Last Updated At: 30-Jul-2025
Looking for a peaceful yet historic getaway? Visit Bidar, a lesser-known heritage town in Karnataka, often called the “City of Whispering Monuments.” Located on the Deccan Plateau, Bidar is famous for its Persian-style architecture, royal legacy, and scenic charm. It's an ideal destination for those who enjoy exploring ancient forts, tombs, and unique cultural spots.
One of the top attractions in Bidar is the Bidar Fort. Spanning over 1.3 km, this fort is one of the best-preserved in South India. Inside, you can walk through grand gateways, hidden tunnels, and royal buildings like the Rangeen Mahal, which stands out for its colourful tiles and wooden carvings. Nearby sites like the Solah Khamba Mosque and Tarkash Mahal highlight the architectural brilliance of the Bahmani dynasty.
Another must-visit is the Bahmani Tombs in Ashtur—massive domes set in peaceful fields, reflecting medieval Persian designs and royal history.
For spiritual travellers, the Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib offers a calm and sacred experience. It is believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji created a freshwater spring here to help locals. This serene spot welcomes visitors of all faiths.
While in Bidar, don’t miss the chance to see skilled artisans creating Bidriware, a 500-year-old metal craft found only in this region. Visit local workshops and markets to explore this beautiful art form.
Whether you're a history buff, spiritual seeker, or culture lover, Bidar has something unique to offer. Add it to your travel list today and uncover the untold stories of Karnataka.
Have you ever dreamt of unveiling the secrets of a city that whispers tales of its glorious past through ancient fortresses and sacred temples? Look no further as we bring you a curated guide to the best tourist spots in Bidar, where each site is a gem waiting to be discovered. Join us on this virtual adventure as we present the treasures of Bidar like no other!
Bidar Fort stands tall as one of India's formidable forts and is among the best historical sites in Bidar. Dating back to the 14th century, it was the capital of the Bahmani Kingdom, witnessing historical shifts and renovations under Sultan Ahmad Shah-I. Constructed with trap rock and fortified with stone walls, the fort boasts Islamic and Persian architectural marvels. Visitors can explore the remnants of palaces, mosques, and other structures within its precincts. Adorned with seven main entrances, 37 octagonal bastions housing metal-shielded cannons, and over 30 Islamic monuments, Bidar Fort reflects the region's rich history.
Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
Discover the charm of Ashtoor in Bidar, a haven for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers. Located within the village are beautifully adorned domed mausoleums, a cluster of 12 Bahmani tombs crafted by Ahmad Shah Al-Wali. These tombs are captivating, with magnificent domes, golden Quranic verses, and an unexpected Swastika symbol, defying typical Islamic architecture. The tombs boast beautiful floral designs, religious texts, and artistically painted tiles, offering a unique blend of historical richness and architectural marvels within the Bidar day trip destinations.
Timings: 9 am to 6 pm
As you explore the remnants of Mohamud Gawan Madrasa, a historic Islamic College constructed in the 1460s, step back in time. This three-story heritage site, adorned with intricate tile work and Quranic verses, is a testament to India's rich cultural legacy. Once a learning hub, the Madrasa encompassed a mosque, library, lecture halls, and student quarters, offering free education in Arabic, Persian, philosophy, astronomy, theology, and mathematics. Despite facing damage from a gunpowder explosion in 1695, the resilient structure endures with its vibrant tile façade, extensive library, and architectural marvel.
Timing: 9 am to 6 pm
While exploring Bidar's landmarks, Rangeen Mahal is a true marvel within Bidar Fort, celebrated for its architectural brilliance. Often referred to as the Queen's Palace, this 16th-century gem served as the Queen's and her attendants' residence. Renowned for its intricate wall decorations featuring exquisite pearls and vibrant tiles set against jet-black stone, Rangeen Mahal is a testament to the Barid Shahi period. The palace showcases floral paintings, calligraphy texts, stone carvings, and stucco art, creating a captivating historical panorama.
Chaubara, located in the heart of Bidar town, is a historic cylindrical tower standing 22 metres tall. Originally a watchtower, it is now a significant monument and clock tower. The term 'chaubara' denotes a structure facing in four directions. Believed to have origins in the pre-Islamic era, the tower showcases semi-Islamic architecture with a circular base, arched enclosures, and a commanding view from its pinnacle. Visitors can ascend the tower's 80-step winding staircase to enjoy panoramic views of the city, making it one of the notable things to see in Bidar, India.
Timing: 8 am to 6 pm
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Papnash Temple is a sacred haven with a rich history. Legend has it that Lord Rama himself installed the temple's idol on his journey back to Ayodhya, and though the original temple was lost to time, a new one now stands proudly amid the ancient ruins. The Papnash Shiva Temple holds immense significance and is believed to have been built by Lord Rama during his return from Sri Lanka. Its pleasant surroundings include a natural spring flowing into a cleansing pond, aptly named Papnash or the annihilator of sins. Every Shivratri, devotees from across the country converge to partake in the grand celebration.
Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib is a significant Sikh historical shrine dedicated to the first Sikh guru, Guru Nanak. Established in 1948, it is uniquely associated with Sikhism as the hometown of Bhai Sahib Singh, one of the Panj Pyare. In serene surroundings, the Gurudwara features a natural spring feeding a lake and a community kitchen providing free meals. Legend has it that Guru Nanak miraculously brought forth a spring during a famine, and the crystal-clear water is believed to have healing properties.
Timing: Open 24 hours
Discover the historical charm of Solah Khamba Mosque, nestled inside Bidar Fort. Built between 1423 and 1424 AD by Qubil Sultani, this ancient mosque stands as the oldest Muslim building in Bidar. Aptly named for its 16 pillars, the Solah Khamba Mosque boasts impressive architecture with massive columns, domes, and arches. Known as the Zanana Masjid, it was the principal place of worship within the fort. Explore the vast dimensions of the mosque, featuring a large prayer hall with circular columns and a majestic dome, offering a glimpse into the second phase of the Deccani architectural style.
Timings: Open 24 hours
The mystical Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple is just a kilometre from Bidar city, making it one of the prominent tourist places near Bidar. This unique temple lies beneath the Manichoola hill range, welcoming visitors to an awe-inspiring experience. To reach the deity's feet, one must wade through waist-deep water in a 300-metre-long cave, adding a thrilling touch to the spiritual journey. The temple houses the powerful self-manifested deity, Lord Narasimha, and a Shiva Linga worshipped by the demon Jalasura. Every year, devotees flock to fulfil their wishes in this sacred cave where water continuously flows from the Lord's feet.
Settled just 4 km away from Bidar, the Chaukhandi of Hazrat Khalil Ullah stands as a splendid tribute to the spiritual advisor of Mughal emperor Ahmad Shah. This magnificent tomb showcases a two-story octagonal structure adorned with intricate stonework and captivating calligraphy. Granite pillars, intricately carved, add to its grandeur. The tomb, dedicated to Hazrat Khalil Ullah, renowned for advising Sultan Ahmed Shah, is a historical gem in Bidar. Its architecture boasts arched doorways, carved granite pillars, and stucco work with inscriptions of Quranic verses. The Chaukhandi holds three graves in the main vault and numerous others in the corridor.
Timing: 8 am to 4 pm
Read More : Places To Visit In Karnataka
To sum it up, Bidar is like a treasure chest full of stories and wonders, inviting you to step into its rich history and culture. Whether wandering the lively streets or marvelling at the historical wonders, every step with the captivating Bidar travel attractions feels like turning a page into a bygone era.
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Q1: What are the famous places in Bidar?
A1: Bidar is famous for its historical monuments like Bidar Fort, Bahmani Tombs, Rangeen Mahal, and Solah Khamba Mosque. It is also known for Bidriware, a unique metal handicraft.
Q2: What were the Bidars famous for?
A2: Bidar was famous as the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate. It became a center of art, culture, Persian-style architecture, and the origin of the Bidriware craft.
Q3: Does Bidar have a beach?
A3: No, Bidar does not have a beach. It is an inland city located on the Deccan Plateau in Karnataka.
Q4: What is the special food in Bidar?
A4: Special food in Bidar includes Hyderabadi-style biryani, kebabs, and local sweets like Kunda. Street food here also offers spicy Karnataka-style snacks.
Q5: What is the Speciality of Bidar?
A5: The speciality of Bidar lies in its rich heritage, well-preserved forts, Islamic architecture, and the world-renowned Bidriware craft.
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