Credit: Venkat Ramana
Overview and History
Shaukat Mahal, situated at the entrance to the Chowk area of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, is an architectural gem that stands out for its unusual design. As one of the top places to visit in Bhopal, this historical structure is a must-visit for anyone interested in art, culture, and history.
Bhopal is a historical place that has many sites that are a must-visit for anyone interested in art, culture, and history. The architectural gem Shaukat Mahal is situated at the entrance to the Chowk area of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
A unique blend of Indian-Islamic and European styles, Shaukat Mahal is one of the unique architectural marvels of Bhopal. It was constructed in 1830 as a wedding gift for Sikander Jehan Begum, who was also the first female ruler of Bhopal. Surrounding Iqbal Maidan, the magnificent palace is a part of the famous royal quadrangle of Bhopal.
Architecture of Shaukat Mahal
The palace was designed by the Bourbons of Bhopal, who are believed to be descendants of the French king. A combination of post-renaissance and Gothic styles, Shaukat stands out as an architectural piece. The exterior of the palace is decorated with beautiful patterns that showcase artistic brilliance, and the building roof is adorned with a series of intricate triangular-shaped arches.
Shaukat Mahal is towered by the grand Sadar Manzil, which is believed to have served as the hall of the public audience during the king’s era.
Time to Visit
If you’re planning to visit Shaukat Mahal, it’s important to note that it is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. but closed on Fridays.
How to Reach Shaukat Mahal
By Car: Bhopal is well-connected by roads with major cities in India. The city lies on National Highway 12, which connects it to Jaipur, Kota, and Jabalpur. National Highway 86 also passes through the city, connecting it to Indore and Sagar.
By Train: Bhopal Junction is a major railway station in India and is well-connected with other major cities in the country. The station is served by the West Central Railway and is a hub for both passenger and freight trains. The station has several amenities like waiting rooms, food stalls, and restrooms for the convenience of travelers.
By Air: Raja Bhoj International Airport is the primary airport serving Bhopal and is located about 15 km from the city center. It is well connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, and Hyderabad through regular flights operated by airlines like Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara. The airport has several facilities like restaurants, shops, and ATMs to cater to the needs of travelers.