Gulbarga Fort is a historic fort in Gulbarga city in Karnataka, India. The fort was built during the 14th century by the Bahmani Sultanate and was later renovated by the Bijapur Sultanate. The defence is a major tourist attraction in the region known for its architectural grandeur and historical significance.
The Gulbarga Fort is spread over an area of about 38 acres and is surrounded by a moat. The fort has several bastions, watchtowers, and gateways, which are all beautifully designed and constructed. The main entrance to the fort is through the Haft Gumbaz Darwaza, a grand gateway with seven domes.
There are several structures of historical and architectural significance. The Jami Masjid, or Jama Masjid, is a grand mosque inside the fort. The mosque was built by Muhammad bin Tughlaq during the 14th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The mosque has several prayer halls and is adorned with beautiful Islamic calligraphy.
The other major attraction inside the fort is the Tomb of Khwaja Bande Nawaz. Khwaja Bande Nawaz was a Sufi saint who lived during the 14th century and is revered by both Hindus and Muslims in the region. The tomb is a beautiful structure with intricate carvings and is visited by thousands of pilgrims annually.
Several other structures are inside the fort, including the palace of the Bahmani Sultanate, the Darbar Hall, and several other mosques and tombs.
Visitors can also explore the Sharana Basaveshwara Temple, just 1.5 km away. It is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to the 12th-century philosopher and social reformer Basavanna. Another popular attraction is the Buddha Vihar, located about 2 km from the fort, a Buddhist temple and a monastery complex.
This temple is located just 1.5 km from the fort and is dedicated to the 12th-century philosopher and social reformer Basavanna. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Basavanna.
This Buddhist temple and monastery complex is located about 2 km away from the fort. The complex has several beautiful structures, including a meditation hall, a prayer hall, and stupas.
This is the mausoleum of the Sufi saint Khwaja Bande Nawaz, located about 1.5 km away from the fort. The Dargah is a beautiful structure with intricate carvings and a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Muslims.
This cluster of seven tombs is located about 1 km away from the fort. The tombs are believed to be the final resting place of the Bahmani kings and their queens.
Gulbarga Fort Museum:
This museum is located inside the fort and has a collection of artefacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the region. The museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Sri Sharanabasaveshwar Rural Museum:
This museum is located about 6 km from the fort and showcases the rural way of life in the region. The museum has exhibits, including traditional costumes, tools, and utensils.
Jevargi Fort:
This fort is located about 30 km from Gulbarga Fort and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. The defence has several structures, including a palace and a mosque, and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.