Bijapur or Vijaypura is one of the richest districts in Karnataka in terms of its cultural heritage. It’s traditionally known for its monuments, cultures and the five rivers which flow nearby. With many rulers over the years, the city has become a cultural hub which is sure to keep every history aficionado interested.
Bijapur is around 540 km north of Bangalore, so it would be better to hire one of the many outstation cabs in Bangalore. Here are some monuments in Bijapur which you should not miss.
1. Gol Gumbaz
Gol Gumbaz is the mausoleum of one of the most prominent rulers of Bijapur, Mohammed Adil Shah. It’s the largest dome which has been built in the nation. The tomb is an architectural marvel, which has Deccan and Hindu influences all over. The mausoleum itself is also one of the largest chamber spaces not only in India but the world over.
2. Ibrahim Roza
An underrated monument, Ibrahim Roza has not gotten the fame which the Jama Masjid in Delhi or the Charminar of Hyderabad has received. However, the fact remains that it is one of the most elegant examples of Islamic Architecture in the nation. It is often called the Taj Mahal of South India and is easily one of the must-visit monuments in the city.
3. Bijapur Fort
There is a reason why many people have drawn parallels between Bijapur in South India and Agra in the north – the fort is one of the main reasons. The Vijaypura Fort is a heavily fortified one, with as many as more than 1000 cannons and a massive moat which is around 50 feet wide. Many other monuments, like the Ibrahim Roza and the Jama Masjid, are also close by.
4. Jama Masjid
Built by the ruler Ali Adil Shah, the Bijapur Jama Masjid remains one of the largest mosques in South India. The dome of the mosque and its architecture are sure to attract even the most casual architecture aficionados, and thus the mosque is a must-visit.
5. Bara Kaman
The Bara Kaman is an incomplete mausoleum, which was started as the final resting place for Ali Adil Shah II. It has been deemed to be one of the most famous heritage sites in the state and still remains unfinished. The hauntingly beautiful structure has 12 arches in the completed state.
6. Gagan Mahal
Gagan Mahal is famous for one aspect of its architecture, among tourists- its massive arch. The central arch is the tallest and widest one in the city, even though there are many similar places of Islamic architecture. The architecture of the Sky Palace is also something to admire.
7. Sangeeth Nari Mahal
The Sangeeth Nari Mahal is a little removed from the city and is at Navraspur which is around 8 km away. Built as a part of the Adil shahi architecture, the structure is enclosed by a reservoir and a wall.
Bijapur is close to Pune too, so a taxi service in Pune can also be availed to get to this historic, beautiful city.
