Bijapur City Tourist Guide
Bijapur is a beautiful city situated in Northern-Western part of Karnataka, South India. The monuments haling from the period of Chalukya till the Islamic invasion are visible at this sight. The monuments constructed during the Adil Shahi Dynasty like Gol Gombaz can be easily traced in this city. To revere the rich past of the region, the government authorities annually organize cultural festivals and fairs. Amongst all the festivals celebrated in the city, Bijapur music festival remains the main attraction of the region. The Bijapur music festival is organized every year by the Karnataka government. The other festival that is celebrated in this city is the annual fair of Shri Sidheshwar Temple. This festival attracts millions of travelers from different parts of the world. During this festival, the street bazaar, food courts and ornamented accessories shops sell their accessories at best prices. Similarly, Shri Siddheshwar fair is celebrated with the same glitz and glamour. Besides the savoring the festive colors of Bijapur, the Gol Gombaz, famous for the echo chambers are worth viewing. It is believed that Shah Jahan got the inspiration of building Taj Mahal from the monuments of Bijapur. Besides its main attraction, the best time to visit Bijapur is in the month of October to February.
The Major Attractions in Bijapur:
Asar Mahal: The edifice of exquisite architectural design, Asar Mahal is a three storied structure imbued with the peerless pieces of minarets and skill fully fabricated glass panels. As one enters the gateway of Mithari or Asar Mahal, the fabulous art work would surely catch the eyes. Asar Mahal lying in the North has four pillars on which the decorative inscriptions dating back to the past show their exceptional presence. The upper storey of the building is dedicated to Persian art forms and women are not allowed to enter here. Although on request, the women can enter just buy taking due care of the rules and regulations of this sanctum. The festival of Urs is annually organized here and during this occasion good numbers of pilgrims show their presence.
Bijapur Castle: The Bijapur castle was built in the 16th century by Maharana Pratap’s younger brother, Rao Shakti Singh. Bijapur castle is strategically located at such a location from where the travelers can reach to the near by wild life sanctuary. The adventure enthusiasts can figure out leopard, tigers, boars, deer, reptiles and monkeys. Opposite to this castle is the heritage hotel which is maintained by the royal family. All facilities at this hotel are available to make a stay an epicurean experience to cherish about.
Gagan Mahal: Gagan Mahal is another meticulous creation of Adil shah I, the ruler of Adil Shah Dynasty, in 1561 and a part of the citadel is the Gagan Mahal. It is a palace cum darbar which can house 1000 of people. The palace has magnificent arches which is great study in architectural brilliance. The palace was situated on the top floor while durbar hall was situated on the ground floor. Their was courtyard also where thousands of people resemble to hear the proceedings.
Gol Gumbaz: Gol Gumbaz built in the year 1656 by Mohammed Adil Shah is only second in size to St. Peters Basilica, Rome. The aim of building this tomb was to bury the mortal remains of his two wives, mistress, daughter and grandson. Gol Gombaz is considered as the architectural wonder as its dimensions are 124 in diameter, floor is 1700 sq.ft, the height of 51 meter and the 3 meter thick wall makes it sturdy. The monument also has ‘whispering gallery’ where the minute whispers can be heard with a great ease. Thee is a museum, a mosque, a Naqqar Khana, a gateway and a Dharamshala with in the precincts of the Gol Gumbaz complex.
Jala Manzil: Jala Manzil enclosed by the structures of Sat manzil is an adorable creation of the Adil Shah empire. This is a small structure in the tank enclosed by the Zanana enclosure, set secluded by courts and gardens.
Jama Masjid: Jama Masjid is the largest mosque in Bijapur, built in the year 1578 by Adil Shah to mark his victory over Vijaynagara empire. Sprawling over an area of 10,000 sq meters, Jama Masjid can hold more than 2200 devotees. This mosque has 45 compartments, fountains, onion shaped chambers and inner chambers with a large reservoirs.
Lotus Lake: Located opposite to the Pangarh Fort is the Lotus Lake. The tribal populace here indulge in traditional fishing practices. The travelers can also try fishing and boating at this lake.
Pangarh Fort: The Pangarh fort nestled in the picturesque alleys was built in the 12th century. Located 25 kms from Bijapur, the Lotus lake overlooks at this fort and add an extra charm to its beauty.
Sat Manzil: Amongst the several architectural pieces, Sat Manzil was a watch tower nestled opposite to Gagan Mahal. This seven storied tower was constructed by Mohammed Adil Shah. This tower once houses the citadel, weapons and soldiers to guard the palace.
Taj Bawdi: Taj Bawdi was constructed in the honor of his beloved wife queen Taj Sultanaa. This palace also houses a well which was a great relief at the time of scorching summer heat. The gateway of the tomb was beautified by two arches. On the Eastern and Western zones there are two octagonal towers. These towers were the guest house where the visitors take nap.
Citadel: The Citadel in Bijapur is surrounded by walls from all the sides. It has a moat with in the center of the premises. All the structures built by Adil shah in this citadel are decaying and are loosing their real character. Some of these structures are the part of government buildings. The courtyards, gardens and towers haven’t lost their sheen and still many travelers make a visit to these archeological monuments.
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