Divided by a pair of lakes, Bhopal is a fascinating tale of two distinct cityscapes. If you venture out to the north, you will discover old Bhopal that celebrates its regal past with its striking monuments, winding alleys, and teeming bazaars. Turn towards the south and the new Bhopal rises in front of you with its posh buildings and swanky malls. There’s so much to experience in this wonderful city that you will be spoilt for choice. So book your stay in one of the hotels in Bhopal that gives you easy access to the city’s main attractions.
Wondering how to make the most of your trip? Here are some of the top things to do in Bhopal:
Things to do in Bhopal:
1. Pay Tribute to the Indian Army at the Yodhasthal Museum
Yodhasthal Museum | #1 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Also called the ‘Know your Army’ museum, Yodhasthal is a one-of-its-kind museum where you can learn many interesting facts about our military forces and see various arms and tanks used by the Indian army on the battlefield. Complete your experience by watching the gripping audio-visual film about the Indian army that is shown here.
- Timings: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
2. Spend an Evening at Sair Sapata
Sair Sapata | #2 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
When you are at Sair Sapata, an entertainment complex on the banks of the Upper Lake, fun and entertainment can’t be too far away. The key attractions here include the suspension bridge, toy train, car dashing, forest hiking, zorbing, boat ridings, and so much more. The complex also offers scenic views of the surroundings.
- Timings: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm
- Entry Fee:
₹ 20 for adults
₹ 10 for children
3. Discover the Story of Man’s Evolution at the National Museum of Mankind
Ever wondered how man evolved through the ages? Satisfy your curious mind by visiting the National Museum of Mankind, also called the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya (IGRMS). The museum narrates the engrossing story of the evolution of mankind and culture through various open-air exhibits, temporary exhibits, and indoor galleries.
- Location: Shyamla Hills
- Timings:
March to August – 11:00 am to 6:30 pm
September to February – 10:00 am to 5:30 pm
Closed on Mondays and National Holidays - Entry Fee:
₹ 50 per head
₹ 25 per head for students and groupsFree entry for children up to 12 years
4. Go Museum Hopping
Besides Yodhasthal and IGRMS, there are many big and small museums in Bhopal. If you are a history buff and love to go museum hopping, here are our suggestions:
Madhya Pradesh Tribal Museum
- Key Attractions: Artifacts and objects related to the tribal art and culture of the region
- Location: Shyamla Hills, Bhopal
- Timings: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm; closed on Mondays and Government Holidays
- Entry Fee:
₹ 10 for Indians
₹ 100 for foreign nationals
Free entry for children up to 10 years
Bharat Bhavan
- Key Attractions: A fine art gallery, a museum of tribal and folk art, and a library of classical and folk music
- Location: Shyamla Hills, Bhopal
- Timings:
February to October – 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm
November to January – 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Closed on Mondays and Central Government Holidays - Entry Fee: ₹ 10 per head; free entry on Fridays
State Archaeological Museum
- Key Attractions: Art pieces, rare artifacts, pre-historic fossils, postal stamps, and autographs
- Location: Shyamla Hills, Bhopal
- Timings: 10:30 am to 5:30 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee:
₹ 10 for Indians
₹ 100 for foreign nationals
Birla Museum
Key Attractions: Remnants belonging to the pre-historic era, including stone sculptures dating back to the 7th-century BC and terracotta and manuscripts from the 2nd-century BC
- Location: Arera Hills, Bhopal
- Timings: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee:
₹ 5 for Indians
₹ 50 for foreign nationals
Remember Bhopal Museum, Bhopal
- Key Attractions: Records, pictures, artifacts, and exhibits related to the Bhopal Tragedy
- Location: Karond, Bhopal
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays
- Entry Fee: Free
5. Go for a Safari Ride at Van Vihar National Park
Van Vihar National Park | #5 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
A safari ride through Van Vihar National Park is a thrilling way of spending time close to nature and spotting a wide variety of animals and birds. If you wish to spot white tigers, it is recommended that you plan your trip between July and September.
- Location: Shyamla Hills, Bhopal
- Timings:
April to July – 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
August to October- 6:30 am to 6:30 pm
November to April – 6:30 am to 6:30 pm - Entry Fee: Varies according to the vehicle used for the visit
6. Enjoy the Architectural Beauty of Sanchi Stupa
Sanchi Stupa | # 6 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
A visit to Sanchi Stupa, a Buddhist complex that celebrates the region’s rich cultural heritage, should be in your list of things to do in Bhopal. Walk around this spectacular 3rd-century monument to witness its architectural beauty that will remind one of the links between Emperor Ashoka and Buddhism.
- Location: Sanchi
- Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm; closed on Tuesdays
- Entry Fee:
₹ 10 for Indians
₹ 250 for foreign nationals
Free entry for children below 15 years - Distance from Bhopal: 48 km (approx.)
7. Get Fascinated by the Grandeur of Taj-Ul-Masjid
Taj-Ul-Masjid | # 7 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Taj-Ul-Masjid literally translates to ‘Crown among Mosques’ and the building is truly so. Spectacular Mughal architecture awaits you at this place of worship, which is one of the largest mosques in Asia. Note that entry inside the mosque is restricted for non-Muslims on Fridays.
- Location: Kohefiza, Bhopal
- Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
8. Explore the Bhimbetka Rock Shelters
Bhimbetka Rock Shelters | # 8 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Bhimbetka is a picturesque UNESCO world heritage site with a collection of more than 750 ancient rock shelters. Take a look at the interesting rock paintings in these caves to get a glimpse into the life and culture that once flourished here.
- Location: Bhojpur
- Timings: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee:
₹ 10 for Indians
₹ 100 for foreign nationals - Distance from Bhopal: 45 km (approx.)
9. Enjoy a Boat Ride on Bhojtal
Bhojtal | # 9 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Named after Raja Bhoj, Bhojtal or the Upper Lake is a scenic lake. A boat ride on its serene waters counts among the romantic things to do in Bhopal for couples. The Boat Club near the lake offers exciting water sports options like rafting, kayaking, canoeing, parasailing, and water skiing for the thrill seekers.
- Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Charges:
₹ 100 per person for cruise boats (45 minutes ride)
₹ 240 for per person for motorboats
₹ 80 for per person for paddle boats
10. Seek Blessings at Laxmi Narayan Temple
Laxmi Narayan Temple | #10 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Laxmi Narayan Temple aka Birla Mandir sits atop the Arera Hills and offers panoramic views of the city below. The grand architecture and the tranquillity of the place are equally enticing. No wonder, the place is frequented by devotees and shutterbugs alike.
- Location: Arera Hills
- Timings: 7:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
11. Splash Around at the Waterparks in Bhopal
Water Parks | #11 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Looking for some exciting things to do in Bhopal with friends or family? Head off to the water parks in Bhopal to enjoy a refreshing time. Our suggestions include:
Kanha Fun City
- Location: Ratanpur
- Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹ 400 per head
Crescent Water Park
- Location: Sehore
- Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹ 350 per head
12. Visit the Dhai-Seedi-Ki-Masjid
Dhai-Seedi-Ki-Masjid | #12 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Spreading across just 16 square meters, Dhai-Seedi-Ki-Masjid is known to be the smallest mosque in Asia. Interestingly, it is located inside a watchtower, which adds to its mystical allure. Immerse yourself in the spiritual vibe of the place that doesn’t witness much crowd.
- Location: Kohefiza
- Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
13. Experience the Thrill of Ropeway Ride
Thrill of Ropeway Ride | #13 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
One of the fun things to do in Bhopal is to enjoy a ropeway ride. Imagine passing over the city and enjoying a bird’s-eye-view of it. While you can enjoy a ride at any time of the day, try to go for it during the sunset hours to watch the city blanketed in hues of orange.
- Location: Manua Bhan Ki Tekri
- Timings: 6:30 am to 8:00 pm
- Ride Fee: ₹ 50 per head
14. Have Fun at People’s Mall
People’s Mall | #14 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
People’s Mall is an amusement park cum waterpark that packs in punches of thrill and fun. Besides the regular rides and slides, the key attractions here include giant replicas of the Wonders of the World, a 7D multiplex, scary house, go-karting, air gun archery, toy train, etc.
- Location: Ayodhya Bypass Road
- Timings: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm
- Entry Fee: ₹ 350 per head
15. Hang Out at DB City Mall
DB City Mall | #15 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
As one of the biggest shopping centers in the city, DB City Mall offers a lot of exciting things to do in Bhopal for youngsters and adults alike. With its numerous shopping outlets, multiple restaurants, 6-screen multiplex, huge food court, and the latest entertainment center, you can have a whale of a time here.
- Location: Maharana Pratap Nagar
- Timings: 10:30 am to 10:30 pm
16. Visit the Regional Science Center
Regional Science Center | #16 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Science can be so much fun! The Regional Science Center in the city provides you the means and the techniques to have fun with science. Apart from a huge number of science exhibits, there is a portable planetarium, a Dinosaur Park, and a zoo to keep you engaged and enthralled.
- Location: Shymala Hills
- Timings: 10:30 am to 7:00 pm; closed on Diwali and Holi
- Entry Fee: ₹ 25 per head
17. Get Awestruck by the Architectural Beauty of Gohar Mahal
Gohar Mahal | #17 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Built by Gohar Begum, the first woman ruler of Bhopal, this palace remains a testimony to a splendid blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles. Adorned with impressive artwork and paintings and overlooking a huge lake, the palace is worth a visit on any day.
- Location: Peer Gate Area
- Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
18. Visit the Moti Masjid
Moti Masjid | #18 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Another one of the marvelous structures of Bhopal, this ancient mosque reflects the architectural splendor of a bygone era. You will find a striking resemblance between this mosque and the Jama Masjid of Delhi. Though smaller in size, it is no less in magnificence.
- Location: Hawamahal Road
- Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
19. Go Shopping at the New Market
New Market | #19 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Whether you are a shopaholic or not, you must not miss out on visiting the New Market, a buzzing commercial center where you can buy almost anything and everything at reasonable rates. If you are looking for that unique souvenir to take back home, you know where to look for it.
- Location: TT Nagar
- Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
20. Take a Short Trip to Raisen Fort
Raisen Fort | # 20 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Nestled atop a hill, Raisen Fort is a splendid structure complete with sturdy fortifications, lofty gateways, huge palaces, domes, temples, and several other structures, all of which narrate the saga of a glorious past. Located amidst green surroundings, the fort makes for a great trekking destination as well.
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Distance from Bhopal: 40 km (approx.)
21. Plan a Visit to the Bhojpur Temple
Bhojpur Temple | # 21 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Also known as Bhojeshwar Temple, this shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. But unlike the other temples of Bhopal, this shrine is an incomplete one. Visit this temple to see the 7.5 feet high colossal Shiva Lingam installed inside it.
- Location: Bhojpur
- Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
- Distance from Bhopal: 28 km (approx.)
22. Discover the Beauty of Rani Kamlapati Palace
Rani Kamlapati Palace | # 22 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
Once home to Rani Kamlapati, the wife of Gond ruler Nizam Shah, this palace stands as a reminder of Bhopal’s glorious past. Replete with beautiful arches, pillars, balconies, gardens, and the spellbinding lake view, it is a great place to discover the story of Rani Kamlapati.
- Location: Professors Colony
- Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Entry Fee: Free
23. Enjoy the Aesthetic Charm of Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil
Sadar Manzil | # 23 of 23 Things to do in Bhopal
A unique combination of European and Indo-Islamic architecture styles makes Shuakat Mahal, a 19th century palace, stand out among the historic structures of Bhopal. Take a look at the exquisite floral patterns that lend the edifice an eye-catching appearance. Not far from Shaukat Mahal stands Sadar Manzil, which was once the courtroom of the Nawabs. You can witness the blend of
Asian and western structural designs in this edifice
- Location: Peer Gate Area
- Shuakat Mahal Timings:
7:00 am to 7:00 pm (1st Apr to 30th Sep)
7:00 am to 6:00 pm (1st Oct to 31st Mar)
Sadar Manzil Timings: 8:00 am to 6:30 pm
These activities apart, do not forget to try out the city’s cuisine at the top restaurants in Bhopal. Also, you can chill out at one of the pubs in Bhopal after some hectic sightseeing during the day. Whatever you do, make sure to have fun and create a lot of memories in this amazing city. Also read – Places to Visit in Bhopal
This post was last modified on 26-Dec-2023