Gol Gumbaz, It’s History, Architecture, Facts, Timings

Gol Gumbaz is Adil Shah’s tomb built during the 16th century. The construction took place right after he started ruling Bijapur. It took almost 20 years to complete it. The monument has 4 minars, each containing 7 floors with staircases. Even you can witness the beautiful view of Bijapur from these minars of Gol Gumbad.

This tomb will definitely shock you as you will be amazed by its stunning construction. It is famous as a Mausoleum, Tomb, and a historic place with the largest dome structure in India. It is also one of the best places to visit in Karnataka.

About Gol Gumbaz

Mohammed Adil Shah’s Gol Gumbaz tomb is located in Bijapur, Karnataka. He was the 7th ruler of the Adil Shahi Dynasty who ordered to construct this tomb prior to his death. It is the second largest dome in the world after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

One astonishing fact about the central dome is that it stands without any pole support. It represents the architectural excellence of Bijapur. Also, Gol Gumbad becomes a great example because of its simple yet attractive style.

Visiting hours of Gol Gumbaz: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM

Gol Gumbaz Entry Fee: Indian Nationals – Rs.15/-, Others – Rs.200/-, children up to 15 years of age – no fees

History And Architecture of Gol Gumbaz

Yaqut of Dabul built the incredible structure of Bijapur Gol Gumbaz during 1626 – 1648. This tomb is the burial place of Mohammed Adil Shah, Taj Jahan Begum, and Aroos Bibi. Mohammed Adil Shah during his rule in Bijapur ordered the construction of this masterpiece as Sultan wanted to keep his remains in Gol Gumbaz. Gol Gumbaz architecture is unique and mesmerizing.

This flawless structure (Gol-Gumbaz) follows the architectural style of Indo-Islamic. History lovers can explore its beauty and glamour as the history of Gol Gumbaz is rich. During the 17th century, this spectacular tomb was a perfect piece of architecture and it is the largest dome in India. The diameter of Gol Gumbaz in feet is 124 feet.

Once you enter the dome you will find that steps are connected with a polygonal podium from both sides. In fact, only eight intersecting arches support this dome. In the middle of the podium cenotaph of Mohammed Adil Shah is kept.

On the top level here, you can visit the Gol Gumbaz whispering gallery and it is the best thing about the monument. The art and architectural features of Gol Gumbaz is indeed stunning.

Why is Gol Gumbaz famous? Let’s discuss some interesting facts about Gol Gumbad

The circular-shaped tomb of Adil Shah – Gol Gumbaz as we mentioned is one of the largest domes in India. It is preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India.

• In 1656 the tomb was built in the name of remembrance of Sultan Mohammed Adil Shah. Architect Yaqut of Dabul built this tomb.

• The architectural style of the tomb is taken from Deccan Indo – Islamic styling and inspired by the Taj Mahal in Agra.

• It is called the Black Taj Mahal or the Taj Mahal of South India.

• Bijapur Gol Gumbat is another name for Gol Gumbaz because it is a circular dome.

• This tomb has one of the largest single-chamber spaces in the world.

• A whispering gallery of the tomb is one of the most salient characteristics. Even the smallest sound can be heard easily when someone standing at a far distance from the gallery. The whispers made inside echo back 7 times.

How To Reach Gol Gumbaz?

Bijapur is connected with all transport city roads mainly in South and West India. Even this place has its own bus stops and railway station. Once you reach Bijapur, you can take an auto, book a cab or go for local buses to reach Gol Gumbaz. Recently, Sambre airport in Belgaum located at approx. 164km is the closest one to the city.

Places To Visit Near Gol Gumbaz

The city of Bijapur has been ruled by various dynasties and is influenced by various cultures. It is also known as Vijaypura. The place is listed as one of the popular places to visit in Karnataka.

1. Archaeological Museum, Bijapur

The Archaeological museum in Bijapur is a gorgeous structure built in the Adil Shahi architecture. If you want to enhance their knowledge about the history of Bijapur, this place is a perfect site for you.

The gallery collection of the museum includes stone inscriptions in Arabic, Sanskrit, Kannada, and Persian languages, wooden carvings, ancient coins, miniature paintings, carpets, and many other articles dating back to the time between the 11th and 17th centuries.

2. Almatti Dam

One of the key attractions in Bagalkot district in Karnataka. It is popular for its height and stunning surroundings. You can plan to do boating at this dam. Monsoons and winters are the best time to visit as the site of the dam is excessively pretty. It is located in Almatti, Nidgundi, Bijapur district, Karnataka.

3. Torvi Narasimha Temple

Situated in Torvi, which is 5km from Bijapur Narasimha temple is also known as Narashoba temple. There are stories that at the site of the temple, Kumara Valmiki composed the famous Thoravi Ramayana in Kannada. This is a place in Karnataka you shouldn’t miss out on.

4. Uppali Buruz

You can plan your visit to the Uppali Buruz monument in Bijapur, Karnataka if you wish to enjoy a beautiful sunrise. It is a tower with a height of 80ft that is spherical in shape with stone steps all around. The monument also contains various war materials, guns, powder chambers, and water cisterns. You can witness an aerial view of the city from the top of the tower.

5. Malik-E-Maidan

One of the most recommended tourist spots near Bijapur is Malik-e-Maidan or “Lord of the Battlefield”. It is a huge cannon on the top of Sherzah Burj in Bijapur set up by Muhammad Adil Shah. The cannon is considered to be the largest warhead of the medieval era. It is said that to protect his ears from the sound when the cannon was fired, the gunner had to take a dip in a water tank.