Bijapur is known for its architectural excellence and medieval monuments including world famous Gol Gumbaz.

Bijapur is a part of North Karnataka, a region that is steeped in history of great rulers who not only fought with courage and expanded their empires but also excelled in the fields of art, culture and music.

History of Bijapur

The city of Bijapur was referred as 'Vijayapura' during the period of Chalukyas of Kalyani in 10th -11th century. Then it was conquered by the Bhamani Sulatani of Gulbarg ,by this time the city was referred as Vijapur or Bijapur.

In 15th century it was ruled by the kings of the Adil shahi dynasty. The rule of this dynasty ended in 1686, when Bijapur was conquered by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. In 1724 the Nizam of Hyderabad established his independence in the Deccan, and included Bijapur within his dominions. And after that it was conquered by the British.After India's Independence in 1947, the district became part of Bombay state, and was reassigned to Mysore state, later Karnataka, in 1956. A travel to this part of India is sure to unravel the history and changes that the various rulers brought about to Bijapur. 

People and Culture

People from the central Asian regions settled in this part, when they landed as part of the caravan with the Muslim rulers. The local population is mainly a mix of Dravidian and Aryan descendants.

Tourism in Bijapur

A tour to South India definitely includes Karnataka. If you are a student of history then make sure you carefully plan your travel intinery so that Bijapur can be included in your package tour. Monuments of the city built during Adil Shahi Dynasty are its main attractions. The main attraction in the city is Gold Gumbaz or the Rounded Dome, located in the eastern end of the walled city.

Other places to visit in Bijapur are Ibrahim Roza is situated in the western outskirts of the city. Gagan Mahal, now mostly in ruins still has enough attraction to pull you there. Near the citadel you can have a good look on attractions such as Sat Manzil (Seven-storied palace), Bara Kaman (twelve arches), and Jala Manzil (water pavilion). Other important attractions in the city are Jama Masjid, Taj Bawdi (water tank), Upli Burj (watch tower), Mehtar Mahal (palace built by the sweepers), and Asar Mahal. Undoubtedly during your travel to India you will realize first hand that Bijapur is a place steeped in history.

Apart from the monuments, Bijapur is also home to famous temples like Siddeshwara and Shri Prasanna Ganesh.

Shri Shiddeshwar Temple situated at the heart of the city is a holy place for Hindus which is also a very beautiful tourist place to visit. During Makarsankranti an annual fare is organized by Shri Siddheshwar Temple. This fare will be organized during winter in India.

If you are holidaying in India and are looking to tour that includes places of historical significance then a trip to Bijapur should be one of your scheduled pitstops!