Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur

Gol Gumbaz or Gol Gumbad is a seventeenth century mausoleum(structure housing the graves or grave monument) in Bijapur.  It houses the remains of Mohammad Adil Shah who is the seventh sultan of Adil Shahi dynasty and some of his relatives.

It is one of the structures in tentative list under World Heritage Site category of UNESCO. It was under the name of Monuments and Forts of the Deccan Sultanate.

This structure is in domed structure and one of the largest single-chamber structures in the world. It is in a larger walled complex with other buildings such as mosque, a Naubat Khana(drum house during ceremonies) and a public rest house or shelter.

History:

The construction of the Gol Gumbaz began in the mid seventeenth century (Adil Shah's ruling period) from 1627 to 1656. It is located behind the dargah of Hashim Pir who is an Indian Sufi saint. The mausoleum construction was never completed and probably have halted in 1656 due to Mohammed Adil Shah's death that year.

How To Reach:

Bijapur bus stand is located at a distance of around 2.5 KM from Gumbaz. You can reach the Gumbaz by taking a local taxi from the bus stand.