The Ibrahim Rauza Tomb is a complex in the Bijapur district of Karnataka that comprises a mausoleum and a mosque. This structure was built in the early 17th century by Taj Sultana of the Adil Shahi dynasty, and its construction took 8 years. Owing to its skyline, this tomb is often referred to as the “Black Taj Mahal of South India.” Given its historical and architectural significance, it is a Monument of National Importance. It is an exquisite group of buildings that has twin towers of the tomb of Ibrahim Adil Shah and a mosque. Moreover, it is adorned by slender minarets at each corner of the utmost elegance and delicacy, delicate stone filigree and decorative work.
About Ibrahim Rauza Tomb
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Built by Taj Sultana, the wife of Ibrahim Adi Shah II of the Adil Shahi dynasty, the Ibrahim Rauza Tomb is a picturesque complex in the Bijapur district of Karnataka, established in 1627. It is actually located outside the district’s main Western gate called Mecca Darwaza. The complex consists of a mausoleum and a mosque, which have similar architectural features and are separated by a fountain. It took about 8 years to complete the construction of this monument, a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic edifices.
The word “Rauza” is Arabic and translates to “garden.” The Ibrahim Rauza Tomb is considered to be one of the most important and splendid structures built under the dynasty established in the 15th century.
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Places To Visit Nearby Ibrahim Rauza Tomb
Often known as the “The Black Taj Mahal of South India.” The Archaeological Survey of India lists Ibrahim Rauza Tomb as a Monument of National Importance. Here is a list of places you can visit near the Ibrahim Rauza Tomb in Bijapur:
1. Gol Gumbaz
Image Credit: Mukul Banerjee for Wikimedia Commons
Built-in 1656 after being under construction for 30 years, the Gol Gumbaz is Sultan Mohammed Adil Shah’s crypt, the Adil Shahi dynasty’s seventh ruler. This structure is representative of the Deccan-Indo-Islamic style of architecture and is named after its dome; the word “gola gummata” translates to circular dome. Something interesting about this tower is that inside the dome is a whispering gallery which is called so because even the slightest of sounds can be heard on the other side. The building is made out of dark grey basalt. Besides the tomb of the Sultan, it also houses the tombs of his wives and daughters.
Location: Jadar Galli, Vijayapura, Karnataka 586104, India
Distance from Ibrahim Rauza Tomb: 4 km
2. Jama Masjid
Image Credit:Mukul Banerjee for Wikimedia Commons
The magnificent Jama Masjid in Bijapur is a congregational mosque and one of the town’s most important monuments and also the largest mosque here. Its construction was commissioned in 1576 by Ali Adil Shah I to commemorate his victory in the Battle of Talikota but it was never finished. However, rulers that succeeded him added elements to the mosque such as its murals near the mihrab, eastern doorway and more. This mosque is spread out over an area of approximately 5,040 square metres and has been put on the “tentative list” to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Location: Jamiya Masjid Rd, opposite Jamija Masjid, Vijayapura, Karnataka 586101, India
Distance from Ibrahim Rauza Tomb: 3.3 km
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3. Bara Kamam
Image Credit:SWE-Yaatrik for Wikimedia Commons
Another one of Bijapur’s mausoleums, the Bara Kamam was established in 1672 AD and is an unfinished mausoleum of Ali Adil Shah II. This Sultan envisioned a mausoleum of immense splendour featuring 12 vertically and horizontally placed arches surrounding his tomb, but the construction of the structure was never finished. Out of these 12 arches, only 2 vertical ones were ultimately built and the real reason behind it’s abandoned construction remains unknown but many state that this was to avoid having its shadow touch Gol Gumbaz. Within the Bara Kamam lie the tombs of Ali Adil Shah and those of his wife, mistress, and daughters.
Location: Bara Kaman, Vijayapura, Karnataka 586101, India
Distance from Ibrahim Rauza Tomb: 2.3 km
4. Mehtar Mahal
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The Mehtar Mahal is situated within the complex of the Bijapur Fort and dates back to the early 17th century during the reign of the Adil Shahi dynasty. This impressive building is 3 storeys high and is built in the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. However, something to note is the fact that its minarets have carvings which are representative of Hindu designs. This has been seen as evidence of the Sultans during that time being tolerant of Hindu art and culture.
Location: 1, Jamiya Masjid Rd, Vijayapura, Karnataka 586101, India
Distance from Ibrahim Rauza Tomb: 2.6 km
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5. Bijapur Fort
Image Credit:SWE-Yaatrik for Wikimedia Commons
The Bijapur Fort, established in the 16th century, is one of Bijapur’s most prominent attractions since it is associated with the Adil Shahi dynasty that ruled over the region for over 200 years. It is often referred to as the “Agra of the South,” especially since its premises consist of a number of structures that were built by different dynasties over the years. Some of these include the Bara Kamam, Gagan Mahal and Sat Manzili.
Location: Godbole Mala, Vijayapura, Karnataka 586101, India
Distance from Ibrahim Rauza Tomb: 4.8 km
Best Time To Travel To Bijapur
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The winter season is the best time to travel to Bijapur. The months from October to March bring about cool and pleasant weather, which is exactly what you need when you are out and sightseeing. The maximum temperature during this period is about 32 degrees celsius. On the contrary, the summer months from April to June are usually the least suitable months to plan your trip to Bijapur because the temperatures during this time can go as high as 42 degrees celsius, making it very hot and humid and therefore unpleasant for outdoor excursions.
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The Ibrahim Rauza Tomb is merely one of the many wonderful monuments and sites that are there in Bijapur. This town’s tryst with Muslim dynasties has led to its being home to several spectacular edifices which represent the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture and which are undoubtedly a treat for history buffs! If you have time on your trip to Karnataka, it is highly advisable to spend some time in Bijapur to learn about its rich heritage.
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Cover Image Credit: Mukul Banerjee for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Ibrahim Rauza Tomb
Do people in Bijapur speak Hindi?
Although you would find some people speaking Hindi in Bijapur, it won’t be as common as is the case in other parts of the country. The main language spoken here is Kannada followed by others like Urdu and Marathi.
How many days must one spend in Bijapur?
Bijapur isn’t a massive city and therefore you would need about 2 days to be able to see most of its attractions and historical sites.
Can one take a flight to Bijapur?
Since Bijapur itself does not have an airport, directly flying here is not an option. You would first need to fly to either Belgaum or Kalaburagi and then drive here. However, you can take the train since Bijapur has the Vijayapura Railway Station.
Are Bijapur and Bangalore far from each other?
Yes, Bijapur and Bangalore are located close to each other. The distance between the two is nearly 523 km and it would take about 9 hours and 15 minutes to cover this distance by road.
What is the Bijapur Music Festival?
The state government organises the Bijapur Music Festival every year as a means to preserve as well as promote the region’s local music. During this festival, one would get to attend many folk and classical music concerts.
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