Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh. As large number of natural and artificial lakes dominating the city it is known as City of Lakes. City attracts the tourists with amazing landscapes, hills and forests. It is divided into old city and new city. Old city consists of narrow alleyways while new city attracts the tourists with gardens and Parks. Mughal influence is more in the city. Fruits and sweets such as Sewaiya and Bafla are part of their meals. Nawabzada Shahryar Mohammad Khan, former Pakistan Foreign Secretary, and Nawab Mansoor Ali Khan, former Indian test Captain Ace Cricketer belongs to this place.
What to see in Bhopal:
Taj-ul-Masjid: This is one of the oldest Mosques. Construction of this mosque started by Sultan Shah Jehan but completed by Allama Mohammed Imran in 1971. It is known as Crown of Mosques.
Upper Lake: Other names are Big Lake and Bada Talaab. This is oldest manmade lake in India. It is believed that King Bhoj’s skin disease cured by this lake. Water sports are most famous here.
Lower Lake / Chota Talaab: It is connected with upper lake. Water sports are most famous here.
Bharat Bhawan: It is multi art complex. This is the best place for exploration and innovation of visual, Vocal and Performing arts. It is a thrieving centre for contemporary arts.
Van Vihar Park: It is situated in the heart of Bhopal on the hillock. It is like Zoo.
Birla Museum: It is an archaeological museum established in 1971. Artefacts belongs to prehistoric period are placed here. Tools used by Palaeolithic and Neolithic man are placed here. Terracotta belongs to 2nd and 6th century BC and stone sculpture belongs to 7th century are also placed here.
Archaeological Museum: Statues of Lord Vishnu, Shiva, Lakshmi and painting from Bagh caves are major attraction in this museum.
Other attractions: Other attractions in Bhopal are Gohar Mahal, Museum of Mankind, Shaukat Mahal, Jama Masjid, Moti Masjid, Bhimbetka Caves, Fish Aquarium, Sanchi Stupa, Sair Stupa, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, and Gufa Mandir.
What to see around Bhopal:
Sanchi: In 3rd century BC, Emperor Ashoka built several stupas. It is the oldest stone structure in India. It is Located 48 kms away from Bhopal.
Bhojpur Temple: It is located on the banks of Vetraveti River. This temple is named against King Bhoj, former ruler of this place. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located 32 kms from Bhopal.
Bhimbetka: South Asian Prehistoric cave Paintings and prehistoric rock shelters are placed here. It is located 44 kms away from Bhopal.
Getting to Bhopal: Bhopal is well connected with Road, Railway and Air ways. From Jabalpur, Chandigarh, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi etc bus, trains and airbuses are available to reach Bhopal.
Getting around Bhopal: Autos, Taxis, Mini buses, Buses are available to visit surrounding places of Bhopal.
Best time to visit Bhopal: Best time to visit the place is place between November to February.
Where to stay in Bhopal: Plenty of budget, Midrange and Luxury hotels are available to stay in Bhopal. Most of the Midrange hotels are located in Shamala Hills and Maharana Pratap Nagar. Budget hotels with good facilities are available near bus stand and railway station.
Where to eat in Bhopal: Mughal influence in spicy meat delicacies such as Kebabas and curries in more. Both vegetarian and non vegetarian food is available. All varieties of Continental, Chinese, Mughal, Punjabi, South Indian cuisines are available.