Bijapur, the historical city of Karnataka is known for its superb monuments which were of great strategic importance during the reign of Adil Shahi! The architectural wonders at Bijapur, call for tourists from all over the world to witness the beauty of our Incredible India! With picturesque landscapes and ancient ruins that still stand tall with pride, Bijapur is truly a gem, waiting to be explored!

The Bijapur Fort is a striking wonder of Karnataka with 5 majestic entrances each decorated beautifully by artisans. The huge fort also offers a stunning view of the entire city of Bijapur and bird watchers can enjoy the sightings of unique birds here as well. The magnificent Ibrahim Rauza, Gagan Mahal, and Mehtar Mahal, all resided inside the Bijapur Fort.
 
Traveler Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Exploring</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: September-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 3 hours</li>
</ul>

If you want to be mystified, then don’t miss the Bara Kaman at Bijapur. The archaic historical monument is slowly crumbling. The Bara Kaman hosts the tomb of Ali Adil Shah which still remains unfinished owing to a familial rivalry. But, you will be mesmerized by how things that are incomplete feel so complete, especially when you catch hold of the Gothic arches, and the white stoned domes!
 
Traveler Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Witnessing the unfinished mausoleum</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: September-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

The archaic monument called the Gagan Mahal has earned itself the name of Agra of South India. And rightfully so. The Gagan Mahal was the haven of kings in the reign of Adil Shah, but now only ruins remain. The palace following the design of the Persian architectural style has intricately carved walls made out of rare stones and roofs made out of the costliest wood. You can visit the burial ground of Afzal Khan which is quite impressive and take a stroll in the vast gardens!
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Witnessing architecture and photography</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: November-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

Once you step inside the beautiful premises of Mehtar Mahal, you will be welcomed by the grand Indo-Saracenic architecture of the palace. Having elongated and majestic arches, two exclusively carved minarets depicting birds, and domes and roofs sculpted out of expensive stones, the Mehtar Mahar is truly a visual delight! The grand gateway inside the Mahal is intricately decorated by skilled artisans as well. Mehtar Mahal is definitely a beautiful place to spend some quiet time!
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Experiencing the artistic architecture</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: October-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

Tragic and cruel, these two words best sum up this eerie graveyard known as Saath Kabar at Bijapur. Having 60 graves, the Saath Kabar holds the memoir of the 60 wives of Afzal Khan serving under Adil Shah. As cunning as he was, Afzal Khan upon his defeat and death in the hands of Shivaji ordered the execution of his 60 wives so that they could not remarry after his death! In this heinous act, all of the 60 wives of Afzal Khan were murdered mercilessly.&nbsp;
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Visiting 60 graves of Afzal Khan’s wives</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: March-September</li>
 <li>Duration: 1 hour</li>
</ul>

Now almost in ruins, the Sangeeth Nari Mahal had a charm of its own in the 16th century! With Adil Shah hosting lavish parties and celebrations filled with music sessions, dance performances, and recitation of poetries, the Sangeeth Nari Mahal was always filled with fervor and talented artists! The site is guarded by high walls and has a small pond in the middle!
 
Traveler Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Exploring the ruins</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: June-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

Literally known as “ Lord of Battlefield “ Malik-e-Maidan, this intriguing heritage site at Bijapur hosts a gigantic cannon that was brought by none other than Adil Shah II upon winning a war against an enemy. The 4.45 mts long cannon has a unique design of a lion-shaped nozzle barring its jaws, and in between the jaws, there is another carving of an elephant! Inscriptions of mighty ruler Aurangazeb also feature on top of the cannon making it one of a kind!
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Witnessing unique animal-motif cannon</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: October-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 1 hour</li>
</ul>

Bijapur is truly a historical land of wonders where you will be introduced to vintage monuments, a rich past of the Adil Shah dynasty, and a glorious landscape filled with beauty and charm. Bijapur with its sightseeing locations is like a hidden jewel waiting to be explored. So, without further delay pack your bags to step inside the ancient city of Adil Shah!

Thrill seekers, you ought to venture into the trekking trails of Aihole when at Bijapur. At Aihole, you will find yourself amidst dense trees and bushes from where you have to pave your way through the rocky jungle paths, accompanied by the sound of crickets and the chirp of birds. On the way, you can take a break by dipping into cool waterfalls as well, and once on track some scenic photographs of the mountains in front and experience the wildlife in the deep woods of Aihole! You can even opt for a night of camping and enjoy the serene ambiance!
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Trekking and camping</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: October-March</li>
 <li>Duration: 3 hours/1 night</li>
</ul>
 
Things to do:
<ul>
 <li>Adventure Activities: Trekking, camping</li>
</ul>

Ready to explore the hidden caves and tricky rocks to go deeper inside and enjoy the thrill of the dark descent? Then why wait? Visit the famous Badami caves marked with rock-cut temples beneath and find your way through the winding mazes of the caves. The Ravana Phadi is one such cave exploration site where tourists throng every year to enjoy the adrenaline-fuelled experience!
 
Traveler Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Exploring the caves&nbsp;</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: September-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 4 hours</li>
</ul>
 
Things to do:
<ul>
 <li>Adventure Activities: Cave exploration</li>
</ul>

Famously termed as the Taj Mahal of South India, the Gol Gumbaz is one of the greatest destinations to visit at Bijapur. This circular dome with a cube placed on either side is carved out of basalt rocks, dark grey in color, which is extremely rare to find. This gigantic structure, comprising both Indo-Islamic and Deccan architecture hosts a “whispering gallery” as well, where even the slightest sound makes an echo owing to the acoustics construction!
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Exploring the monument</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: October-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2-3 hours</li>
</ul>

The glorious Persian architecture with complex carvings of motifs, and sculptures on the walls, pillars, as well as ceilings of the tomb in Ibrahim Rauza is a sheer treat to the eyes! Adil Shah II especially constructed this gorgeous monument hoping for a cordial relationship between Hindus and Muslims. The domes have paintings of lotuses, and there are numerous passageways and tunnels inside that lead visitors towards different areas in the Ibrahim Rauza!&nbsp;
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Admiring the splendid architecture</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit:</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

Upli Buruj in Bijapur is one of the finest monuments constructed in the 11th century by Adil Shah. Towering over a height of about 80ft, the Upli Buruj is essentially a watchtower from where tourists can view the scenic city of Bijapur and click some noteworthy pictures from atop. The cylindrical structure has a winding set of stairs, which tourists can also spot two massive cannons which served as a defense against the dynasty of Adil Shah!
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Witnessing scenic views and cannons</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: October-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

If there’s one well-maintained mosque of Bijapur, then it has to be the Jamia Masjid! With graceful aisles, picturesque arches, a massive dome carved out of the best white marbles, and an extensive courtyard, the Jamia Masjid is a splendid place to absorb the beauty of this Muslim shrine. Along the hallways of the mosque, you would also find inscriptions of the Quran written in beautiful calligraphy!
 
Traveler Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Exploring the mosque</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: October-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

Can’t get enough of forts? Well, the citadel at Bijapur awaits you then. Now, mostly a dilapidated structure, the citadel once stood with pride. With fortified high-rise walls and &nbsp;a large moat, the ancient citadel in the 15th century boasted of grand durbars, never-ending corridors, well-manicured gardens, and customized palaces inside where the kings used to enjoy the royal treatment. Once inside, you will feel as though history has come alive!
 
Traveller Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Experiencing historical significance</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: October-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

Another amazing work of art is the Asar Mahal carved out in the style of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The Asar Mahal was originally termed the Hall of justice as many judicial sessions were held here. Hence, till now, the Asar Mahal is a sacred pilgrimage destination for Muslims. Soak in the beauty of the place with its massive garden and crystal clear ponds.&nbsp;
 
Traveler Information:
<ul>
 <li>Famous for: Admiring architectural brilliance</li>
 <li>Best Time to Visit: October-February</li>
 <li>Duration: 2 hours</li>
</ul>

Top 15 Places to Visit in Bijapur

India > Karnataka

Explore in Karnataka

Table of Content