Getting Around Indore. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transit Overview

Buses: Atal Indore City Transport Services Ltd. (AICTSL) operates a network of city buses. These include both standard and AC buses, covering routes across Indore.

Metro: The Indore Metro is currently under construction. Initial phases expect to become operational in segments in the coming years, with the first phase aiming for completion by 2024-2027. It is not currently operational for public use.

Bus System

AICTSL operates city buses.
Covers most major areas.
Tickets from conductors (INR 10-40).
Smart cards available for cashless travel.

Hours of Operation

Generally 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Frequency varies by route.

Route Maps & Hubs

Digital maps on AICTSL's website. Major hubs: Sarwate Bus Stand, Gangwal Bus Stand.

Accessibility

Limited accessibility qualities for mobility challenges on public buses.

Efficient Bus Travel

Navigation Tools

Use Google Maps for route planning.
Ask locals or conductors for directions.
Avoid peak hours for comfortable travel.

Payment & Fares

Paper tickets from conductors.
Fares INR 10-40 by distance.
AICTSL a smart passs for cashless payment.

Bus Travel Advice

Peak Hours

Congestion during morning and evening commutes.

Google Maps

Reliable for planning bus routes and timings.

Cash Payment

Keep small denominations for bus tickets.

Smart Cards

Consider for extended stays for convenience.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient and often quicker ways to get around Indore.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Ola Cabs and Uber are common and reliable.
Fares are dynamic; surge pricing can occur during peak hours.
Payment options: in-app (card/wallet) or cash to driver.
App displays fare before booking.

Safety Features

Driver and vehicle details provided.
Trip tracking and share trip details.
Customer support available.
Always choose licensed vehicles.

Auto-Rickshaws & Airport Taxis

Auto-rickshaws: Three-wheeled vehicles, main local transport.
Negotiate fare before journey or insist on meter.
Potential overcharging for foreigners.

Airport: Pre-paid taxi counters inside the terminal, or Ola/Uber.
Railway/Bus Stations: Auto-rickshaw stands, Ola/Uber services.
Arrange hotel transfers for convenience.

Rental Options

Car Rentals

Self-drive (Zoomcar, Revv) requires IDP/Indian license, passport, credit card. Car with driver is highly recommended.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Local shops offer rentals. Valid license (Indian preferred), security deposit needed. Helmets are mandatory.

Specialty Vehicles

Auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) are a main local transport mode. No cable cars or funiculars.

Walking & Cycling

Explore parts of Indore on foot or by bicycle for a closer look at the city.

Walking Routes

Pedestrian-friendly areas: Chappan Dukan, parts of Rajwada.
Newer developments and parks may have walking paths.
Old city areas can be congested with narrow streets.
Guided food walks popular in Sarafa Bazaar, Chappan Dukan.

Cycling Info

Dedicated bicycle limited infrastructure.
Cycling on main roads can be hazardous as a result of traffic congestion.
Heavy traffic roads and highways are generally not suitable for pedestrians or cyclists.
No widespread city-wide bicycle sharing program.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Services

Some private tour operators offer touring the city tours.

No hop-on-hop-off service

Water Transportation

Not applicable within Indore city.

Lakes within parks offer boating

Unique Transport

No cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport types.

Auto-rickshaws common

Accessibility Services

Limited Features

Accessibility services generally limited.
Public transport is not wheelchair-friendly.
Some upscale hotels and newer public buildings may have ramps and elevators.

Challenges Ahead

Overall infrastructure has challenges for mobility-impaired travelers.
Planning private transport can significantly add to comfort.
Research certain accessible venues in advance.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Speed limits vary.
Seatbelts are mandatory.
Roads can be congested with potholes in some areas.

Assigned parking lots are available (often for a fee).
Street parking is common but it's possible to be challenging.
Self-driving is generally not recommended for tourists.
Traffic can be chaotic, unfamiliar road rules.

Navigating Challenges

Indore's infrastructure, while developing, has challenges for travelers with mobility needs. Public transportation often lacks features for wheelchair access.

Planning ahead and considering private drivers can significantly add to ease and comfort for these travelers.

Where to Stay in Indore

Next Up: Where to Stay in Indore. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation

Continue to Where to Stay in Indore