Bhopal – the capital city of Madhya Pradesh – is a collage of culture, heritage, history, and urban sprawl. While some of these places to visit in Bhopal are age-old forts, palaces, caves, and temples that boast of the city’s heritage, there are also marvelous highrises & edifices that reflect the modern architecture. And to top it up, the immaculate natural beauty of Bhopal mesmerizes its tourists round the year. Visiting Bhopal is also an opportunity for you to taste delicious local cuisine and learn about the tribal culture of Madhya Pradesh.
25 Places To Visit In Bhopal
There are plenty of places to visit in Bhopal that you will at least require a couple of days for sightseeing. Bhopal really does have various places to tick off when visiting the city. From the modern world adventure like malls, water parks, parks and dams to old-world charms like museums, forts, and temples, the city really is a gem that has something or other in store for every traveller who comes to visit regardless of their age and interests. Here is a quick rundown on the best places to visit in Bhopal that will surely make your holiday memorable.
- Upper Lake – A Beautiful Attraction
- Van Vihar National Park – Hot Spot For Animal Lovers
- Bhimbetka Caves – Intriguing Place For History Lovers
- Raisen Fort – Magnificent Architecture
- Shaukat Mahal – The Beautiful Palace
- National Museum of Mankind – A Must Visit
- Birla Museum – Visiting The Past
- Yodhasthal – Indian Forces Lovers Paradise
- Taj-ul-Masjid – A Grand Place
- Bhojpur Temple – Old World Charm
- Lower Lake – Photography Lovers Point
- Gohar Mahal – The Mystical Charm
- Archeological Museum – For The Love Of Pre-Historic World
- Moti Masjid – Peaceful Spot
- Bharat Bhavan – A Multi-Arts Complex
- Jama Masjid – Beautiful and Enormous
- Birla Mandir – The Religious Visit
- Rani Kamlapati Palace – For The Days Of Exploration
- Sardar Manzil – Admiring The Architectural Marvel
- Tribal Museum – For Every Traveler
- DB City Mall – Shop Till Your Drop
- New Market – Exploring The Local Market
- Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sanghralya – Know All About The Past
- Sair Sapata – A Family Time
- People’s Mall Waterpark – Water Rides And More
1. Upper Lake
Upper Lake is one of the most fascinating tourist places to visit in Bhopal. This man-made lake offers immense natural beauty with one secluded island in the middle. Moreover, local people believe that the water of Upper Lake has medicinal values and curative properties. People can enjoy a photogenic sunset or cruise in the lake in paddle, rowing, & speed boats.
Location: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: N.A
Entry: Free
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2. Van Vihar National Park
Van Vihar National Park is a sprawling wildlife sanctuary in Bhopal. Snuggled between Shamla Hills and Upper Lake, it is one of the must visiting places in Bhopal for nature lovers and bird watchers. The place is a habitat to many birds and wild animals like leopard, sambar, nilgai, turtle, star tortoise, crocodile, langur, porcupine, wild boar, and chital. It is one of the best national parks in India with abundance of flora-fauna.
Location: Lake View Walk Path, Krishna Nagar, Shymala Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462002
Timings: 8 am to 5 pm
Entry fee: INR 15 for Indians | INR 200 for foreigners
3. Bhimbetka Caves
The rock-cut Bhimbetka caves are perched on the rocky cliffs of Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary. These marvellous cave-wall artworks depict various tales of the prehistoric upper Palaeolithic age to the medieval age. Located 45 km from the capital city, the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site is also one of the most popular tourist places near Bhopal.
Location: Bhojpur Raisen, Madhya Pradesh 46499
Timings: N.A
Entry: Free
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4. Raisen Fort
Located 43 km from the capital city, Raisen Fort is one of the enchanting tourist places near Bhopal. Located at the outskirts, this vintage fort is perched on sandstone hill top and comprises of lakes, ponds, temples, mosques and schools within.
It is believed that many eminent rulers of history has ruled from here, including Sher Shah Suri. The prime attraction of Raisen Fort is the shrine of Hazrat Peer Fatehullah Shah Baba. This is one of the most interesting historical places in Bhopal. You can also check other places to visit near Bhopal.
Location: National Highway 86 Raisen मध्य प्रदेश 464551 Republic
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry: Free
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5. Shaukat Mahal
Shaukat Mahal, one of the architectural wonders of Bhopal, is a classic example of Indo-Islamic and European styles & patterns. This vintage palace has a strong Indo-Saracenic and Rococo architectural influence and is an integral part of Bhopal tourism. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bhopal.
Location: Sultania Rd, Nakkar Khana, Peer Gate Area, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462001
Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entry: Free
6. National Museum of Mankind
Located in Shamla Hills, Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya or National Museum of Mankind is one of the engrossing Bhopal tourist places. The evolution of mankind is showcased here with anthropological evidences. It is also known as Tribal Habitat Museum as various tribal cultures, lifestyles, and traits are depicted nicely. The exhibits of the museum also speak volumes about the nearly extinct Indian culture and diversity of cultural patterns of the country.
Location: Lake View Road, Next to RCE campus, Shymala Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462013
Timings: 11 am to 6:30 pm
Entry fee: INR 10
7. Birla Museum
Owned & run by the Birla Group, the museum exclusively showcases historic sculptures, tools, manuscripts, statues, and paintings. The museum speaks volumes about the prehistoric human race and their lifestyle. The replica of Bhimbetka caves and other alluring displays make it one of the best places to visit in Bhopal for the art lovers. When you are visiting places in Bhopal, make out time to visit this enchanting temple.
Location: Arera Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462011
Timings: 8 am to noon and 4 am to 8 pm
Entry: Free
8. Yodhasthal
Yodhasthal is a another popular tourist place in Bhopal that is known for the display of various arms & ammunitions used by defence forces. The place offers quite engrossing information to the tourists – especially the kids – about war stories and victories. The place has various sections. The AV displays of Prekshagriha, the information nuggets of wars available at Parichay, the unique facts displayed at Avishkar, the display of arms used in past battles at Army Astra Shastra, and the souvenir shop are the highlights of the museum.
Location: Airport Rd, Lalghati, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462038
Timings: 9 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm
Entry: Free
9. Taj-ul-Masjid
Taj-ul-Masjid or the Crown of Mosques is one of the most enchanting historical places in Bhopal. This is an ancient mosque that boasts of its amazing architecture, fresco paintings, and Islamic engravings. Moreover, Taj-ul-Masjid is themed on the styles of Syrian mosques & Qibla wall and is engraved with eleven arches of trellis work.
Location: NH 12, Kohefiza, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462001
Timings: N.A
Entry: Free
Suggested Read: 28 Mosques In India That Showcase The Best Of Indo-Islamic Architecture
10. Bhojpur Temple
Bhojpur Temple, built by Raja Bhoj, is one of the must visit places in Bhopal for those seeking sanctity. Though the temple is incomplete construction wise, the artwork, the sculptures, and the monolithic giant Shiva Lingam attract spiritual believers, history, buffs and art enthusiasts to a large extent.
Location: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: N.A
Entry: Free
11. Lower Lake
If you think Upper Lake is beautiful, wait till you visit Lower Lake. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Bhopal. The lower lake is separated from the upper lake with the help of a bridge. The place offers stunning views of the city. You can easily spend a couple of hours by the lake immersed in the ethereal beauty of the attraction. It forms an integral part of Bhoj wetland. Enjoying boating is one of the adventure sports in Bhopal that you can indulge in.
Location: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
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12. Gohar Mahal
Gohar Mahal is one of the most famous tourist places in Bhopal known for its rich heritage and impressive architecture. Built in the year 1820, Gohar Mahal attracts quite a lot of tourists to itself. A number of art and historical exhibitions are also held here. The parts of the structure and under renovation to restore grandeur and charm. Gohar Mahal is definitely one of the most captivating places in Bhopal to visit.
Location: VIP Road, Chowki Talaiya, Peer Gate Area, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462001
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
13. Archeological Museum
Not only the largest, Madhya Pradesh is one of the richest states in terms of art and history. The National Archaeological Museum in Bhopal is where you will find historical artefacts and documents that will help you dig deep into the history of Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the best Bhopal tourist places if you like learning about things and history. It is one of the fun things to do in Bhopal.
Location: Shyamla Hills Rd, NITTTR Campus, Shymala Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462002
Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: N.A
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14. Moti Masjid
If you are visiting places in Bhopal, then one of those places should be Moti Masjid. It may be small in size but its charm and glory give every other attraction in Bhopal a run for their money. The mosque was built by Sikander Jehan Begum of Bhopal in 1860. The brave woman was known to end slavery and introduced progressive steps into society. It is one of the holiest things to see in Bhopal.
Location: Hawamahal Rd, Opposite Moti Masjid, Chowki Talaiya, Talaiya, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462001
Timings: N.A
Entry Fee: Free
15. Bharat Bhavan
A multi-arts museum and complex, Bharat Bhavan is one of the interesting places to visit in Bhopal. Charles Correa is the mastermind behind the architecture of this place funded by the Government of Madhya Pradesh. The place features an art gallery, open-air amphitheatre, a library of Indian poets and classical and folks musicians, and a tribal and folk art museum.
Location: Bharat Bhawan Rd, Near Upper Lake, Krishna Nagar, Shymala Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462013
Timings: 2-8 PM, Sun-Mon closed
Entry Fee: N.A
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16. Jama Masjid
Constructed by Quidisiya Begum, Jama Masjid is one of the most magnificent places to visit in Bhopal. It is known as taj-ul-Masjid which translates to “Crown among Mosques”. Being one of the largest mosques in the country, Jama Masjid holds a revered place in people’s hearts. The mosque is a classic example of Islami architecture standing tall with two minarets and its shrine in the centre.
Location: Chowk Bazaar Rd, Jama Masjid, Ibrahimpura, Peer Gate Area, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462001
Timings: N.A
Entry Fee: Free
17. Birla Mandir
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Also known as Lakshmi Narayan mandir, the magnificent Birla Temple is located at the summit of Arera Hills. While the imposing architecture will take your breath away, the serenity of the temple will instantly put you at peace. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi and is surrounded with lush greenery. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the top. Do not forget to forget to visit this temple when visiting temples in Bhopal.
Location: Arera Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462011
Timings: N.A
Entry Fee: Free
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18. Rani Kamlapati Palace
Located between the Upper and Lower Lakes in Bhopal, Rani Kamlapati Palace stands tall with aplomb. It may be an old structure yet it is rich in history and legacy. It is one of the best places to visit during monsoon in Madhya Pradesh.
The use of lakhauri bricks, cusped arches, and crumpled pillars prove it as an example of 18th century style architecture. The legend has it that the queen jumped into the lake and killed herself. Don’t worry though since there has been no news of this place being haunted. It is one of the must-visit tourist places in Bhopal.
Location: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
19. Sardar Manzil
Sardar Manzil holds an eminent position among all Bhopal tourist places. A fusion of western and Asian style architecture, the palace dates back to the era of Nawab rulers. The architecture is complemented by lush greenery in the surrounding gardens. It is believed that this place has been designed by a descendant of the Bourbon dynasty of France making it one of the best things to see in Bhopal
Location: Nakkar Khana, Peer Gate Area, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462001
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: N.A
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20. Tribal Museum
Madhya Pradesh is such a vast state that you will find hundreds of different communities and tribes in the region. The Tribal Museum in Bhopal features an impressive collection of tribal clothing, crafts and tools introducing you to a new world. Many exhibitions and events are held at the museum from time to time. It is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan if you have an artistic bone in your body.
Location: Shyamla Hills Rd, Near State Museum, Shyamla Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462002
Timings: 12-7 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10 per person, INR 50 for camera
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21. DB City Mall
DB City Mall is the largest shopping Mall in central India and is definitely one of the most popular places to visit in Bhopal. The mall has multiple floors that are segregated into various categories like clothing and apparel, food, electronics and so on. One can find many popular and international brands here and also watch movies in the in-house theatre.
Location: Zone-I, Maharana Pratap Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 10:30 AM – 11 PM
Entry Fee:NA
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22. New Market
This definitely is heaven on earth for shopaholics as it is believed that one can find anything here from a pin to an airplane. The popular market is located in the heart of Bhopal and consists of various kinds of shops from vegetable hawkers to books, clothing, shoes, utensils and more. But it is widely popular for accessories, footwear, and apparel. All the shops are reasonably priced hence offer a great shopping experience.
Location: STT Nagar, TT Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: NA
23. Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sanghralaya
When making a list of places to see in Bhopal, this definitely must be a part of the list. Located on the Shamala Hills, the place is also known as the National Museum of Anthropology. The museum is the only one that houses the painted rock shelters with its post-colonial tribal folk art and culture. The museum is actually based on the culture and evolution of mankind. It is spread over 200 acres and shows different culture of Indian tribes.
Location: Lake View Road, next to RCE campus, Shymala Hills, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: INR 50 per head, Camera: INR 100
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24. Sair Sapata
This entertainment zone which is actually a play park is a great place to visit and definitely a famous one. Both adults and children can be seen here walking and playing all day long. One can enjoy various activities here like zorbing, hiking, boat rides, 4 kiosks, and three viewpoints. There is also a musical garden, toy train and a suspension bridge which makes it an absolutely fun place to be visited with kids. This is one of the popular tourist places in Bhopal and where people can indulge in adventure sports in Bhopal.
Location: Bhadbhada Road, Prempura, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 11 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Adults INR 20 and Children INR 10
25. People’s Mall Water Park
Located on the premises of People’s Mall, this water park is a fun place to be at especially if you are a family person and are traveling with children or with friends. There are various slides that one can enjoy here along with various other rides.
Location: Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee:INR 350
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Doesn’t this list of fascinating places to visit in Bhopal already tempt you? Bhopal is truly a beautiful city that offers so much to people from all walks of life. No matter what your interest is, the city of lakes has something instore for you. So the next time you plan your trip to Bhopal, do visit these place and let us know about your picks from the list.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bhopal
Is RTPCR negative certificate mandatory to enter the state of Madhya Pradesh?
Covid-19 negative certificate or e-pass are not required to enter the state of Madhya Pradesh. As per the latest travel guidelines, tourists now can explore different spots of Madhya Pradesh and include the top places to visit in Bhopal in their travel checklist.
Is Bhopal worth visiting?
Yes, Bhopal is one of the greenest cities in India and has a landscape spanning two lakes – Upper Lake and Lower Lake. It is a city that offers an amazing unique cultural experience. It is also home to one of the largest mosques in Asia, Taj-ul-Masjid. The iconic Sanchi Stupa is also located near Bhopal.
What is famous in Bhopal?
Bhopal is famous for being one of the greenest cities in India. It is known for its rich traditional culture and food.
Why is Bhopal called Bhopal?
The name Madhya Pradesh’s capital, Bhopal has been derived from the word ‘Bhojpal’. Bhojpal is the name of a city of 11th Century, that used to be where now Bhopal is located. Bhojpal was founded by Parmara King Bhoj.
What can I buy in Bhopal?
Some of the popular things to buy from Bhopal include ‘Bhopal Batua’ or Bhopal wallet, decorated with beautiful beads, leather products and shoes, silver jewelry. You can also buy hand-woven sarees; Chanderi silk sarees in a variety of pastel shades, and dark gold Kota silk. Maheshwari sarees with handcrafted zari work are also popular. Apart from sarees, you can buy other dress materials too, like kurtas with Bagh print and wooden block prints.
Is Bhopal a metro city?
No, Bhopal is not a metro city but it does come under the smart city project of the Government of India. In India, only cities with a population of 1 million or above is considered to be a metropolitan city. Based on the 2011 census of India, there are 46 designated metro cities in the country, and Bhopal is not one of them.
How many lakes are there in Bhopal?
There are a total of 17 lakes in the city of Bhopal.
How far is Bhopal from Delhi?
By road, Bhopal is 760Kms away from Delhi. The distance between Bhopal and Delhi, by rail, is 700Kms.
Which river flows in Bhopal?
The popular Narmada River flows through Bhopal.
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A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.
