Gohar Mahal

Situated right behind the Shaukat Mahal on the banks of the Upper Lake is the Gohar Mahal that was once an architectural gem. However, the palace has not been well maintained and is currently in a dilapidated state.

Nevertheless, the archways of the palace still retain a majestic air about them and are well worth a visit.

Built by Qudisiya Begum (who was also known as Gohar Begum) in 1820, the Mahal is a wonderful expression of the fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture.

Qudisiya Begum was the first woman ruler of Bhopal who ascended the throne of the erstwhile princely state in 1819, after her husband died in an accident (see History). From then on, political power rested with the Begums of Bhopal. The Begums were liberal and modern in their outlook, and Qudisiya Begum was the probably India’s first woman’s-libber.