Why visit Bhopal
- Site of the smallest mosque in Asia
- Gateway to Sanchi, an important Buddhist centre
- Earliest traces of human life in India at Bhimbetka, a World Heritage site
Said to be founded by King Bhoj (1000-1005 AD), the city of Bhopal in central India is divided into two parts - the old city & new Bhopal. The old city was built and developed by the Begums of Bhopal, the remarkable women who also ruled this region. The Taj-ul-Masjid literally meaning "crown amongst mosques" is the most imposing monument in the city. Just opposite to the Taj-ul-Masaajid lies the Dhai Seedhi Masjid. Built in early 18th century when a rampart was converted into a mosque, it is considered to be the smallest mosque in Asia. A result of a strange mixture of Indo-Islamic and European style of architecture is the Shaukat Mahal, originally designed by a French architect. Bhopal also houses the Museum of Man, probably the only one of its kind in the world. It is a post colonial museum of communities rather than objects. A few hours northeast from Bhopal lies Sanchi, one of the most extensive Buddhist sites in India. A World Heritage site, as declared by UNESCO, the site is dominated by the Great Stupa, built in 2nd century and its four magnificent gateways, whose excellent sculptures cover various Buddhist themes. Within the enclosure are several monasteries. Further north from Sanchi lies Udaygiri. This place has beautiful 5th century AD rock cut caves carved into the hillside. A few kilometres south of Bhopal is Bhimbetka, one of the oldest sites in the world where petroglyphs have been found. The earliest known traces of human life in India are also found here in these stone age rock shelters and caves, with interesting paintings that depict in a very vivid way the way of life of the people living then and the natural environment around them.
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