Located at Ashtur on Bidar’s outskirts, this necropolis holds the tombs of Bahmani sultans from Ahmad Shah Wali, who died in 1436, through to the dynasty’s later rulers, each mausoleum a large square chamber topped by a bulbous dome in the style that would influence later Deccan Sultanate tomb architecture. Ahmad Shah Wali’s own tomb is the most richly decorated, its interior walls once entirely covered in brilliant blue, green, and yellow glazed tilework and Arabic calligraphy, of which substantial sections survive today, reputedly the work of artisans he invited from Persia. The complex, spread over a quiet, tree-shaded site away from the town centre, offers one of the clearest records of the Bahmani dynasty’s architectural and artistic patronage across its roughly 175-year rule. Bahmani Tombs sits at an elevation of 582 m. The most favourable months to visit are December, November, January, and October, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Tomb of Shihabuddin Mahmud, Tomb of Alauddin Shah II, and Tomb of Kalimullah. Other notable highlights include blue Persian tilework on Ahmed Shah's tomb, panoramic view from the Ashtur ridge, and intricate carved stone brackets on the arches. It falls within Karnataka, India.
State: Karnataka
Ideal Duration: 1-2 Hours
December, November, January, October
Yes, it is very practical, as the tombs are close to other key sites like the Bidar Fort, the Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan, and the Rangin Mahal. Most travellers spend a half-day visiting the tombs and the fort together, with a break for lunch in town. Hiring an auto-rickshaw or a private car for the day is the easiest way to move between these sites, as they are spread out by a few kilometres.
You should plan for about 45 minutes to an hour to walk around and appreciate the tombs and their surroundings. The ground is mostly flat grass and paved paths, but some areas have uneven stone steps leading into the tombs, so comfortable, non-slip footwear is essential. There are benches and shaded spots under trees for resting, but no wheelchair access.
There are no restrooms or drinking water facilities within the tomb complex itself, so please use the facilities in Bidar town before you arrive. You will find small tea and snack stalls on the main road about 200 meters from the entrance, but it is safer to carry your own water bottle and light snacks. For a proper meal, you will need to return to Bidar city.
Entry is free for all visitors, and the site is open from sunrise to sunset, typically 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. There is no ticket counter, but you may be approached by local guides who offer their services for a small fee. It is best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
The Bahmani Tombs are a cluster of grand, domed mausoleums of the Bahmani Sultanate rulers, situated in Bidar, Karnataka. They are spread across a peaceful, grassy complex about 3 kilometers from Bidar city center, near the old fort area. The tombs are notable for their Indo-Islamic architecture, with intricate tilework and carved stone.