From Lakes to Hills: 7 Best Sunrises and Sunsets in Bhopal

Best for: Sunset

Upper Lake, the jewel of Bhopal, is a massive expanse of water that reflects the sky like a mirror. The Kamla Park side offers a quieter spot to catch the sun slipping behind the water. You’ll see couples, kids with cotton candy, and old uncles walking in their 90s-style tracksuits.

Food Tip: Try the spicy corn-on-the-cob and masala soda from the local stalls. There’s also a tiny kiosk that serves excellent samosas right opposite the park.

Best for: Sunrise and Sunset

Stretching along the Upper Lake, VIP Road is not just for government babus. It’s ideal for long drives, peaceful walks, and dramatic selfies against the backdrop of sunrise or sunset. The symmetry of mosques, minarets, and lake water turns the skyline into poetry.

Food Tip: Early morning? Grab chai from the roadside stalls. Evening? Try Sharma Bhojnalaya for a proper thali or head to Za-aiqa inside Noor-Us-Sabah for a luxurious biryani dinner.

Best for: Sunrise

Located atop a hill, Manuabhan Tekri offers panoramic views of the entire city. Take the ropeway or hike your way up—it’s worth it. The serenity of the Jain temple adds to the spiritual charm. Watching the city slowly light up is magical.

Food Tip: Pack a breakfast sandwich or bun maska, and munch while watching the sky shift. There's a small canteen at the top as well. Or go to Sai SouthIndian counter in TT Nagar.

Best for: Sunset

Tucked away on the outskirts, Kerwa is where you go when city noise gets too loud. It’s also where you’ll find a more raw, forest-meets-water vibe. There’s a walking trail that leads you to stunning lake-view points.

Food Tip: Grab Maggi and chai from the roadside stalls. If you’re in a mood for more, Kerwa Resort offers a modest menu and decent views.

Best for: Sunrise

If you’re an early riser, Van Vihar is an experience. It opens by 6 AM and offers a perfect trail for joggers and cyclists. The sunrise over the lake and inside the park—where the animals slowly start waking up—is deeply grounding.

Food Tip: Post-walk, head to Indian Coffee House near Roshanpura for filter coffee and dosas. Nostalgia included.

Best for: Sunset

A lesser-known gem, Kaliyasot Dam offers rustic, earthy views and a no-crowd vibe. It’s quiet, except for birdsong and water ripples. Ideal for reading, sketching, or just staring into the sky like a movie character.

Food Tip: Bring your own snacks. Or stop by Bake-n-Shake or Under the Mango Tree on your way back for continental bites.

Best for: Sunset

This lakefront is a favorite among locals for its accessibility and peaceful atmosphere. You’ll often find college students, musicians, or even yoga groups practicing by the water. The colors of the sky melt into the lake creating an oil painting of an evening.

Food Tip: Grab a paneer roll or chaat from 10 No. Market, or head over to CCD for coffee with a view.

• Bharat Bhavan Terrace

A cultural hub with a soul-soothing terrace view of the lake, Bharat Bhavan at sunset is a poet’s dream. You might even stumble into an art exhibit or music recital post-skywatch.

Food Tip: Check out their in-house canteen for homely meals or walk to Ravindra Bhavan road for poha-jalebi or sandwiches.

• Small Roadside Lakes (Bairagarh, Bhadbhada & Misrod)

While not touristy, these little lakes often surprise with unexpectedly stunning sky reflections. Sit by the side, let your thoughts wander, and watch the world slow down.

Food Tip: There’s always a tapri or stall selling chai, bhutta, or bread pakoda nearby—simple joys.

• Yodhasthal Viewpoint

Located in the Army area and open to civilians, this place offers one of the most disciplined sunrises you’ll ever see.

• Raisen Fort (Short Road Trip)

Just 45 minutes from Bhopal, the trek and the sunrise view from the fort ruins are unforgettable.

• Boat Club

More touristy, but if you catch it on a less crowded day, the sunset over a paddle boat is still dreamy.


I’ve watched the sky change from my second-floor hostel balcony more times than I can count. It’s not a famous spot. There’s no lake or chai stall. Just the silhouette of the city, the echo of someone playing music, and the occasional flutter of hostel conversations.

One evening, after a particularly exhausting day, I leaned over the railing and saw the sky bleeding into pinks and oranges. A friend handed me a cup of hostel-made chai (that watery, extra-sweet miracle), and for five minutes, we said nothing. We just watched. The sun didn’t solve our problems, but it reminded us that endings can be beautiful.

So yes, Bhopal has a hundred spots to chase sunsets. But sometimes, the best view is the one right outside your window.

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