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Renowned as the city of lakes, Bhopal has also earned the dubious
distinction of the city of “greatest man –made disaster.” It is a
pity, because Bhopal presents a unique syncretic experience for any
traveller. Nestling in the Malwa plateau, its an oasis of greenery
.The lakes shimmer at night reflecting on the city’s heritage,
scenic beauty, monumental greatness and contemporary planning. The
old market teems with people even as they blend with modern malls.
The ancient palaces stand in aloof splendor as modernity strides in
stately with its exquisite parks, gardens and gleaming offices. All
in all it’s a complete experience.
Regular flights connect Bhopal with Delhi, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Indore
and Mumbai. Bhopal is a junction for most major trains traveling
through UP, MP Rajasthan. Regular bus services connect Bhopal with
all the nearby cities.
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Places to visit |
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Jama Masjid
This
magnificent mosque built in 1837 by Kudsia Begum, shimmers
with gold spikes that crown the minarets. |
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Moti Masjid
Called a pearl,
it is architecturally inspired by Delhi’s Jama Masjid. |
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Shaukat
Mahal and Sadar Manzil
One
of the few examples of a blending of Occidental idioms with
Islamic architecture, it was designed by a Frenchman,
-perhaps a scion of the Bourbon Kings. Post Renaissance and
Gothic styles merge seamlessly with Muslim hallmarks of
cupolas and domes. Adjacent lies the opulent Sadar Manzil,
Hall of Public Audience, of the former rulers of Bhopal. |
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Taj-ul-Masjid
One
of the largest mosques in Asia, it is built around a
courtyard with a large tank by Nawab Shahjehan Begum. A
splendid double storeyed gate-way with 4 recessed archways
is the highlight of the main prayer hall. A limpid expanse
of water in the tank imparts serenity. |
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Bharat
Bhawan
One
of the contemporary masterpieces, it is a Charles Correa
designed Centre for the Performing and Visual Arts. Blending
exquisitely with the landscape, it creates a stunningly
seamless visual appeal. Discover the museum of the arts, an
art gallery, a workshop for fine arts, a repertory theater,
indoor and outdoor auditoria, a rehearsal room and libraries
of Indian poetry, classical and folk music inside. |
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Laxmi
Narayan Temple and Museum
This
dazzling temple on the Arera Hills is also renowned for its
Museum. Don’t miss collection of sculptures all over Madhya
Pradesh. |
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Unique shopping
Bhopal is known for its
fine craft products like silver jewelry, beadwork, embroidered
velvet items and leather goods. For the contemporary shoppers Bhopal
has numerous malls. Venture into the Chowk area for lapping up
quality stuff at cheap rates, especially jewelry, ornaments, and
sarees. The New Market area offers the same at higher prices.
Eating Out
Bhopal has a very rich
tradition of cuisines. After all, delicious “seekh kabab” was
supposedly invented here. Today however, numerous restaurants serve
all the major cuisines. Don’t miss the kebab, and other local
delicacies like rogan ghosh and biryani. Last but not the least,
savor the local wheat cake known as ‘bafla’.
Do’s and
Don’t’s
- Beware of pickpockets, touts.
- Always travel in taxis and autos by the meter. Never accept lifts.
- Don’t get friendly with locals.
- The majority of Indians remove their footwear when entering their
houses. Because of strict religious and social customs, visitors
must show particular respect when visiting someone’s home.
- Many Hindus are vegetarian.
- Many especially women, do not drink alcohol.
- Sikhs and Parsis do not smoke.
- Small gifts are acceptable as tokens of gratitude for hospitality.
- Women are expected to dress modestly.
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