Bhimbetka Caves

In the foothills of the Vindhya mountains, Bhimbetka caves are excellent rock shelter situated about 45km from Bhopal city. The area is covered with forest and above the forest cover there are five cluster of caves, which were earlier used as shelters for centuries by aboriginals settlements. The caves are fascinating archaeological relics who walls are painted dating from the Mesolithic period onwards. The villages around the caves and the lifetyle of the villagers reflects the same as depicted on these ancient caves. These caves are recognized as World Heritage Site.

Sanchi

Sanchi is a hilly enclave, located about 68km from Bhopal. It is a popular Buddhist site and amazingly the site is preserved since the 3rd century BC. This serene environ was first discovered by Emperor Ashoka. Ashoka's wife was hailed from Vidisha, a place 10km away. A passion for Buddhism of Ashoka drew closer to the place and he established many Buddhist monasteries and stupas. The patronage from Vidisha's rich businessmen helped Sanchi to grew to a thriving township in 12th century. As the Hinduism gradually overtook Buddhism, the site decayed and was forgotten. In 19th century, British rediscovered its treasures, leading to immense damage at the hands of amateur archaeologists and treasure hunters before a proper restoration took place between 1881 and 1919.

Islamnagar

The fortified city is located 11km north of Bhopal, was the first capital of Bhopal state. It was founded by Rajput king Jagdishpur before Dost Mohammad Khan occupied and renamed it in the early 18th century. Islamnagar is a small town but a major tourist attraction because of the beautiful palace made up of Bhopal's Afghan rulers built by Dost Mohammad Khan. The massive palace is surrounded by beautiful garden and a pavilion, a fine amalgamation of Hindu and Islamic decorative art. The pillars are richly decorated with floral motifs. Other attractions including the hamam of the Chaman mahal and double -storeyed Rani Mahal.

Bhojpur

Bhojpur is famous for the magnificent 11th century Lord Shiva temple also known as 'Bhojeshwar Mandir'. The place is 28km from Bhopal and it was named after Raja Bhoj. Around the temple there is lake that was constructed by the legendary Parmar king of Dhar. The Shiva lingam of the temple is the largest in India, carved out of a single rock placed on a sandstone platform. The temple is simple and made according to medieval Hindu architecture. a simple square with a richly carved dome supported by four pillars guarded by two ornamental figures at the entrance. There is a simple Jain shrine nearby which has a 6m high black statue of a Thirthankara and two smaller ones.