Bhopal also known as city of lakes, is the second biggest city after Indore. According to a legend, in the 11th century Raja Bhoj once suffered from leprosy, he was advised to bath in a medicinal lake, which was created by him. Around that massive lake a city grew and served as the base for the rule of Raja Bhoj and his descendants over the region of the Malwa Plateau till the 13th century. Mughal captured it in 16th century, during the conflict between Parmaras and Mughals intensified and they broke apart and paved way to rise of the Gond chieftains.



The ancient city is surrounded by two lake in the south dotted with shopping complex, hotels, museums and restaurants. The upper lake is known as ' the Bhopal beauty', especially residential area of wealthy people. North of the lakes is the old city, where Hamidia Rd is a streak of modernity along side an area of bazaars and mosques. Bhopal has 40% of Muslim population. North of the old city is a reminder of a more recent tragic event, Bhopal union gas carbide disaster.

Sights And Activities

Lakes
Bhopal is surrounded with two major lakes known as Upper Lake and Lower Lake and collectively known as Bhoj Wetland. A massive over bridge separates the two water bodies. These lakes were constructed in the 11th century by Raja Bhoj. You can enjoy a nice boat ride (paddle and speed boat both are available). The lake also welcome numerous species of birds. More than 20,000 birds are recorded every year. The endangered sarus cranes also come here in large numbers every year.

The Mosques
The Taj-ul-Mosque in Bhopal is said to be the largest mosques in Asia and undoubtedly the signature attraction of Bhopal. It is made up of pink wash stone, accredited by Begum Sultan in 1878 and completed a century later. In the central courtyard devotees wash in the sacred tank before entering the vast pillared prayer hall. Another masjid called Dhai Seedhi Masjid, established by Dost Mohammad in 1716 is the oldest mosque in Bhopal. By the Lower lake is the Moti Masjid gifted to the city by Sikandar Jehan in 1860.

Bharat Bhawan
Bharat Bhawan is established in 1982 as a symbolic structure of cultural heritage of India. It showcase some of the fascinating work of India's tribal and folk culture. One can enjoy an array of attractive display of pottery, paintings, wood work and metal crafts. Most of the evening stage performances are also organized.

Shopping
The old Bhopal is famous for traditional crafts such as embroidery, zardozi work, bridal wear and tailored sherwanis. You can buy a popular souvenir that is beaded purse with draw strings. Don't forget to taste a Bhopali paan after your meal.