Monuments In India

Gol Gumbaz

Gol Gumbaz is one of the best heritage building located in Bijapur district of Karnataka state of India. This tomb was constructed in simple designing but with the specialty of huge dome made over it.  This tomb was constructed in the memory of Mohammad Adil Shah.  Bijapur is well linked by all the major cities of Karnataka as well outside from the state too. Geographical coordinates of this tomb are between 16°49'48"N   75°44'9"E.

Architecture

This tomb is constructed on a platform high more than 9ft. Another specialty of the tomb is its cubical shape.  From all side this tomb is 156 ft and the upper portion of the tomb is fitted by a cap shape dome of 144 ft dia. To hold this large dome, eight arches have been made there as interlocking.  Each corner is ended on the roof below the dome and helps in holding of the dome.  In the central portion of the tomb, an open area of more than 1800 sqft is made on the support of side pillars and walls which is the largest central hall in the world monuments without any pillar in between. In the middle of this hall, a grave mark of Adil Shah is there as a last footsteps of the dynasty.  A wide gallery is also provisioned at the height of 33.22 mtr inside the dome.  This place is also known as Whispering gallery as a simple whisper from one side is easily hearable at other end. Construction of this gallery has been done in such a way that a clap also makes the echo of more than 8 times.
This tomb has been provisioned with four minarets at all side with a staircase to climb to the next storey.  These minarets have various “Burjs” and terrace.  7 small stories are made in each minaret.  Above the last store of each minaret, a large platform has been created to give support to the dome with a balcony inside.  The dome is well supported with the carved feather around it.  The internal shape of the dome is octagonal and finished with fine carvings on it. Internal part of the dome is made with the intersecting arches and fine carvings. Main entrance of the fort is much elevated and the platform more than nine feet high.  From four sides there are provisions made for entrance but at present only main entrance is being utilized. Adilshahi takes rest in this tomb after ruling the Bijapur sultanate for over 196 years.

Attraction

Near this tomb, various other places are of tourist interest.

A canon named Malik-e-maidan is also located near the tomb.

Ibrahim Tomb is another place to see at this location.

Largest statue of Lord Shiva is also located in the close vicinity of Gol Gumbaz and can be visited on walking just at 6 kilometers from this tomb.

How to Reach

Bijapur can be visited by all means of transportation.

By Air

Bijapur airport is the nearest boarding point to reach Gol Gumbaz.  Important flights are available to reach this place.

By Train

Bijapur is the nearest railway station and four trains are connected on daily basis from Badami to Bijapur.

By Road

Bijapur is well linked with road transport with nearby cities.  State transport also runs its buses and taxies and tourist cabs are also available.  Gol Gumbaz is located t 2.5 kilometers distance from main city.

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