Madhya Pradesh is one of the best states in India for budget travel. Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or with family, MP offers beautiful destinations where you can enjoy nature + culture + history without spending too much money.

1) Bhopal – The Best Budget City Trip

Bhopal is a low-cost travel destination where you can explore lakes, museums and local food easily.

Best places to visit

  • Upper Lake (Boat Club area)
  • Van Vihar National Park
  • Tribal Museum
  • Birla Mandir
  • Old Bhopal food street (for snacks)

2) Sanchi – Cheap UNESCO Heritage Day Trip

Sanchi is one of the most peaceful and affordable heritage places near Bhopal.

Top attraction

  • Sanchi Stupa (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Best for: 1-day trip, students, history lovers
Budget tip: Go by bus/shared taxi from Bhopal.

3) Bhimbetka – Caves + Nature in One Trip

Bhimbetka is one of MP’s hidden gems. You get heritage + forest vibes together.

What to do

  • Explore ancient rock shelters & paintings
  • Short forest walk

Why budget: It can be done as a half-day trip from Bhopal.

4) Ujjain – One of the Best Budget Spiritual Places

Ujjain is perfect for a short religious trip and is very affordable.

Must visit

  • Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
  • Ram Ghat (aarti time is beautiful)
  • Harsiddhi Temple

Why budget: Low-cost hotels/dharamshala + cheap food.

5) Omkareshwar – Peaceful Narmada River Trip

Omkareshwar is one of the best low-budget travel destinations near Indore.

Things to do

  • Omkareshwar temple darshan
  • Walk along ghats
  • Small boat ride (optional)

Best for: 1–2 day trip
Budget tip: Travel by bus from Indore/Khandwa.

6) Mandu – MP’s Best Budget Heritage Place

Mandu (near Dhar) is a dream destination for history and photography lovers.

Best attractions

  • Jahaz Mahal
  • Hindola Mahal
  • Hoshang Shah Tomb
  • Roopmati Pavilion (best sunset views)

Why budget-friendly: Most spots are close and local travel is cheap.

7) Orchha – Beautiful Budget Town Near Jhansi

Orchha is a peaceful river town full of temples and forts.

Best things to see

  • Orchha Fort Complex
  • Ram Raja Temple
  • Chaturbhuj Temple
  • Betwa River views

Why budget: Cheap stays and walkable sightseeing areas.

8) Jabalpur – Waterfalls + Marble Rocks on a Budget

Jabalpur is a great low-cost nature trip destination.

Top places

  • Bhedaghat Marble Rocks
  • Dhuandhar Falls

Budget tip: Plan a 1-day trip to Bhedaghat for maximum savings.

9) Pachmarhi – Budget Hill Station Trip (With Smart Planning)

Pachmarhi can be budget-friendly if you avoid peak days and plan well.

Must visit

  • Bee Falls
  • Dhoopgarh sunset point
  • Cave areas + forest viewpoints

How to make it budget

  • Visit on weekdays
  • Choose budget hotels/hostels
  • Use shared vehicles for sightseeing

2–3 Day Budget Itinerary Ideas (MP)

Budget Plan 1 (Bhopal Side) – 2 Days

Day 1: Bhopal sightseeing + food
Day 2: Sanchi + Bhimbetka

Budget Plan 2 (Indore Side) – 2 Days

Day 1: Ujjain
Day 2: Omkareshwar

Budget Plan 3 (Jhansi Side) – 2 Days

Day 1: Orchha Fort + temples
Day 2: Betwa River + local market + return