Ratlam lies in Madhya Pradesh which is 140 kilometers from Indore. The best tourist place to visit in Ratlam is Bandhavgarh. Earlier, the city was known as Ratnapuri, and it was famous for the trade of opium and tobacco. Following independence, the city’s architecture and urbanization expanded further. Presently, besides being an important city, Ratlam is also a fantastic tourist destination for everyone visiting Madhya Pradesh.
If you are planning to visit Ratlam then we have prepared a list of the top 10 must-visit destinations for you so that you can have the most out of this place.
History of Ratlam
Its history dates back to Mughal times when Maharaja Ratan Singh saved Shah Jahan from an elephant in Ratlam. Shah Jahan was impressed by his bravery. So, appointed as the King of Ratlam. This city is a witness to many Marwari rulers.
Cultural Places to Visit in Ratlam
Jhar village
This is a small village or hamlet in the Ratlam District of Madhya Pradesh. This lovely town derives its name from the presence of several waterfalls in its vicinity. A visit to this city will provide you with a glimpse of its golden past. It is a blend of ancient temples and buildings. Jhar village is located in the midst of nature, and while admiring the natural formations here, you can also take a dip in the water springs. Therefore, this village is ideal for anyone looking to experience the rustic side of Ratlam.
Wildlife Places to Visit in Ratlam
The Kharmour Bird Sanctuary
It lies at Sailana Village in the Ratlam district and covers an area of 13 square kilometers. This well-known sanctuary was founded in the year 1983. It is named after the ‘Kharmour’ bird, among very rare bird species. You can see a wide range of exotic migratory birds in this sanctuary. It is also one of the Lesser Florican’s breeding grounds in India. Also, you can plan a trip to Kedareshwar Temple and the Cactus Garden while visiting Kharmour bird sanctuary. The best time to visit the area is between July and September. Without a doubt, this is a paradise for nature lovers.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Tickets: ₹5 per person
Religious Places to visit in Ratlam
Veerupaksh Mahadev Temple
The Veerupaksh Mahadev Temple is one of the most famous temples in Ratlam. This medieval temple is just 18 kilometers away from the city center. It was constructed in the eleventh century AD. But, it still remains a signature of aesthetics. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is divided into sections that face east. Some of these include the Garbhagriha, Antarala, and Maha Mandapa.
This temple is a striking example of the Gurjara-Chalukyan style architecture that was popular earlier. Also, the complex of this temple is rich in history and culture, and it is indeed one of the must-visit places located around Ratlam.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Kedareshwar Cave Temple
It is a beautiful Lord Shiva Temple, carved out of a single ingenious rock. The Kedareshwar cave temple is a fine example of magnificent architecture. Also, it’s a perfect spot for adventure in Ratlam. This temple is surrounded by scenic hills, making the air in the valley relaxing and spiritual.
The months of July and September are considered the best for visiting this location because they offer the best views of the valley’s lush greenery. Also, visitors can experience streams, waterfalls, and mysterious caves near this temple.
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season
Mahalakshmi Temple

The Mahalakshmi Temple in Ratlam is a small but significant religious site for Hindus. During the major Hindu festival of Diwali, this temple is lavishly decorated with cash, silver, and gold ornaments. On Diwali, devotees believe that offering their valuables to the presiding deity will grant their wishes. This structure is perfect for feeling the spiritual air as the sounds of bells and aarti devices give you a feeling of spiritual upliftment. Also, this temple surrounds by bustling markets, allowing visitors to explore Ratlam and collect artifacts and souvenirs that reflect the city’s rich heritage.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Kalika Mata Mandir
It’s a perfect place that represents carving on walls and sculptures. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Ratlam. The temple attracts historians as well as followers of Hinduism from all over the world. Every day, hundreds of devotees flock to the temple. Also, the statues of three goddesses inside this temple are a perfect example of ancient architecture. And, this temple is surrounded by lush green gardens, making it an ideal spot for discovering the true essence of Ratlam’s rich culture.
Nature Places to visit in Ratlam
Bandhavgarh National Park
It is within the arms of the Vindhya Hills, Bandhavgarh National Park is a famous tiger hotspot because of its highest tiger population in India. Due to its natural richness, Bandhavgarh National Park was the former hunting preserve of the former Maharaja of Rewa. However, today the park is one of the few remaining natural hotspots for white tigers. Also, a unique mixture of slopes and valleys is available within this park. And, the best season to visit this park is from months of November to June.

Timing: Morning shift- 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM; Afternoon shift- 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Ticket: Safari charges INR 1000 per person
Cactus Garden
This Garden in Ratlam is a unique tourist attraction that lies just 21 kilometers from Ratlam city center. The cactus garden of Ratlam has a large collection of extremely rare cacti varieties. Also, the cactus garden is part of the Sailana palace and is the largest cactus garden in Asia. This garden has preserved over 1200 plant species while also providing an inspiring display of both indigenous and migrant plant species. If you enjoy nature, the Cactus Garden of Ratlam will impress you with the variety of cactus plants grown in this large park.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Ticket: 20 rupees per person
Dholawad Dam
The Dholawad dam is a fantastic tourist place to visit in Ratlam. It attracts nature lovers from all over the world because it is situated amidst a massive waterfall. This dam is around 15 kilometers from Ratlam, near Dholawad village. The Dholawad dam of Ratlam has recently emerged as a popular destination for water sports and adventure sports. Also, the flora and fauna of the dam’s surroundings make it a wonderful place to visit in Ratlam. And, this dam is a peaceful and beautiful setting. So, it is a beautiful picnic spot and the best tourist place to visit in Ratlam.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Towns and Villages to visit in Ratlam
- Piploda Village
- Sukheda Village
- Ganga Sagar
FAQ’s about Tourist Place in Ratlam
Q1. Which are the best places to visit in Ratlam?
Bandhavgarh park, Kharmor bird sanctuary, and Dholawad dam are some of the most popular tourist places in Ratlam.
Q2. How much time does it take to visit Ratlam’s popular spots?
It may take approximately 2 days at least to visit all the famous places in the city.
Q3. Are there religious places in Ratlam?
Yes. there are temples to visit in Ratlam. These are Mahalakshmi temple, Kalika mata temple, Veerupaksh temple, and many more.
Q4. Which are best hotels in Ratlam?
For bookings, please contact us to get the best hotels.