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| Name: | Bhopal – “City of Lakes” |
| Location: | Bhopal District, Madhya Pradesh, India |
| Climate: | Summers: 470 C (Max), 300 C (Min) | Winters: 200 C (Max), 110 C (Min) |
| Best Time to Visit: | October to March |
| Nearest Airport: | Raja Bhoj Airport – Near the suburb of Sant Hirdaram Nagar (formerly known as Bairagarh) |
| Railway Station: | Bhopal Junction Railway Station |
| Must Visits: | Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, Bharat Bhawan, Manav Sangrahalay, Takeri, Bhojeshwar Temple and Van Vihar |
| Language Spoken: | Hindi, Urdu and English |
| STD Code: | 0755 |
Bhopal is the beautiful capital city of Madhya Pradesh. The city comes under the administrative district of Bhopal and has the administrative headquarters of Bhopal Division as well. This vibrant city is graciously situated amidst many natural and artificial lakes, which is why it is mostly referred to as Lake City or City of Lakes. This lake city is spread over an area of about 549 square kilometers and is sited on an elevation of 427 m above the sea level. Being on such elevation, the city experiences humid subtropical climate with hot summers (mid March to mid June), mild and cool winters (October to March) and humid monsoon (July to September) with an average annual rainfall of 1146 mm. Bhopal is renowned all around the world as it houses the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, which are believed to be the early evidence of Stone Age rock paintings. Thus, it is visited by lots of domestic and foreigner tourist every day.
Bhopal is assumed to be founded by King Bhoj-2 (1000-1055), who was a King of Parmara dynasty. Thus, at that time, the city was named Bhojpal, on the name of its founder. During the reign of Paramara dynasty, this city experienced many rises and falls, which affected its culture a lot. One thing that makes it remarkable in the history of Mughal Empire in whole country is that it is the only city which was consecutively ruled by four women rulers, Begums during the time span of 1819 and 1926. Due to variation of its rulers, this city represents a melodious blend of Hindu and Islamic impact, in its cultural and architectural heritage. Bhopal is a significant economic, industrial, educational and political center of the State and of Central India as well. In fact, it houses its own industrial area, Govindpura, which has about 1044 small and medium-scale industries.
Bhopal is geographically located on a slope in the Malwa Plateau and thus, it is truly blessed with natural beauty which includes woody forests, majestic hills and enchanting landscapes. Apart from the Bhimbetka Caves, you can explore many tourist attraction located in the city whilst your trip. Upper Lake or Bada Talab (Artificial Lake), Lower Lake or Chhota Talab (Artificial Lake), Bharat Bhawan (world famous museum), Manav Sangrahalay (museum of urban tribal culture), Takeri (beautiful landscape with temple on hill), Bhojeshwar Temple and Van Vihar (wildlife Sanctuary) are few of them. Van Vihar is the one of the biggest animal conservation areas provided by the Forest department of Madhya Pradesh where you can find a variety of wild animals such tigers, leopards, bears, different types of water animals, birds, deer etc. during your trip. So, take a break from your routine life and explore a different world of aesthetic natural beauty present in Bhopal.
Best Time To Visit Bhopal
The enduring old charm and appealing contemporary culture of Bhopal helps you to experience the twin facades of the city, which is both intriguing and engaging. A trip to this endowed land gets you abreast of its amazing secular culture, which serves as the cornerstone of this fascinating state capital of Madhya Pradesh. The age old monuments, bedazing mosques, august palaces and other monuments delineate the rich history of Bhopal. To further add to the city’s enticements, Bhopal boasts of several parks, gardens, museums and alluring restaurants that serve authentic, delicious local fare. Just like its irresistible food, Bhopal boasts of equally vibrant shopping avenues that are a big delight for the shopaholics. However, to enjoy the splendor of the city to the fullest, it is necessary to visit the place at the right time. To make your trip to the city a memorable one, go through the writing below that provides information on best time to visit Bhopal.
When To Go To Bhopal
Weather
Endowed with a humid and sub tropical type of climate, Bhopal experiences extremely hot summers and very cold winters. The summers here, lasting from March to June, remains intolerably hot and dry with the temperature fluctuating between 300 C to 470 C. Because of such extreme temperature during daytime, it is impossible to go out on a day long excursion around the city. Hence, summers are not the best time to visit Bhopal. The next season of the year is monsoon. Extending from July to October, this season brings moderate rainfall to the region. Due to the welcoming drizzles, the place looks extremely beautiful during this time of the year. The last and the most pleasing season of the year – winter, lasting from November to February, is extremely cold and damp. Although the days are bearable, the nights can get really cold and freezing. Sometimes the mornings look awful with the presence of heavy fog and winter sleets. If you plan to hot the city during winters, then don’t forget to carry heavy woolen clothes.
Best Time To Explore Bhopal
Due to the influence of temperate climate, the weather here remains fairly tolerable throughout the year. However, to experience the best of the city, it is best advised to visit Bhopal during the winter months of November to February. Unlike summers, the chilling days of the season encourages you to step out and experience the authentic beauty of the region. Although the nights can get nipy at times, you will definitely enjoy the cool breeze of the season.
Things To Do
To captivate your attention, Bhopal hosts a number of attractions that are popular for their rich blend of ancient and modern. Even though the city is dotted with industries, the old charm and essence of the city is beautiful maintained through its dozens of monuments and gorgeous landscapes. Among the top attractions of the city, the brilliantly structured mosques like Jama Masjid, Moti Masjid and Taj-ul-Masjid are extremely popular. As you reach the old areas of the city, monuments like Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Mahal delights you by their brilliant amalgam of Indo-Islamic and European architecture. A visit to Bhopal is incomplete without witnessing the beauty of Bharat Bhavan. If you are looking for more entertainment and fun, then you must visit the lakes of the city, which offers attractions like sailing and motor boating. Besides experiencing the glory of the city, don’t forget to take out some time for shopping. With a bevy of shopping destinations to its credit, shopping in the city is definitely another attraction of this place.
History Of Bhopal
Known for its laid-back charms and beautiful amalgam of Hindu and Islamic art, Bhopal holds a unique appeal to the world. The magnetic aura of the place, upheld by several rulers who ruled this land, can be perceived even today. Nearly all the dynasties that ruled the city contributed enormously towards its growth and left an indelible impression on the city’s history. Bhopal flourished greatly under the hands of Muslim rulers, a fact that is well exhibited in the monuments and even in the lifestyle of the people here. Unlike the history of any other Indian cities, Bhopal witnessed a glorious period under the reign of many female rulers. The bravery, the talent and the power exhibited by these women rulers in this orthodox world is truly exemplary. To know more about the city of Bhopal and unravel its wonderful past, go through the write-up below that briefs you on the history of the city.
Bhopal History
Origin Of Bhopal
Bhopal, earlier known as Bhojpal, was originally built by Paramara King Bhoj in the 11th century. The name ‘Bhojpal’, which was named after the king, saw a wonderful growth under Paramara rule. With time, the fortune of Bhopal rose and fell several times along with its ruling dynasties. However, as the Paramara rule declined, the glory of the city began to wane.
Muslim Rule
Later on, the city came under the reign of Mughal Rule and witnessed the dynamic rule of many noted rulers. After the death of Aurangazeb, an Afghan soldier named Dost Mohammad Khan belonging to Orakzai tribe conquered this region and laid the foundation for the city. He brought the Islamic art and culture from his homeland and displayed it beautifully in the various works of architecture undertaken by him. Even today, you can witness the ruins of them in Islam Nagar. The history of Bhopal is incomplete without describing the glorious rule of Begums. The ladies of the royal family led respectful lives, followed their religion and were good administrators. The first female ruler of Bhopal, Qudsia Begum, came to power in 1819 after the assassination of her husband. Although she was illiterate, she was known for her brave and strong acts. After her reign, her daughter Sikandar became the queen of Bhopal. Well trained in martial arts and other bravery acts, Sikander fought many battles during her reign. Following her heroic rule, her daughter Shah Jahan Begum took over the throne and ruled the land from 1868 to 1901. Unlike her mother, Shah Jahan Begum was interested in poetry, music, art and architecture. During her reign, she spent lavishly on art and architecture to beautify the place.
After Independence
Bhopal was one of the last princely states to sign the agreement of Instrument of Accession 1947. Even though India gained Independence in 1947, Bhopal ruler HH Nawab Hamidullah Khan surrendered his state to Indian government only on 1st May 1949. Later, according to States Reorganization Act of 1956, Bhopal was merged with Madhya Pradesh and was declared as its capital.
Bhopal Gas Tragedy
Bhopal witnessed the worst tragedy on December 3, 1984, when a union Carbide plant in the city leaked nearly 42 tons of toxic methyl isocyanate gas leading to the death of nearly 3000 people. Even today, the people of this region suffer from the harmful upshots of the chemicals. This disaster is said to be the worst industrial disaster in the whole world and is observed as a black day. Every year the state government of Bhopal observes December 3rd as a national holiday.
How To Reach:
To many of us Bhopal is a popular lake city, but not many of us are aware that the place is an amalgamation of rich history, diverse culture and picturesque backdrop. Ruled by the Mughals, Marathas and the British Raj, the city has influences of each of its former leaders that can be seen through its many monuments. From its beautiful Afghan-styled mosques, to its beautiful hill-top temples and its former British governance, Bhopal indeed has many fables that the city eagerly waits to share with you. The diversity of the city can be noticed in the architecture of its centuries old mosques, temples and palaces that are an intoxicating concoction of various cultures and tradition. While you are in the city, don’t miss out on the adventure activities like boating and sailing. As for those obsessive shopaholics, the city’s shopping streets are filled with well crafted handmade products such as carpets, durries, bamboo objects, silver, metal and leather work. Well, speaking about shopping, you cannot forget to mention the exquisite piece of bead and embroidery work on soft silken fabrics that were once patronized by the Begums of Bhopal. Today, however, Bhopal has transformed into an important commercial and a tourism center in the state. Read the article below to know more on how to reach Bhopal.
Traveling To Bhopal
By Air
For all those international travelers planning to make a trip to Bhopal, you can reach the city directly as the airport hosts both international and domestic flights. The airfield is located 15km away from the city and close to the neighborhood of Bairagarh. Most of the international flights operate to Jeddah, Sharjah and Dubai as there are frequently passengers travelling back and forth from these international destination. As for the passengers within the country, there are several air carriers that travel within the nation such as Air India, Jet Airways, JetLite, Go Air, Indigo and Spice Jet, to name a few. Most of these flights operate from Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad to Bhopal. Although they may seem to be a luxury travel when compared to train and bus, one thing is for sure that you are certain to reach Bhopal without being overstressed after a long journey.
By Train
The railways are the lifeline of the city and an important means of transport for the locals. The city has more than one railway junction. The noted railway stations in Bhopal are Habibganj Railway Station, Misrod Railway Station, Mandideep Railway Station, Nishatpura Railway Station and Bhopal Junction Railway Station. The Bhopal Junction Railway Station is said to be one of the largest and busiest train stations in the country. The station is well-connected to several metros and more than 100 trains stopover at this rail junction. Since the city is located in the heart of the city, it is been said that Bhopal is well connected to many cities located in the north, south, east and western side of the country.
By Bus
Bhopal has more than a few bus services and bus stands that connect you to different parts of the country. It has been an initiative by the state government to promote better transport services to its inhabitants. Bhopal also has some good national highways such as NH 12 that connects you to Jabalpur and Jaipur. The NH 86 and the state highways 17 are also popular routes connecting cities in the eastern and western side of the country. There are several buses that travel to Indore, Ujjain, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Khajuraho, Sanchi, Pachmarhi, Vidisha, and as well to Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Kota, Nagpur, Jaipur, Agra, and Allahabad on a regular basis.
Places To See:
If there is any city in the sub-continent that has succeeded to strike a balance between urbanization, culture, heritage and natural landscape, it is the state capital of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal. The city boasts of a diverse blend of both Hindu and Muslim faith living in harmony. Bhopal has many interesting sights to capture the attention of the tourists visiting this place for the first time. Whether it is basking in its natural scenery, engaging oneself in the city’s amusement attractions or simply taking a sneak-peek into the city’s history, Bhopal is a complete package comprising of all the elements that most vacationers would enjoy. Place like Upper and Lower Lake, Van Vihar National Park, Taj-ul-Masajid, Bharat Bhavan etc. are some of the popular tourist attractions in Bhopal. Besides touring the place, you can also visit the bazaars in Bhopal, which are well-known for their beaded and embroidery work commonly found on bags, silk fabrics, pashmina shawls etc. Scroll the article below to know more about the various places to see in Bhopal.
Tourist Attractions In Bhopal
Upper & Lower Lake
The Upper Lake one of the largest man-made lakes in the region. Built by Raja Bhoj, the lake is a popular tourist attraction and favored picnic spot among the locals. The Upper Lake is a nice spot to catch a glimpse of the spectacular sunset and sunrise in the city. Apart from the great views, you can also enjoy some of the water sports available in the Upper Lake such as boating, sailing and motorboats. Located in the centre of the city is the Lower Lake that was created during the Mughal period. The Lower Lake separates the Upper Lake by a viaduct and is popularly called as ‘chota talaab’ by the local people. The Lower Lake also provides fun activities such as boating and sailing. The water in the lake is used by the local inhabitants as an important source of drinking water.
Van Vihar National Park
After you have enjoyed the vistas of Bhopal’s artificial lakes, step into the cities national park that is an asylum to some its spectacular fauna. Spread across 4.45 km of green land, the authorities of the place does not forcefully capture any of the animals from the forest. Most animals found inside the park is either injured or orphaned. Van Vihar has segregated its animals into carnivorous and herbivores while the wild animals are kept in an enclosed surroundings and the other animals are let free to roam. Some of the wild beasts you can look out for inside the park is tigers, panther, lion, bear, hyena, crocodile, alligators and pythons, to name a few. You can also find cheetal, sambhar, blackbuck, blue bull along with a few endangered and migratory species within the park. Van Vihar National Park is located within the city limits and is the perfect place to for wildlife photographers.
Taj-ul-Masajid
Taj-ul-Masajid is an old mosque built during the 17th century by Begum Bhopal but was completed by her descendants. The mosque is appreciated for its architecture and is a landmark among the local people. With its 18 storey minarets, large airy hallways, marble domes and exquisite flooring, the mosque definitely stands apart from the rest of the structures in the city. The Quibla wall in the prayer hall is decorated with ornate carvings that can be seen on the pillars and ceilings of the mosque and is a sight to behold. The structural design of this place of worship is built according to the Mughal style of architecture. Currently, Taj-ul-Masajid is not only a house of religious gatherings but also an Islamic school in the region.
Bharat Bhavan
A visit to Bhopal is incomplete if you have not visited its museums. The Bharat Bhavan museum is said to be a world renowned museum that is frequently visited by the tourists. The museum is said to be dedicated towards the diverse Indian art forms in the region, divided into four different segments, each hall representing four different forms of art. The Ranga Hall is said to represent the theater movements while the Vagarth Hall is devoted towards music. Roopankar is another hall and has a great display of sculptures and tribal art that one should see and Anhad is a library on traditional and folk music. The Bharat Bhavan also has an ashram that serves as a guest house to artistes who occasionally visit the city for a live performance.
Manav Sangralay
Located on the Shamla Hills in Bhopal is a museum on the pre-historic man and is one of the best museums in the city. Stretched across 200 acres of land, the Manav Sangralay features ancient way of life and other ethnic art forms. This man made village is said to comprise of a library, audio-visual compendium, and electronic documentations of the pre-historic clans along with a great collection of anthropological specimen. This museum is the only store house to have a compilation of the painted rock shelters in the world due to which Manav Sangralay is recognized as the best anthropological museum worldwide.
Shopping:
Bhopal, dotted with ample mosques and enchanting lakes, beguiles tourist with its unique features and magical allure. While on one side of the city you can find jam-packed streets and mosques reflecting the rich Mughal era, the other part of the city carries a whiff of urbanity and is filled with modern shopping centers and buildings. Besides sightseeing, shopping in the bustling markets and hitting the popular souvenir shops can be sighted in the list of any wandering nomad. The traditional handicrafts, shimmery purses and silver jewelry are, undoubtedly, the hottest selling items in Bhopal. The shopping bazaars are well-stocked with food stalls and restaurants serving yummy chaats and mouth-watering local delicacies like kheemas, achari gosht, aromatic pulao and lots more. After snacking on the dishes, don’t forget to savor the Bhopali Paan, which is not just tasty but also acts as a mouth freshener. To make your shopping experience fulfilling, explore the following article that lists the famous shopping places in Bhopal.
Shopping Places In Bhopal
Jewelry Market
Jewelry Market, located in Old Town, is a delightful place to shop and browse for exciting goodies. Women especially love to gather at this bustling spot to buy and splurge on exquisite silver and gold jewelries, delicate woven saris, purses, embroidered applique skirts and decorative shoulder bags. As the sun slowly disappears down the horizon, the narrow alleys become jam-packed with tourists, local inhabitants and shoppers.
Chowk
Chowk, situated in the center of the Bhopal city, is the best place to stop over if you want to purchase colorful and glittering zardozi work. Dress materials like wedding suits, sherwanis and purses embellished with rich embroidery work are popular selling items in Chowk. Bhopal’s famous handicraft – ‘batua’ can also be bought from the shops lined up here. The bustling street teeming with crowds also houses various mosques and havelis.
Mrignayani
Mrignayani, nestled in T.T Nagar, New Market, sells local handicrafts and other eye-catching souvenirs at reasonable price rates. Some of the notable products of this shop includes sculptures, wood carvings, wall hangings, Tussar silk saris, leather crafts, tribal paintings, Tussar printed scarves and hand knotted carpets. Mrignayani is thrown open to visitors from 11 AM to 8 PM, on all the days except Mondays. The other popular emporiums of the city are Naaz Sadi Emporium, Sidhi Dadhri Emporium, Kirti Emporium and Rajesh Emporium.
New Market
New Market is located in the heart of Bhopal and has innumerable number of shops. The shopping avenues is flanked with food joints, vegetable markets, a huge temple and a big mosque. You can hunt for fascinating silver jewelry, leather products, embroidered purses and bead works here. This bazaar is an important landmark in Bhopal and simply can’t be missed out.
Variety Book House
Book lovers and those who are enthusiastic to know more about Bhopal city can hit this wonderful bookstore situated near GTB Complex. Besides novels, best sellers and travel guides, books related to Madhya Pradesh and Bhopal are available in plenty. So, take some time off your busy travel schedule and make a visit to Variety Book House that is kept open on all the days from 10:00 AM till 9:45 PM.
DB Mall
DB Mall, the posh building spread across several acres of land, is a major crowd puller in Bhopal. More than 180 retail shops deck up this mall. All kind of products are sold over here ranging from branded apparels to vegetables to kitchen accessories and more. This well-maintained shopping spot also has food courts and a cinema complex that adds to the attraction of this place.
