Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

Upper Lake in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India


Bhopal is the capital of the state of Madhya Pradesh in central India. This major city covers 697 sq km (269 sq mi) and has a population of 1.8 million people (2012 estimate). It is 427 m (1,401 ft) above sea level. The city is remembered for the unfortunate industial accident where the Union Carbide factory leaked toxic gases into the environment on 3 December, 1984, resulting in the death of some 18,000 people (though official death toll was around 5,000).

The history of Bhopal goes back to the 11th century, when it was founded by King Bhoja of the Paramara Dynasty. The name Bhopal is said to mean "Bhoja's dam" although according to another account, the city was named after a different king known as Bhupala.

After existing for a century or more, the original Bhopal slipped into obscurity until the early 18th century, when Afghan soldier Dost Mohammad Khan reestablished it. A mercenary by trade, Khan expanded his authority when he received the Bhopal area from Queen Rani Kamlapati for mercenary services rendered. Khan turned the erstwhile village into a fortified city, and gave himself the title of Nawab.

At the time of India's independence, Bhopal was the second largest Muslim state after Hyderabad. The Nawab ruler brought Bhopal state into the Union of India on 30 April, 1949. In 1956, the state was integrated into Madhya Pradesh, and Bhopal itself became the capital of the state.

Grand entrance of the Taj-ul-Masajid

Planning your trip to Bhopal

The Raja Bhoj Airport (BHO) is the airport serving Bhopal. It receives flights from Ahmedabad, Chennai, Chandigarh, Delhi, Hyderabad, Indore, Kolkata, Mumbai and Rajpur. There are also train services connecting Bhopal with major cities in India. The Shatabdi Express is the express train from Delhi.

Places of Interest in Bhopal

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