If you are traveling to Madhya Pradesh then do not forgot to visit the beautiful city of Ratlam The city located on the north western part of the state is one of the important cities in the Malwa Region. The city founded by Captain Borthwick in the year 1892 is the headquarter of Ratlam district. Ratlam was once famous for the trade of opium and tobacco. After independence the city experienced further growth in its architecture and urbanization. Apart from being an important city, it is an amazing tourist spot for the curious travelers . If you are planning for a holiday in Madhya Pradesh then Ratlam is a good option to plan your visit.
A Brief History of Ratlam
The history of Ratlam dates back to Mughal times when Maharaja Ratan Singh saved Shah Jahan , the then Emperor of India from an elephant in Ratlam. The Emperor impressed by bravery made him the King of the state Ratlam. The city was then known as Ratnapuri . The credit for founding the modern city goes to Captain Borthwick in 1829 as his initial alternative to create a business hub in Malwa region. Ratlam emerged as one of key commercial city due to its tobacco and salt trade. It was also famous for its special Sattas which was a kind of bargain. In British India it was a princely state and after independence it was added to the state of Madhya Pradesh.
Helplines and Important Contact Numbers
Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.
Paryatan Bhawan, Bhadbhada Road,
Bhopal 462 003. INDIA.
Tel.:+91-755-2778383/2774340,42,43,44
Fax: +91-755-2779476/2774289.
E-mail: [email protected]
Helplines and Important Contact Numbers
Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.Paryatan Bhawan, Bhadbhada Road,
Bhopal 462 003. INDIA.
Tel.:+91-755-2778383/2774340,42,43,44
Fax: +91-755-2779476/2774289.
E-mail: [email protected]
Best Time to Visit Ratlam
Best time to plan your trip to Ratlam is between October to March . During these months of the year the weather remains pleasant letting you enjoy your holidays at fullest. There are many Travel agents and Tour Operators to ensure a safe and hassle free movements around the beautiful city of Ratlam. Few famous Travel agents and Tour Operators are named below.Places to Visit in Ratlam
The city of Ratlam is adorned by classic and modern architecture. From amazing ancient monuments to well built houses of modern day, Ratlam offers a wide variety of tourist spots ranging from places of devotion to variety of sightseeing option.
- Cactus Garden Sailana
- Dholawad Dam
- Kharmour Bird Sanctuary
- Bilapakeshwara Temple
- Kalikamata Temple
- Kedareshwar Temple
- Piploda Village
- Sukheda Village
- Siva Temple
- Jhar
Cactus Garden
Ratlam is surrounded by many picnic spots and one amongst them is Cactus Garden. The beautiful garden houses various exotic species of cactus spread over an extensive area. The garden attracts thousand of visitors every day. The lush green garden has become a great tourist destination. Counted amongst popular sightseeing attractions Cactus Garden is situated 21 km away from the district of Ratlam, on the Ratlam-Banswara Highway. The garden and the ruins of Sailana Palace serves as a beautiful picnic spot in the city. Being one of the largest Cactus garden in Asia it has collection of over 1200 species of cactus, with 50 species being Indian. Important species of cactus present at this garden include bulb cactus, bell cactus, snake cactus, old man cactus, peacock feather cactus, etc.
Dholawad Dam
The dam is an amazing tourist spot for nature lovers. The serene and beautiful landscape amidst huge water fall attracts visitors from far and wide. The dam serves as a beautiful picnic spot and is a must visit place in Ratlam. The dam is located 15 Km from Ratlam , near Dholawad village. Enjoy fishing with your stick or enjoy water sports in the dam area. In recent times the Dholawad dam have emerged as a popular destination for water sports and adventure sports lovers. Many clubs take their members to explore the areas in and around the dam. The flora and fauna of the area surrounding the dam adds aura to the surroundings.
Kharmour Bird Sanctuary
Kharmour Bird Sanctuary situated in Sailana Village in Ratlam district is spread over an area of 13 sq km. The famous Sanctuary established in 1983 is named after the ‘Kharmour’ bird, a very rare species. Here you can spot variety of exotic migratory birds. It is also one of the breeding habitats of Lesser Florican in India. While visiting this beautiful place you can also plan your trip to nearby Kedareshwar Temple and the Cactus Garden. Best time to visit the place is between the months of July and September. No doubt this place is heaven for nature lovers.
Timing: 10 am to 6 pm
Admission Fees: INR 5 per person
Timing: 10 am to 6 pm
Admission Fees: INR 5 per person
Veerupaksh Mahadev Temple, Bilpauk
The famous temple is located 18 kilometers away from the city. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built in Pachayatana style. The monument was build in the 11th century A.D. The temple is divided into sections like Garbhagriha, Antarala and a Mahamandapa with each facing east. This temple is a glaring example of Gurjara-Chalukyan style prevalent in those days.
Siva Temple
The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located 12 kms, East of Bhatpachalana in Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh. The temple was known for the several natural water falls which inspired the name “Jhar” that comes from a Hindi word “Jharna”. The ruins temple is a perfect example of Bhumija style which assigned to the Paramara period i.e., 11th century A.D. The sculptures of this temple can be found lying scattered around the site.
Kalikamata Temple
Kalikamata temple is one of the most famous temples in the city of Ratlam. The temple comprises of three Goddesses. The statues of the Goddesses are beautifully carved and give the sense of ancient architecture. The temple is open only till 9 PM every night. The temple is well surrounded by shops which attract many for their religious stuffs.
Jhar
The beautiful town of Jhar is situated in east of Ratlam District. The name comes from the presence of several waterfalls in the town situated in the lap of nature. Along with the water springs, the city gives the glimpse of its golden past with the Ruins of ancient temples and buildings.
Kedareshwar Temple
It is an another amazing shiv temple located in the vicinity of Sailana village near by Ratlam district. The shiv idol lies in the temple shaped man made cave. The igneous rock has been carved out to form a temple dedicated to lord Shiva.Mostly people prefers to visit the temple in monsoon season as the beauty gets enhanced with the springs and waterfalls near the temple.
Piploda Village
The village of Piploda possess a huge significance in history as during the period of 16th century it served as the capital of Dodiya Clan . The village also had a fort which was earlier ruled by Dodiya clan. In recent times the place has emerged as famous picnic spot.
Sukheda Village
The village of Sukheda which is located near the district of Ratlam is famous for the Khedapati Hanuman Tekari Cave. The near by ancient Somnath temple also enhances the glory of the famous tourist spot.
Ratlam Travel Tips
While visiting to Ratlam, following tips must be kept in mind to ensure hassle free stay in the city:
- Always book a hotel before actually landing in the city
- Always carry all your documents and money while you are traveling
- Carrying a map or GPS device is very helpful in navigation directions
- Do not forget to carry an Identity proof
- While your travel in city avoid loitering in lonely lanes
- Always keep emergency numbers with you while traveling
- Remember to carry a small medical kit with you
How to Reach Ratlam ?
Ratlam does not have its own airport.The nearest airport to the city is ‘Ahilyabai Holkar Airport' of Indore. From there you can hire a car, taxi or bus to reach the city of Ratlam. The city is well connected with railway network and is a part of the central railways. Ratlam has the rail connectivity with most of the metro cities. It is Divisional head quarters of Western Railway Zone. There are four major railway tracks passing through Ratlam City, leading to Mumbai, Delhi, Ajmer and Khandwa. It is one of the busiest railway stations in India. The city of Ratlam is well connected with roads and highways. It is easier to reach the city via road. The direct buses from other cities like Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain operates frequently in these routes. It is connected by National Highway 79.
Where to Stay in Ratlam ?
With the large influx of tourist in the city, Ratlam offers a great variety of deluxe and luxury accommodation facilities in the well maintained hotel and suites to ensure your pleasant stay. The wide variety of accommodation facility allows you to plan your stay in this city. Some of the famous hotels in Ratlam are listed below. Book any one of these to make your stay pleasant.
Address- Ajanta talkies road, Ratlam
Phone– 07412 - 240890
Palash Hotel
Address- Mhow Neemuch Road, Ratlam
Phone– 07412 236971
Hotel Central
Address- Do Batti, New Road, Ratlam
Phone– 07412 230536
Hotel Golden Tower
Address- Near Royal Collage, Mhow Road, Ratlam
Phone– 07412 240602
Ashirwad Palace Hotel
Address- Station Road, Ratlam
Phone– 07412 221321
Hotel Sagar Palace
Address- Daat Kie Pool, Railway Colony Main Road, Shastri Nagar, Ratlam,
Madhya Pradesh 457001
Phone– 07412 231 418
Golden Tower Hotel
Address- Near Royal Collage, Parisarmhow Road, Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh ?
Phone– 07412 240 602
Maa Kalika Guest House
Address- Near Ankur Hotel, Freeganj Rd, Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh
Phone– 07412 238 173
Where to Shop in Ratlam ?
The city is famous for its market. The special food and clothing are the key attractions of Ratlam. Along with gold which is sold majorly in the shops, Sarees are also very popular in Ratlam. Few of the key market places in Ratlam are Kothari Market , Gulab Market , Akhanda Gyan Ashram Market and others. From beautiful handicraft items to apparels, footers, leather bags you can find all and more in this part of Madhya Pradesh. One thing is sure that shopping in Ratlam can be an exciting for any avid shopper.
Transportation in Ratlam
In the city of Ratlam, one can use the public transportation facilities to travel. Major means of public transportation are buses. These buses help you to reach the various parts of the city . The auto and private rickshaws also is a good alternative to save time while traveling. If you are worried about the availability of the vehicles and you are afraid of the crowd in public transport then you can hire a cab or rent a car for your travel in the city.