Top Bhopal Culture

The cave paintings at Lascaux in France are often described as the greatest prehistoric art in the world. They are 17,000 years old. The paintings at Bhimbetka are nearly twice as old. This UNESCO World Heritage site in the Vindhya hills outside Bhopal has 750 rock shelters with paintings dating back 30,000 years, showing animals, hunters, warriors and magical creatures in layers that span the full arc of human prehistory from the Stone Age to the Bronze Age. Forty kilometres away, the Bhojpur Temple was built by King Bhoja in the 11th century — the king who founded Bhopal and wrote a treatise on civil engineering that described the construction of flying machines. His temple was never completed, which makes it more fascinating not less. Private car from Bhopal, expert guide, entry fees and lunch included. 5 Senses Tours is recognised by the Department of Tourism, a winner of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award and the Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Award.

This comprehensive tour is your gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sanchi, and the Udayagiri Caves. You’ll save time booking transport by having pickup and drop-off from your Bhopal hotel included. Travel between attractions in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. You'll explore the Buddhist monasteries, temples, and pillars of Sanchi with a guide, so you don’t get lost. A trip highlight is the Hindu ritual site of Udayagiri Caves.

Bhopal, the capital of the Central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh was the site of one of the world’s worst industrial disaster in 1984. Residents of Bhopal were exposed to the highly toxic Methyl Isocyanate gas as it leaked from the Union Carbide factory. Over 20,000 people are believed to have died and thousands more were left permanently disabled. Even today the after-effects are visible in the high incidence of chromosomal aberrations seen in the next generation. Visit the abandoned Union Carbide factory and the nearby affected sites to witness  the dark side of industrial progress. Highlights: • Abandoned Union Carbide factory • Affected neighbourhoods • Bhopal Museum (Museum Remain Closed On Every Monday)

Discover India’s religious heritage as you explore two temples outside of Bhopal. Alongside a private guide, head to the Buddhist stupa of Sanchi built in the third century BC, to learn how Emperor Ashoka wanted to spread the Buddhist philosophy. Then, head to the Hindu temple of Udayeshwara which is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva to admire its intricately carved sandstone architecture.

Embark on a fascinating day trip from Bhopal to explore the ancient wonders of Bhimbetka Rock Shelters and the majestic Bhojpur Temple. Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Bhopal, leading you to the archaeological marvel of Bhimbetka. Discover the rock shelters that showcase the earliest traces of human life on the Indian subcontinent, dating back to the Paleolithic age. Marvel at stone age rock paintings that offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region, some of which are around 30,000 years old. Following this historical exploration, proceed to Bhojpur, home to a renowned Shiva temple. Admire the craftsmanship of one of India's largest lingas, meticulously carved from a single rock. After a day filled with archaeological wonders, return to Bhopal and conclude your tour with a drop-off at your hotel.

Spend the day exploring Sanchi and Udayagiri from Bhopal. See the majestic stupas, temples, and monasteries of Sanchi and learn about their historical and religious significance, and discover monuments that were built more than 2000 years ago. Find where Buddha’s relics are kept, then travel on to the Udayagiri Caves, an intricate complex of underground Hindu temples.

On this day trip from Bhopal, drive to Sanchi and visit the 3rd century Buddhist Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from around the world. Also visit the 5th century Udaygiri Caves situated near the town of Vidisha. The 20 rock cut caves contain some of the oldest surviving temples in India. Highlights • Great Stupa of Sanchi • Ashoka Pillar • 5th century Udayagiri Caves