A full highway run east across the Malwa plateau to Madhya Pradesh's lake-studded capital. The road is generally smooth with steady traffic, passing through Dewas and Sehore en route. Bhopal's Upper Lake (Bhojtal) dominates the city's western side, with promenades and boating popular in the evenings. The Taj-ul-Masajid, one of India's largest mosques, has an imposing pink facade and vast courtyard. Van Vihar National Park, unusually located within city limits, offers a rescued-wildlife safari without leaving town. Shaurya Smarak war memorial adds a modern architectural stop on a hilltop overlooking the lakes. This is a longer day ride best started early to allow proper time in the city, which itself has notably heavier traffic than smaller Malwa towns. Winter mornings can be foggy on the highway approach. A comfortable, moderate-effort ride overall given good road quality throughout.
