If you visit Karnataka, and if you’ve got time to go to only say, 3 cities, then Bidar should be one on the list. It is one of the most important places in the state as it has many sites of religious, architectural and historical importance. It is a hill-top city and has many monuments worth visiting. In fact, the Archaeology department of India has published a whole book, titled, ‘Bidar Heritage’ that documents most the monuments and heritage structures within the city. There are around 30 tombs and 61 monuments in Bidar itself. No wonder that it’s well-known because the ‘city of whispering monuments’. It is also a popular film shooting centre.
If you’re a history enthusiast, then a visit to the Bidar fort may be a must. If you’re not and if you would like to ascertain an architectural marvel and witness the symbol of an upscale era, then also you ought to visit Bidar fort. It is one among the proud symbols of the Bahamani dynasty which ruled the region. It was the Bahamani ruler Sultan Allauddin Bahaman who built the fort in Persian style of architecture. The old city of Bidar was housed inside the fort.
In addition, there are other monuments within the fort like the Takhat Mahal, Rangin Mahal, Gagan Mahal and more. Of these, the Rangin Mahal is a place to marvel as it reflects the master craftsmanship of the 16th century. There are beautiful wooden carvings and tile work reminding of Persian influence which will be seen at the Mahal.
Bahamani Tombs constitutes 12 tombs which are architectural marvels as well. Situated at Ashtur in Bidar, Bahamani Tombs house many tombs of varied Bahamani rulers. One of the tombs belongs to Ahmed Shah Alwali Bahamani, the ninth ruler of Bidar and it’s definitely one among the foremost fascinating tombs. On its interior, you can witness an array of bright colours. There are very elaborate floral designs alongside calligraphic styles that give the tomb a mesmerising look. There also are beautiful paintings on the wall and therefore the engraving of verses of Quran is another highlight.
As the name says, Narasimha Jhira cave temple is a temple inside a cave, which alone makes it a marvel. At an equivalent time, it’s also one among the foremost revered temples in Karnataka because it is believed to fulfil wishes. Dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the half-lion-half human God and an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the cave temple has impressive architecture and is simply around 1 km away for the city of Bidar.
Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib may be a beautiful Gurudwara dedicated to Nanak, the primary Guru of the Sikhs inbuilt 1948. It is located almost the Bidar railroad station, just 2 kms far away from it. The different rooms or parts that constitute the Gurudwara are the Sukhaasan room or the most hall where the sacred Guru Adi Granth is kept, the Langar Hall, Diwan Hall and the Lihar room among others. There is a holy tank ahead of the steps to the Gurudwara. It is believed that the water is holy and may cleanse the sin of whoever bathes within the water.