Bijapur at a glance

Famous for its historical heritage, Bijapur is a tourist destination that takes one back to the days gone by from the royal era. Established in the 10th Century by Chalukyas, this city is a perfect weekend destination for those who wish to experience the rich heritage of India.

Things to do in Bijapur

Gol Gumbaz

The mausoleum of Muhammad Adil Shah- this dome is the second largest in the world with a diameter of 124 feet, built by he famed architect, Yaqut of Dabul. Gol Gumbaz is the icon of Bijapur. The architectural design of this building includes 4 minarets of 8 storeys that can be entered by winding staircases terminating in cupolas. The tomb is placed in a large walled garden, which is designed in Persian style. This tourist hot spot is a under the direct preservation of Archaeological Society of India.

Ibrahim Rauza

Also known as The Taj Mahal of the Deccan, it is home to the remains of the Adil Shah ruler Ibrahim Adil Shah II and his wife Taj Sultana. Facing east towards the tomb, the front of the mosque has five arches with elaborate plaster work on the spandrel. Both the mosque and the tomb are elevated on a common base in the middle of a beautiful garden.

Jumma Masjid

Built by Ali Adil Shah to celebrate his victory in the Battle of Talikota, it is one of the first mosques in India. This is one of the oldest buildings in Bijapur. This mosque has the verses of Quran engraved in gold. The roof has beautiful lotus petals carved on the dome- fusing the hindu culture into muslim architecture.

Mithari and Asar Mahals

Built by Muhammad Adil Shah in 1640s, it serves as a place of worship for Muslim devotees, originally meant to be a Hall of Justice. Some remains of Prophet Mohammed is used suring its construction, whic elevated its status as a holy center for Muslims.

The Citadel

With its own surrounding walls and a moat, The Citadel houses palaces, gardens and halls from the Adil Shahi Dynasty. It is mostly dilapidated. Although in a state of ruin, Citadel still holds the magnificence with a strong appeal. The remains of Hindu temples in the Citadel in Bijapur prove the fact that the city bore a great importance during the pre-Islam times.

What to Eat in Bijapur : Local Food and Cuisine

The cuisine in this area is essentially spicy and has subtle influences of Maharashtrian food. The delicacies of the local cuisine here are Kaipalya ( a preparation of vegetables), Laku Palya (lentils), a variety of unique chutneys, Dosa, Bisibele Baath, Raagi and Akki Rottis, Raagi Mudde, Idli andand Jolada Roti. One can also find a number of cafes here as well as North-Indian food