The capital of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal, is a mash-up of tradition, history, culture, and urban expansion. While there are many historic forts, palaces, caverns, and temples in Bhopal that are worth visiting, there are also magnificent highrises and other structures that showcase modern design.
Bhopal’s pristine natural beauty mesmerizes visitors throughout the year. You may experience delectable regional cuisine while in Bhopal and discover more about Madhya Pradesh’s tribal culture.
Top 15 places to visit in Bhopal
There are so many attractions to see in Bhopal that you’ll need at least a few days to see everything. When traveling to the city, Bhopal does really provide a variety of attractions.
The city is truly a gem that has something in store for any traveler that comes to visit, regardless of their age and interests, from contemporary world adventures like malls, water parks, parks, and dams to historical attractions including forts, temples, and museums.
Here is a quick guide to the top Bhopal attractions that will undoubtedly make your trip memorable.
- Upper Lake
- Van Vihar National Park
- Bhimbetka Caves
- Raisen Fort
- Shaukat Mahal
- National Museum of Mankind
- Birla Museum
- Yodhasthal
- Taj-ul-Masjid
- Bhojpur Temple
- Lower Lake
- Gohar Mahal
- Archeological Museum
- Moti Masjid
- Bharat Bhavan
1) Upper Lake
One of the most intriguing tourist destinations in Bhopal is Upper Lake. This artificial lake is quite beautiful, and in the middle of it lies a solitary island. Additionally, locals think that Upper Lake’s water offers therapeutic and medicinal benefits.
In paddle, rowing, or speed boats, people can cruise the lake while taking in a picturesque sunset.
2) Van Vihar National Park
In Bhopal, there is a sizable wildlife refuge called Van Vihar National Park. For those who enjoy the outdoors and bird watching, it is one of the must-see locations in Bhopal, nestled between Shamla Hills and Upper Lake.
Numerous birds and wild creatures, including the leopard, sambar, nilgai, turtle, star tortoise, crocodile, langur, porcupine, wild boar, and chital, call this area home. With a plethora of flora and fauna, it is one of India’s best national parks.
3) Bhimbetka Caves
The rugged cliffs of Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary are where the rock-cut Bhimbetka caves are located. These amazing cave paintings represent a variety of stories from the Upper Palaeolithic to the medieval eras in prehistory.
One of the most well-liked tourist destinations close to Bhopal is the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, which is situated 45 kilometers from the nation’s capital.
4) Raisen Fort
Raisen Fort is one of the captivating tourist destinations close to Bhopal and is located 43 kilometers from the capital city. This historic fort, which is situated on top of a sandstone hill outside the city, is home to lakes, ponds, temples, mosques, and schools.
It is thought that many notable historical figures, including Sher Shah Suri, have reigned from this location. The shrine of Hazrat Peer Fatehullah Shah Baba is Raisen Fort’s main draw. One of Bhopal’s most fascinating historical locations is this one. You can also look up further destinations close to Bhopal.
5) Shaukat Mahal
One of Bhopal’s architectural marvels, Shaukat Mahal, is a prime example of Indo-Islamic and European forms and patterns. This historic palace, which plays a significant role in Bhopal tourism, is strongly influenced by Indo-Saracenic and Rococo architectural styles. It is among the most picturesque locations in Bhopal.
6) National Museum of Mankind
One of the captivating Bhopal tourist attractions is the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, also known as the National Museum of Mankind, which is situated in Shamla Hills.
Here, anthropological evidence illustrates how humanity has changed over history.
Due to the skillful representation of numerous tribal cultures, lifestyles, and characteristics, it is also known as Tribal Habitat Museum.
The museum’s displays also offer a wealth of information about the country’s varied cultural traditions and the virtually extinct Indian culture.
7) Birla Museum
The Birla Group owns and operates the museum, which only displays historical statues, tools, manuscripts, and paintings. The museum has extensive information about the prehistoric human race and their way of life.
One of the top attractions in Bhopal for art lovers is the reproduction of the Bhimbetka Caves, along with other appealing exhibitions. Make time to see this beautiful temple while you are exploring Bhopal.
8) Yodhasthal
Another well-liked tourist destination in Bhopal is Yodhasthal, where a variety of weapons and ammunition used by the armed forces are on exhibit. The location provides quite engaging information on combat stories and victories to visitors, especially children.
There are several sections here. The attractions of the museum include the AV displays in Prekshagriha, the war knowledge available in Parichay, the unusual facts exhibited in Avishkar, the display of weapons used in previous battles in Army Astra Shastra, and the gift store.
9) Taj-ul-Masjid
The Crown of Mosques, also known as Taj-ul-Masjid, is one of Bhopal’s most beautiful historical sites. This historic mosque is known for its stunning architecture, Islamic carvings, and fresco paintings.
Taj-ul-Masjid features eleven trellis-worked arches and is decorated in the same manner as Syrian mosques and the Qibla wall.
10) Bhojpur Temple
One of the must-see locations in Bhopal for those seeking purity is the Bhojpur Temple, which Raja Bhoj constructed.
Even though the temple’s construction is unfinished, it nevertheless draws a lot of visitors who are spiritual followers, history buffs, and art enthusiasts because of its artwork, sculptures, and massive big Shiva Lingam.
11) Lower Lake
Wait until you see Lower Lake if you think Upper Lake is lovely. It is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Bhopal. With the use of a bridge, the lower lake is divided from the higher lake.
The location offers breathtaking city views. The ethereal splendour of the attraction might easily ensnare you for a few hours beside the lake. It is an essential component of the Bhoj Wetland. One adventure sport you may participate in Bhopal is enjoying boating.
12) Gohar Mahal
One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Bhopal is the Gohar Mahal, which is renowned for its extensive history and stunning architecture. Gohar Mahal, which was built in 1820, is a popular tourist destination.
There are also a lot of historical and artistic exhibitions presented here. To restore grandeur and beauty, the structure’s components are undergoing refurbishment. Unquestionably one of the most fascinating attractions to see in Bhopal is Gohar Mahal.
13) Archeological Museum
Madhya Pradesh is not only the biggest state but also one of the richest in terms of art and history. You can delve deeply into the history of Madhya Pradesh by examining historical artifacts and papers at the National Archaeological Museum in Bhopal.
If you enjoy learning about stuff and history, it is among the top tourist attractions in Bhopal. It is among the enjoyable activities in Bhopal.
14) Moti Masjid
Moti Masjid should be one of your stops when traveling through Bhopal. Even though it is little, Bhopal’s other attractions can’t compete with its beauty and charm. Sikander Jehan Begum of Bhopal constructed the mosque in 1860.
The courageous woman is credited with abolishing slavery and bringing about social change. One of the most sacred sights in Bhopal is this.
15) Bharat Bhavan
Bharat Bhavan is a multi-arts complex and museum that is among the noteworthy attractions to see in Bhopal. The Madhya Pradesh government-financed building’s architecture was designed by Charles Correa.
The location has a museum of tribal and traditional art, an outdoor amphitheater, a library of Indian poets, classical and popular musicians, and an art gallery.