Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh's capital, is one of India's greenest cities. The city was named Bhojpal after Raja Bhoj, who founded it in the 11th century. Dost Mohammed, an Afghan soldier, was the one who founded the current city. Bhopal, located in the centre of India, is known as the city of lakes due to the abundance of natural and artificial lakes that dominate the city, particularly the two spectacular ones, as well as gentle sloping hills. The upper lake, or bada talab, is the primary source of water. Bhopal today is a lovely blend of old-world beauty and cutting-edge modern surroundings. The ancient town of Bhopal, which stretches over Peergate, Ibrahimpura, Nadim Road, and Sarafa, is filled with marketplaces, old mosques, and mansions that still proclaim the former rulers' aristocracy. If you have time, the old market is a great spot to visit. The new city is just as impressive, with well-designed parks and gardens and wide boulevards. Bhopal is cleaner and greener than the majority of the country's cities.

Early History of Bhopal

Bhopal was founded in the 11th century by the Paramara ruler Bhoja, according to legend. He was also the driving force behind the creation of Bhojtal Lake, which gave the city its name (Bhoj from the ruler and tal from the lake). The Bhojtal, formerly known as the Upper Lake, has a fascinating history that makes it one of Bhopal's must-see attractions. Another idea about Bhopal's history claims that the city was named after another ruler named Bhupala.

Art and Culture of Bhopal

Bhopal is well-known for its rich culture and traditions. The city's beautiful setting makes it one of Madhya Pradesh's and India's most popular tourist destinations. Its rich art and culture, which is a mix of Hindu and Muslim influences, is equally magnificent. Famous mosques and havelis from bygone eras are a shining representation of its art and culture. The city's art forms are an uncommon mix of Hindu and Muslim. The city was built on the northern side of a great lake, with a connection connecting it to the lower lake, and was surrounded by a stonework wall. The major population of the city are Hindus and Muslims. Christians, Sikhs, and Jains make up a large minority. The community as a whole lives in peace, and the people who live there are happy. The entire community lives in harmony, and the people place great value on their aristocratic Bhopali traditions and refined traits.

Cuisines of Bhopal

The Bhopal cuisine has a variety of tasty vegetarian dishes as well as a variety of spicy foods. In the city, one may find all types of food and restaurants. During important occasions, people enjoy making Bhopali cuisine. Because the food in Bhopal is light, less spicy, and has a distinct flavour, it attracts visitors as well as locals. Non-vegetarian meals such as Bhopali Murgh Rezala, Paneer Rezala, Bhopali Gosht Korma, Murgh Hara Masala Rice, and Murgh Nizami are popular non-vegetarian cuisines in the city. 

Places to visit in Bhopal

• Van Vihar - Van Vihar, a National Park and Zoological Space in Bhopal, runs under the Central Zoo Authority's standards. It's near Shyamla Hills in Bhopal, just next to the Upper Lake. The animals are housed in the most natural environments possible, making it a refuge for nature lovers. Leopards, cheetahs, Nilgai, panthers, and other creatures, as well as birds like kingfishers, bulbuls, wagtails, and other migratory species, can all be seen.
• Upper Lake - Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh's capital, is nicknamed as the "City of Lakes" because of its large number of lakes. The Upper Lake, also known as the Bhojtal, is the most important lake in Bhopal. It is the country's oldest man-made lake, and it is located west of Bhopal. Bada Talab is another name for it among the locals. The lake, which holds roughly 30 million gallons of water, is the city's principal source of potable water.
• Lower Lake - Chhota Talab is another name for the Lower Lake. An overbridge known as Lower Lake Bridge or Pul Pukhta connects the two lakes. The lake was constructed in 1794 to celebrate the city's beauty. Chote Khan, a minister of Nawab Hayat Muhammad Khan Bahadur, oversaw the building. Lower Lake, in particular, is serene, peaceful, and attractive, with majestic hills surrounding it.
• Moti Masjid - Moti Masjid is one of the city's several mosques in Bhopal. Despite its diminutive stature in comparison to the other magnificent and historically significant monuments that stand magnificently in the 'city of mosques,' the Moti Masjid is of similar importance. In the year 1860, Sikander Jehan Begum of Bhopal, daughter of Qudusiya Begum, created this notable historic landmark.
• Raisen Fort - A large historical fortress that perches on a hill and comprises a large water reservoir, palaces, and a few temples. The 800-year-old fort, which is located in the city of Bhopal, features nine gateways, ramparts, domes, and the ruins of various ancient buildings. Hundreds of bats have made it their home. Hazrat Peer Fatehullah Shah Baba, a Muslim saint, is also buried at Raisen Fort. The shrine is said to be able to grant pilgrims' wishes.
• Sanchi Stupa - Sanchi's Buddhist monuments are one of India's oldest brick buildings, and they're located in Madhya Pradesh. The Great Stupa was built in the third century BC by Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site's sculptures and monuments are excellent examples of Madhya Pradesh's Buddhist art and architecture. 

How to reach? 

• By Air - Bhopal is well connected to the rest of the country's major cities. Jet Airways, JetKonnect, and Air India are just a few of the main airlines that fly to Bhopal.
• By Road - Bhopal offers a number of bus routes, both government-run and privately run, that connect you to other parts of the country.
• By Rail - For domestic travellers, Bhopal's railway lines are lifelines. Bhopal is connected by many trains to all of India's main metros.