3 Days in Bidar
Planning 3 days in Bidar? Explore Bidar, Karnataka's historic Bahmani capital, over three unhurried days. Discover the colossal Bidar Fort, the tile-decorated Bahmani Tombs at Ashtur, the sacred Sikh shrine of Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib, and the unique water-filled cave temple of Narasimha Jharni, while savoring the city's famed Bidriware craft. It includes a detailed day-wise schedule, activities, meal suggestions, transportation tips and an estimated budget to help you plan your trip with less guesswork.
Day 1: Bidar Fort and the Old City
Day 1
Begin your journey at the magnificent Bidar Fort, exploring its ramparts, palaces, and mosques. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Bahmani Tombs at Ashtur, admiring the remnants of their Persian tilework. End the day with a stroll through Bidar's old town and a traditional dinner.
Activities
- Morning exploration of Bidar Fort
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Afternoon visit to Bahmani Tombs at Ashtur
- Evening walk through the old city and dinner
Meals
- •Breakfast at hotel
- •Lunch at Hotel Mayura
- •Dinner at Kailash Family Restaurant
Day 2: Sacred Shrines and Crafts
Day 2
Spend the morning at the serene Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib, partaking in the langar and seeking blessings. Afterward, visit a Bidriware workshop to see artisans at work. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time at your hotel or explore local markets before dinner.
Activities
- Morning visit to Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib
- Bidriware craft demonstration
- Lunch at a local eatery
- Afternoon at leisure or shopping
- Dinner at a rooftop restaurant
Meals
- •Breakfast at hotel
- •Langar at Gurudwara (optional)
- •Lunch at Hotel Shree Sagar
- •Dinner at Barbeque Nation
Day 3: Narasimha Jharni and Departure
Day 3
On your final day, visit the unique Narasimha Jharni cave temple, wading through its water-filled tunnel to reach the sanctum. Afterward, relax and prepare for departure, perhaps picking up last-minute souvenirs. Enjoy a final meal in Bidar before leaving.
Activities
- Morning visit to Narasimha Jharni
- Return to hotel for checkout
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Departure
Meals
- •Breakfast at hotel
- •Lunch at Udupi Krishna Bhavan
- •Snacks before departure
Detailed Timeline
Day 1
11 activities
Morning
Breakfast at hotel
Enjoy a hearty South Indian breakfast at your hotel, such as idli, dosa, or upma. If staying at a heritage property, the ambiance adds to the experience. Cost is typically included in the room rate.
Arrive at Bidar Fort
Take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to Bidar Fort (approx. 20 minutes from the city center). The fort is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Entry fee for Indians is ₹25, for foreigners ₹300 (subject to change). Hire a guide at the entrance for ₹500-800 to enrich your visit.
Explore the fort's outer ramparts and moats
Walk along the fort's massive laterite walls, noting the triple moats and bastions. The fort's architecture reflects its 15th-century Bahmani origins and later Barid Shahi embellishments. Allow about an hour for this circuit.
Visit the Rangin Mahal and Gagan Mahal
Inside the fort, explore the Rangin Mahal (Painted Palace) with its surviving Persian tilework and the Gagan Mahal (Sky Palace). These structures showcase the Indo-Islamic style of the Bahmani and Barid Shahi periods. Spend about 45 minutes here.
Tour the Solah Khamba Mosque and Diwan-i-Am
See the Solah Khamba Mosque (sixteen-pillared) and the Diwan-i-Am (Hall of Public Audience). The mosque is one of the largest in India from that era. Wander through the ruins, imagining the courtly life of the sultans. Allocate 30-45 minutes.
Afternoon
Lunch at Hotel Mayura
Leave the fort and head to Hotel Mayura (a Karnataka state tourism hotel) about 10 minutes away. Enjoy a vegetarian thali or North Indian dishes. A meal for two costs around ₹400-600.
Drive to Bahmani Tombs at Ashtur
From the fort, take an auto or taxi to Ashtur, about 5 km east of Bidar. The tombs are open until sunset. There is no entry fee, but donations are appreciated. The site is peaceful with fewer crowds.
Visit the tombs of the Bahmani sultans
Explore the cluster of domed mausoleums, including the tomb of Ahmad Shah I and others. Look for the remnants of vivid blue and turquoise glazed tiles on the facades and interiors. Spend about 1.5 hours wandering among the monuments.
Return to the city and visit the old town
Head back to Bidar's old town area near the fort. Walk through the bustling bazaars, perhaps visiting the Bidar Heritage Museum or simply soaking in the atmosphere. You can also stop at the Mahmud Gawan Madrasa (if open for restoration) for a quick photo stop.
Evening
Dinner at Kailash Family Restaurant
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at this popular family restaurant, known for its North Indian and Chinese dishes. Try the paneer butter masala or chicken biryani. A meal for two costs around ₹500-700.
Return to hotel
Head back to your accommodation for a restful night. If you have energy, you can take a short evening stroll near your hotel.
Day 2
9 activities
Morning
Breakfast at hotel
Have a light breakfast at your hotel, as you'll have a hearty langar later. Opt for fruits and tea to keep it light.
Visit Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib
Take an auto or taxi to the Gurudwara, located about 6 km from the city center. The shrine is open from early morning to 9 PM. Dress modestly and cover your head (scarves are available). No entry fee; you can make a donation.
Explore the Gurudwara complex and the sacred spring
Pay your respects at the sanctum and view the spring that is believed to have been miraculously created by Guru Nanak. The water flows through a silver-plated structure. Spend time in the serene premises, and participate in the community service if you wish.
Partake in the langar (community kitchen)
Enjoy a simple, free vegetarian meal served by volunteers. The langar is open to all, regardless of faith. It's a humbling experience and a chance to interact with locals. If you prefer, you can skip the langar and have lunch later.
Afternoon
Visit a Bidriware workshop
After the Gurudwara, head to a Bidriware artisan's workshop in the old city (ask your auto driver to take you to the Bidriware Artisans' Cooperative Society). Watch artisans inlay silver onto blackened zinc-alloy, a craft with GI-tag status. You can buy authentic pieces; prices vary from ₹500 for small items to thousands for large vases.
Lunch at Hotel Shree Sagar
Have a vegetarian lunch at this popular restaurant near the bus stand. Try their North Indian thali or special biryani. A meal for two costs around ₹300-500.
Leisure time at hotel or visit local markets
Return to your hotel to rest, or if you wish, explore the local markets for Bidriware, textiles, and handicrafts. The Bidar Fort area has several shops. You can also visit the Barid Shahi Park for a relaxing stroll.
Evening
Dinner at Barbeque Nation
For a change of pace, enjoy a barbecue dinner at this chain restaurant in Bidar. It offers a lavish buffet with both veg and non-veg options. Dinner for two costs around ₹800-1,200.
Evening walk near the hotel
Take a leisurely walk in the hotel's neighborhood to digest and enjoy the evening air. Return early for a good night's sleep.
Day 3
8 activities
Morning
Breakfast at hotel and checkout
Have an early breakfast and check out of your hotel. Keep your luggage at the reception if you have a late departure.
Drive to Narasimha Jharni
Take a taxi or auto to Narasimha Jharni, located about 8 km from Bidar. The temple is open from 6 AM to 6 PM. Be prepared to wade through water; wear shorts or quick-dry clothing and water shoes. Lockers are available for belongings.
Wade through the tunnel to the sanctum
Enter the cave and wade waist-deep through the naturally water-filled rock tunnel for about 150 meters to reach the inner sanctum of Lord Narasimha. The water is cool and clean. You can offer prayers and spend time in the cave. The experience is unique and spiritually uplifting.
Return to the entrance and change
After exiting the cave, use the changing rooms to freshen up. There are small shops selling prasad and snacks. You can also rest under a tree before heading back.
Return to Bidar city
Drive back to Bidar city. If you have time, you can stop at the Bidar Fort for a quick visit to the museum or simply for a final photo. Otherwise, proceed to lunch.
Afternoon
Lunch at Udupi Krishna Bhavan
Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal at this budget-friendly restaurant. Try the masala dosa or the full meals served on a banana leaf. A meal for two costs around ₹200-300.
Last-minute souvenir shopping
If your transport allows, pick up last-minute Bidriware items or local sweets from the market. The Bidriware items make for excellent gifts. You can also visit a local sweet shop for Bidar's famous 'Bidri halwa' if available.
Departure
Head to Bidar railway station or bus stand for your onward journey. If you have a late train, you can relax at a nearby café. Bidar is well-connected by train to Hyderabad and other cities.
Food Recommendations
Hotel Mayura
Karnataka State Tourism RestaurantMust Try: Bisi Bele Bath, Ragi Mudde, and filter coffee
₹200-400 per person
Kailash Family Restaurant
Multi-cuisine Family RestaurantMust Try: Chicken Biryani, Paneer Butter Masala, and Tandoori Roti
₹300-500 per person
Udupi Krishna Bhavan
South Indian VegetarianMust Try: Masala Dosa, Idli Vada, and Thali
₹100-200 per person
Transportation Tips
- Bidar is well-connected by train (Bidar Railway Station) and road. The nearest major airport is Hyderabad (about 130 km away); take a taxi or bus from there.
- Within Bidar, auto-rickshaws are the most convenient mode for short distances; negotiate fares before starting. For day trips to Ashtur and Narasimha Jharni, hire a taxi for the day (₹1,200-1,800).
- Renting a two-wheeler or car from local agencies is an option for independent exploration; ensure you have a valid driving license and GPS.
- For a hassle-free experience, many hotels can arrange local transport at reasonable rates; ask at the reception.
Budget Breakdown
Total Estimated Per Person
₹8,000-15,000 for 3 days (excluding travel to Bidar)
Accommodation
₹2,000-4,000 per night for a mid-range hotel
Food
₹800-1,200 per day for meals
Transport
₹1,000-1,500 per day for local transport and taxi
Miscellaneous
₹500-1,000 for entry fees, guide, and shopping
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