Bhopal

Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is a fascinating amalgam of scenic beauty, old historic city and modern urban planning. Better known as the “City of Lakes”, Bhopal is known for its various natural as well as artificial lakes and is also one of the greenest cities in India.

Famous attractions in Bhopal -

1. Upper Lake, Lower Lake - The two lakes are the center of attraction for Bhopal. Upper Lake (Bada Talaab) is a beautiful body of water created during the time of King Bhoj. Today, you can rent boats, indulge in other water sports related activities and enjoy the splendor of this lake.

   Along the Upper Lake and surrounding hills, the Forest Department of Madhya Pradesh has created the biggest animal conservation area in the middle of a city. You can see tigers, leopards, bears, different types of water animals, birds, deers, etc. as you drive around "Van Vihar" Lower Lake (Chota Talaab) on the other hand was created during the Mughal empire. This lake is separated from the Upper Lake by an over-bridge.

   A drive through the winding VIP road that overlook the lake is simply breathtaking. And, equally inspiring is a late night walk by the lake banks to get a brilliantly lit view of the Bhopal city.

2. Shahpura Lake - A comparatively smaller lake, but what makes it worth a visit is the young crowd and a lively park in one corner of the lake.

3. Tajul Masajid - which literally means the 'Crown of Mosques', is one of the largest mosques in Asia. This pink edifice, embellished with white-dome minarets, is indeed a treat for every eye. The sprawling size of the mosque is its biggest attraction. The huge entrance that somewhat looks like Buland Darwaza, captivates visitors.

4. Bhojpur - Situated 28 km from Bhopal, Bhojpur is famous as an archeological site because of its magnificent remains of Shiva Temple and Cyclopean dam. The Shiva Temple has earned the title of the Somnath of the East and is called Bhojeshwar Temple. The temple houses one of the largest liṅga-s in India and is crafted out a single rock.

5. Bhimbhetka Rock Shelter is a World Heritage site and has some of the oldest cave paintings of the world. Situated about 40 km from Bhopal, Bhimbhetka exhibits the earliest traces of human life on the Indian subcontinent, and thus the beginning of the South Asian Stone Age.

6. Sanchi Stupa - Situated 45 km from Bhopal, The Great Stupa at Sanchi is the oldest stone structure in India. Sanchi is famous in the world for stupas, monolithic Asokan pillar, temples, monasteries and sculptural wealth. It was Emperor Asoka who laid the foundations of a Buddhist religious centre at Sanchi.

7. Birla Mandir - It is situated at the highest point of Bhopal, atop area hills dedicated to goddess Lakshmi. This place not only provide a spiritual experience but also a panoramic view of the entire city of Bhopal.

8. Other attractions -
   • Sair Sapaata
   • Jain Temple at Manuabhan tekri
   • Regional Science museum
   • Tribal Museum
   • Kolar Dam
   • Bhadbhada Dam