Bhopal is a beautiful city in Central India and is the capital of Madhya Pradesh. Surrounded by beautiful hills, forests and lakes, it is one of the most picturesque and green cities in India. The city is built around lakes and is popularly known as the “city of lakes”. Bhopal has many historical structures built by the Begums of Bhopal who ruled the city for over a 100 year. The city offers a variety of beautiful and interesting places to visit ranging from Historical monuments, old squares, beautiful lakes, museums, mosques, forts, temples and palaces.
The Food in Bhopal
The capital city of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal is not only famous for its lakes, history, culture, natural beauty but also for its cuisine that has been passed down through generations. Food is a very important part of the Bhopali culture. The food in the city is largely influenced by the Begums of Bhopal. They were extremely fond of good food and very often hosted lavish banquets with a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Some of the signature recipes of Bhopal include the Bhopali Rizala, Bhopali filfora, Makhane ka Qorma, Kache keeme ke kebab, Yakhni Pulao and many more. The begums were very fond of vegetarian cuisine as well and used local farm fresh vegetables to make different types of Bhajjis (leafy vegetables) and chutneys.
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Bhopal is one of the only cities in India that has access to 2 UNESCO world heritage sites within driving distance from each other. The two UNESCO World Heritage Sites are - Bhimbetka and Sanchi.
The Bhimbetka rock shelters exhibit the earliest traces of human life in the Indian sub-continent. It is a UNESCO world heritage site, featuring cave paintings that spans pre-historic Palaeolithic and Mesolithic periods. The rock paintings depict themes such as animals, hunting, dancing and are said to be around 30,000 years old.
Sanchi Stupa is another UNESCO world heritage site close to Bhopal and is a proud testimony of Indias ancient cultural, religious and architectural diversity. The Sanchi stupa is built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC and is one of the oldest stone structures in India. The stupa is a popular destination for Budhist pilgrims as it is built over the relics of the Buddha.
The Bhimbetka rock shelters exhibit the earliest traces of human life in the Indian sub-continent. It is a UNESCO world heritage site, featuring cave paintings that spans pre-historic Palaeolithic and Mesolithic periods. The rock paintings depict themes such as animals, hunting, dancing and are said to be around 30,000 years old.
Sanchi Stupa is another UNESCO world heritage site close to Bhopal and is a proud testimony of Indias ancient cultural, religious and architectural diversity. The Sanchi stupa is built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC and is one of the oldest stone structures in India. The stupa is a popular destination for Budhist pilgrims as it is built over the relics of the Buddha.
Hotels in Bhopal
A successful vacation is always incomplete without a luxurious stay! And that is why the “City of Lakes” offers you some of the best hotels in Bhopal. Jehan Numa Palace and Jehan Numa Retreat are two hotels offering a luxury stay in the city.
Jehan Numa Palace is a 19th century regal residence built by General Obaidullah Khan of Bhopal. The luxury heritage hotel is an iconic landmark in the city of lakes and offers well appointed luxury rooms, fine dining restaurants, swimming pool, a spa, and large banqueting facilities. The hotel is known for its great facilities and wonderful service standards.
Jehan Numa Retreat is located on the outskirts of Bhopal and is a perfect getaway for people wanting a relaxing stay close to nature. The Retreat is a 28-room luxury boutique hotel where we Endeavour to make our guests feel as close to nature as possible. During your stay at the Retreat, we try and offer guests unique and bespoke experiences that they will cherish forever.
So, delay no more and set foot on a wondrous journey to Bhopal!