Vijayapura (Bijapur)

The foundations of this historic city were laid during the reign of the Chalukyan Dynasty. They called it 'Vijayapura' or the 'City of Victory' from where comes its present name Vijaypura (Bijapur). This one-time capital of the Adil Shahi kings (1489-1686) is dotted with mosques, mausoleums, palaces, fortifications, watchtowers, and strong gateways, with the massive Gol Gumbaz, India's largest dome, dominating the landscape for miles around. Vijaypura (Bijapur) experienced a great burst of architectural activity under the Adil Shahi rulers. It is also famous for the hand-made sarees of llkal. Vijaypura (Bijapur) is also the best base from where to reach other exceptional heritage sites such as Aihole, Badami and Pattadakal.