Bhopal, capital of Madhya Pradesh combines scenic beauty, historicity and modern urban planning. It is situated on the site of an 11th century city, Bhojapal, founded by Raja Bhoja.The founder of the existing city was however an Afghan soldier of fortune, Dost Mohammed. Fleeing from Delhi in the chaotic period that followed Aurangazeb's death, Dost Mohammed encountered the beautiful Gond queen Kamalapati, who sort his aid after the murder of her consort.

Bhopal city is also referred to as the City of Lakes because of the two beautiful lakes that are situated in the center of the city. The city itself sits on the banks of a vast lake spanning almost 10 square miles, which dominates the landscape and gives it a magnetic, mesmerizing quality. The tranquility of the lake is perhaps responsible for the calm, laid-back attitude that pervades the entire city.

Tourist Attractions in Bhopal

Laxmi Narayan Temple - It is also known as the Birla Mandir, the Laxmi Narayan Temple is situated to the south of the Lower Lake on the Arera Hills. Near the Temple is located a museum that houses a collection of sculptures from the districts at Raisen, Sehore, Mandsaur, and Shahdol in of Madhya Pradesh. The stone sculptures here are mainly of Shiva, Vishnu, and their respective consorts and incarnations.

Moti Masjid - Built by Qudsia Begum's daughter Sikander Jahan Begum in 1860 A.D., the Moti Masjid is similar in style to Delhi's Jama Masjid. The mosque is smaller in size than the Jama Masjid, and has two dark red minarets crowned by golden spikes.

Sadar Manzil - Near the Shaukat Mahal lies the elegant Sadar Manzil. It used to be the hall of public audience of the former rulers of Bhopal.

Bharat Bhavan - It is a beautiful and unique looking cultural complex in Bhopal, buolt and designed exclusively by the world renowned architect Charles Correa. The total beauty of the cultural complex lies in a number of low lying beautifully structured buildings, around the banks of the lake. The Bharat Bhavan remains open everyday from 10.30 am to 5.00 pm except Sundays and government holidays.

Climate in Bhopal - 3 degree to 42 degree C.

How to reach Bhopal?

By Air - Bhopal airport is 12 km from the Old City.
By Rail - The railway station is near Hamidia road. Major trains going from Bombay to Delhi via Itarsi and Jhansi also go through Bhopal.
By Road - Having well connected roads to another city.There are numerous daily buses to Sanchi,Vidisha,Indore,Ujjain and Jabalpur.