Gohar Mahal also known as Gohar Begum is situated behind Shaukat Mahal on the banks of the Upper Lake. This palace, built in 1820 by Kudsia Begum is an architectural gem. The Mahal is a magnificent fusion of Hindu and Mughal architecture.

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.

Information for tourists
The Gohar Mahal is a very significant historical building in dilapidated state. On an invitation from the Ministry of Textiles and Madhya Pradesh Handloom and Handicrafts Vikas Nigam (MPHHVN), INTACH has worked out a restoration and reuse proposal for the complex. To convert it into an Urban Haat, the palace will be restored maintaining the original fabric and construction details of the buildings and finally insert new functions.