Bhopal lies in the heart of Central India, in Madhya Pradesh. This vibrant city is the capital of the state, and it’s often called the “City of Lakes.” It’s famous for over a dozen verdant lakes and ponds that glisten like jewels under the morning sun.
Tourism in Bhopal is a gateway to the region’s art, culture and heritage. The pair of Upper Lake and Lower Lake are popular tourist places of Bhopal, splitting it into the old town and its modern counterpart. The old town with rustic mosques, bustling bazaars, and serpentine alleys is to the north. The part with swanky infrastructure, shopping complexes, and wide roads is to the south.
The city abounds in museums, mosques, and historic monuments. Serene water bodies pair with magnificent structures, and bustling bazaars stand alongside peaceful temples. This contrast of the old and the new makes Bhopal MP tourism a blend of exquisite experiences. Bhopal tourist places are a seamless fusion of old heritage and modern sophistication.
The all-inclusive Bhopal Tour packages by Bhopal Tourism provide an immersive travel experience. We handle everything from accommodation and transportation to guided tours and local insights of Bhopal and nearby tourist places. At Bhopal Tourism, we also have a list of top car rental companies in Bhopal. Booking a rental cab will allow you to easily explore the top tourist places in the city and nearby. Please fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch.
History of Bhopal
Even though Bhopal is often remembered for the 1984 gas leakage, it has a rich cultural heritage. It first came into prominence in the 11th century, under the rule of Bhoj, a legendary king of the Paramar dynasty. Legend speaks of him as the one who built many lakes that surround Bhopal today. The city is said to be improved upon by Dost Mohammed Khan in the 18th century.
It was in the 18th and 19th centuries when Bhopal's distinctive character took shape under various Begums. This era of female rulers gave the city its railways, postal system and infrastructure. This period also witnessed the establishment of various iconic monuments and intricate palaces that still captivate visitors. The Indo-Islamic architectural heritage that graces tourist places in Bhopal city is a direct reflection of this era's refined aesthetic sensibilities.
Following India's independence in 1947, Bhopal became the capital of the newly formed Madhya Pradesh state. Today, it’s a blend of its historical grandeur and modern development. Bhopal tourism is a beautiful convergence of Nawabi elegance and contemporary vibes. Its serene lakes are witness to centuries of history.
Places to Visit in Bhopal
The list of tourist places in Bhopal includes varied experiences, such as historical monuments, art and museums, and serene lakes, among others. From grand mosques to vibrant parks, this “City of Lakes” has something for everyone. Whether you wish to dive into the city’s regal past or explore its vibrant culture, Bhopal Tourism offers a memorable opportunity.
Upper Lake (Bhojtal) is the heart of Bhopal. It’s a vast, tranquil lake created by Raja Bhoj. Its calm waters are perfect for boating, kayaking and rafting. Across the bridge lies Lower Lake, surrounded by gardens and walking trails. It’s a photographer’s delight, especially in the evening light. Both these lakes enchant visitors with their pristine beauty and recreational opportunities.
Then, Van Vihar National Park, located adjacent to Upper Lake, is a charming sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. It houses animal species like leopards, cheetahs and deer. Local birds and migratory avian species can also be seen. And scenic walking trails through lush greenery make sightseeing around the park quite easy. Then, Kerwa Dam and Halali Dam & Reservoir offer additional scenic retreats away from the bustling city.
For those drawn to history, Taj-ul-Masajid is among the top tourist places around Bhopal. With its grand white marble dome dominating the skyline, it stands as a magnificent example of Mughal architecture. Close by, Moti Masjid and Jama Masjid are other architectural marvels that reflect the city’s royal heritage with their magnificent Indo-Islamic design.
Among temples, the Bhojeswar Temple is an ancient religious site that attracts pilgrims. Birla Mandir is another temple in Bhopal that offers a serene escape. Manuabhan Tekri is a sacred hill with a temple at its summit, offering panoramic views of the city.
Then, Bharat Bhavan stands as Bhopal's cultural crown jewel. It’s one of the must-visit places of tourist interest in Bhopal for art and culture enthusiasts. It features art galleries, a museum, and a library, showcasing Indian art. Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya, Tribal Museum and Birla Museum also showcase collections about the region's culture.
Bhopal's architectural heritage, too, reflects its Nawabi past and royal lineage. The Gohar Mahal, a 19th-century palace, is among the most beautiful structures in the Bhopal tourist places list. The Shaukat Mahal is another magnificent 19th-century structure. Then, there’s Rani Kamlapati Palace, a historic royal residence that showcases the opulence and grandeur of Bhopal's ruling dynasty.
Beyond the city, adventure seekers can explore remarkable natural and historical sites. Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has cave paintings spanning thousands of years. Sanchi Stupa is another heritage site located close to Bhopal. It’s one of India's most significant Buddhist monuments and among the popular tourist places near Bhopal city.
History enthusiasts can also explore Raisen Fort. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the landscape, it provides panoramic views of the region. It offers a glimpse into Bhopal’s military heritage as well, along with a deeper understanding of the region's layered past.
Other Activities and Experiences
Apart from Bhopal tourist places, the region offers various other enriching experiences. Heritage walks through the old city and photography trails around the lakes provide a different perspective about the city. For families and children, water parks like Crescent Water Park and People's Mall Water Park offer refreshing recreational experiences.
Wildlife enthusiasts can also go on excursions to Bori Wildlife Sanctuary or Satpura Tiger Reserve. They provide opportunities to witness diverse flora and fauna. An overnight trip to Kanha National Park for wildlife safaris is another adventurous experience.
Trips to other tourist places in MP near Bhopal are also offered under a suitable Bhopal Tourism package. Especially, trips to Indore (190 km) reveal a sister city with its own palaces and temples. Ujjain (190 km) is another must-visit destination for tourism near Bhopal. It’s one of the holiest cities for Hindus, attracting spiritual pilgrims.
Apart from exploring Bhopal city tourist places and MP tourism near Bhopal, you can also check local markets and cuisine during the trip. Chowk Bazaar and New Market are the main shopping hubs. Narrow alleys are lined with traditional handicrafts, vibrant fabrics, and locally-made artefacts. Then, traditional eateries and modern restaurants serve authentic Bhopali cuisine specialities like jalebi-poori, bhutte ki kees, and poha.
How to Reach Bhopal
Here are the various ways to reach Bhopal and explore popular tourist places around –
By Air: The nearest airport to Bhopal is Raja Bhoj Airport, 12 km away from the city centre. It has some domestic airlines with regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities in India. For broader flight options, Indore Airport (200 km away) is a viable alternative. At the airport, you can book a taxi from the top car rental companies in Bhopal for a comfortable trip.
By Train: Bhopal railway station offers excellent connectivity across India. It's centrally located in the city with several trains connecting Bhopal to Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and other cities. Local transportation to explore famous tourist places in Bhopal includes cycle/auto-rickshaws, city buses, and rental cabs/taxis.
By Road: Bhopal enjoys excellent road connectivity via National Highways. State-run buses and private coaches, both AC and non-AC, run regularly to Bhopal from many nearby towns and cities. You can also take a cab/taxi or self-drive to enjoy a scenic journey through Central India. Delhi is 800 km away, Jaipur is 580 km, and Nagpur is 350 km.
With serene lakes and magnificent monuments, Bhopal is one of the most captivating tourist destinations in Madhya Pradesh. Whether you're seeking cultural exploration or peaceful retreats, Bhopal Tour packages provide the perfect experience for every traveller. We, at Bhopal Tourism, offer customised tour packages to help you explore the best tourist places in Bhopal. Fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch with our travel experts.
