Bhopal India Travel Guide

Bhopal History

The city was founded by King Bhoj of the Parmara dynasty in the 11th century. The city was constructed between two lakes and was then known as Bhojpal - Bhoj after the King, and pal meaning dam. During this time, the city saw a lot of prosperity. But the Parmara Dynasty couldn’t hold onto their states and one by one they started losing their territories because of bad decisions. The city was later taken in by the Mughal emperors, who controlled the area for several generations. However, after the death of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, one of the soldiers of Afghan descent named Dost Mohammed took the reins in his hands and did wonders for the city, and also tried to spread Islam in the traditionally Hindu city. Bhopal was a key city in India’s fight for Independence, and many brave Bhopal souls died for the country. After Independence, though, the city was still ruled by a Muslim ruler known as Ala Hazrat, who wanted to join Pakistan after Partition and not India. But the people of Bhopal, who wanted to be a part of India, started a war of their own through citywide strikes and protests. Ultimately the ruler succumbed to the wishes of the public, and the city was annexed by India in 1949, and made the capital of Madhya Pradesh.

Bhopal Things to Do and Attractions

Bhopal is highly industrialized but still has a lot of places to see and things to do. Shaukat Mahal, located in the centre of the city, is a good example of stupendous architecture. It has a unique blend of European-Islamic architecture, and is a feast for the eyes. Another masterpiece is the Gohar Mahal, a blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture. The Gohar Mahal is situated behind the Shaukat Mahal.A prime Bhopal attraction is the Taj-ul-Maasjid, one of the biggest mosques in the world, and the biggest mosque in India. With a striking construction, this mosque has a lot of religious importance for the Muslim community in India. Just opposite the edifice is, coincidentally, the smallest mosque in India known as the Dhai seedhi Masjid. The city has two very beautiful lakes separated by a bridge – the “upper lake” and the “lower lake”. This area is a fun filled place, where tourists can enjoy activities like sailing to and motor-boating. Very near the lakes is Van Vihar National Park, where you see quite a few species of endangered animals. Do visit the Central Museum, if you get a chance. It houses some of the rarest artifacts in India.

Bhopal Excursions

Those into archeology can venture about forty kilometers from Bhopal to Bhimbetka, which has one of the largest collections of pre-historic paintings and rocks, some of which date back more than 10,000 years. Thirty kilometers from the Bhopal is a Shiva temple in Bhojpur that holds great religious value and is famous for a massive Shivalingam. Anglers can head about 10 kilometers from the city to Hathaikheda, which is a popular fishing zone. Or, you can travel fifty kilometers to the city of Sanchi, a site famous for Buddhist monuments and temples dating back several centuries.

Bhopal Shopping

Bhopal is highly industrial and has started to come of age, so it has malls being constructed in all the major parts of the city. Being the capital, you won’t have problems finding all the international brands in the local shops. Before going into the local bazaars, however, make sure you polish up your bargaining skills. Places like the Chowk area are good for getting quality stuff at cheap rates, especially jewelry, ornaments, and sarees. The New Market area has pretty much the same stuff, though at higher prices.

Bhopal Restaurants

Bhopal has a very rich cuisine. This is the place where the delicious “seekh kabab” was supposedly first made. The city, being the capital, has lots of restaurants serving all the major cuisines. Be sure to try the kebab, and other local delicacies like rogan ghosh and biryani. Also, don’t forget to try the local wheat cake known as ‘bafla’.

Bhopal Nightlife

Bhopal doesn't have much of a nightlife to speak of, but most of the star rated hotels in Bhopal have bars that serve alcoholic beverages.

Bhopal Getting There and Around

Bhopal is a major city of India, and so is very well connected by airways. The city also has good railways and roadways connecting it to the other major cities in India.

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