Manuabhan Tekri: Discovering the Serene Hilltop of Bhopal

Manuabhan Tekri is arguably the most famous hangout spot in Bhopal, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. While I was compiling a list of the best places to visit and things to do in Bhopal, this hilltop destination repeatedly emerged as a top recommendation. Its popularity is well-deserved, providing visitors with a serene escape and stunning vistas. Whether you’re looking to relax, capture beautiful photographs, or simply take in the scenic beauty of Bhopal, Manuabhan Tekri is a must-visit location that promises a memorable experience.

The place is quite a hype among youngsters, which I got to know after arriving here. It seems to be their favorite spot, buzzing with activity and enthusiasm. Since I was visiting Bhopal for the first time, I had no clue what Manuabhan Tekri was all about. Though I had seen photos online, my understanding was still limited. My curiosity piqued when my AirBnB host highly recommended this place, describing it as a must-visit spot in Bhopal. He shared stories of its popularity among locals, especially the younger crowd, who frequent it for its stunning panoramic views and serene ambiance.

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Intrigued by the descriptions, I added Manuabhan Tekri to my list of places to explore in Bhopal. As I researched further, I discovered that this hilltop destination was often mentioned as a top spot to visit in Bhopal. It seemed to be a favorite hangout, buzzing with activity and enthusiasm. The picturesque views of the city from the hilltop, combined with the peaceful environment, made it an appealing destination. Manuabhan Tekri promised to be a highlight of my trip, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and a vibrant local culture. And I looked forward to experiencing it firsthand, knowing it was a place that held special significance for the people of Bhopal.

Exploring the Rich History of Manuabhan Tekri in Bhopal - All You Need to Know

Manuabhan Tekri is also known as Mahavir Giri, a name bestowed by the Governor of Madhya Pradesh. To facilitate easier access, a dedicated road was constructed, leading to the hill which rises 1,300 feet above sea level.

Located approximately seven kilometers from Bhopal on Gwalior Road, atop a picturesque hill, lies Manuabhan Ki Tekri, a revered Jain temple and a significant pilgrimage site for Jain devotees. This sacred hilltop is home to the footprints of esteemed Jain saints such as Maharaj Shri Vijay Suriji, Shri Jindutta Sureshwarji, and Acharya Mantung. An idol of Shri Man Bhadarji also graces the site. At the temple’s Simha Gate, an ancient manuscript carved in stone remains undeciphered, adding to the site’s mystique. Manuabhan Ki Tekri is also recognized as the Sadhana Sthali of the Oswal Dynasty and hosts a grand fair annually on Kartik Purnima.

Also known as Mahavir Giri, this name was bestowed by the Governor of Madhya Pradesh, who facilitated easier access by constructing a dedicated road. The hill rises 1,300 feet above sea level, offering a serene and secluded environment that once attracted numerous saints and sages. The site has historical significance, with seven caves historically serving as meditation spots. During Qudsiya Begum’s rule, excavation revealed an idol of Lord Mahavir, which was later installed in a Shwetambar Jain temple in Chowk.

Mantung was a scoffer in the court of Emperor Bhoj, entertaining the king with various comedies and acts as an artist. Once he grew bored of his job, he left the court and dedicated himself to religious and spiritual activities, later becoming known as Mantungacharya. This hillock is dedicated to him, with Manuabhan being an impaired form of Mantungacharya.

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Manuabhan Tekri is now a popular tourist destination, featuring a magnificent Jain temple constructed in the Rajasthani style, a well-maintained garden, a ropeway, a children’s play area, and various snack and coffee shops. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings, making it a favored spot for both devotees and tourists.

Nearby attractions enhance the visitor experience. Restaurants like Filfora, Sharma Fast Food, and Domino’s Pizza, along with luxurious hotels like Noor-Us-Saba and Hotel Shagun, offer comfort and culinary delights. The Bhopal Ropeway, Bal Hanuman Mandir, Lord Shiva’s temple, Birasini Devi temples, Gufa Mandir, Taj-Ul-Masajid, and the tombs of Sirdar Dost Mohammad Khan and Fateh Bibi are all within reach, providing a rich cultural and spiritual journey for visitors to this historical hillock.

I booked a cab and arrived there. The driver dropped me off at the ropeway station. Excitedly, I purchased a ticket for the cable car ride to the hilltop, eager to experience it for the first time. As I ascended, the panoramic views of Bhopal unfolding before me were breathtaking, marking another tick on my to-do list for the trip.

One of the highlights of my visit to Bhopal was cruising on the Lower Lake. Despite it being a simple and unassuming boat ride, it held a special place in my heart as my first cruising experience. The tranquility of the lake, coupled with the shimmering water under the sun, made it a serene and memorable moment. It’s often said that first experiences leave lasting impressions, and this was no exception.

Evening Serenity: Hilltop Panoramic Views at Manuabhan Tekri

As evening settled in, I arrived at the hilltop, greeted by a lively scene. Families picnicked around the area, adding to the bustling atmosphere. The temple was abuzz with devotees immersed in prayer and reflection. Beyond the temple, the rocky hill line indicated the presence of Manuabhan Tekri, though I wasn’t certain about the specific formation referred to as “tekri.” What caught my eye was a prominent rock structure jutting out, creating a natural cave-like enclosure. Despite its intriguing appearance, climbing atop it seemed risky due to its steep and precarious edges.

Amidst a flurry of people shooting videos and creating Instagram reels, I found a serene spot to admire the city’s panoramic view, completely mesmerized by its natural beauty. As the area became more crowded, I wandered toward a quieter section that resembled a hilltop jungle, dense with trees and shrubs, offering a sense of seclusion amid the bustling activity. The lush greenery seemed to swallow up the surroundings, providing a peaceful escape from the excitement and allowing for moments of quiet contemplation amidst the vibrant atmosphere.

However, the scene revealed a disheartening truth: scattered around were empty alcohol bottles, cigarette boxes, and various types of litter. It served as a stark reminder of how some people fail to appreciate natural beauty, choosing instead to engage in activities that degrade rather than enhance the environment. It was a sobering contrast to the serene surroundings, highlighting the need for greater respect and responsibility towards preserving the natural splendor of places like this hilltop.

As the day darkened and the city shimmered in lights, ominous clouds gathered and soon unleashed a heavy downpour. I found myself a bit away from the main area of manuabhan tekri and hurried back to the ropeway spot, knowing I had to catch a train to Delhi. The rain intensified, thwarting my travel plans back home. With no choice but to cancel my train journey, I called my Airbnb host to explain the change in plans and asked if they could arrange accommodation for the night.

The unplanned extension allowed me a chance to experience Bhopal’s evening charm amidst the rain. Despite the disruption, the city took on a different allure under the dramatic sky, its lights reflecting off the wet streets. It was a reminder of how travel often surprises us, turning even a setback into an opportunity to embrace new experiences and appreciate the unpredictability of adventures.