Places of Interest

The Historical monuments and sites in and around the Bidar city belong to different periods of history, Pre -Kaktiya,

Tughlaq, Bahamani, Barid Shahi, Adil Shahi, Mughal, Nizam. As far the architecture as concerned there is a

intermixture of Hindu, Turkish and Persian artisanship. Some of the design and decorative patterns seen in the
monuments of Bidar are unique in India.

Gumbaz
Bidar Fort Sharza Darwaza Takht Mahal
Darwaza
Tarkash Mahal Rangeen Mahal Shahi Malbakh Sahi Hammam
Gagan Mahal Diwan-I-Am Solah Khamb Mosque Hazar Kothari
Madarsa of Mahmud
Old Naubat Khana Chaubara Takht-I-Kirmani
Gawan
Tomb of Qasim Barid & Qasim
Bahamani Tombs Chaukhandi Baridi Tombs
Barid-II
Jharani Narasimha Cave Nanak Jhira
Bidri Ware Basavakalyan
Temple Sahib
Other Places in Bidar Maniknagar Anubhava Mantapa PapnasTemple
Fort

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Bidar Fort is considered as one of the most formidable forts of country. Bidar city was distinctly planned and built.
The main citadel complex housed the royal places. Mahals and Mosque. Adjoining to this on the southern side, the
city was built for the people. Both the citadel complex and city had separate forts for protection the plan of the Bidar
city fortification is pentagonal. There are five gateways for entry into the city fort. It is main citadel complex fort
which is stronger.
It is built on the brink of the plateau. Engineers and architecture of various countries were employed on its design
and construction.

Tarkash Mahal

This is said to have been built for Turkish wife of the Sultan. From the remains of the decorative work found in the

ornamentation of the walls, it can be said that the Mahal was build or extended by the Barid Shahi Sultans who had
kept large harem with ladies from different nationalities.The rooms were decorated with stucco work.
Gagan Mahal (Heavenly Palace)

This was originally built by the Bahamani kings and some alterations and additions were made by the Barid Shahi

rulers. It has two courts. The outer court was used by the male staff and guards. The inner court also, there are

rooms on either side of the covered passage for the accommodation of the guards. The main building of the palace
was for the use of the sultan and his harem.

Old Naubat Khana

This was originally a Noubat Khana (Music Gallery). Later was used as residence of a commander of the fort. It has

a spacious hall with a room to the west and a platform in the front. In the north, there was a reservoir to which

water was supplied from the well. The hall has beautiful windows in its back through which a good view can be had

of the city wall and the buildings. The platform, which is in front of the building, is very extensive and it was a
place of pleasantness.
Bahamani Tombs

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The Bahamani Sultans were fond of constructing huge sepulchers. Several majestic Mausoleums of their period are

at Ashtoor, 4 Kms. East of Bidar. Visit to Bidar is incomplete without visit to Ashtoor. In all there are 12 tombs at a

place in row which together give a very impressive look. They are huge structures with beautiful arches, niches and

lofty domes. The tomb of Ahamad Shah-al-Wali is known for its walls on which verses are written in gold color with

a dark background. The interior is decorated with fine paintings. It is interesting to note that the swastika symbol

has been used in this mausoleum for ornamentation. The paintings here depict lovely contrasts and skill of artist in

blending colors. Urus (Jatra) is held here every year in which both Hindus and Muslims participate. The tomb of

Sultan Allauddin-Shah II consists of tile panels and carvings on the black stone margins of arches which are very

impressive. Other tombs here are built up of trap masonry. The arches in tombs are elegantly decorated with
stucco work.

Jharani Narasimha Cave Temple

This is an old Hindu cave temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha. It is excavated in a tunnel, A legend says that

Vishnu after Killing Hiranyakashyap, slew another giant named Jharasura. While breathing his last, Jharasura

beseeched Vishnu to reside in the cave in which he was living and to grant boons to devotees. Granting last wish of

his, Narasimha came to live in the cave. There is a roughly carved image of Narasimha on a stone wall at the end

of the cave. For seeing the deity, the visitor has to wade through a canal of 91 meter. The flow of water in the

channel is continuous. The depth of the water in the channel is generally 1.37 meters. A good number of devotees

visit this temple. Papnash Kshetra is another sacred place of Bidar city. The Shivaling hear is worshiped with much
devotion. The place is surrounded by picturesque valley.
Gumbaz Darwaza

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The cidel fort Complex is protected with three moats which is very rare. The place fort complex could be entered

from the city trough two main gates on the south eastern side by a zig-zag passage and well protected gateways.
The sharza Darwaza and Gumbad Darwaza are main entrance gates to palace complex

Rangeen Mahal

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Though small in size this place situated near Gumbad Darwaza is unique because of its decoration with colored tiles

and other art work. Wood carving done here is not only precious but also unique. The walls of Mahal are adorned

with Mother-of-Pearl of the finest quality in laid in jet-black stone. Floral patterns and calligraphic text are also

depicted here. Stone carving, stucco art are other attractions of this monument. It was rebuilt during Barid Shahi
 Period. The design of this monument represents the blend of the both Hindu and Muslim architecture. There are
rooms in the basement of the Rangin Mahal.

Diwan-I-Am (Public Audience Hall)

This monument was also called Jali Mahal. It is situated to the west of the Zanana enclosure. The build ing has two
entrances, one trough the east and the other through the west. At the backside of the main hall, there are three
rooms. The central room was probably the Sultan�s Chamber where he sat before coming into the audience hall.
The spacious halls adorned with tile work were perhaps meant for ministers and other top officers of the court. The
Bahamani Kings used to give audience to invited dignitaries here. The hall was fully decorated with colored titles.

Chaubara

Chaubara means a building facing in four directions. This is an old cylindrical tower of 22mtrs, height is situated in
the centre of Bidar town. It was used as a watchtower, commanding a fine view of the entire plateau from the top.
A winding staircase of eight steps leads to the top of the tower.

Chaukhandi

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It is the tomb of Khalil-Ullah who was the preceptor of Ahmad Shah. It is erected on elevated place. The building is

octagonal in plan. There are traces of fine decorations on the walls of the building. This prominent building is
altogether one of the excellent buildings constructed by the Bhamani�s. It is on the way to Ashtoor.

Nanak Jhira Sahib

The Nanak Jhira Sahib with water spring nestles amidst serene and enchanting surroundings is main attraction of

Bidar town. It has became widely famous as Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib with it�s recently constructed sprawling and

splendid Gurudwara complex. It is attracting numerous pilgrims and visitors from all parts. A sarovar (Lake) and

Amrut-Kunda have been built. A number of suites and rooms have been provided for lodging the pilgrims. There is

a Guru-Ka-Langar where free food is served irrespective of caste and creeds. As the place is associated with the
visit of Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji to Bidar is it one of the sacred place to Sikh devotees.
Maniknagar Temple

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The time and place selected by Shri Prabhu for establishing the spiritual centre near Humnabad seemed significant

as well as ideal. Those were the troubled times, both politically as well as religiously. He selected the confluence of

the two rivers for establishing his spiritual centre, as if to emphasize that he wanted to bring all together. In his

visionary mind he saw these two streams of great faith come together and live life of peace and understanding.

How prophetic his vision was can be seen by the fact that even today people from far and near flock to Maniknagar
each year, to honour the great founder of the Universal Truth, the SAKALAMATA.

Shri Manik Prabhu Maharaj of Maniknagar

Originally, a small hut was constructed to establish the GADI, or the Spiritual Seat, which in time to come was to

be associated with the living spirit of Shri Manik Prabhu Maharaj. Sitting on the Gadi, he would give Darshan to

audience and His very Darshan would give peace and contentment to all who visited Maniknagar.

In the Durbar, the people gathered would bask in the aura and the benevolent grace of Shri Prabhu. The entire

atmosphere would be surcharged with spiritual splendor. Shri Prabhu would cast his compassionate glance on all,
making everybody participate in the bliss, which he was experiencing.

People from far and near would come with their doubts and Shri Prabhu, even though he had not received formal

education in the scriptures than the philosophers in his Durbar and was able to clear all doubts with great ease.

Sometimes he would reply even before the questions were asked. Such was his authority, wisdom and spiritual

insight. The graceful presence of Shri Prabhu that his very Darshan would assuage all the misery of a person. He

treated all devotees alike and wanted true devotion than outward austerity echoing the words of Lord Krishna in

Bhagavad Gita (IX.26)

"Whosoever offers to Me, with devotion a leaf, a flower, a fruit, or water, that offering of love, of the

pure heart, I accept".

Devotion to the Guru should be like that of the child towards its mother. Whether the mother is nearby or not, the

child is ever confident that the mother will listen when it is in distress. If such confidence and faith is there, then

Shri Prabhu's Grace will ever be with us to guide us and tide us over the difficult times. Many devotees have

experienced this expansive Grace of Shri Prabhu even when they have been in places far from Maniknagar. For

surely Shri Prabhu does not reside only in Maniknagar but in the heart of all the devotees as well.

The Guru-Parampara of Shri Manik Prabhu Sampradya was established for all time to come. The successors to the
Gadi (spiritual seat) after Shri Manik Prabhu took Samadhi are:

 Shri Manohar Manik Prabhu Maharaj

 Shri Martand Manik Prabhu Maharaj.
 Shri Shankar Manik Prabhu Maharaj.
 Shri Siddharaj Manik Prabhu Maharaj
 Shri Gnyanaraj Manik Prabhu Maharaj (Now Sitting on the Spiritual seat).

Sharza Darwaza

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They are massively built and beautifully decorated with huge domes, arches and paintings. The Gumbaz

Darwaza, is an enormous, awe inspiring structure. The thickness of its wall is 22 feet, the height is 45 feet

besides the dome. A wide passage links it to sharza Darwaza. Between these two gateways, about three

thousand army men could take position for the defence of the fort.
With Number of Big Bastins, Large guns number of Magazines for arms storage, tunnels for escape in

emergencies, Bidar fort has got many interesting features. The palace complex and city area had good water

supply system with well laid pipeline and distribution network. The planning of Bidar city became model to

emulate by subsequent rulers elsewhere. Experts find lot of Bidar influence in planning and designing of old
cities like Golkonda, Bijapur, Hyderabad, Bangalore etc.

Shahi Malbakh (Roral Kitchen)

This adjoins the Rangeen Mahal towards the west. Originally it appears to have been residence of a prince or

some dignitary. At different periods it was used for different purposes. At one time it was used as royal kitchen.
During Nizam�s period it was used as jail.

Solah Khamb Mosque

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It is said to have been built in 1423-24 A.D. by Qubil Sultani when Prince Muhammad was viceroy. The mosque

is known so, as it has 16 pillars in the front. It is also called Zanana Masjid as it is situated near the Zanana

enclosure. It was an important masque as the Friday prayers and state function of a religious character were

held here. It is about 90 meters long and 24 meter wide. There is a well beyond the southern wall of the

mosque. Its interior is beautiful with provision for fresh air and light inside. The massive columns, arches and

domes are attractive. It is considered as one of the largest mosque in India. Jami Masjid and Kali Masjid are
the other two important monuments from the architectural point of view.
Madarsa of Mahmud Gawan

The Madarasa at Bidar founded by Gawan functioned like a residential University. It was built and maintained on the
lines of Madarasa of Khurasan. The imposing and spacious building of the institution is considered as a architectural
gem and an important land mark of Bidar. The structure is rectangular in shape and is built in area of 4624 Sq.
mtrs. The building is attractively decorated with blue colored titles, the fragments of which can be seen even today.
Of the two towers only one is intact. The height of the tower is 131 ft. on the front facade Quaranic Verses are
written. The library that existed on the other wing is now destroyed. The Madarasa was a three storied building
housing a Mosque, A library, lecturer halls, professor�s quarters, students cubicles facing open courtyard. The
students were taught Arabic, Persian languages, theology, philosophy, astronomy, mathematics etc., They were
given free boarding and lodging facilities besides free education.
The teaching staff also lived with students. The building suffered much damage due to explosion of gun powder in
1695, it still retains much of the original architectural features. The Madarasa of Mohamed Gawan is the only one of
its kind in India. The tomb of Mohamed Gawan situated on a wide platform to the south of Bidar town is simple
structure with stone tablet speaking about a "martyr without fault" and his "unjust execution.
Baridi Tombs

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The Baridi Tombs lie about two Kms. west of Bidar town. There were formerly gardens around them. The First

Tomb is of Qasim Barid. It resembles the Sepulchers of Wali-Ullah Bahamani and Kalim-Ullah Bahamani. It is built
on a plat form with a flight of well polished steps. Its doms have a tapering shape and are divided into eight facets.

Bidri Ware

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The Bidri ware forms the integral part of Bidar Heritage. "Bidri Ware" is a special style of work called

"Damascending"in Silver. This art was developed after being introduced by one Abdulla-Bin-Kaizer from Iran

around 1422 A.D. The contrast between the black oxidized background and the lustrous silver in lay gives beauty

to the Bidri ware. The craftsmen follow both traditional and modern designs. Silver, Gold, Brass, Cop per are used
for as base material for preparing the articles.

The Bidri articles traditionally used by nobility were water jugs, wash basins, hookahs, candle sticks, cosmetic

Boxes, dishes, flower vases. Nowadays as many as 175 types of articles are being manufactured. Among the

traditional designs traced on Bidri articles the "Poppy Flower" the "Persian Rose" and the "Phool Jari" are the most

popular. In order to suit the modern taste new designs are also being introduced by the artists. Bidri wares
standout as a unique work of art bringing name and fame to Bidar.

Anubhava Mantapa

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Even at the time he came to Kalyana, Basavanna had chalked out in his mind a program of spiritual awakening.

Beliefs of high and low had broken the society into pieces. Meaningless rituals had become important. And there

was no equality in the society, no social and economical justice But Basavanna studied all these very well. The

essence of religion had slipped to the background. Real devotion and virtuous life had disappeared. All did not have

the right to perform 'Puja' (worship) or to receive religious education. So Basavanna made the principle of the

equality of all, the basis of his religious life.

He formed a new spiritual institution on a democratic foundation. And that was 'Anubhava Mantapa'. Any one,

whatever his caste by birth, could become a member. Women, too, were allowed to join it. Piety and good

character alone were required of any one who came to Anubhava Mantapa. Everybody was to take up some work

or the other for livelihood. They were not to have any caste feelings or feelings of untouchability. These were some

of the principles they were expected to follow.

Anubhava Mantapa soon became popular. Many devotees from different parts of Karnataka and India came to

Kalyana and joined the new order. These devotees were provided with food and facilities for puja in 'Mahamane'.

The residence of Basavanna. The two wives of Basavanna, his sister Akkanagamma, his nephew Channabasavanna

and some other devotees were in charge of various arrangements both in the Anubhava Mantapa and in the

Mahamane. Discussions on religious and spiritual matters were held in Anubhava Mantapa. The number of

participants increased every day.

Basavanna continued his mission for the formation of a new society, through Anubhava Mantapa. This work was

based on certain noble principles. Some of them were as follows: There is only one God. He has many names.

Surrender yourself completely to Him in devotion. Compassion is the root of all religions. Treat all living beings with

kindness. Live for the welfare of all. Do not live for selfish and personal interests. Those who are acceptable in this

world will be acceptable in the next world too. People should lead a proper life as householders, only then they will

be fit for spiritual life. One need not give up the family and become a monk. No man should be proud thinking 'I

give this' or 'I do that'. What a man does he should do not of devotion in his heart. It should not be for the sake of

show or publicity; nor even to win public praise.

All people should have equal opportunities for religious life. Birth, profession, position or sex should make no

difference. One should not eat or drink just to please the tongue. Food and water should be taken as 'Prasada' (the

gracious gift) of Lord Shiva. Humility is God's love. Never try to show off your power and position; and do not be

vain. Everyone should take up a fair and honest means of livelihood. No one should beg. Out of the daily earnings

one should take only as much as is needed for the maintenance of the family.

These teachings were not just words in speeches or books. They were practiced in daily life by all the members of

the Anubhava Mantapa. There were men and women of different professions and social ranks among them.

Basavanna was a minister; Prabhudeva, a shining spiritual leader; Siddharama a Karmayogi (dedicated to work

and service); Channabasavanna, a scholar of spiritual eminence; Akkamahadevi, a fiery ascetic; Machayya, a

washerman; Chandayya, a ropernaker; Ramanna, a cowherd; Muddayya, a farmer; Remmavve, a weaver;

constable Ramideva, oil miller Kannayya, physician Sanganna, carpenter Basappa, tanner Kakkaiah, cobbler
Haralayya, pot maker Gundayya all these were there in the Anubhava Mantapa as brothers and sisters.

Takht Mahal (Throne Palace)

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The Royal Palace was built by Ahemd shah. It was the Royal Residence. The place was fully decorated with colored

titles and stone carvings part of which can be seen even today. It had two side royal pavilions with lofty arches and

a spacious hall at the back of which was the sultan�s room.

The Building had stately dimensions and exquisite surface decoration. The coronations of several Bahamanis and
Barid Shahi Sultans were held here. From the royal pavilion which is situated behind throne palace one can view
the valley and low land below.

Sahi Hammam (Royal Bath)

The Shahi Hamam (Royal Bath) is situated very near the Royal Kitchen. Quite close to the Royal Bath and in front
of the mosque there was Lal Bagh (Red Garden) so named on account of its beautiful layout or due to the red
flowers grown there. In the middle of the Lal bagh one can see a beautiful cistern.

The Hazar Kothari

In case of Danger to the life while attack from the enemies, the members of the Royal Family needed safty exit to

go out of the Fort. Such a safe passage arrangement can be seen on a spot towards the south of the Takhat Mahal.

It is known as the Hazar Kothari. There is a underground hall for assembling and from there a cave like tunnel

which leads to outer wall of the fort. There is long gun bastion near Veerasangayya�s Temple situated on the bank
of a tank known as Bomgondanakere. On the northern side is the Purana Killa.
Takht-I-Kirmani

It is very near to the Madarasa towards the fort, it is called so as it contains a couch which was associated with the

saint Khalil-Ullah Kirmani. The gateway has a large arch. The main arch has four smaller arches built in its sides.

The smaller arches have been arranged in two rows, one above, the other. It is noteworthy that a series of form of

rudraksha Heads have been engraved along the border of the arch-head. There is a hall measuring 9.46 meters by

10.98 meters and it is divided into three apartments by arches. In the centre of this hall, the coach is placed on a
wooden platform, which is well-carved and gilded in the Persian style. The local people highly rever this couch.

Tomb of Qasim Barid & Qasim Barid-II

Amir Barid, it appears, began construction of his tomb during his own life time. But he died suddenly at Daulatabad

and his tomb remained incomplete. This is an imposing edifice constructed on a platform, with lofty portals in the

south. There is spacious hall without roof in this tomb. Ali Barid too built his own tomb which shows great

improvement upon the Bahamani mausoleums. Its platform measures 47.28 on each side. The enclosures walls

rise to a great height. There is large dome with a circular base decorated with niches and moldings. A mosque
 consisting of an open court, a cistern, a prayer hall and an arcade is attached to the tomb. The Sepulchers of

Ibrahim Barid is of the same type as that of his father Ali Barid and likewise presents a stately appearance. In this

building, there are three graves, the central one being that of Ibrahim Barid and the other being of his wives. There

are other tombs of the members of Ibrahim Barid�s family. The tomb of Qasim Barid II faces, the grave of Ibrahim

Barid. It has been built on a 1.83 Meters high platform with well-dressed steps. The circumference of its doom

measures 25 meters. The walls on each side have big arch. The tomb of the wife of the Sultan is also by the side of

her husband�s tomb here. Khan Jahan, who was the son Qasim Barid, might have constructed his mausoleum

during his own life time. It is built with well-chiseled masonry and has steps on all four sides. The dome rests on a
circular drum.

asavakalyan

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Situated 80 Kms. south west of Bidar, Basavakalyan played important role in the history of the region as the capital
of Chalukyas of Kalyan and as Karma Bhoomi of Basavanna and hundreds of other Sharanas of 12trh Century.
Basavakalyan is fast developing as tourist destination. The beautiful fort, museum and number of places connected
with Sharans are great attractions of Basavakalyan.

Papnash Temple

The spring is sacred to the Hindus and as its name "PAPNASH", annihilator of Sins, signifies, it is much resorted to
as a place of pilgrimage by the people of Bidar and even by those of distant places. It may be approached by Bidar -
Udgir Road and about 2 KM from Bus Station towards west to the edge of the plateau and going down the valley by
a well laid road.

At the ruins an ancient Shiva Temple a New Temple has been built on the slops of the hill. At the foot of the temple
is a cistern measuring 16 feet by 14 feet. The cistern is continuously fed by the natural spring. Towards north there
is small tank most probably dates back to Ramayana times.