Shaukat Mahal and Sadar Manzil
The Shaukat Mahal is one of the architectural curiosities of Bhopal. Situated right at the entrance of the Chowk area, the Mahal is a blend of both oriental and occidental styles of architecture. The Shaukat Mahal was another important building constructed during Sikander Begum's tenure. It is a strange mixture of Indo-Islamic and European styles of architecture. It was designed by a Frenchman, a descendant of the Bourbon Kings of France. Post Renaissance and Gothic styles have been combined in an enchanting manner in the building. The building is very different from the rest of the Islamic architecture in the vicinity. The exterior of the palace is also carved with exquisite floral patterns that give the Mahal a very eco-friendly appearance. The Shaukat Mahal is flanked by the Sadar Manzil which served as a Hall of Public Audience during the princely period. This brick-red building has an ostentatious appearance, and the gardens that surround the palace makes the Manzil look very pretty.