“City of lakes“, Bhopal is the capital of the state of Madhya Pradesh. Formerly known as the capital of Bhopal State, the city has various natural as well as artificial lakes which add to the beauty of Bhopal. Believed to be founded by Raja Bhoj of Bhojpal, Bhopal is a melange of history, scenic beauty and modernization. The city is an enchantment for the tourist’s eye. So if you are planning a holiday, make sure you won’t miss the wonderful places mentioned below.
•The upper and lower lakesBhojpal or the upper lake is the largest artificial lake in Asia. It is spread in 6 sq. kms of areas and is divided with the lower lake by an over bridge. MP tourism’s yatch club gives you the opportunity to have the adventure of sailing, paddling, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, water skiing, parasailing etc. at the upper lake. The van vihar national park situated on the southern side of the lake boost up the attraction of the area.
•Taj-ul-masjidIt means “The crown of mosques”, its blushing semblance, coroneted with white-domed minarets saluting the sky is utter beautiful scape to spot. Also used as a religious school (madarsa), the monumental Taj-ul-masjid is one of the largest mosques in Asia.
•Shaukat mahal and Sadar manzilA blend of gothic and post-renaissance architecture, designed by a Frenchman, Shaukat mahal stands as a beautiful odd amongst other Islamic arts. The triangular arches embellishing the roofs and the white exteriors carved with admirable floral patterns is a candy for the eye. Sadar manzil, located near Shaukat mahal represents the archaic greatness of the nawab times of Bhopal. Used as the hall of public audience by the bygone rulers, now it is the headquarters of Bhopal Municipal Corporation.
•Laxmi Narayan templeThe Birla/Laxmi Narayan temple was built by the Birlas immortalizing Hindu deities, Laxmi and Vishnu. The adjoining Birla museum is an archive of art and artifacts which goes back to 12th century. A green and beautiful place to lay eyes upon.
•ChowkThe focal point of the old city is filled with old mosques and havelis which is the expression of city’s history. The thin streets here are the doors to explore the traditional Bhopal crafts: silver jewelries, lovely beadworks and embroideries.
•Bharat BhavanDesigned by the world renowned architect Charles Correa, Bharat Bhavan is a roof for diverse activities. It acts as the centre of visual and performing arts while being a museum of tribal and folk arts. It also contains an art gallery, a theatre, an auditorium and a library.
•Gohar mahalIt stands on the banks of the upper lake. Gohar mahal is built in 1820 by Qudsia Begum also known as Gohar begum. A perfect archetype of the amalgamation of Hindu and Muslim architecture.
•Jama masjid and Moti masjidA beautiful mosque built in 1873 by Qudsia Begum, Jama masjid is famous for its golden spiked minarets. Moti masjid, whereas is the replica of Delhi’s Jama masjid and is a depiction of the heights reached by the Muslim architecture.•Gufa mandir Can be founded near lalghati in a hill having numerous caves. It is built like a staircase and is decorated with the idols of lord Rama, Laxmana, Sita, lord Shiva and goddess Durga.•Vardhaman ParkA beautiful park with many roses, it is built at the site of the remains of the old fort of Bhopal. Quite a nice place to see the sunset.•Bharat DhamThe highest hill in Bhopal. Here lies “Manua Bhan ki Tekri”, a jain temple and also offers a charming scenic beauty,There are many places to visit in Bhopal which reflects the tradition of this culturally rich city.