Best Places To Visit In Bhopal For The Perfect Getaway!

The capital of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal, is a veritable paradise for art and architectural enthusiasts, historians, archaeologists, and off-the-beaten-path, inquisitive tourists alike.

It is the most popular tourist attraction in Madhya Pradesh, filled with historical palaces, religious temples, and a plethora of museums telling stories of bygone times.

It goes without saying that the city is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological sites, but there are also plenty of recreational opportunities and things to do for even casual holiday seekers. Continue reading for our exclusive travel guide to Bhopal, including the best places to visit in Bhopal and more.

Check Out The Best Hangout Places In Bhopal

Beautiful lakes and dramatic scenery surround Bhopal. To the north lies the old city, with its intriguing mosques, winding lanes, delicious food joints, and bustling chowks. To the south lies the new Bhopal, which is modern and features wide roads, shopping centers, upscale hotels, and eateries.

Here are some of the best hangout places in Bhopal so that you can make the most of your trip:

1. Upper Lake

Arguably the best place to visit in Bhopal, Upper Lake, also called "Bhojtaal" or "Bada Talab" in the local dialect, is the oldest artificial lake in India, having been constructed sometime in the eleventh century. It is thought that Raja Bhoj constructed the lake.  The colorful horizon of the lake at dusk and the quiet environs make it one of the best places for couples in Bhopal

The lake is surrounded by Kamla Park, a vast royal garden that draws countless numbers of visitors each year with its serene folds. The ambiance and setting of the two locations are simply too good to pass up, and they both deserve a prominent place on your itinerary for your tour of Bhopal. 

Cruises are also available for an evening romantic cruise, and the walkway is lined with food carts where you may sample street foods together.

Upper Lake is the oldest artificial lake in India

2. Van Vihar National Park

Located near Upper Lake, the Van Vihar National Park is a must-visit location for anyone interested in wildlife. Known as the city's lungs, the park is strictly regulated and guarded, and in addition to exotic flower species, it is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including Blackbuck, Cheetal, Sambar, Blue Bull, Porcupine, Wild Boar, and Hyena.

The place to visit in Bhopal is suitable for both nature enthusiasts and explorers, and it is also great for quick day hikes. Large stretches of rich foliage and the serene beauty of the location make it a must-see for tourists.

Van Vihar National Park is a must-visit location for anyone interested in wildlife

3. Moti Masjid

Still another well-known and fascinating place to visit in Bhopal is Moti Masjid, also called the "Pearl Mosque" because of its dazzling white marble floor. This mosque was constructed in 1860 by Sikander Jahan Begum, the most forward-thinking and progressive woman of her era. She contributed to the development of the city by erecting numerous monuments, roads, and bridges, and it serves as a reminder of her extraordinary efforts and of the wonderful period in Bhopal's history when women ruled the city.

Moti Masjid is a must-see on your Bhopal trip; its beautiful white front conceals a huge courtyard that opens to some of the most stunning vistas of the city. It is a fantastic retreat for history buffs and the curious alike.

Moti Masjid is a must-see on your Bhopal trip

4. Bhojpur Temple

The Bhojpur Temple, another magnificent landmark constructed by Raja Bhoj in the eleventh century, is a religious homage to the Hindu God Shiva and is tucked away in the sleepy Madhya Pradesh village of Bhojpur. The temple's construction is still unfinished, though it is unclear why it was abandoned.

A 7.5-foot-tall lingam (idol of Lord Shiva) in the temple's glorious sanctum lures thousands of tourists and pilgrims there each year. The impressive remnants of the ancient Shiva temple and the Cyclopean dam make this a significant archaeological site and a true delight for history buffs and religious devotees.

5. Shaukat Mahal

Shaukat Mahal, a stunning contrast of Western and Asian architectural design amid Bhopal's mostly Islamic architecture, is regarded as the best place for couples in Bhopal.

The edifice, which stands at the gateway to the well-known Chowk area, was constructed during the reign of Sikander Begum. It features exquisite carvings on its magnificent face and a distinctive blend of Gothic and Post Renaissance styles.

6. Taj-ul- Masjid

Often referred to as "The Crown of the Mosques," "Taj-ul-Masjid" is one of the largest mosques in India, with a capacity to house 175,000 people at a time. Situated on the shores of the immaculate "Motia Talaab," it is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bhopal and, naturally, a major site of religious tourism for Muslims who come here from far-off corners of the nation and the world.

One of the world's most prominent mosques, this Bhopal tourist attraction was built between 1844 and 1860 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar and is notable for its spectacular design and vast dimensions.

Taj-ul-Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India

7. Bhimbetka Caves

Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary's rugged cliffs support the rock-cut Bhimbetka caves. These magnificent cave-wall artworks tell stories from the ancient upper Palaeolithic phase to the medieval period. The UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site in India is 45 kilometers from the capital city and one of the most popular tourist destinations around Bhopal.

8. Birla museum

The Birla Group owns and runs the museum, which only displays antique sculptures, tools, manuscripts, statues, and paintings. The museum provides extensive information on the prehistoric human race and their way of life. The reproduction of the Bhimbetka caves and other enticing exhibitions make it one of the greatest locations to visit in Bhopal for art enthusiasts. When visiting Bhopal, make time to see this lovely temple. It is one of the best temples to visit in India and scenic views

9. Udayagiri Caves

The Udayagiri caverns are a remarkable group of twenty sculpted caverns dating back to the early fifth century CE, and they include some of the most ancient icon paintings and carvings. The inscriptions inside the caves relate to the period of the Gupta dynasty.

The caves are a major historic site that is administered by the Archaeological Survey of India. The carved drawings reflect the legends of Vishnu, Lakshmi, Shiva, and Parvati.

10. Gohar Mahal

Gohar Mahal, perched on the banks of Bhopal's peaceful Upper Lake, is without a doubt one of the most historically attractive destinations to visit in Bhopal. Built in 1820 by Qudsia Begum, one of the country's earliest free-thinking women and the first female monarch of Bhopal, the palace has detailed interior carvings as well as magnificent external embellishments.

The palace is also an excellent example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The great hall oversees the lovely lake, while the hall's interiors include countless historic paintings, fine woodwork, and art.

Best Time To Visit Bhopal

The best time to visit Bhopal is during the winter months, which typically span from October to March. This period offers the most comfortable weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. 

Avoiding the summer months (April to June) is advisable as Bhopal experiences high temperatures, making it uncomfortably hot. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings heavy rainfall and can lead to waterlogging in some areas, impacting travel plans.

In summary, plan your visit to Bhopal during the winter months for a more enjoyable and pleasant experience.

Conclusion

Split by two lakes, Bhopal tells the fascinating story of two different cityscapes: to the north lies old Bhopal, which celebrates its regal past with its striking monuments, winding alleys, and bustling bazaars; to the south, rises the new Bhopal, with its posh buildings and swanky malls.

Choosing the best tourist destination in Bhopal depends on each person's preferences. It's really difficult, because each location has its own unique character. Whether you are a history enthusiast exploring the architectural marvels like Shaukat Mahal or a nature lover relishing the tranquil ambiance of the Upper Lake, Bhopal caters to all.

As you plan your visit to this enchanting city, we recommend considering the convenience and efficiency of obtaining an India eVisa through the India Immigration Services website. Applying for your eVisa via our platform ensures a streamlined process, saving you time and effort. Our user-friendly interface, secure payment options, and prompt processing make the application procedure hassle-free. Additionally, our dedicated customer support team is readily available to assist with any queries or concerns you may have during the application process. Choose the ease and reliability of our website to obtain your India eVisa!