The capital city of Madhya Pradesh is Bhopal, a busy metropolis known for its long past, wide range of cultures, and beautiful scenery. Bhopal is often called “The City of Lakes” because it has many organic and artificial waters that render it attractive. The city has been around since King Bhoja of the Paramara family built it in the 11th century. Dost Mohammad Khan, an Afghan soldier, ruled Bhopal in the early 18th century and turned it into a protected city. The rich history of Bhopal can be observed through its buildings, which represent a mix of Islamic and Hindu styles. Bhopal is a melting pot of cultures known for its many types of traditional music, dance, and the arts. As the capital of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal is not only the state’s political and governmental centre but also an essential centre for business and education, with a bustling market and plenty of significant institutions.

Tourist Places to Visit in Bhopal

1. Upper Lake (Bhojtal)

  • This sizable lake, which Raja Bhoj built in the eleventh century, is a well-liked location for picnics, boating, and fishing. The lake offers stunning sunset views and a serene environment.
  • Activities: Boating, water sports, picnicking.

2. Lower Lake (Chhota Talab)

  • Description: Located adjacent to the Upper Lake, this smaller lake offers picturesque views and a peaceful ambience.
  • Activities: Boating, sightseeing.

3. Taj-ul-Masajid

  • Description: One of the largest mosques in India, this magnificent structure showcases Mughal architecture with its pink facade, marble domes, and intricate carvings.
  • Highlights: prayer hall, courtyard, and two 18-story high minarets.

4. Bharat Bhavan

  • Description: A multi-arts complex and museum that serves as a hub for contemporary art, fine arts, and performing arts. It includes an art gallery, an open-air amphitheatre, and a tribal museum.
  • Activities: Art exhibitions, cultural performances, workshops.

5. Van Vihar National Park

  • Description: A sprawling park located on the banks of the Upper Lake, serves as a haven for various wildlife species in their natural habitat.
  • Highlights: Tigers, leopards, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.

6. State Museum

  • Description: This museum offers a comprehensive look at the history, culture, and heritage of Madhya Pradesh, featuring a collection of artefacts, sculptures, paintings, and fossils.
  • Exhibits: Archaeology, anthropology, natural history.

7. Gohar Mahal

  • Description: This beautiful palace built by Qudisiya Begum in the 19th century is an excellent example of Mughal and Hindu architecture.
  • Highlights: Intricate carvings, cultural events, and exhibitions.

8. Birla Mandir (Lakshmi Narayan Temple)

  • Description: Situated on Arera Hills, this temple dedicated to Lakshmi and Vishnu offers a panoramic view of the city. The adjoining Birla Museum houses a collection of sculptures and paintings.
  • Activities: Prayer, sightseeing.

9. Sanchi Stupa

  • Description: Located about 46 km from Bhopal, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an ancient Buddhist complex famous for its stupas, monasteries, and Ashokan pillars.
  • Highlights: The Great Stupa, gateways, and beautiful carvings.

10. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters

  • Description: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, these rock shelters contain prehistoric cave paintings dating back to the Paleolithic era.
  • Highlights: Ancient cave art, natural rock formations.

11. Moti Masjid

  • Description: Built by Sikandar Begum in 1860, this mosque is known for its beautiful architecture, including two dark red minarets and a white marble facade.
  • Highlights: Historical architecture, peaceful environment.

12. Manav Sangrahalaya (Museum of Mankind)

  • Description: An anthropology museum showcasing the cultural diversity and tribal heritage of India. The museum is an open-air exhibition with tribal houses and artifacts.
  • Activities: Cultural exhibitions, educational tours.

13. Regional Science Center

  • Description: A science museum with interactive exhibits and a planetarium, aimed at educating and entertaining visitors, especially children.
  • Highlights: Science exhibits, planetarium shows.