Private Full-Day Tour Of Sanchi And Udayagiri From Bhopal With Lunch
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
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
Available options
1-8 Travelers
Price per person for 1-8 travelers.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
02 bottle of mineral water per person
Lunch (beverage excluded)
Local English speaking guide
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be picked up from your hotel in Bhopal for the one hour drive to Sanchi that is located at a distance of 30 miles from Bhopal.
Located in Sanchi is the Great Stupa that was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan dynasty. Legend has it that Emperor Ashoka after his bloody conquest of India was repentant of his deeds and took solace in Buddhism. He built several Stupas across India to preserve and spread the Buddhist faith. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Stupa in Sanchi is one of the best preserved Stupas in India.
The Stupa is in the shape of a large hemispherical dome that is 54 feet high. It has a central chamber where the relics of Lord Buddha are kept. It is surrounded by four ornamental gateways that open up to the four directions. A sandstone pillar is also found on the grounds of the Stupa. It has the edict of Emperor Ashoka engraved upon it in the ancient Brahmi script.
Next take lunch (beverage excluded) at a local restaurant.
2
After lunch you will be driven to Udayagiri caves. Of the 20 caves there, one is a Jain cave with the oldest known Jain inscription dating back to the 4th century A.D. The other caves bear Hindu inscriptions and have Hindu Gods carved on the walls.
At the end of the tour, you will be driven back to Bhopal and dropped off at your hotel.
What's not included
Food or drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Adult pricing applies to all travelers.
Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
A moderate amount of walking is involved. Comfortable walking shoes and sunglasses, sunscreen and hats are highly recommended.
Meeting point
We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
About Bhopal
Bhopal is a vibrant city in central India known for its serene lakes, rich history, and a blend of modern and traditional architecture. The city is famous for its natural and artificial lakes, earning it the nickname 'City of Lakes'.
Top Attractions
Upper Lake (Bhojtal)
A large artificial lake created in the 11th century, offering scenic views and boating activities.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free (Boating charges apply)
Lower Lake (Chhota Talaab)
A smaller lake connected to the Upper Lake, popular for water sports and picnics.
Nature
2 hours
Free (Water sports charges apply)
Van Vihar National Park
A zoological park with a variety of animals and a beautiful natural setting.
Nature
2-3 hours
20-50 INR
Shaukat Mahal
A historic building showcasing a blend of Indo-Islamic and European architectural styles.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Lal Parade Ground
A historic parade ground with a rich colonial past, now a popular recreational spot.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Birla Museum
A museum showcasing a collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings.
Museum
1-2 hours
50-100 INR
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poha
A flattened rice dish cooked with turmeric, mustard seeds, and peanuts.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Bhopali Bhutte Ka Kees
A sweet dish made from grated corn, cooked with milk, sugar, and nuts.
Snack
Vegetarian
Dal Bafla
A hearty dish made with lentils and wheat balls, served with ghee and spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian
Mawa Bati
A sweet dish made from mawa (reduced milk) and deep-fried in ghee.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Boating
Water sports
Hiking
Picnicking
Visiting parks
Visiting historic sites
Shopping in local markets
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
October to March
The best time to visit Bhopal is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Hindi
- Widely spoken: English, Urdu
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Bhopal is generally safe for tourists, but petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable taxi services or app-based cabs.
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
Getting there
By air
- Bhopal Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Bhopal Junction, Rani Kamlapati Railway Station
By bus
ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal), Jabalpur Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common mode of public transport in Bhopal. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Ola
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old City
New Market
Arera Hills
Jyoti Club
Day trips
Sanchi Stupa
46 km from Bhopal • Half day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest stone structures in India, dating back to the 3rd century BCE.
Bhojeshwar Temple
28 km from Bhopal • Half day
A historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique architecture and ancient inscriptions.
Raisen Fort
39 km from Bhopal • Full day
A historic fort with a rich past, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Festivals
Bhopal Utsav • December
Eid-ul-Fitr • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Diwali • October/November
Pro tips
- Visit the lakes early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
- Try the local street food, but be cautious with hygiene.
- Bargain in markets and with auto rickshaws for better prices.
- Use app-based cabs for fixed fares and to avoid negotiation.
- Carry small denominations for street vendors and auto rickshaws.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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