Takht Mahal



Takht Mahal, Bidar, Karnataka

Information on Takht Mahal (Bidar, Karnataka) - History & Architecture


Takht Mahal also known as the throne palace is located in the Bidar district of Karnataka. This particular monument was once used by the royals of the Bidar rulers as their residence. Notably, the Mahal has its entrance in the northern side but there are small doorways in other side of the monument as well.

Takht Mahal Architecture

The architecture of the building was influenced from the indo-Islamic style. The features within the interior of the Mahal have relevance with the modern day architecture. The Mahal had a hot water swimming pool which was carved with granite materials from all sides. The figures and portraits in the interior of the Mahal portray the influence of the Islamic architecture while the floral designs in the walls depict the texture of the Hindu architecture. However, emphasizing on the arches within the Mahal, an influence of the Iranian architecture is quite apparent. In each of the eastern as well as western facades within the building, their lies an emblem of lion which further presents the relevance of the Persian architecture. The entire structure has the work of colourful tiles and mosaic the beauty of which increases with the sunrise. The throne room inside the palace has columned design which altogether form a rectangular structure each of which were carved with granite. The room were the royal guests and other important audience of the kingdom were addressed has big domes which are tinted with tiles and granite. A great view can of the low lying areas of the Bidar district can be experienced from the apartments of the royal residence of the Mahal.

Takht Mahal History

The Mahal was constructed in between the period of 1426-1432 by the rulers of the Bahmani i.e. Ahmed Shah Bahmani. The Mahal lies in the west side of the Bidar fort. It was extensively used by the rulers during the period to address private audience of the kingdom. The structure of the building is deemed to be made following a complex design. The Mahal has a durbar hall were various ceremonies and important functions of the Kings of Bidar had taken place. Some of the notable events that have taken place within the fort include installation of kingdom of the Sultans of Bidar. In the present day scenario only the arches of the building remained and preserved well. The dome inside the monument was to be quite high and width which is also an attraction for the visitors. The chamber that was constructed within the interior of the Mahal was by used by the Bidar rulers as their throne rooms.

Takht Mahal Tourism Importance

The historical heritage and the architectural features of the Mahal makes it a must visit for the tourists of the country and world. Notably, the Mahal is one of the significant parts of the Bidar fort and hence it can be expected that tourist visiting the fort will also attracted towards the Takht Mahal. Furthermore, the amalgam of the Hindu and Muslim architectural style within the Mahal is also a potential attraction for the tourists. However, the extreme weather of the place during the summer might affect the motivation of the tourists. Tourists must prefer to visit the place during the month of October to March when the weather is more or less appropriate.

So, do visit this historical splendour while in Karnataka and witness the essence of the Bidar rulers of that era.