Bhopal
Beautiful Bhopal,
sprawls picturesquely around two
artificial lakes on gently rolling hills. The city Bhojapal was named after its
founder Raja Bhoj a, the famous 10th century ruler of Parmar dynasty, who is
believed to have built a dam (pal) across the Narmada river. The glorious city
was destroyed in 15th century by Sultan Hoshang Shah of Malwa and the present
city was founded
by Dost Mohammad Khan, one of
Aurangzeb's Afghan governors who left the Mughal empire after Aurangzeb's death
and established his own dynasty - the Nawabs of Bhopal.
Today, the city presents a
multi-faceted profile, the old city with its teeming market places, fine old
mosques and palaces which bear the aristocratic imprint of its former rulers
and the new beautifully planned city with wide avenues, parks and gardens,
government buildings and residential areas which are functional, practical and
aesthetic. Bhopal is also a perfect base to visit Sanchi, Bhimbetka and
Bhojpur.
Tourist Acctration in Bhopal
- Taj-ul Masjid
- Jama Masjid
- Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil
- Bharat Bhawan
- Chowk
- Tribal Habitat
- Govt. Archeological Museum
- Gandhi Bhawan
- Van Vihar
- Upper & Lower Lakes
Taj-ul Masjid : The majestic mosque
is perhaps the largest in the country. Its construction was started by Shah
Jahan Begum, but the work was not completed and was resumed in 1971. The main
hall with inter arched roof, broad facade, spacious courtyard and smooth marble
floors are noteworthy.
Jama Masjid : The beautiful mosque
has tall dark minarets crowned by golden spires. It was built in 1837 by Kudsia
Begum, the devout wife of the ruler of Bhopal. Moti Masjid or Pearl Mosque :
The majestic mosque was built by Sikandar Begum in 1860. It is architecturally
inspired by the famous Jama Masjid of Delhi.
Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil : This magnificent edifice is set at the entrance to the
Chowk area in the heart of the walled city.
Bharat Bhawan : This prestigious
multidimensional centre for performing and visual arts was established on 13th
Feb. 1982. The building set on the banks of a lake was designed by the famous
architect Charles Correa and is an excellent illustration of modern
architecture. The interesting sites here are - Rupankar, the only museum in the
country where contemporary urban, folk and art of aboriginals are kept under
one roof, Rangmandal, where country's best stage talent and play writers take
pride in performing Vagartha, the centre of Indian poetry ; Anhad, the centre
for Indian classical and folk music.
Chowk : The chowk set in the
heart of the old city is lined with old mosque's and haveli's. It is an excellent
place for purchasing Bhopali crafts like silver jewellery, velvet purses,
embroideries and bead work etc.
Tribal Habitat : It is an open air
exhibition on the scenic Shamla Hills. The centre provides an insight into the
tribal life in various states of India.
Govt. Archeological Museum : Splendid sculptures, paintings of various schools and
paintings fromBagh caves are exhibited here.
Gandhi Bhawan : It houses an
exhibition of photographs of Mahatama Gandhi and a Gandhi Museum.
Van Vihar : The Safari Park is
located near Upper Lake amidst scenic surroundings. It has a rich variety of
animals and birds.
Upper & Lower Lakes : These two charming lakes are divided by an over bridge and are the most
notable features of Bhopal. Tourists enjoy boating at the Lower Lake.
REACHING THERE
Airport: Linked by air.
Rail : Bhopal lies 'on Delhi - Chennai
main line.
Road: Well connected.by road.
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