Bidar Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Bidar, Karnataka with this comprehensive travel guide - explore the top attractions, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and more!


Introduction to Bidar

Bidar, a beautiful city in Northern Karnataka, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its imposing forts, ancient buildings, and beautiful temples, Bidar is a must-visit destination for those who love exploring offbeat places in India. It is easily accessible by road and rail, making it a popular weekend getaway spot for locals and tourists alike.

In this travel guide, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the top attractions, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and culture of Bidar to help you plan your perfect trip.

List of Places to Visit in Bidar

Bidar boasts a number of culturally important monuments and natural attractions. Here are some must-visit places in Bidar:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bidar Fort: Built by the Bahmani Sultan, Bidar Fort is a spectacular specimen of ancient architecture. The fort complex includes several monuments such as the Rangin Mahal, Tarkash Mahal, and Gagan Mahal.
  • Chaubara Tower: Located in the heart of Bidar city, the Chaubara tower is a unique 22-meter high circular structure that used to serve as an armory and watchtower in ancient times.
  • Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib: A revered Sikh pilgrimage site, Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib is an ancient shrine dedicated to the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It is known for its natural spring and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
  • Mahmud Gawan Madrasa: A beautiful Islamic seminary built in the 15th century by the Persian minister Mahmud Gawan, the Madrasa is an epitome of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Natural Attractions of Bidar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Basavakalyan Wildlife Sanctuary: Spread over an area of 290 sq. km, Basavakalyan Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of animals and birds. Visitors can go on a jeep safari to explore the sanctuary and spot animals like the blackbuck, spotted deer, and Indian hyena.
  • Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple: Located on the outskirts of Bidar, Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple is an ancient rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha. It is also known for a perennial stream that flows through the cave.
  • Papnash Shiva Temple: Located on the banks of the Kagina River, Papnash Shiva Temple is a popular spot for devotees and tourists alike. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bidar

Bidar offers a number of trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • Bidar to Basavakalyan: This route takes you through beautiful countryside and offers a great opportunity to spot wildlife in the Basavakalyan Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Gurudwara to Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple: This trail takes you through scenic countryside and ends at the ancient Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple.
  • Bidar city loop: This is a great route for those looking to explore the city’s hidden alleys and bustling markets on foot.

Best Things to Do in Bidar: Activities and Tours

Bidar offers plenty of activities and tours for tourists. Here are some of the best things to do in Bidar:

  • Heritage walks: Take a guided heritage walk through the city’s ancient forts and monuments to learn about Bidar’s history and culture.
  • Jeep safaris: Go on a jeep safari through the Basavakalyan Wildlife Sanctuary to spot a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Food tours: Explore the local cuisine of Bidar on a food tour, which takes you through the city’s bustling markets and street food stalls.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bidar

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Bidar:

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Bidar, visit Bidar Fort and Tarkash Mahal
2 Visit Chaubara Tower and Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib
3 Go on a jeep safari at Basavakalyan Wildlife Sanctuary
4 Explore the city’s hidden alleys and bustling markets on foot
5 Visit Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple and Papnash Shiva Temple
6 Try local cuisine on a food tour
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Bidar

Bidar’s cuisine is a beautiful blend of South Indian and Mughlai flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bidri kebabs: These succulent mutton kebabs are cooked with saffron and spices, and are a popular delicacy in Bidar.
  • Jowar roti and yennegai: A traditional meal in Bidar, this dish consists of jowar roti (flatbread made with millet flour) served with yennegai (spicy eggplant curry).
  • Haleem: A Mughlai dish made with wheat, meat, and lentils, haleem is a popular delicacy in Bidar.

Local Beverages

  • Sugarcane juice: A refreshing beverage found in almost every nook and corner of Bidar, sugarcane juice is a must-try.
  • Filter coffee: A hot cup of filter coffee is a perfect way to start your day in Bidar.

Where to Stay in Bidar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bidar has a number of accommodation options to suit every budget. From heritage hotels to homestays, here are some of the best places to stay in Bidar:

  • Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari: Located in the heart of the city, this heritage hotel offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities.
  • K’s Inn: A budget hotel located close to the railway station, K’s Inn offers clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Bidar Homestay: If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, consider staying at Bidar Homestay, a beautiful homestay run by a local family.

What to Buy in Bidar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bidar is known for its beautiful Bidriware, a form of intricate metalwork that originated in ancient Persia. Here are some other souvenirs and local products you can bring home from Bidar:

  • Lambani embroidery: A traditional form of embroidery, Lambani embroidery is known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs.
  • Bidriware jewelry: The artisans of Bidar create beautiful Bidriware jewelry, which is a perfect way to bring a piece of Bidar back home with you.
  • Gongura pickle: A sour and spicy pickle made with gongura leaves, this is a popular condiment in Karnataka.

Local Culture and Customs of Bidar

Bidar has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its location at the crossroads of various ancient empires. The locals are warm and friendly, and take great pride in their city’s heritage. Islam is the predominant religion in Bidar, and the city is known for its harmonious religious diversity.

Best Time to Visit Bidar

The best time to visit Bidar is between October and February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season (June-September) should be avoided as the rains can make outdoor activities difficult.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bidar

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress conservatively while visiting religious places
  • Try local cuisine and beverages
  • Bargain while shopping at local markets

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious or cultural sentiments
  • Use plastic bags or litter the city
  • Visit wildlife reserves without the necessary permissions
  • Use drugs or indulge in illegal activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Bidar

Bidar is a relatively safe city, but tourists should follow basic safety precautions such as avoiding deserted areas at night, keeping valuables safe, and using licensed taxis or autorickshaws.

Health in Bidar

Tourists are advised to carry their own medication, insect repellent, and sunscreen. Tap water should be avoided, and it’s recommended to use only bottled or purified water for drinking.

Getting to Bidar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bidar is well-connected by road and rail. Here are the transportation options and logistics to help you plan your trip:

Airports Near Bidar

The nearest airport to Bidar is the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, which is 150 km away.

Bus Stations Near Bidar

Bidar has a bus station that is connected to various cities in Karnataka and neighboring states.

Other Options

Alternatively, one can take a train to Bidar, with direct rail connections from cities like Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore.

How to Get Around in Bidar

Local buses, autorickshaws, and taxis are the best way to get around in Bidar. Private taxis can also be booked for day trips and excursions.

Where to Go Next from Bidar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bidar is an excellent base to explore the surrounding region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can take:

  • Hyderabad: Just a few hours drive from Bidar, Hyderabad is known for its rich history, delicious cuisine, and the iconic Charminar.
  • Gulbarga: This ancient city is a treasure trove of history and culture, and is known for its stunning mosques and tombs.
  • Hampi: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is a mesmerizing collection of ancient ruins and temples that are a must-visit for history buffs.

Conclusion

Bidar is a hidden gem that deserves to be explored. With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, it is a must-visit destination for those looking to discover the offbeat side of India. Plan your trip to Bidar and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Gawan Madrasa in the centre of the Bidar city. It shows Persian architecture influence on Indian culture. Gawan Madrasa in the centre of the Bidar city. It shows Persian architecture influence on Indian culture. A gateway at Bider Fort. A gateway at Bider Fort.