Bidar is the northern most district of Karnataka. Medieval Bidar was widely renowned for its splendour, as a seat of learning, cultural marvels and as a capital city. Bidar is situated almost in the centre of geographical Deccan and on the eastern border of the historical Deccan. It was a meeting place of several shades of culture from the very beginning. The history of Bidar had a lot of ups and downs and stories of treachery and bloodbath, but was also marked by good administration and development of art, architecture and literature. The historical monuments and sites, in and around Bidar city, belong to different periods of history- pre-Kakatiya, Tughluq, Bahamani, BaridShahi, AdilShahi, Mughal and Nizami. As far the architecture is concerned, there is an intermixture of Hindu, Turkish and Persian artisanship. Some of the designs and decorative patterns seen in the monuments of Bidar are unique in India.Ruled by the Kakatiyas,Tughlaqs,Mughals and Nizams at different times,the architecture shows an interesting intermingling of Hindu,Turkish and Persian styles.
Bidar Fort
Amongs the most formidable forts of the country, Bidar Fort consists of two forts-one protecting the city and the other, a citadel fort protecting the royal palaces. The city fort is pentagonal with five large entrances. Of these, the Gumbaz Darwaza rising to 45 feet with 22 feet thick walls, is awe inspiring in its enormity. Bastions, cannons and secret passages add to the charm of this medieval fort.
Gagan Mahal (Heavenly Palace)
A palace built originally by the Bahamanis, with additions made by Barid Shahirulers, it has two courts. The main building was for the use of the Sultan and his harem.
Takhat Mahal
Built as his royal residence by Ahmed Shah, the Throne Palace is a stately building embellished with colured tiles and carvings. Several coronations took place here. The royal pavilion situated behind the Throne Palace offers a breath-taking view of the valley below.
Tarkash Mahal
This Palace is built as the residence of the Sultan’s Turkish wife got extended later by Barid Shahirulers. The walls of the palace are highly ornamented and display stucco work.
Rangin Mahal
A small but elegant palace, Rangin Mahal is architecturally a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles. Exquisite calligraphy and mother-of –pearl inlay on jet black sone, wood carvings and coloured tiles make this a unique structure.
Shahi Malbakh (Royal Kitchen)
Probably the residence of a prince or dignitary originally, this structure saw different uses over time, including that of the royal kitchens and even a jail.
Jharani Narasimha Cave Temple
According to the local legend, Lord Narasimha used this underground cave to meditate. Devotees have to wade through chest deep water for a glimpse of the deity carved on the wall of the cave.
Shahi Hamam (Royal Bath)
In the old time, this place was used for royals to take perfumed baths, but today it’s a museum. On display are remarkable Hindu images, rare china and articles from the royal households.
Madarasa Of Mahmud Gawan
It was are now centre for learning with in house library, mosque and quarters for professors and students. The institution had scholars imparting knowledge of Arabic, Persian, theology, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics etc.
Nanak Jhira Sahib
One of the very few Sikh pilgrimage centres in the South, the Nanak Jhira Saheb nestles in serene surroundings. A natural spring feeds the Sarovara built here.A Guru-ka-langar provides free food to all visitors.
