Bidar, Historical fortified settlement in Karnataka, India
Bidar is a city in Karnataka state that sits on a plateau in the northern part of the region and is dominated by a large fortified complex. The surroundings show dry landscape with wide fields and small hills, while the center features narrow lanes with older buildings and bazaars.
In the 15th century, a sultanate chose the settlement as its new capital and began building palaces, mosques, and tombs. The rulers brought architects and artists from other regions, which shaped the design of the buildings.
Craftsmen in the city practice a traditional technique of decorating zinc alloy with silver to create objects with dark patina and shiny patterns. This work follows methods that families pass down through centuries and practice in small workshops.
Travelers reach the place via train connections from larger cities or through a smaller airport nearby. The best time to visit is during cooler months, as summer heat can be particularly intense.
Beneath the surface runs an old system of underground channels that transported water through natural gradient over long distances. This network dates from the 15th century and still functions in part today, though many sections have fallen into disrepair.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
