In the northern-most part of Karnataka lies Bidar - a tiny district steeped in history. The fort, the cannons, palaces in ruins, the magnificent tombs and the massive monuments, all combine to make a visit to the one-time capital of the Bahamani and Barid Shahi dynasties, truly memorable.

The most converient way to begin your sightseeing is from the Bidar Fort. Five darwazas (gates) with imposing bastions lead into a little town nestling within the ramparts.

Enter from the Gumbad Darwaza and steps lead you to the Rangin Mahal. The royal residence has elaborately carved wooden pillars, Persian couplets engraved in encaustic tiles and exquisite nother-of-pearl inlay work. Near the palace are the royal kitchens and the royal baths. Further on are the ladies' apartments with a sixteen columned prayer hall built in 14323.

The Solah Kambah Masjid as it is popularly known, is the oldest Muslim building in Bidar and one of the largest in India. Not to be missed are the Gagan Mahal, the Diwan-E-Am where the fabulous turquoise throne once rested, the takhat Mahal, the Royal Pavilion, the Hazar Kothari and the Naubat Khana.

Once the exhaustive tour of the Fort is complete, move on to the Bahamani tombs at Ashtur. The interiors of the tombs are adorned with well - preserved paintings that are excellent examples of medieval Muslim art. The outer walls are decorated in title work.

Right in the heart Bidar town stands the Chaubaara a 71 foot tower. You can have a splendid view from the top of the Chubara. The Madrasa of Mahamud Gawan is anoteh important building in Bidar.

Architecturally similar to the Madrasa at Fez, this university was once a renowned centre of learning, attracting scholars fro all over the Muslim world. The rock temple at Narasimha Zarni is also worth a visit. Situated in a big cave, the temple is carved into the plateau and to approach the deity, you'll have to wade through water.

While in Bidar, don't forget to visit Basavakalyan - 80 kms away. Earlier known as Kalyani, this was the capital of the later chalukayas in the 10th Century. Embracing a large area, this ancient town.. "Surpassed in beauty and splendour all other cities in the world". It became famous as a centre of wealth and prosperity, a seat of learning an abode of spiritual wisdom.

Even today, Basavakalyan is remembered for the saints who made this city their home - Basaveshwara, Akka-mahadevi, Channabasavanna and Siddharama.

Temples and mathas, mosques and durgahs, and a Fort constructed by the Chalukyas of Kalyana beckon the tourist at Basavakalyan.

Languages Spoken:
Kannada, Hindi, Urdu, English.

When to go there:
The best time to visit Bidar is between September to February

How to go there:
Road:
Bidari is connected by road to most places in south India. Some of these are: · Hyderabad (136 kms) · Bangalore (669 kms) · Bijapur (280 kms) · Basavakalyan (73 kms) KSRTC Buses ply from Bidar at Bangalore, Bijapur, Gulbarga, Raichur and Sholapur.

Rail : Bidar is connected by rail with Bangalore, Bombay and Hyderabad.

Air : The nearest airport is Hyderabad. (136 kms).