Bidar – Places to visit

Bidar in the state of Karnataka was part of the esrtwhile Hyderabad state ruled by Nizams and preceded by the Mauryas, Bahamanis and Mughals. It is located around 125 kms from Hyderabad and a nice weekend getaway. There are a few places to visit in Bidar like Bidar fort, Gurudwara, Narasimha swamy temple.

Bidar fort was built by Bahamani dynasty in Persian architectural style and was mainly expanded by Shihabuddin Ahmad Shah between 1422 and 1436 CE who moved the capital from Gulbarga to Bidar. He built mosques, madrasas and gardens within the fort. It was taken over by Barid Shahi rulers after that and Rangin Mahal well known for its wooden carvings and tile work was built by Ali Barid(1543-1580 CE) and the fort flourished in the field of art and architecture.

Bidar Gurudwara also called Guru Nanak Jhira is one of the holiest places for Sikhs. As per belief Lord Guru Nanak visited this place when there was a huge shortage of water. A stream of clear water burst out from the hillside and quenched the thirst. Even today, water which is said to have healing powers, flows through this fountain and is accumulated in Amrit Khund(built in White Marble).

Bidar Narasimha Swamy temple, also known as the Narasimha Jharni temple is a cave temple where pilgrims will have to walk their way in 4-5 feet deep water through a cave for around 300 m to worship Lord Narasimha. The temple is at a lower level in the slopes of a hilly terrain.

There are also a few resorts like Blackbuck(Jungle Lodges and resort), Inspria, Vintage retreat, etc where you can stay overnight and plan a weekend trip from Hyderabad.

For other places to visit, please check here.