Bhopal
Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, situated around two artificial lakes amidst picturesque settings is also known as the city of lakes. Bhopal was built on the site of an 11th century city, ‘Bhojapal’, founded by the legendary king, Raja Bhoj. The existing city was developed by Dost Mohammed (1708-1740) one of Emperor Aurangazeb’s Afghan governors. His progeny, including efficient women rulers (begums) ruled Bhopal until 1947 when the state finally joined the Indian Union. The old city with its crowded market places, fine old mosques and palaces, sits within the new city with its broad avenues, high rise offices and exquisitely laid out parks and gardens. The city is famous for silver jewellery, finely fashioned beadwork, embroidered and sequinned velvet purses and cushions.
A city of begums
Tours to Bhopal & Beyond
Places to visit
Taj-Ul-Masjid
Believed to be the largest mosque in the country, this pink towering mosque was commenced by Shah Jahan Begum, (1868-1901) Bhopal’s eighth ruler. The creation of the mosque was incomplete on her death and the construction could only resume in 1971, due to a lack of funds. The credit for Bhopal’s postal system, railways and waterworks goes to this queen. The most striking features of the mosque are the impressive main hall with its inter-arched roof, the three white domes and the two white domed massive minarets. Its broad façade, spacious courtyard and smooth marble floors are impressive. A three-day ‘ Ijtima’, a congregation of Muslims in India, held here annually, draws people from all over the country.
Chowk
Located in the heart of the old city, the Chowk is lined with old mosques and havelis, reminders of a bygone era. The shops in its narrow alleys are treasure troves of traditional Bhopali crafts, silver jewellery, exquisitely fashioned beadwork, embroidered and sequinned velvet fashioned purses and cushions. An excellent place for purchasing traditional crafts.
Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil
Shaukat Mahal is situated at the entrance to the Chowk area in the heart of the city. Its mixture of architectural styles in Occidental idioms sets it apart from the predominantly Islamic architecture of the area. It was designed by a Frenchman, said to be a descendant of a subsidiary of the Bourbon kings of France. Post-Renaissance and Gothic styles are combined to a charming effect here. Nearby is the elegant Sadar Manzil, Hall of Public Audience of the former rulers of Bhopal.
Only vehicles registered with the park authorities are allowed to enter the park. Each vehicle seats 4 or 6 people. In addition to a local tracker and a driver.
Upper and Lower Lakes
The legendary Raja Bhoj is credited with the construction of these two lakes. The Upper Lake which is six sq. km. in area, is divided from the Lower by an over bridge. Madhya Pradesh Tourism’s Yacht Club on the Upper and Lower Lakes provides facilities for exciting trips by sail, paddle and motor boats.
Archaeological Museum
Situated to the south of the lower lake, on the Banganga Rd this Museum has a fine collection of sculptures from various parts of Madhya Pradesh. The collections include paintings of various schools, copies of paintings from the Bagh Caves near Mandu and the statues of Alakshmi and the Buddha. The museum shop sells stone figure copies. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm except Mondays. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Bharat Bhavan
Established in 1982, Bharat Bhavan, a centre for the creative and performing arts, is one of the most unique national institutes in India. Designed by the renowned architect Charles Correa and located in the Shamla hills on the banks of a lake, it is regarded as one of the most important centres for the preservation of traditional folk art. The centre houses a museum of the arts, an art gallery, a workshop for fine arts, a repertory theatre, indoor and outdoor auditoria, rehearsal room, and libraries of Indian poetry, classical and folk music. They are: ‘Rupankar’- The museum has contemporary urban, folk and art of aboriginals, a ceramic workshop, litho workshop and facilities for stone craft and metal casting.
Museum of Man (Tribal Habitat)
An open-air exhibition of tribal house types located at Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya on Shamla Hills, the Tribal habitat is a presentation of actual-size dwellings typical of contemporary tribal cultures in various states of India. The exhibition gives a complete insight into the architectural features of the tribal houses with elaborately displayed interiors. There are craft and pottery demonstrations in the exhibition. Open every day expect Mondays and national holidays, 10 am to 6 pm.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Bhopal, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). The weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city’s lakes, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Major festivals like Diwali and Holi add a festive charm to the city.
Temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F), making it the least favorable time to visit. The heat can be intense, but early mornings and evenings are cooler. Indoor attractions, such as museums and shopping centers, offer a respite from the heat.
Bhopal receives moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, bringing relief from the summer heat. The city turns lush and green, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). While the rain enhances the beauty of the lakes and parks, it can also lead to occasional waterlogging and traffic delays.
