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Best Things to Do in Bhopal

One of the most unique things to do in Bhopal is to plan a visit to the popular Yodhasthal Museum. Dedicated to the Indian army, Yodhasthal museum is the most unique places to visit of Bhopal which aims at narrating the war scenarios and life of an army man.

This museum features different types of guns and machines which have been arranged in different sections. The museum also comprises an enticing park which adds to its visual appeal. Popularly known as “Know Your Army” museum, this museum is subdivided into 6 major sections including Preskh Ghat, Avishkar, Parichay, Alpahar, Swagat Kaksh, and Astra Shastra.

Highlights:

-Big machines used by Indian army during wars.
-Lush green park.
-An audio-video film about Indian army at Preksha Ghat.
-A small shop from where you can buy anything related to the Indian army.

Location: Yodhasthal museum is situated at the Dronachal Complex in Bhopal.

Price: The entry into this museum is free of cost.

Timings: The museum remains open from 9 AM to 12 PM in the morning and from 4 PM to 7 PM in the evening.

If you are looking for adventurous things to do in Bhopal, your search ends at this popular spot in the city. An entertainment zone inaugurated in the year 2011, Sair Sapata is a leisure park where adults can spend a peaceful time with their family and friends.

The park is sprawled over an area of 24.56 acres and offers several entertaining activities such as zorbing, car dashing, and forest hiking. One can also enhance their experience by trying out boat riding. If you wish to spend a quality time with your family or friends, this is a must-visit place for you.

Highlights:

-A spacious children’s playground
-Musical fountain
-Suspension Bridge
-Toy Train

Location: It falls on Bhadbhada Road in Prempura, Bhopal.

Price: The entry fee for adults is INR 20 whereas, for children, the fee is INR 10.

Timings:  The entertainment zone remains open from 11 AM to 10 PM.

Inaugurated in the year 2013, this museum is the youngest of all the museums in Bhopal. The museum spreads over 7 acres of land and flaunts a massive building designed by Revathi Kamath. Unlike any other museum, Madhya Pradesh Tribal museum is focused on 7 major tribes of the state namely Bheel, Gond, Baiga, Kol, Bhariya, Korku, and Sahariya.

The vibrant galleries of the museum display the traditional artworks and crafts of the tribes. There is another gallery in the museum which showcases the cultural diversity within the state and artworks of the tribals from the state Chhattisgarh.

Highlights:

-Artworks of the seven major tribes of Madhya Pradesh.
-Some intricate craftwork of the tribals of Chattisgarh.

Location: Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum is situated on Shyamala Hills Road, nearby the State Museum in Bhopal.

Price: The entry fee is INR 10 per person.

Timings: The museum remains open on all the days except Monday between 12:00 AM and 8:00 PM.

Sprawled over an area of 4.43 Sq Km, this national park has been further altered into a zoological park where wild animals are kept in their natural surroundings.

A visit to the Van Vihar National Park is one of the major things to do in Bhopal as it captivates the hearts of the travellers with its rich vegetation and a variety of wild animal species including tiger, lion, panther, sloth bear, and hyena.

Visit this park with your family and enjoy a memorable picnic in the laps of nature.

Highlights:

-Rich vegetation such as Amaltas, Bel, Saja, Amla, and Tendu.
-A huge variety of Avi-Fauna and Fauna including Vulture, Marsh harrier, Hare, Wild Boar, and Blackbuck.

Location: Van Vihar National Park is located on Lake View Walk Path in Shyamla Hills, Bhopal.

Price: The entry fee for Indians and foreigners is INR 15 and INR 200 respectively.

Timings: The park can be visited on any day of the week except Friday between 6:30 AM-6:30 PM.

Apart from Van Vihar National Park, there are other very beautiful National Parks in Madhya Pradesh which you should not miss.

Bhopal is a city of magnificent art and cultural heritage, and Sanchi Stupa stands as a live example confirming that. Being one of the popular Buddhist monuments, this structure was built during the era of Mauryan Empire.

The stupa is built in the form of a semi-hemispherical dome that includes a central chamber and 4 majestic gateways. Also enlisted as a UNESCO  world heritage site, this architectural beauty flaunts numerous decorative illustrations and carvings.

Highlights:

-Motifs and designs carved on the Stupa gates.
-Inanimate figures on the Torans which stand as a symbol of Lord Buddha.
-The symbolic depiction of Lord Buddha n the thrones, footprints, and wheels.

Location: The Sanchi Stupa is situated in Sanchi, Raisen.

Price: The entry fee for Indians is INR 10 and entry fee for outsiders is INR 250.

Timings: This monument can be visited between 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM on all the days except Tuesday.

Being the largest mosque in the country, Taj-Ul-Masjid covers an area of 430,000 sq feet and can accommodate around 175,000 people at a point of time. The magnificent architecture of the mosque reflects the ancient Mughal style.

Taj-Ul-Masjid is made of red stone and its charm is further enhanced by a nearby lake called Motia Talab. The mosque comprises 3 domes and 2 minarets and holds an uncanny resemblance with Jama Masjid located in Old Delhi. If you are a big-time art lover, Taj-Ul-Masjid should certainly be a part of your travel itinerary.

Highlights:

-The prominent architecture of the mosque which was built by Shah Jahan Begum in the year 1901.

-Massive lake called Motia Talab where visitors love to spend some peaceful time.

Location: This mosque falls on NH12 road nearby Kohefiza, Bhopal.

Price: The entry inside the mosque remains free of any charge.

Timings: The mosque remains open for the visitors throughout the week between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM.

Rock shelters, cave paintings, and rich flora and fauna; Bhimbetka caves is certainly a place to treasure. Comprising around 243 rock shelters, these caves feature the paintings which bear a close resemblance to that of Kakadu National Park in Australia.

These paintings provide some insights into the prehistoric culture and lifestyle.  From the rock shelter auditorium to boar and zoo rock, there are umpteen things which one can explore on their Bhimbetka visit.

Highlights:

-Beautiful paintings depicting agriculture, festivals, hunting, and other old-age practices.
-Picturesque views surrounding the caves.
-500 rock shelters which are decorated with paintings.

Location: Bhimbetka caves are situated in Bhojpur, Raisen.

Price: The entry charges are INR 25 per person.

Timings: You can visit the caves any day between 7 AM to 6 PM.

Apart from Bhimbetka Caves, there are other very beautiful caves in Madhya Pradesh which you should not miss.

One of the most interesting things to do in Bhopal, boat ride in Bhojtal is something which will offer you the most invigorating experience. Being the oldest lake in the city, Bhojtal is a major hub for all the water sports in Bhopal.

In the close proximity to this lake is a splendid garden known as Kamla Park which increases its visual appeal exponentially. There is an overbridge which separates the upper lake from the smaller one.

The lake also features a Dargah built in the memory of a Maulvi, Shah Ali Shah. Soak in the charm of the impeccable sunset view or take a boat ride in the serene water of Bhojtal. If you are a photo fanatic, you can also capture some of the most alluring views on your visit to this lake.

Highlights:

-A massive statue of Raja Bhoj standing tall with a sword in his hands.
-Water sports such as swimming and boat rides.
-Stalls around the lake selling eateries.
-Picturesque view of the lake.

Location: This spectacular lake is situated near the CM house, Bhopal.

Price: Entry in Bhojtal remains free of charge.

Bhopal city is a heaven for food junkies and if you want a proof, head towards the popular restaurant named Za-aiqa. The restaurant is known for its traditional Lucknow taste which will leave your taste buds mesmerized.

From Awadhi and Mughlai food to Bhopali cuisine, the restaurant serves you with a huge variety. Complementing its food delights are the beautiful and royal interiors which enhance the charm of this place.

Highlights:

-Delicious Mughlai and Awadhi food.
-Warm hospitality and comfortable sitting arrangements.
-Royal interiors.

Location: The hotel is nestled on VIP road, Kohefiza, Bhopal.

Price: The average cost of dining at Za-aiqa comes around INR 1500 for two people.

Popular as Somnath of the East, Bhojpur Temple is cradled on the banks of the river Vetravati. The temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva is built after King Bhoj who once ruled this area. The temple features a stone Shivling which is 7.5 feet tall and has a circumference of 18 feet.

Adding to the beauty of the temple, there are many stone sculptures which can be seen on the pillars, dome, and facade. Bhojpur temple also boasts a massive entrance which is constructed in the shape of an arch.

Highlights:

-7.5 feet tall Shivling which is erected on a 21 feet tall platform.
-Enticing idols at the entrance gate of the temple.
-Intricate artwork and sculptures on dome and pillars.

Location: The temple falls on Bhojpur Road, Bhopal.

Price: The entry inside the temple remains free of any charges.

Timings: The temple remains open between 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

There are various other temples to visit in Madhya Pradesh which you should not miss. Click to know about them.

Established in the year 1982, this is a multi-arts center aiming to create a bridge between visual and verbal arts. Bharat Bhavan is a favorite spot for people who love to explore different art forms and expressions including singing and dance performances.

Apart from being a stage for artists from all around India, this place is also an architectural marvel of Bhopal which outshines its architectural heritage. From an art gallery to an open-air amphitheater, Bharat Bhavan museum has plenty of ways to keep you hooked when you visit this place.

Highlights:

-Numerous dance forms and cultural presentations by people from various parts of the country.
-Indian poetry library.
-An art gallery which displays several artifacts ad masterpieces.

Location: Bharat Bhavan Museum is perched on J.Swaminathan Marg in Shamla Hills, Bhopal.

Price: The entry tickets are charged at INR 10 per person.

Situated at the Manuabhan Tekri Temple, Bhopal Ropeway offers the most charismatic views of the city. The ropeway displays the adventurous side of Bhopal which normally gets overshadowed by its historical monuments.

While taking the return trip, you can also see the enticing Jain temple and experience its spirituality. If you have already done a fair bit of sightseeing around the city, ropeway ride remains the best thing to do in Bhopal.

Highlights:

-Bird’s eye view of Bhopal city.
-A Jain temple situated atop the Lalghati hill.

Location: Bhopal Ropeway Tekri is located in Sun City, Lalghati, Bhopal.

Price: Visitors can enjoy free entry into the Tekri. However, for the 2-way ropeway trip, the charges are INR 66 per person.

Exploring varied food delicacies is one of the unmissable things to do in Bhopal. The city has some really good restaurants which will leave one impressed with their delicious servings.

One such restaurant is Zamzam where you can enjoy a lot many Chicken food delicacies including Biryani at reasonable rates. Apart from the lip-smacking food, the place also offers an intimate dining experience where you can relish some personal moments with your family and friends.

Highlights:

-Scrumptious Biryani and Chicken delicacies.
-Warm and hospitable staff.
-Cozy interiors and peaceful dining experience.

Location: The restaurant is located on Hamidia Road, near Peer Gate, Bhopal.

Price: The prices vary according to the food items you choose. Most of the items are priced at a reasonable rate.

Timings: The restaurant remains operational from 11 AM in the morning to 11 PM in the night.

Established in the year 1820 by the foremost woman ruler of the city, Gohar Begum, this palace is reckoned among the architectural marvels of the city. The architectural style of the palace is a unique blend of Mughal and Hindu architecture.

Though the palace is not kept under proper maintenance, it still reserves its majestic aura and glory.

Highlights

-The architectural beauty of the palace which presents a beautiful combination of Mughal and Hindu art.
-A huge lake which overlooks a massive hall.
-Intricate paintings and artwork which adorn the palace.

Location: The palace falls on VIP road, near the Nakkar Khana, Peer Gate Area.

Price: The entry into the palace is free of cost.

Built by the leading industrialists Birla, this temple offers a surreal view of Bhopal city. The temple is mainly dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu. However, it also has idols of other lords including Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

The Birla museum situated in close proximity to this temple stores a collection of beautiful sculptures from Sehore, Mandsaur, Shahdol, and Raisen districts of the state. This collection dates back to the era of Paramaras when culture and art were flourishing in the region.

The Laxmi Narayan Temple is a yellow-colored architectural masterpiece which features a majestic archway.

Highlights:

-The architectural grandeur of the temple.
-Idols of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
-Lush green lawns facing the temple.

Location: The temple is situated on the top of Arera Hills in Bhopal.

Price: The entry inside the temple remains free of cost.

Bhopal city has many picnic spots where you can spend an eventful day with your family and friends. Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is one such place which is blessed with splendid views and a plethora of adventure sports activities.

Enjoy the boat ride in the lake or relish the panoramic views of the lake, there are umpteen ways to make your picnic memorable.  This place also flaunts a spectacular garden which quadruples its scenic beauty.

Highlights:

-Spectacular lake view.
-Enthralling boat ride with your family.

Location: The lake is perched near the CM house in Bhopal city.

Price: There are no entry charges for the lake. However, for the boat ride, one needs to pay INR 80 for a paddle boat, INR 240 for the motorboat, and INR 100 for cruise boat.

Timings: It is advisable to visit the lake at any time before the sunset.

Click here to know more about other places to visit in Bhopal for couples.

Opened in the year 1995, this is a fun science gallery which includes an auditorium and a conference hall too. The center is aimed at spreading awareness about science among the young generation and uplifting their young minds with interesting science experiments.

From pendulums and gravity experiments to the science park comprising 60 intriguing exhibits, this place covers everything to make science a fun game. Regional Science Center also houses the Hall Of Energy which explains the practical application of different energy forms.

Highlights:

-A portable planetarium which talks about several stars, zodiacs, and constellations.
-Hall of Energy which explains the utility of different energy sources and their practical implementation.

Location: The Regional Science Center is situated on Banganga Road in the Shyamla Hills area.

Price: The entry ticket to the Regional Science Center is priced at INR 25.

Interested in trying things to do in Bhopal that introduce you to spirituality? Visit the smallest mosque of Asia and learn some interesting facts about its origin. Known as the smallest Asia’s mosque, Dhai Seedi Ki Masjid is truly worth a visit.

Situated in the Gandhi Medical College campus, this small mosque is perched atop the Old Fort and sprawls over an area of 16 Sq Meters. More than a religious spot, it is considered as a wondrous spot due to its magnificence.

The mosque was constructed by Mohammad Khan in the year 1716 and is a common tourist spot due to its rich historical background.

Highlights:

-Historical background of the mosque and the tale behind its name.

Location: This popular mosque is situated in the Medical College Campus, Kohefiza, Bhopal.

Price: There are no entry charges for the Masjid.

Your Bhopal trip remains incomplete without a halt at the Indian Coffee House. Serving their guests with love and taste, this is an ideal place for grabbing some quick bites. Known for its unforgettable coffee taste and crispy Dosas, Indian Coffee House remains a favorite spot of natives as well as outsiders.

The place remains crowded throughout the day with the customers from all the age groups. If you are a budget traveler searching for a reasonable cafe, Indian Coffee House is waiting to serve you.

Highlights:

-Traditional-styled interiors
-Tasteful Coffee and breakfast.
-Pocket-friendly rates.
-Prompt service.

Location: The restaurant is situated opposite the Board Office in Shivaji Nagar, Bhopal.

Price: All the food items are priced at reasonable rates.

Timing: The restaurant remains open from 7:30 AM in the morning to 11 PM in the night.

If you are looking for some exciting things to do in Bhopal, a visit to the popular DB mall is what you need. Located in the heart of the city, this mall is a part of well-known Dainik Bhaskar group. The mall has emerged as a new hangout place for youngsters due to its neverending offerings.

From premium dining options to multiplexes and global brands stores, DB Mall has everything to woo visitors. With its numerous amenities and excellent shopping outlets, it is a haven for shopaholics and fun-loving crowd.

Highlights:

-Global shopping brands
-Entertainment zone for kids.
-Excellent dining options
-Multiplexes

Location: DB City mall is situated in Sanjay Nagar, near Arera Hills, Bhopal.

Price: The entry into the mall is free of cost.

Timing: The mall remains operational on all days of the week between 11:00 AM and 10:00 PM.