Straight up from Bhopal

A visit was long due. And it finally happened last year monsoon. I had heard much about Bhopal from my husband. 5 years back when we were studying together in Bangalore, he would often spin stories about the city and it's beauty over a session of beer and kebabs... only those stories are true. All true. 

Listing below my top 5!

1. The city does have the most gigantic lake in all of India. Since it was monsoons, the lake was full till the brim and it looked absolutely gorgeous.

View of the lake from Ranjit, preferred joint for the lake-view lovers. Serves Alcohol.  

Gorgeous! Clicked it right before I went for the Speed Boat

A visit to Bhopal without a click by the lake on VIP road? I couldn't have got it that wrong. 

2. Noor-e-sabah and Jehan Numa happen to be a slice from history - probably how palaces used to be in the times of Raja Bhoj.

3. A drive through VIP road at any point in the day is quite fulfilling. The road meanders along the lake, it's always breezy and makes for a great view.

4. The spirit of Bhopal or Madhya Pradesh probably resides in a dish of 'poha'. Eating joints had 'poha' on the menu round the clock! Giving it it's due credit, it's light, it's tasty and makes for a great quick bite. 

5. If you happen to like cars, you are in for a great surprise! This city has numerous open jeeps zooming through the roads all day long. Whether it's early morning on the way to Sanchi Stupa, (which makes for an interesting day trip), or late in the night when the 'Bhopalis' are out for 'soda sikanji' or an ice'-cream shake (believe you me, this they do, almost every other night!). 

Chilling with family at Sanchi Stupa

A masterpiece from an era bygone

Standing tall. Sanchi Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

A name that is familiar with all Bhopalis. Visit this late in the night to witness the mad rush

What I like most about the city is its pace. It does not kill you like Bombay does neither does it bore you with snail speed.

I can easily see myself settled in the city, ten years from now. I'd probably be teaching in one of the many educational institutions this city boasts of. 

I couldn't wrap this piece up without mentioning the people. The Bhopalis are warm, foodies, easy going and very hospitable. I think I also like this place a little too much for them. 

Do pay Bhopal a visit if you haven't yet. Try and make it in the rains.