Day 3 – Bijapur and Kudala Sangama

Date: 27-Sep-15

After spending a day exploring the magnificent Chalukyan monuments of the 6th to 8th centuries, it was time to discover the architectural wonders of a different era. Bijapur, now officially known as Vijayapura, is home to several masterpieces built during the Adil Shahi dynasty and other medieval rulers between the 14th and 16th centuries. With its impressive tombs, mosques, and grand domes, the city remains one of Karnataka’s most important historical destinations.

Ibrahim Rauza

• Opening hours: 6 AM to 6 PM
• Entry fee: 5 Rs/person for Indians, 100 Rs for foreigners and 25 Rs for video camera
• Parking fee: 20 Rs

Since Gol Gumbaz opens only at 10:00 AM, we decided to begin our day at Ibrahim Rauza. We checked out of Hotel Pleasant Stay at around 7:30 AM and started toward the monument at 7:45 AM. Located approximately 4 km from our hotel, Ibrahim Rauza was our first stop of the day. The city of Bijapur appeared fairly well maintained, and many old structures along the way offered glimpses into its rich past.

We reached Ibrahim Rauza at around 8:00 AM. Even from the entrance gate, the monument looked magnificent. A pathway running through a beautifully landscaped garden leads to the main structure. As we approached, the twin buildings became increasingly impressive.

Built by Ibrahim Adil Shah II during the 16th century, Ibrahim Rauza consists of his tomb and a mosque standing directly opposite it. The elegant minarets and intricate carvings on both structures are remarkable examples of Deccan architecture. The atmosphere was peaceful, and the gentle breeze made it a pleasant place to spend some time.

It is widely believed that Ibrahim Rauza inspired the design of the Taj Mahal. Because of its architectural beauty, it is often referred to as the “Taj Mahal of the Deccan.”

Bara Kaman

• Entry fee: None

At around 8:45 AM, we left Ibrahim Rauza and stopped for breakfast at an Udupi restaurant in VKG Hotel. Our next destination, Bara Kaman, was located nearby.

Bara Kaman is the unfinished mausoleum of Ali Adil Shah II and has a fascinating history. Construction began in 1672 AD, and the original design envisioned twelve vertical arches and twelve horizontal arches surrounding the tomb. Had the project been completed, it would have become one of the largest monuments in the region.

According to local accounts, Ali Adil Shah II was killed by his father, Muhammad Adil Shah, who feared that Bara Kaman would overshadow the grandeur of Gol Gumbaz, his own mausoleum. Today, only the remains of the horizontal arches survive, serving as a reminder of the monument’s unfinished legacy and intriguing past.

Gol Gumbaz

• Opening hours:10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Friday)
• Entry fee: 5 rs/person, 100 Rs for foreigners and 25 Rs for video camera (we got free entry to Gol Gumbaz on the day of our visit)
• Parking fee: 40 Rs

Gol Gumbaz is undoubtedly the most famous attraction in Bijapur and was the highlight of our visit. Built in 1656 by Muhammad Adil Shah, it houses the tombs of the ruler and his family members.

The monument is renowned for its enormous dome, which measures 124 feet in diameter and is considered the second-largest dome in the world. Although I had seen photographs before, nothing prepared me for its sheer scale. Standing before the structure, I was amazed by its size.

The monument features four massive minarets, each containing a staircase leading to the upper levels. The climb is fairly challenging because the steps are steep and narrow. However, each level rewards visitors with increasingly beautiful views of the city and close-up views of the intricate stonework on the monument. Upon reaching the top, the circular walkway around the dome offers spectacular panoramic views of Bijapur.

Apart from its massive dome, Gol Gumbaz is famous for its remarkable acoustics. The circular gallery along the inner circumference of the dome is known as the Whispering Gallery. Even the softest whisper can be heard clearly across the gallery, while a single clap echoes multiple times. Experiencing this unique acoustic phenomenon was one of the most enjoyable parts of our visit.

Jamiya Masjid

• Entry fee: None

Jamiya Masjid, also known as Jama Masjid or Jumma Masjid, is one of the largest mosques in South India. Built by Ali Adil Shah I in 1578, the mosque can accommodate nearly 2,500 worshippers at a time. The architecture is relatively simple compared to some of Bijapur’s other monuments, but the sheer size of the prayer hall is impressive. The vast open space creates a sense of grandeur despite the minimal ornamentation.

After visiting Jamiya Masjid, we had lunch at Kamat Restaurant and left Bijapur at around 2:00 PM.

Kudala Sangama

• Entry fee at Kudala Sangama: 20 Rs/person
• Entry fee at Aikya Mantapa: 2 Rs/person

Although Kudala Sangama was not part of our original itinerary, my in-laws were keen to visit this important pilgrimage destination. Since we had some time available, we decided to make a detour.

Located approximately 95 km from Bijapur in Bagalkot district, Kudala Sangama is one of the most significant pilgrimage centers for Hindus, particularly for followers of the Lingayat faith. The site is closely associated with Basavanna, the founder of the Lingayat movement. It is also the sacred confluence where the Krishna and Malaprabha rivers meet.

Situated on the riverbank is the Sangameshwara Temple, a beautiful Chalukyan-style structure dating back to the 12th century. The temple features intricate carvings that reflect the craftsmanship of the period. Another important attraction is the Aikya Mantapa, which houses the holy samadhi of Basavanna along with a self-manifested Linga. Visitors reach the main shrine through a distinctive spiral staircase. The peaceful surroundings and spiritual atmosphere made Kudala Sangama a memorable conclusion to our sightseeing.

Journey back to Bangalore

After visiting the temple complex, we stopped at Kamat Upachar in Kudala Sangama for evening snacks.

At around 5:00 PM, we began our return journey to Bangalore. We followed the same route that we had taken during the onward trip, traveling via NH13 through Hungund, Hospet, and Chitradurga. We reached Hiriyur at around 10:00 PM and had dinner at Atithya Midway Plaza. From there, we continued on AH47 and finally reached home at around 12:30 AM.

Toll expenses

Toll Plaza Name	Fee (Single journey, Car)
Kasaba (Bijapur) (Bijapur – Hungund)	50
Nagarhalla (Bijapur – Hungund)	80
Vanagiri (Hungund – Hospet)	45
Shahapur (Hungund – Hospet)	45
Hitnal (Hungund – Hospet)	35
Guilalu (Tumkur – Chitradurga)	55
Karjeevanahalli (Tumkur – Chitradurga)	70
Kulumepalya (Nelamangala – Tumkur)	34
Bangalore – Nelamangala	20
Total	434

Travel snapshot

This trip turned out to be a wonderful journey through the rich history and heritage of North Karnataka. Walking through centuries-old cave temples, grand monuments, ancient temple complexes, and historic towns gave us a deep appreciation for the architectural brilliance of our ancestors.

Despite a few challenges, including poor roads, a Karnataka bandh, and some unexpected delays, we were able to complete almost everything that we had planned. The changing landscapes, long drives through the countryside, and glimpses of rural Karnataka added a unique charm to the experience.

Every destination had its own character, making the trip both enjoyable and memorable. Above all, this journey reminded us how much history and culture our state has to offer, much of which remains underrated and unexplored. We returned home tired but extremely satisfied after spending three wonderful days discovering some of Karnataka’s finest historical treasures.

• Route Travelled: Hotel Pleasant Stay > Ibrahim Rauza > Bara Kaman > Gol Gumbaz > Jamia Masjid > Kudala Sangama > Hungund > Hospet > Chitradurga > Tumkur > Nelamangala > BTM Layout

See also:

• Badami, Aihole, Pattadakal, and Bijapur Trip
• Enroute to Badami
• Day 1 – Badami and Mahakoota
• Day 2 – Aihole, Pattadakal, and Alamatti

Route Map: