit with your family, friend or partner. This village sprawls over 15 acres covering forests and valleys. However, the major highlight that allures tourists to this place is its weather and the fact it contains the highest peak in the region. Moreover, it is only 501 km from Indore.

• Best Time to Visit: November to February
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Wildlife Safari, Sightseeing, Birdwatching, Photography, Exploring Forts
• Top Places to Visit: Vaitarna Dam, Ashoka Falls, Deoband Temple, Vihigaon Waterfall, Karoli Ghat, Suryamal Peak, Lenyadri Caves
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 600 to ₹ 800 per person cab cost (One day trip)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

10. Jawhar

If you are a big fan of euphoric experiences and the untamed backdrop of nature, then you will go Ga-Ga over this little hamlet. Lying amidst the Western Ghats, this little town wins the race when comparing panoramic exquisiteness. In addition, it has a vibrant culture, picturesque beauty, and profound artistry. Having said that, don't forget to buy 'Warli Paintings' as your souvenir.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Hike Up to the Fort, Witness Sun Fading into the Horizon, Try Jungle Hiking, Trekking, Sightseeing, Praying
• Top Places to Visit: Dabdaba Falls, Jai Vilas Palace, Hanuman Point, Shirpamal, Sunset Point, Jain Mandir
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 to ₹ 2,000 per person overall (Day trip)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

11. Ratanwadi

This little hamlet, located 504 km from Indore, is one of the best hill stations if you are seeking an escapade of a life. This town contains not more than 20 to 30 petite houses and is structured as a place from a fairy-tale. It is the home to the famous Shiva Temple Amruteshwar and the legendary Ratangad Fort. Also, it serves as the gateway to peace for many.

• Best Time to Visit: October to December
• Top Things to Do: Trekking, Offering Prayer at Temples, Boating at Lake, Attending Carnivals, Sightseeing, Strolling through the Valleys
• Top Places to Visit: Wilson Dam, Sandhan Valley, Ratangad Fort, Arthur Hill Lake, Amruteshwar Temple, Kedareshwar Caves
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 1,500 to ₹ 2,000 per person overall (Day trip)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

12. Malshej Ghat

To witness the most beautiful form of nature, you must visit Malshej Ghat. It is located 550 km from Indore and is a top choice to visit with family, friends or partners. This place shows the perfect amalgamation of nature's best elements, including sky-high waterfalls, mighty peaks of the hills, elevated slopes, and greenery. It is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

• Best Time to Visit: June to September
• Top Things to Do: Camping, Birdwatching, Enjoying Waterfall, Trekking, Witnessing Dam, Sightseeing, Hiking, Boating
• Top Places to Visit: Pawna Lake, Pimpalgaon Joga Dam, Ajoba Hill Fort, Malshej Falls, Harishchandragad Fort
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 8,000 per person overall (1 Nights/2 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

13. Chikhaldara

Located in the district of Amravati, Chikhaldhara is another picturesque hill station near Indore at a distance of 281 km. Imagine waking up to the fresh smell of coffee beans. It is possible here as it is the sole coffee estate zone of Maharashtra and a host to varied species, including animals, birds, plants, etc. All in all, it is adorned by nature's best elements.

• Best Time to Visit: October to February
• Top Things to Do: Visiting Museum, Exploring Forts, Witnessing Viewpoints, Clicking Picture, Trying Local Delicacies, Birdwatching
• Top Places to Visit: Amner Fort, Kalapani Lake, Gawilgarh Fort, Bhimkund, Muktagiri, Narnala Fort
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 9,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

14. Saputara

Saputara, meaning the abode of serpents, is a hidden gem of the Western Ghats lying amidst the Sahyadri ranges. It perches at 1000 m and is located at a distance of 328 km from Indore. People come here from different parts to witness the true art form, rich green woodlands, stunning winding streets and other marvels.

• Best Time to Visit: March to November
• Top Things to Do: Boating, Trekking, Sightseeing, Discovering Village Art, Exploring National Parks, Witnessing Sunrise and Sunset
• Top Places to Visit: Hatgadh Fort, Artist Village, Sunrise and Sunset Point, Vansda National Park, Gira Falls, Saputara Lake
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 11,000 to ₹ 12,000 per person overall (2 Nights/3 Days)
• How to Reach: By road, by train, by air

15. Mandu

If looking at hill stations near Indore within 100 km, Mandu will be the perfect place where you must visit to enjoy the spellbinding beauty of architectural brilliance. It is located at a distance of 98 km and is also famous as Fortress town near Indore. It also boasts about the oldest erected monument in India and other structures of great importance in history.

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• Top Things to Do: Seek Blessing at the Temple, Explore Fort, Witness the Beauty of the Mahal, Discover History of Monuments, Click Photos
• Top Places to Visit: Jahaz Mahal, Rani Rupati's Pavilion, Jami Masjid, Baz Bahadur's Palace, Hindola Mahal, Jain Temple, Ashrafi Mahal, Hoshang's Tomb
• Average Cost of the Vacation: ₹ 2,000 to ₹ 3,000 per person overall (Day trip)
• How to Reach: By road

To live life to the fullest, people must maintain a balance between work life and mental peace. So, makes sure you are giving your brain the required peace by travelling to these hill stations near Indore during short holidays. These places are blessed with nature's best elements and will surely fill you with excitement. However, don't forget to consider the pointers to make a well-informed plan.