The Best Places to See in and Around Bhopal
A potion mixed with a hint of history, a pinch of culture, and a spoonful of depth is what I seek ~
To describe it best, Bhopal is a city whose Mughal heritage and charm will keep you coming back for more! A city that filled my experience with many joyous moments; the magic of Bhopal goes far beyond its regal reputation of Nawabs and Begams, voluminous lakes, vintage jeeps, and delicious rezalas. Yes, what used to be a royal image in my mind too, Bhopal is now the city that has given me the taste of what I crave now and then in my life in Bangalore!
Beating at the heart of Incredible India, Bhopal is divided by a pair of lakes, each part exuding power and energy so different, yet so captivating! One side of the city is dominated by a traditional aesthetic of bazaars, havelis, and mosques, while the other bustles with shopping markets, resorts, and the Arera and Shamla Hills. Vikram and I were fortunate enough to bask in the beauty of this City of Lakes recently, courtesy of Jehan Numa Retreat.
The Best Places to See in and Around Bhopal: A Walk To Remember
Up before the sun, Vikram and I chose to leave the comfort of our luxurious bed at our Premium Cottage at the Retreat and join the Bhopal Heritage and Culture Tour organised by the Jehan Numa Group, guided by a storyteller and young historian, Sikandar Malik. It was a great decision indeed!
The tour spun us a historic tale of the city, enlightening us about the Mughal reign. We got to admire the recently renamed Bhojtal, the oldest man-made lake in India that was truly a sight for sore eyes! And as the morning progressed, we got to explore gems like Kamlapati Mahal, Gauhar Mahal, Shaukat Mahal, Sadar Manzil, and Taj-Ul-Masajid {the largest mosque in Asia and the third-largest in the world}. Every step deeper into the tour was a step closer to falling deeper in love with Bhopal!
As our tour progressed, the beauty and serenity of the sights unfolding in front of us got me thinking about the mere existence of man and how different every aspect is due to evolution. I remember my childhood in Benaras, where I was exposed to the rich culture, heritage, and architecture of the region while visiting historical sites during school holidays. At that age, I never truly understood why my mum was keen to have me experience that, but now as I stood through this tour, I understood exactly why. I’ve grow up into this person who jumps at every opportunity to experience places packed with history, art, and culture, and there is nothing about crumbling, old sites that does not fascinate me now!
The more we unravelled the city and the more I found the past glory of Bhopal illustrious, the more was I eager to explore the remarkable episodes written by history and folklore in the forms of stupas, caves, and temples around Bhopal, which was made possible the next day thanks to Jehan Numa Retreat. So here’s taking you on my journey souvenirs ~
Bhojeshwar Temple: A Tale Left Untold
Located 32 km from Bhopal is Bhojeshwar Temple, nestled comfortably on a mountain in a small town called Bhojpur. It is popular by the name, “Somnath of the East”, and houses one of the largest monolithic Shivalingas in its Sanctorum. As you enter the temple, wafts within the air is a sense of mystery, most of which is credited to the fact that its construction was abruptly halted and left undone halfway. The culture and architecture of the medieval times is still prominent with the carvings, leaving an open platform for your mind to strategise tales for this gem.
Visiting hours: The temple is open to the public on all days of the week from Sunrise to Sunset ~ 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Entrance fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners.
How to reach: If you are planning on visiting the temple, which I highly recommend, you could have an early start to the day. Catch a private bus from Bhopal towards Mandideep, getting off at the diversion to the Bhojpur temple. And from there you may find your way into a shared auto to the temple.
Where to eat: We sipped on some chai and enjoyed snacks right outside the temple; so anyone looking for places to eat here, this is for you.
Remarks: Although abandoned before its completion, the Bhojpur temple has set itself up on a pedestal of mystery and grace, spreading its wings of culture.
Bhimbetka Rock Shelters: A Prehistoric Painting Come To Life
Sitting at the foot of the Vindhyan Mountains, Bhimbetka was discovered by Dr. Vishnu Sridhar Wakenkar in 1957. Located at a distance of 45 km from Bhopal, this archaeological site is renowned for its whopping 750 rock shelters. Spread over 10 km of land, the rock shelters are adorned with interesting paintings and inscriptions in mineral colours varying from green, red, ochre, and white. The Auditorium cave and its quartzite towers is the most picturesque of them.
Bhimbetka or ‘Bhimbaithak’ which means ‘The sitting place of Bhima’, hints at the early existence of man, evolving from hunter-gatherers to cultivators to spiritual beings.
Visiting hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days of the week.
Entrance fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners.
How to reach: Bhimbedka is a long journey you should prepare yourself well for. If in a group of people, I would suggest you hire a taxi from Bhopal. In case you’re a budget traveller, here’s my suggestion: you first will have to catch a bus from Bhopal going towards Hoshangbad and hop out at the T-Junction of Bhimbetka. Mind you, this is a painfully slow journey and will take you at least 2 hours to reach your stop, from which you still have a while to reach the rock shelters {approximately 4 km on foot}.
Where to eat: There is a guest house and restaurant at the T-junction which is run by Madhya Pradesh State Tourism, where I would highly recommend stopping by to rest your feet and get a good stretch in before you embark on your journey towards the site. This is also a good place to purchase water rather than at the roadside dhabas you will encounter on your way.
Remarks: Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, Bhimbetka captures colours of history, changing and adapting with the wind and weather! This is a must-see for those looking to quench their thirst for picturesque monuments.
 |
 |
The Great Stupa Of Sanchi: A Buddhist Magnificence
Located at a distance of 49 km from Bhopal, the world-renowned complex of Buddhist relics in Sanchi town is for those of you looking to experience the Mauryan pride and magnificence! With beautiful artisanship, The Great Stupa takes you on a visual journey of Mauryan art and architecture; all of what was the brainchild of Emperor Ashoka.
The site is truly a tale that captures you in all its natural beauty, culture, and history, and if you get to stay until sunset, gear up for one of the most mesmerising moments of your life!
Visiting hours: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM on all days of the week, except Fridays.
Entrance fee: INR 10 for Indians and SAARC Nationals, and INR 250 for tourists from other countries.
How to reach: It is a relatively easier journey to Sanchi if you catch a private bus going towards Vidisha or simply catch a train to Bhopal or Vidisha, but the latter are not as frequent so remember to plan.
Where to eat: As a UNESCO World Heritage site, The Sanchi Stupa attracts tourists from all over the world, and hence has cultivated into a travel-friendly area bustling with restaurants and food chains. I would personally recommend grabbing a bite at Sanchi itself, rather than at the roadside dhabas.
Remarks: Rightly chosen by Emperor Ashoka, Vedisagiri Hill makes the perfect location for this Buddhist establishment, as one can benefit from a quaint and solitary experience. Lose yourself to the beauty and spirituality of what is the calm in an ever-bustling city of Vidisha!
Udayagiri Caves In Vidisha: A Gupta Manifesto
Next on our tour, was the easy choice of the Udayagiri Caves. It is a site with twenty magnificent rock-cut structures, adorned with Hindu and Jain sculptures. At a distance of 57 km from Bhopal, these Sunrise Mountain Caves are considered to be one of the most important archaeological sites of India.
Reflecting on the art, architecture, and culture of the Gupta period, these caves made me feel like I had been teleported in time! An illustrious and exquisite representation of the local ‘Art’ form, the Udayagiri cave sanctuaries are in such a stark difference with Sanchi Stupa. As I stood there watching the beauty of the figurines carved into the stone, I thought to myself, this truly represents an archaeological masterpiece of India!
Visiting hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 AM
Entrance fee: INR 10 for Indians and INR 200 for foreigners.
How to reach: Visiting the Udayagiri caves is a good choice, paired up with a trip to Sanchi. Located about 9 km away from Sanchi Stupa, it is rare to find a direct commute to these caves, so a stop at Vidisha or Sanchi is the smartest choice.
Where to eat: Sanchi, Vidisha.
Remarks: Keep another day of your trip aside for Sanchi and the Udayagiri caves; because they both tell you a different story and each will leave you enthralled! With contrasting landscapes and cultural influences, the caves are a must-see for all those looking to soak in the historic remnants of India’s rich past.
Tropic of Cancer in Bhopal
We ended our day outing in Bhopal with a visit to the ‘Tropic of Cancer’. It is located where one of Earth’s integral latitude passes through and can be found on the Bhopal-Vidisha Highway, about 30 km from the city centre of Bhopal.
To conclude: Bhopal is a city that quenches the thirst of every traveller, no matter what their ideal vacation is! Encapturing the tone of being the heart of India, the city successfully pumps the country with everything and more! Bursting with art, architecture, history, culture, nature, and luxury ~ Bhopal is the “It Place” that needs to climb its way on your travel expeditions! An underrated destination, this city has skyrocketed my expectations for my next travel adventure!
There you have it, a detailed guide to the best places to see in and around Bhopal! You are now all set for an amazing Bhopal holiday! Get going and make those bookings!
Amazing post, Tanya! Looks like you had an amazing time in M.P.! Also, the photographs are amazing. You have spared us a great deal of planning for our trip to Bhopal next month. xx
Thank you, Shruti. I am glad to be helpful.
The Bhimbetka site is familiar to students of prehistory. We have a site of this nature viz. Herebenakal in Karnataka. It is also renowned for rock shelters and pre historic drawings and paintings.
Then I must visit Herebenakal as well. 🙂
This looks so atmospheric. And I really like your photos of these sights. Much obliged to you for both the scholastic and tourist information. I will keep coming back for more travel updates. xx
Thanks Dipika. I am glad that my travel journals are useful for fellow travellers.
Thank you for all of the detailed information, Tanya! This was the first time I saw any mention of tourist sites in Central India – everything I needed to know, thanks!
Thank you for your comment, Rachelle.
Excellent narration, Tanya. You have covered everything beyond the needs of a first-time visitor. God bless you!
Glad to know that you find this post informative. Keep dropping by, Sana.
Simply superb! After reading this post, I’m very enthusiastic about planning a trip to Bhopal soon… Thanks for the details and pictures.
You are most welcome, Krish. Happy Travels!
Thank you, Tanya, for writing such a positive blog post about my beloved city. I like how you really covered all the places that make it so special.
My pleasure entirely, Smriti. 🙂
Pleasant and informative post about the tourist sites around Bhopal. It will surely boost Bhopal’s tourism. I visited a year ago on an official trip and enjoyed my stay there. It’s a beautiful city.
Hi Karmughil, I’m glad you liked it. Do take a look at my other blogs too.
Intrigued and excited to visit Bhopal halfway reading through your post! Came across your blog when searching for things to do in Central India. Great travel blog and lovely pictures, Tanya!
Thank you very much for your comment, Sunita.
Awesome article; elegantly composed and easy to read with great photographs! Thank you for sharing your memories, experiences and wonderful review with us!
Thanks for stopping by, Aparna.
Hey Tanya,
Flawlessly written post that provides great insights for touring Bhopal.
It will certainly help as I am amidst of planning a trip to Central India.
Thank you, Shannon. Have a wonderful holiday!
I have been so confused trying to decide on places of interest to visit in Bhopal; as all the articles I had read were not satisfying, until I read yours. Thank you so much for this in-detail post and great pictures!!
Hi Kathy, I am glad to help. Hope you are having a great time in India!
I think I’ve discovered the perfect blog to gather more than necessary information about Bhopal’s tourist sites! Thanks for your suggestions, Tanya. I will come back to you if I need more info…
Do let me know if you still need guidance, Smriti.
Wow! You score a big ‘well done’ on this blog, Tanya! Your recommendations are much appreciated. One more place added to the list when I visit Central India. xx
Glad it was helpful, Pragya.
What a comprehensive review you have here. I love your photos and this piece, especially as it pertains to celebrating cultural diversity. I would love to visit one day. xx
Hi Abinay, thank you for your kind words ~ I really appreciate it.
Thank you for putting this comprehensive guide together, Tanya! I’m certain it will prove to be useful on my trip to India later this year. Thanks again and happy travels.
Thanks Denise. I am happy that you found the information helpful.
Wow, this is such a detailed post! Learning about the history and culture of the places you visit is such a huge part of understanding them. Thanks for sharing. xx
Thank you for visiting, Chitra.
Monuments, ancient shrines & mosques and numerous other sightseeing destinations – needless to say, the city is dotted with stunning destinations that do not fail to lure the tourists!
With unmatched glory and beauty, Bhopal is one city worth visiting.
Your blog is brilliantly written! I am fascinated by Bhopal’s cultural heritage myself, and hope to be able to visit it one day. Thanks for sharing.
High time that you short list the places to visit in Bhopal then. 🙂
The most popular of all the icons in Bhopal has to be the Sanchi Stupa! That said, your pictures are great and the blog is very easy to read. Thank you for sharing.
Bhopal is a beautiful city where you can find solace in exploring and wandering through the natural and cultural heritage spots.
Definitely one of the greenest and cleanest cities with serene spots and lakes! Bhopal has moved a few spots higher on my lists of preferred destinations. Thank you for sharing.
The city of Bhopal is not just blessed with flora and fauna, it also is steeped with firm roots in the history of the country; many travellers fancy its intriguing past.
These are some very interesting sights and I am glad you shared them, especially since many tourists may not be familiar with them. I think I would really enjoy exploring! I’ll take note for a future trip to India!
The city of Bhopal is a true gem – it is a paradise for historians, archeological patrons, and curious explorers. 🙂
Beautifully narrated, Tanya. 🙂 The thing that I love most about Bhopal is its green landscapes! You will notice that there are lots of trees all along the roads, plus huge public parks which are kept open all day long. 🙂
Bhopal certainly has its own charming ways to entrap you in its greenery, serene lakes, and spacious roads and, of course, delicious cuisine!
Awesome post, and your pictures are very beautiful! It is heartening to see the culture and traditions of India being preserved for posterity. I’ve not visited Bhopal, but now, I have many reasons to. Thank for your amazing travel guide!
To be welcomed with the richness of architecture, culture and history ~ is something else all right!
This is indeed a unique region to explore. The places of interest you’ve listed look intriguing and seem to provide an immersive experience of the culture of the place. Additionally, your pictures bring alive the character of the sights so well, Tanya. Thank you for sharing.
It’s really what you can access from Bhopal that makes it such a great place for tourists. With just a short drive, there are places to visit ranging from the historical, to the religious, to the natural.
Bhopal seems like an amazing travel destination! The sights you’ve introduced here are fantastic, and learning more about indigenous cultures is certainly one of the most intriguing parts of a country’s history which is oftentimes neglected in this globalised world of ours. xx
If you are looking to spend your next holiday enjoying culture, history, and delicious food ~ Bhopal is the city to visit! 🙂
Bhopal is a hidden beauty in India. I can see myself spending a lot of time taking photos and enjoying the beauty of the place. Thanks for sharing this wonderful article, it seems like a lot of effort and time was put into it.
It certainly is. I could never have imagined having this kind of experience in Bhopal, Shanaya.
Such a compelling blog ~ very informative, meaningful and to the point! The beauty of Bhopal truly lies in its pampering nature ~ it’s not a city for you and me, but a home for life! Thank you for sharing your experience, Tanya!
I appreciate your comment, Amruta. Bhopal is the perfect amalgamation of various cultures and periods in its history.
Glad to read the informative content you have shared with us, Tanya. I’m taken in by Bhopal’s greenery, open spaces and laid-back charm. And, there seems to be a lot of refreshingly different things to do here. Keep up the good work!
We were equally impressed with its multi-cultural charm and natural beauty, Shikha. Being a nature lover, I really was charmed by Bhopal’s green cascades. And of course, the lakes and the National parks had me mesmerised too.
Enjoyed reading your well written article. Bhopal has such rich history and unbeatable tourist places. There must be so many places like this in our beautiful country, which we do not know about until we are told. 🙂 Keep sharing!
It may not normally be on the tourist trail but there is actually a fantastic range of things to see in Bhopal!
This is such a detailed post! Your writing skills and the way you share insights about each tourist site are very impressive! Overall, your blog makes my dopamine levels go all silly!! xx
Grateful for every little compliment.
Yet another lovely piece! I will call these “attractions” the abstract landscapes of my soul… Would love to visit these sites one day. Also, I’m quite surprised by how green Bhopal is! It’s crazy because I believe in the power of trees.
It is perhaps one of the very few cities that has a densely afforested area within the city limits, where one can breathe pristine clear air, and play hide and seek with the sun while driving through the lovely winding roads.
Happiness is letting go of what you think your life is supposed to look like and to honouring it for everything that it is. Happy to see you figuratively dance among the ruins and appreciate every aspect of this beautiful city! xx
Being surrounded by nature and sunshine is what we must manifest into our lives… Nature and sunshine and paradise souls.