Karnataka, India

Gagana Mahal Palace

Vijayapura, Karnataka, India

7/10

Best time: October-March

1 hour

Welcome to the majestic Gagana Mahal Palace in Vijayapura, Karnataka! Once known as Asar Mahal, this historic palace built in the 16th century, served as a royal court. Imagine kings holding grand meetings here! Come explore its beautiful architecture and feel like royalty yourself. A must-see for history buffs and travel enthusiasts seeking a unique India tourism experience!

Architecture

History

Photography

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In Jaipur

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Top Activities in Gagana Mahal Palace

1
Admire The Intricate Carvings And Decorations
2
Explore The Grand Architecture Of The Palace
3
Learn About The History Of The Adil Shahi Dynasty
4
Take Photos Of The Massive Central Arch

Detailed Information

Best Time to Visit

October-March

When to visit place on the day

All-Day

Approximate expense

₹500 per person

History

Gagan Mahal was built in 1561 by Ali Adil Shah I, the second ruler of the Adil Shahi dynasty. Unlike the name suggests, it was not intended to be a residential palace but served as a durbar hall for the Sultan to hold court and entertain guests. The palace witnessed many historical events, including the reign of several Adil Shahi rulers and the Mughal invasion. It later fell into the hands of the Marathas and then the British before becoming a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

Other Places to Explore in Vijayapura

8/10

Uppali Burj

Uppali Burj, also known as Hyder Burj, is a prominent watchtower located in Vijayapura (formerly Bijapur), Karnataka. This circular tower offers panoramic views of the entire city, making it a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. Climb the internal staircase to reach the top and witness the sprawling landscape dotted with historical monuments, mosques, and gardens. The cool breeze and breathtaking scenery provide a memorable experience. The structure itself is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Adil Shahi dynasty. It's a must-visit destination for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a bird's-eye perspective of Vijayapura's rich heritage.

1.5 hours

Evening

₹100

Capture panoramic city views

Enjoy the cool breeze at top

8/10

Lal Bahadur Shastri Sagar Dam / Almatti Dam

The Lal Bahadur Shastri Sagar Dam, also known as the Almatti Dam, is a massive dam built across the Krishna River in Vijayapura district of Karnataka, India. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, offering breathtaking views of the reservoir and surrounding hills. Visitors can enjoy boating, picnicking, and exploring the nearby rock garden. The dam plays a crucial role in irrigation and hydroelectric power generation, contributing significantly to the region's economy. The dam's construction created a vast reservoir, ideal for water sports and birdwatching. The surrounding landscape provides opportunities for hiking and nature walks. The dam is also an important source of drinking water for the surrounding towns and villages.

4 hours

All-Day

₹1,000

Boating on the reservoir

Capture stunning views

8/10

Bara Kaman

Bara Kaman, literally meaning 12 arches, is an unfinished monument located in Vijayapura, Karnataka, India. It is believed to be the unfinished mausoleum of Ali Roza Khan, son of Ibrahim Adil Shah II. The structure is known for its impressive scale and architectural grandeur, despite being incomplete. The monument's massive pillars and arches showcase the Adil Shahi dynasty's architectural prowess. Visitors can explore the underground chambers and marvel at the intricate carvings and designs.

1 hour

All-Day

₹200

Admire the intricate carvings and ar...

Capture stunning photographs of the ...

8/10

Malik-E-Maidan Cannon

The Malik-E-Maidan, meaning 'Monarch of the Battlefield,' is a colossal cannon, a major tourist attraction in Vijayapura. This impressive piece of artillery, one of the largest medieval cannons in the world, is a testament to the region's rich history and military prowess. Its sheer size and intricate design are awe-inspiring, offering visitors a glimpse into the engineering capabilities of the past. The cannon rests on a platform, allowing for easy viewing and photography. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at this historical artifact and imagine its role in shaping the region's destiny.

1 hour

Morning

₹50

Admire the sheer size of the cannon.

Explore the surrounding area and mon...

8.5/10

Chand Baudi

Chand Bawdi, also known as Chand Baori, is an ancient stepwell located in Abhaneri, a village near Jaipur in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is one of the deepest and largest stepwells in India, with a square plan and 13 stories deep. The stepwell features 3,500 narrow steps arranged symmetrically on three sides, descending to a deep well. The fourth side has pavilions and resting rooms for royals. The architecture is intricate and visually stunning, showcasing the ingenuity of ancient water harvesting techniques. Visitors can marvel at the geometric patterns created by the steps and the play of light and shadow. The site is popular for photography and offers a glimpse into India's rich architectural heritage.

Learn about water-harvesting