Exploring Bhopal on a Shoestring Budget: A 6-Day Itinerary
Wednesday, November 15: Arrival in Bhopal
Welcome to Bhopal! Start your trip by checking into a budget-friendly hotel. Use Kayak to find the best hotel deals. In the morning, visit the breathtaking Upper Lake, also known as Bada Talab, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride. In the afternoon, explore the historic Jama Masjid, a beautiful mosque with impressive architecture. In the evening, head to the bustling Chowk Bazaar, known for its street food and local shopping.
For breakfast, head to Hotel Manohar, a popular local eatery known for its delicious South Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, try Jehan Numa Palace, a heritage hotel that offers a buffet spread of traditional Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at 10 Downing Street, a lively pub and restaurant serving a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, November 16: Heritage Walk and Tribal Museum
Start the day with a heritage walk in the old city area, known for its beautiful architecture and narrow lanes. Visit the iconic Taj-ul-Masajid, one of the largest mosques in Asia. In the afternoon, explore the Tribal Museum, which showcases the rich culture and heritage of the tribes of Madhya Pradesh. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll at the serene Van Vihar National Park.
Taj-ul-Masajid: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Tribal Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Van Vihar National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, November 17: Historic Sites and Local Cuisine
Explore the fascinating history of Bhopal by visiting the majestic Gohar Mahal in the morning. Take a stroll around the beautiful gardens and soak in the architectural marvel. In the afternoon, visit the famous Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil, known for their unique blend of Indo-Islamic and European architectural styles. Indulge in the local cuisine for dinner, trying popular street food like poha and jalebi.
Gohar Mahal: Estimated Cost - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Local Cuisine: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 18: Sanchi Stupa and Udayagiri Caves
Embark on a day trip to Sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage site located near Bhopal. Explore the magnificent Sanchi Stupa and its surrounding Buddhist structures. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Udayagiri Caves, carved out of sandstone and known for their intricate sculptures. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings. Return to Bhopal in the evening.
Sanchi Stupa: Estimated Cost - INR 30 per person, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
In the morning, visit Bharat Bhavan, a prominent multi-arts complex that showcases the diverse cultural heritage of India. Explore the art galleries, watch a performance or attend a workshop. In the afternoon, head to the Upper Lake Boat Club and indulge in a relaxing boat ride. Enjoy the scenic views and unwind amidst nature.
Bharat Bhavan: Estimated Cost - INR 40 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Upper Lake Boat Club: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per boat (4 people), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, November 20: Shopping and Departure
Spend your last day in Bhopal exploring the local markets for shopping. Visit the bustling New Market, famous for its traditional handicrafts, fabrics, and jewelry. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Chowpatty area, known for its street food and local snacks. Wrap up your trip with a delicious meal at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure.
New Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Chowpatty: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Local Restaurant: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day off with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Chokolade. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head over to Manohar Dairy and Restaurant for a taste of authentic local cuisine. Try their thali, which includes a variety of dishes served with rice and bread. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Under the Mango Tree. This rooftop restaurant offers a stunning view of the city along with a menu of mouthwatering Indian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the serene Bhimbetka Caves, known for their prehistoric rock paintings. Another local favorite is the Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) campus, where you can witness the impressive industrial infrastructure. Both these attractions offer unique experiences and are budget-friendly choices for exploration.