Places to visit in Bhopal

• Bhojtal or Bada Talaab: Bhopal has an abundance of natural beauty. So, start your trip with the most famous spot Bhojtal, also known as the Bada Talab. The lake has a substantial historical relevance as it is said to have cured skin disease of Raja Bhoj. Constructed in the 11th century, it is India's largest human-made lake and a primary source of drinking water for the residents of Bhopal, supporting flora and fauna of the region as well. You can enjoy the beauty of the lake by boating or indulging in water sports. There is also another lake known as Chhota Talab near the Bada Talab, separated by an over-bridge.
• Van Vihar National Park: Alongside the Bada Talab, surrounding the hills lies Van Vihar National Park. Home to tigers, lions, leopards, hyenas, birds, and bears is the most significant animal conservation area developed by the Forest Department of Madhya Pradesh in the middle of the city. The best part of this park is you can find animals in their natural habitat.
• Taj-Ul-Masajid: Next on your itinerary should be this impressive 19th-century structure Taj-Ul-Masajid, meaning 'Crown Among Mosques'. Shah Jahan Begum – Bhopal's third female ruler, wanted to build the world's largest mosques, but it was not completed until the time of her death in the 1980s. White domes, two 18-storey high minarets, a prayer hall with 27 scalloped ceiling domes, and a vast courtyard adorned India's largest mosque and counted among Asia's largest mosques. Do also visit Moti Masjid, another beautiful mosque decorated with white façade and a pair of red towers, similar to Jama Masjid's style.
• Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS): Also known as National Museum of Humankind or Museum of Man, this anthropology museum tells you the story of man's evolution. It lies on the Shyamla Hills covering an area of about 200 acres. The museum features few permanent exhibitions categorised as Open exhibitions, Indoor galleries and Temporary/ Periodical exhibitions. Bhopal also boasts of several other museums that are worth visiting. The list includes State museums spread over 17 galleries comprising paintings, rare Jain sculptures, fossils and rare Bagh paintings. Madhya Pradesh Tribal located close to IGRMS has a collection of tribal tools, clothing, a replica of tribal houses and beautiful artisanal crafts. Remember Bhopal Museum exhibits pictures, belongings of the victims of Bhopal Gas tragedy, and audio recordings of the doctors, survivors and forensic experts.
• Gauhar Mahal: A great testimony to Bhopal's rich legacy, Gauhar Mahal was built by the first female ruler of the city, Qudisiya Begum in 1820. Located alongside the Bada Talab, the palace showcases the fine craftsmanship of Nawabi era. The palace's architecture is a mix of Hindu and Mughal architecture, and its intricate jharokhas, woodwork mirror, and ancient painting are worth noticing.
• Lakshmi Narayana Temple: Located near Chhota Talaab, Lakshmi Narayan temple's brilliant architecture in sand-yellow colour is a sight to experience. Try to visit the temple in the sunlight as it looks stunning and reflects the influence of ancient Indian architecture in the form of wooden Chhattries (umbrellas) and shell roof.
• Kerwa Dam: If you want to get closer to nature, take a trip to Kerwa Dam, a prime eco-tourism site in Bhopal. Experience cool breeze amidst scenic mountains and beautiful flora and fauna and enjoy a host of activities, including bird spotting and sightseeing.
• The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka Ghat : The Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka Ghat is a must-visit while in Bhopal. With over 700 rock shelters in the cave having rock painting, the whole place takes you on a journey into the ancient times, giving an insight into the ancient arts. You will also notice small stupas and inscription from the Maurya/ Sunga period. Zoo Rock, Boar rock, and an Auditorium Rock Shelter are also a part of the Bhimbetka premises. The cup-depressions at the end of the Auditorium Rock Shelter, dating back to about 100000 years is the most exciting feature. The Zoo Rock Shelter comprises the most number of paintings starting from Mesolithic Age to the medieval period. The last rock shelter is the Boar Rock depicting a mythical boar with horns. So, take out some time from your trip and do experience this unique site.

High-end shopping/luxury shopping/shopping malls in Bhopal

Aura Mall

Capital Mall

Gammon Mall (Shrishti CBD)

City Walk Mall

Vardhaman Mall

Minal Mall

DB City mall

Aashima Anupama Mall

Street shopping in Bhopal

Chowk Bazaar: To have the best and local shopping experience in Bhopal, you must take a stroll in the narrow alleys of the Old City market or Chowk Bazaar. The narrow lanes here are the hub for Bhopal's ancient traditions, practices and lifestyle. The city's signature embroidery art – Zardosi craft is in preparation for the past 300 years, exquisite beadwork, Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees. You can get clothes, purses or shoes designed in different craft forms here.

Habibganj Market: This is another local shopping market that gives you the local shopping experience's flavour. You will see lines of shops selling cheap trendy accessories, to bags, shoes, apparels amongst others at a reasonable price. But make sure you do bargain while you shop from this market.

New Market: If you want to see Bhopal's modern shopping arena, then head out to New Market, filled with shopping centres and malls.

Sanchi

A well-known Buddhist pilgrim site that needs no introduction. Sanchi offers spectacular views and insights into the Buddhist religion. It is about 45km from Bhopal, easily reachable by road.

Khajuraho

A fantastic getaway to experience ancient art in the form of figurines and statues, Khajuraho is about 383km from Bhopal.

Jabalpur

It is another excellent nearby location to travel from Bhopal, featuring an abundance of natural beauty. You can visit Kanha National Park, Dhuandhar falls, Balancing rocks and many more, Jabalpur is a delightful city to visit.

Gwalior

A small city with a rich historical significance. The magnificent Gwalior Fort and the superb Scindia palace are few of the landmarks to visit in the city.

Nightlife/part places in Bhopal

• Black Mamba Pub and Club
• 10 Downing Street
• TRIO Beer Pub and Restaurant
• High Spirits Pub and Grill
• The Royal Court
• Liquid
• Saltwater Restaurant Pub and Restaurant
• Ripples
• Xtreme Sports Bar
• Shergar Bar

Diwali

Diwali is celebrated with great fervour and adds more brightness to the city. Social gathering, fair, food and fun are the essential features of the festival.

Ijtima

Ijtima, an important festival of Muslim is popularly celebrated in Bhopal. This festival is held every year and stretches for three days Muslim pilgrims come from various India regions assemble in Bhopal on this auspicious festival. Even non-Muslims gather during the auspicious occasion. Large fair is also held during the three days of the festival.

Ram Navami

The festival dedicated to mark the birth of Lord Rama is celebrated on Chaitra month's ninth day. People in Bhopal celebrate it with great devotion. Devotees take a bath in the early dawn. Pure water and nd prayers are offered to the Sun.

National Drama Festival

National Drama Festival is celebrated in September with great pomp and show. Artists, poets, writers gather in large number to showcase their talent. Folk dance, song and cultural activities add more glitter to the festival.

Bharat Bhavan Summer Festival

Bharat Bhavan Summer Festival is one of the significant festivals of with a high degree of high recognition and acceptance in Bhopal. Celebrated with great zest every year. Traditional music, songs, poem concerts, folk dance, art exhibition make it a cultural fest.

Dhrupad Samaroh

This festival is one of the most popular festivals of the city, and it is celebrated with great excitement. This festival sets the platform for the promotion of classical music. Noted artists present soul-stirring vocal and music performances. The classical music lovers come from various corner of the world to relish the festival. Dhrupad Samaroh in Bhopal provides unique opportunities to get classical experiences.

Lokrang

This traditional festival of Lake City is celebrated on the holy day of the Republic Day. This festival stretches for five days and pulls the crowd like a magnet. Tribal and folk programs, cultural activities and performing arts make it a colourful extravaganza. The festival gives out the traditional flavour of Madhya Pradesh.