Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh is a captivating town for nature lovers. People who have visited the city, remember Bhopal as a peaceful drive on the VIP road, with the wind whizzing into their hair, pleasant music playing in the ears and the beautiful upper lake soothing their sight.
As you pass by the Raja Bhoj statue, coloured in red and green by the gleam of the light show running on the other side in the evening, you get to know the true beauty of this city.
Architecture: Apart from being one of India’s greenest cities, it has 17 lakes. The masjids stand tall and give peek into its rich Islamic heritage, and the colourful markets tell tales of the local culture. The Taj- ul-Masajid in Bhopal, literally means the ‘crown among the mosques’, is the largest mosque in India and just as phenomenal.
The outskirts of the city are home to two historically revered destinations. First, Bhimbetka rock shelters are not only a green sanctuary but its cave paintings are evidence of the earliest human settlements.
Second is the Sanchi Stupa, one of the oldest stone structures in the country built over the relics of Buddha. Both, located in the Raisen district along with the Bhojpur temple which is a regular destination for Shiv devotees.
The Shaukat Mahal, known to the locals as the ‘Taj Mahal of Bhopal’ was built around 1830, as a gift to the first Begum. It combines the elements from the French and Islamic cultures and once was a residential structure.
A taste of this beautiful fusion of architectural techniques is also found in the recently constructed Gauhar Mahal, which is a one-stop destination for exquisite traditional jewellery and apparel shopping as well.
Markets: Mrignayani market near the Polytechnic circle is a one-stop for exclusive Maheshwari and Chanderi sarees.
The ‘New Market’ is swarmed with locals and tourists alike, drawn by the blend of western wear and ethnic apparel. The bead jewellery in silver and gold, sarees and kurtas and dexterously made handicrafts add to the charm of this market. Don’t forget to haggle!
The Chow market, known as Lakherapura is not only a shopper’s dream, it is also a destination to buy costumes, charms and props for plays, etc.
The Bhopali culture is a fusion of the old and new, which highly reflects in the apparel style of the youth. They embrace their traditional outfits but love to dress in trendy jeans and shirts. Head to New Market or Mini Market to get what's missing from your wardrobe at a Klub Fox store.
Quick Tip
When you finish that delicious chaat standing at the lake view road, go back outside the entrance, and in the big temple attached to the garden. The steps of the temple ghat lead into the Upper lake. From this spot, you can enjoy the lake, the light show, the sight of a small cruise ship and the Raja Bhoj statue, while chilling with your friends.
So, when are you visiting?