It is certainly possible make a day trip to Mandu from Indore, but we strongly suggest that you spend a night here. Accommodation is limited so if you’re visiting during the season, it might be better to call and book in advance.
Lots of foreigners converge on Mandu in the winter but the local tourist season is during the monsoon in July-August. If you take a tourist coach from Indore the admission charge will be included in the fare.

Get a copy of the Archaeological Survey of India’s excellent guidebook Mandu for Rs 11 from the Taveli Mahal in the Royal Enclave.
If you are on your own a local guide might come handy. You’ll find many loitering around the bus stand offering their services. Decide the fee beforehand.

¤ Transport

Inter-city
There are lots of buses to Mandu from Dhar from 0530-1800hrs. Dhar can easily be accessed from Indore. There is a direct bus from Indore too. Otherwise you can always book yourself on a guided tour from Indore.

Mandu can be reached from Bhopal too but via Indore. There are no direct buses to Mandu from Ujjain either. Once again you’ll have to get to Indore first where the buses stop near the Jama Masjid.
If all of the above sounds too erratic or if you prefer to move at your own pace, get together a group and hire your own cab. An overnight stay at Mandu means another full day’s charge. It is best to organize such a trip through your hotel or MP Tourism.

Intra-city
Once you reach Mandu you can hire a bicycle from the shop on the south of the Jama Masjid . Cycling to the monuments is an excellent way of seeing them as they are spread out over an area of 21 sq km and the terrain is relatively flat. For those who can manage it, walking is another good option. Be sure to pack in a bottle or two of mineral water. Autos or tempos can be hired from around the bus stand but those fellows will probably try to fleece you, so watch out!