Bahmani tombs are a group of royal tombs located in Gulbarga, Karnataka. These tombs were built in the 14th century during the Bahmani Sultanate's rule, a medieval Islamic state that ruled over the Deccan plateau. The Bahmani Tombs is an excellent example of the Indo-Islamic style of architecture and showcases a blend of Islamic and Indian architectural styles. These tombs were constructed in memory of the rulers of the Bahmani Sultanate and their families.
The Bahmani tombs consist of 12 tombs, including that of Ahmad Shah I, his three wives, and his son Alauddin Shah. The tomb of Ahmad Shah I is the largest among them and is considered the finest example of Bahmani architecture. The graves are made of black basalt stone and have intricate carvings and inscriptions that depict the life and achievements of the rulers.
Apart from the tombs, the Bahmani complex also includes a mosque, a madrasa, and a garden. The mosque in the complex is known as the Jami Masjid, one of the oldest mosques in the city of Gulbarga. The madrasa was a centre for Islamic learning and education during the Bahmani Sultanate's rule. The garden in the complex is known as the Charbagh, a popular style of garden layout in Islamic architecture.
The Bahmani Tombs are an important historical and architectural monument of the region and are a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts. The city of Gulbarga also offers other attractions, such as the Gulbarga Fort, the Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, and the Khwaja Bande Nawaz Dargah, making it an ideal historical and cultural tourist destination.
Bellary Fort, also known as Ballari Gudda or Fort Hill, is a historic fort located in the city of Bellary in the Indian state of Karnataka. The fort was built during the Vijayanagara Empire and was later ruled by several other dynasties, including the Nayakas, Hyder Ali, and Tipu Sultan.
The fort is atop a hill and offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas. A moat surrounds it and has several gateways, including the Hanuman Gate and the Sanganeri Gate. The fort walls are granite and are up to 30 feet high in some places.
The fort has several structures and monuments, including the Kote Anjaneya temple, the Mosque of Tipu Sultan, and the British cemetery. The Kote Anjaneya temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is believed to have been built during the Vijayanagara period. The mosque of Tipu Sultan was constructed by the Mysore ruler in the 18th century and is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture.
The British cemetery is a reminder of the British presence in Bellary during the colonial period. It has several tombs of British soldiers and officers who died in the region during the 19th century.
The fort is also famous for its underground passages and secret chambers, which the rulers used to escape during times of war. These passages are now closed to the public, but visitors can still see some entrances.
Bellary Fort is a fascinating historic site that offers a glimpse into Karnataka's rich cultural and architectural heritage. It is a must-visit destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the Vijayanagara Empire and the various dynasties that ruled the region.
Located about 130 km from Bahmani Tombs, Bidar Fort is a historic fortification built during the Bahmani era. It is known for its unique architecture and houses several monuments, such as the Rangin Mahal, Tarkash Mahal, and Gagan Mahal.
Situated about 100 km from Bahmani Tombs, Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib is a Sikh shrine built to commemorate the visit of Guru Nanak Dev to Bidar. The Gurudwara is known for its sacred pond and its legend.
Papnash Shiva Temple:
Located about 20 km from Bahmani Tombs, Papnash Shiva Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its natural spring, which is believed to have healing properties.
About 30 km from Bahmani Tombs, Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple is a unique temple built inside a cave. It is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, and is known for its natural spring.
Located about 120 km from Bahmani Tombs, Basavakalyan is a historic town known for its association with the 12th-century philosopher and social reformer Basavanna. The city has several ancient temples and monuments, such as the Basavakalyan Fort and the Anubhava Mantapa.