BIJAPUR : Bijapur is located in the historically rich Deccan, the onetime capital of the Adil Shahi kings (1489-1686 AD) is dotted with mosques, museums, palaces, fortifications, watch towers, and strong gateways, with the massive Gol Gumbaz dominating the landscape for miles around.
GOL GUMBAZ : Gaze in wonder at this magnificent mausoleum of Muhammed Adil Shah. Its houses the world’s second largest dome, unsupported by pillars. Built in 1659, its most arresting features are the seven storied octagonal spires at the four corners and the heavy bracketed cornice below the parapet. The amazing whispering gallery, which distinctly echoes the faintest whisper eleven times, is an unforgettable experience.
IBRAHIM ROZA : Said to be the inspiration for the Taj Mahal in Agra, this palatial mosque and tomb in Bijapur is simply impressive. This mausoleum of Ibrahim Adil Shah II has two buildings standing on common platform, supported by arches and enclosed by garden on three sides.
Malik-E-Maidan : This is a 55 ton Cannon perched on a platform. The lead of the cannon is fashioned into the shape of a lion whose jaws are trying to devour an elephant. Legend has it that if you touch the gun and make a wish, it will come true.
BADAMI : Is situated at the mouth of ravine between two rocky hills, the exquisite sculptures and the rust red sandstone cliffs of Badami tell many tale of yore. Climb a flight of steps to reach the four ancient rock cut caves. replete with carved pillars and bracket figures, all hewn out of red sandstone, on the precipice of a hill. The largest of them is the third cave, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The first sculptural embellishment to dazzle the eye is the 18 armed Nataraja, striking 81 dance poses, in the first cave. The caves overlook the Agastya Theertha Tank, it banks dotted with a cluster of Bhoothanatha temples.
PATTADAKAL : With its beautifully chiseled temples, this WORLD HERITAGE SITE on the banks of the Malaprabha River, bears testimony to the richness of Chalukyan architecture. Pattadakal reached its pinnacle of glory under the Chalukya kings, and was once used as a ceremonial centre where kings were crowned and commemorated. It has a cluster of 10 major temples, each displaying interesting architectural features. At the entrance of the site, you can see the 8th centaury temples of Jambulinga, Kadasiddeshvara and Galaganatha with their curvilinear shikaras or spires. The biggest temple, dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, has a huge gateway, several inscriptions, and a profusion of friezes from the epics.