India

Bijapur

Intro

Blessed with a rich architectural and historical heritage, mostly of Muslim influence to name only its imposing fort, Bijapur is a charming destination for travelers in search of a change of scenery. This city is home to a multitude of mosques, mausoleums and fortifications of all kinds that will surely impress you with their past and authenticity. It figures in the list of places to be visited during the trip to India. Bijapur is located in the heart of Karnataka, approximately 530 km from Bangalore and 550 km from @ Mumbai.

History

Bijapur was built on the former urban site of Bijjanhalli around 1074. Formerly called as Vijayapura, it is the city of victory for Chalukya. The city became the capital of Yadava dynasty during the 12th and 13th centuries. Muslim influence gradually gained momentum in Bijapur with the arrival of the Sultan of Delhi Alâ ud-Din Khaljî and then the arrival of the Bahmanî of Bîdar in 1347. Later, in 1481, Yusuf Ādil Khan was appointed governor of the city by Muhammad Laskrî Bahmanî III. Son of the Ottoman sultan Murad II, Yusuf Ādil Shâh took control of Bijapur and undertook the construction of various monuments. After the Declaration of Independence of India in 1947, the region was integrated into the state of Bombay before being reassigned to the territory of Mysore. In 1956, Bijapur was eventually attached to Karnataka.

Today

As a preamble, Bijapur has a plethora of tourist sites attracting boaters from all over the world each year. Here you will find a multitude of temples and tombs, monuments largely inspired by Muslim architecture. Among other attractions not to be missed are the Jumma Masjid Mosque, the Gol Gumbaz and the Ibrahim Rauza Mausoleum. Many transport solutions are available in the city to reach these places full of stories. During your stay in Bijapur, you will undoubtedly enjoy strolling along the banks of the Krishna River to get away from it all. Also try Indian fashion by purchasing the traditional Ikal saris marketed in the city markets. Historic city coiled in the heart of Karnataka, Bijapur comprises three distinct parts. Of great strength, the citadel erected during the reign of Yusuf Ādil Shāh contains wells made of highly massive materials. It is protected by a ditch 90 m wide, once filled with water. In the heart of the site, you will find the remains of pre-Islamic Hindu temples. As for the fort built by Yusuf Ādil Shâh in 1566, the building nestles behind a wall 10 to 15 m high, reinforced by massive bastions with varied designs. Apart from these two buildings of character, the rest of the city of Bijapur hosts a series of mausoleums, mosques, and caravanserais aged with time, reinforcing the old-fashioned charm of the city. In January, Bijapur comes alive to the rhythm of the Makar Sankranti fair organized by Shri Siddheshwar temple. Farmers from neighboring countries come en masse to participate in this event known for its livestock market. Fireworks decorate evenings where sharing and conviviality are key words. Each year, Bijapur hosts a music festival under the direction of the Karnataka authorities. Traditional and modern songs alternate between them, not without ravishing the seasoned music lovers.

Climate

From April to May, Bijapur experiences a summer season. It is advisable to provide you with light cotton cloths during your exits. The summers being humid and very hot, with temperatures up to 40 ° C, this period is certainly not the best time to spend a stay in Bijapur. The monsoon season begins in June and ends in September. During these months, the city experiences moderate rains and a more or less cool temperature, making this season a good time for a relaxing holiday. Finally, winter is the ideal time to visit Bijapur. This season is characterized by a temperature varying from 20 ° C to 30 ° C and less precipitation. Lightweight linens are also recommended for your comfort during your visits.

How to get there

Bijapur has an airport connected to the other states of India. Taxis and other means of transport, public or private, are waiting for you to make your way to your hotel. As far as the railway line is concerned, Bijapur railway station is a few minutes from the center of the city. The resort is connected to major cities of India, including Mumbai, Solapur and Hyderabad. Apart from these accesses, many bus lines serve the city through a vast road network.

How to get around

Bijapur peut s’explorer à pieds, en bus, en taxi ou en rickshaw. Lors de vos visites, portez des vêtements légers, et à l’occasion un chapeau, car les journées y sont généralement ensoleillées.

What to do in Bijapur?

• Go for a tour of historical monuments
• Stroll along the banks of the Krishna River
• Attend the Makar Sankranti Fair in January
• Explore local and Indian music during festivals organized by the Karnataka government administration, etc.