My Town

Where is your home town, and what makes it so special?

Beautiful Bhopal, located in the heart of India, is often called the ‘City of Lakes’. What makes it truly special is its rare blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With its serene lakes, lush greenery, and a rich Nawabi history, Bhopal promises an atmosphere that is peaceful and vibrant at the same time, which makes it stand apart from a typical city.

The one thing that keeps on bringing you back again and again…

It is the calm and comforting vibe that Bhopal evokes. The tranquil views of the Upper Lake—also known as Bhojtal, or Bada Talab—combined with the warmth of its people and slower pace of life, create a sense of belonging that keeps drawing you back.

Which is the perfect hangout spot in Bhopal?

For locals and visitors alike, the lakeside areas around Bhojtal and Van Vihar National Park are ideal for unwinding. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful evening walk, a spot of cycling, or simply enjoying a sunset, each of these spots offer an idyllic escape from the city’s daily hustle.

Name one restaurant you would recommend to a visitor, and a can’t-miss delicacy on the menu…

A visit to Bhopal is incomplete without dining at Hakeem’s restaurant. Known for its rich Mughlai flavours, the Bhopali Gosht Korma and Chicken Rezala here are absolute must-tries, both these dishes presenting a delectable taste of the city’s royal culinary heritage.

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What is the best season to visit Bhopal and why?

Between the months of October and March, a time of year when the weather is at its most pleasant, perfect for enjoying lakeside views and exploring outdoor attractions. It’s best to avoid the intense heat of Bhopal’s summer, if you want to take in and experience all that the city has to offer.

Which must-visit places would you recommend back home?

Bhopal is packed with spaces that cater to history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike:

• Taj-ul-Masajid: The ‘Crown among Mosques’ is said to be the largest such structure in India. This majestic masjid—the construction of which started in the reign of Shahjehan Begum (1868-1901), and was completed by her grandson Hamidullah Khan after Independence—can be recognised by its pink sandstone and expansive courtyard, which can hold more than 1,00,000 worshippers.
• MP Tribal Museum: Here, you can learn about the state’s fascinating tribal past and living present, including the tribes’ customs, connections with the land, social structures, and indigenous knowledge systems.
• State Museum: With its 16 themed galleries, and a stunning diversity of artefacts spanning centuries, this is a treasure trove of art, culture, and history

QUICK GETAWAYS

• Bhojeshwar Temple This incomplete yet imposing 1,000-year-old temple in the village of Bhojpur is famous for its massive Shiva Lingam. The pastoral setting, overlooking the Betwa River, adds to its charm.
• Bhimbetka An archaeological marvel, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the rock shelters here showcase still-stunning prehistoric cave paintings.
• Sanchi Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sanchi is home to the iconic Great Stupa, set on a hilltop and one among a number of stupas inside a Buddhist complex.
• Udayagiri A complex of rock-cut cave temples dating back to the Gupta period and featuring some of the earliest Hindu iconography.
• Pachmarhi This scenic hill station known as the ‘Queen of Satpura’, boasts waterfalls, forests, ancient caves, and breathtaking vistas.

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