Travel Guide to Bhopal is the “City of Lakes” and the capital city of the state of Madhya Pradesh. Known for landmarks and great lakes and rich in cultural heritage, this capital blends modernity with the traditional in a unique manner.
Travel Guide to Bhopal – Must-see attractions
- Upper Lake: This is a picturesque lake, ideal for boating and picnics. The upper lake offers enchanting views, especially during sunset.
- Taj-ul-Masajid: It is one of the largest mosques in India, renowned for its breath-taking architecture and minute details.
- Bhopal State Museum: It is a treasure house of artifacts and presentations that unveiled the rich history and culture of that region.
Do you know? There are over 20 lakes in the city, and thus Bhopal is known to be the "City of Lakes."
Things To Do and Experience
Sanchi Stupa: This is one of the world’s most important heritage sites nearby, famous for ancient stupas of Buddhism and the richness it holds in history.
Visit the local markets of Chowk and New Market to shop for handicrafts and textiles.
Witness festivals like Bhopal Utsav that feature cultural performances, food stalls, and local crafts.
Cultural Importance: Bhopal has rich heritage in crafts and food items, which also include Bhopali biryani.
Essential Travel Tips
Best Season to Visit: October and March to see pleasant weather when sightseeing would be easier.
Getting Around: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for local transport; buses are another option for the budget-conscious traveler.
Safety Tips: Bhopal is generally a safe city, but keep your wits about you in crowded areas and be mindful of your belongings.
Where to Eat and Stay
- Dining: You can savor local fare at these places, Biryani House and Manohar Dairy.
- Accommodation: The place offers a range of alternatives from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Worth trying are Jehan Numa Palace and Hotel Lakeview Ashok.
Here are five reasons to visit Bhopal:
Bhopal was fondly termed the “City of Lakes” – boasting some of the most picturesque lakes like the Upper Lake and Lower Lake, where you can take a scenic boat ride during sunset and escape into peacefulness in the heart of the city.
It boasts some of the most impressive historical places in India – it is home to the great Taj-ul-Masajid, one of the largest mosques in India, and the beautiful Gohar Mahal, engravings the Bhopal city with rich architectural and cultural heritage.
Bhopal also opens access to wonderful archaeological treasures like the UNESCO World Heritage site Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, which contain paintings dated hundreds of thousands of years back.
There’s the Tribal Museum in Madhya Pradesh, a totally immersive space with exhibits of art, culture, and lifestyle that would give visitors deep insights into the indigenous tribals who inhabit this side of India, providing a unique cultural experience.
Bhopal’s cuisine would feature the local dishes like the Bhopali gosht korma, poha and keema pulav; sweet-toothed tourists could do their darshan by the offering of local sweets such as jalebi and mawa bati to truly get a taste of Bhopali flavors.
