Bhopal, India's capital of Madhya Pradesh, is a city of extremes. The Muslim-dominated Old City, a beautiful enclave of gorgeous mosques and a busy bazaar, lies on one side. The splendour of Bhopal's Old City is offset by the gloomy, foreboding terrain on the other side of the city. It is also known as the city of lakes because of its natural and manmade lakes, and it was controlled for nearly a century by the wives of the nawabs. As a result, Bhopal is divided into two cities by a set of lakes. A traditional city is located north of the town, while a modern city lies south, nestled between the Arera and Shyamla hills. Take a tour through Bhopal's history to make the most of your time here.
Continue reading to get to know some interesting facts about this dual town.
The Rise of Bhopal
Bhopal was initially named "Bhojpal" after the monarch who ruled for an extended period. The phrase "bhoj" is named after the benevolent Parmara monarch Bhoj, and the term "pal" means "dam" since this ruler built various dams that encircle the city's numerous lakes. Many people are surprised to learn that this city flourished under the reign of the Muslim queens, sometimes known as the "Begums." During the ladies' administration in this city, the arts, public works, culture, and architecture reached remarkable heights. Moreover, the begums donated all of the city's essential amenities, including the waterworks, municipal government, and railroads. As a result, there has been a vast transformation in Bhopal then and now.
Bhopal - The Heart Of India
The city also boasts the best medical sciences, forestry, architecture, science, planning, fashion, and legal institutes. It became recognized as the engineering hub, and the city is delighted to be home to over 150 famous engineering institutes. Despite increased pollution and health concerns, the city remains one of India's greenest and healthiest cities. This city is the true development capital of the state and is recognized as the heart of India.
Taj-ul-Masajid
The Taj-ul-Masajid, India's largest mosque and the world's second-largest, is a Mughal architectural showcase extending across 23,312 square feet. It is situated beside the lake known as Motia Talab and is made of red stone. The Masjid is accessible every day, although Fridays are off-limits to non-Muslims. Reaching Taj-ul-Masajid, one of the city's most iconic attractions, is not difficult. Bhopal further includes several UN-designated sites for culture and history, including Sanchi and Bhimbetka, which are dedicated to Buddhism and rock paintings, respectively.
India's Turkish Baths
In the Kamala Park district of Bhopal, there is a 300-year-old Qadimi hammam, India’s only operational Turkish bath. The city's ladies use the hammam during the day and the males at night. Oil massages and thermal baths are provided, but the ingredients for the scrubs are kept secret. Every year on Diwali, the hammam opens and remains open until the Holi holiday.
The Incomplete Bhojeshwar Temple
The Bhojeshwar Temple, located 32 kilometers from Bhopal, is a fantastic temple ruin that holds an 18-foot-tall single stone lingam of Lord Shiva, claimed to be the tallest lingam in India. The construction of this temple began in the 11th century, but it was eventually abandoned, and the incomplete materials, including boulders with architectural sculptures, were dispersed around the area. Visiting the Bhojeshwar Temple should be on your things to do in Bhopal list.
India's Oldest Man-made Lake
The Upper Lake is claimed to be India's oldest man-made lake. It's a great place to unwind and enjoy the city's sights. The Bada Talab or Bhojtal are two local names for the Upper Lake. Enjoy the fresh breeze on your hair and the lake's gorgeous views. While here, take a boat trip or sip some hot beverages to soothe the soul while visiting this offbeat place.
Shopping In Bhopal
There are several more aspects that contribute to attracting the attention of vacationers. Shopping in Bhopal, India, in particular, merits special note. Bhopal has several marketplaces and bazaars, making shopping in Bhopal a memorable and fun-filled experience.
The marketplaces are vibrant and represent the actual essence of the people who live there. Therefore, visiting the bustling bazaars of Bhopal would be nothing short of a delight.
The Chowk Bazaar in Bhopal's old city is still a must-see for customers who want to see exquisite items displayed in stores. For a shopping splurge, visit the local bazaar in Bhopal to find a wide variety of ornaments at the most affordable prices.
The DB City Mall is the fifth largest mall in the country, with a total area of 1,350,000 square feet and over 180 national and international brand stores.
Another interesting fact is that Bhopal has one of the finest boutique hotels in the city's heart. Visit The Shiraz to book your accommodations during your stay!
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