After exploring an architectural temple named Pattadakal-Aihole, we went further North to Vijayapura or popularly known as Bijapur. The city is historically significant and home to Gol Gumbaz, a 17th-century mausoleum.
Gol Gumbaz, Vijayapura
Constructed in 1659 CE with an Indo-Islamic architectural style, Gol Gumbaz is known for its exceptionally large dome, built without pillars. The majestic structure has an internal diameter of 37.92m and is perhaps one of the largest domes in the world.
At the center of the tomb chamber resides a platform with tombstones of Muhammad Adil Shah and his family. He ruled the kingdom from 1627-1656 AD and led the 7th Seventh Sultanate of the Adil Shah dynasty. The cellar underneath the chamber harbors the actual graves of the ruler and his family.
The architectural style of Gol Gumbaz is truly unique. The hemispherical dome was constructed on a square base. Instead of pillars, the giant brick structure is supported by a system of 8 intersecting arches that create interlocking pendentives. Pendentives are curved wall surfaces forming a transition/bridge between the circular dome and the supporting square base. Although you might have seen domes mounted over square structures, the usage of pendentives is what makes this monument unique.
Besides the dome, the Gol Gumbaz is popular for its “whispering gallery” on the 7th floor. The gallery is located in the dome’s base and is accessible via winding staircases present in the four corner towers. The gallery owes its name to the structure’s fascinating acoustic properties. The faintest sound at any end of the gallery can be clearly heard throughout the room. The noises in this whispering gallery echo at least 10 times.
Visiting the dome and standing so close to it was a new experience for us. From the terrace outside the gallery, we could see the ruined walls of the Vijayapura Fort, the Jamiya Masjid, and essentially the whole city.
Do not miss visiting the Gol Gumbaz archaeological museum just before the main Gol Gumbaz structure. It houses 8 galleries on two floors and is right before the main monument. Besides this, you must visit Bara Kaman, an unfinished mausoleum of Ali Adil Shah II.
Cost
Entry fees can be paid by cash at the ticket counter located near the entrance or online by scanning the QR code placed near the ticket counter. You can also visit https://asi.paygov.org.in and follow the simple steps.
- Entry Fee for Gol Gumbaz: INR 25 for Indian citizens, INR 25 for SAARC/ BIMSTEC citizens, INR 300 for foreign citizens, FREE for children below 15 years of age
- Entry fee for Archaeological Museum: INR 5
- Photography for personal use (without a tripod): Free
- Videography for personal use: INR 25
- Film shooting: INR 50,000 per day and security deposit of INR 10,000
Please note that the tickets purchased are valid only on the date of purchase.
Twin’s tip: A discount of INR 5 and INR 50 is levied to Indian and foreigners, respectively, when the tickets are purchased online.
Timings
- Gol Gumaz: 6 AM – 6 PM, open on all days
- Archaeological Museum: 9 AM – 5 PM, closed on Fridays
You can ask for a licensed guide at an additional cost near the ticket counter or entrance.
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