Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Madhya Pradesh

Tourism


Bhopal


Taj _ Ul - Masjid
Believed to be the largest mosque in the country, this pink towering mosque was commenced by Shah Jahan Begum, (1868-1901) Bhopal's eighth ruler. The work of the mosque was incomplete on her death and the construction could only resume in 1971 cause of lack of funds.

The credit for Bhopal's postal system, railways and waterworks goes to this queen. The most striking features of the mosque are the impressive main hall with its inter-arched roof, the three white domes and the two white domed massive minarets. Its broad façade, spacious courtyard and smooth marble floors are impressive. A three-day ' Ijtima', a congregation of Muslims in India, held here annually, draws people from all over the country.

Chowk-Shopping Place
Located in the heart of the old city, the Chowk is lined with old mosques and havelis, reminders of bygone era. The shops in its narrow alleys are treasure troves of traditional Bhopali crafts, silver jewellery, exquisitely fashioned beadwork, embroidered and sequined velvet fashioned purses and cushions. An excellent place for purchasing traditional crafts.

Jama Masjid
Gold spikes crown the tall dark minarets of this beautiful mosque, built in 1837 by Kudsia Begum, the devout wife of the ruler of Bhopal.

Moti Masjid 
Also known as Pearl Mosque, this mosque is architecturally similar to Delhi's Jama Masjid. It  was built by Sikandar Jahan Begum, daughter of Kudsia Begum, in 1860. 

Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil
Shaukat Mahal is situated at the entrance to the Chowk area in the heart of the city. Its mixture of architectural styles in Occidental idioms sets it apart from the predominantly Islamic architecture of the area. It was designed by a Frenchman, said to be a descendant of a subsidiary of the Bourbon kings of France. Post-Renaissance and Gothic styles are combined to a charming effect here. Nearby is the elegant Sadar Manzil, Hall of Public Audience of the former rulers of Bhopal.

Van Vihar
This safari park, 445 hectares in area is located on a hill adjacent to the Upper Lake. It has a rich variety of animals and birds.
Open every day except Tuesday, from 7-11 am and 3-5 pm.

Gohar Mahal
Gohar Mahal also known as Gohar Begum is situated behind Shaukat Mahal on the banks of the Upper Lake. This palace, built in 1820 by Kudsia Begum is an architectural gem. The Mahal is a magnificent fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture.

Upper and Lower Lakes 
The legendary Raja Bhoj is credited with the construction of these two lakes. The Upper Lake which is six sq. km. in area, is divided from the Lower by an over bridge. Madhya Pradesh Tourism's, Yacht Club on the Upper and Lower Lakes provide facilities for exciting trips by sail, paddle and motor boats.

Aquarium
The fish-shaped aquarium, facing the Lower lake houses a number of species of fish in all shapes and sizes.