Ahmad Shah Wali Bahman Tomb
Historical Significance and Transfer of Capital: The tomb honors Sultan Ahmad Shah I (also known as Ahmad Shah Wali) who ruled from 1422 to 1436 CE and famously shifted the Bahmani capital from Gulbarga to Bidar in 1429, ushering in a golden era for the region: The Sultan earned the title "Wali" or "saint" after his prayer for rain ended a severe famine: His reign marked a major cultural and architectural transition in the Deccan: Tomb's Interior Splendour: It is renowned for its magnificent, fully painted interior, a rare feature among early Deccan tombs: The frescoes combine Persian, Turkish, and local influences, displaying intricate floral and calligraphic designs: The use of gold leaf, vermillion, and turquoise against a deep cobalt background creates a dazzling visual effect: Spiritual and Political Context: The tomb is situated in the Ashtoor necropolis, signifying the continuity and grandeur of the Bahmani lineage: The Sultan was personally inclined towards Shia tenets, which is subtly reflected in the tomb's ornamentation and the use of specific calligraphic panels: It stands as the earliest and one of the largest tombs in the complex, dominating the skyline:
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
1-2 Hours:Place Type:
Tomb/Necropolis:Entry Fees:
Indian Nationals: Generally, entry is free as part of the wider Bahmani Tombs complex, but a nominal conservation fee (often under Rs.20) may be charged by the ASI for site maintenance:
Foreign Nationals: The entry fee is typically higher (rang...Indian Nationals: Generally, entry is free as part of the wider Bahmani Tombs complex, but a nominal conservation fee (often under Rs.20) may be charged by the ASI for site maintenance:
Foreign Nationals: The entry fee is typically higher (ranging from Rs.100 to Rs.250) and is clearly marked at the main complex gate:
Photography Charges: Still photography is usually free, but there may be a charge for video cameras (though often waived at smaller sites) Guide Fees: Hiring an official local guide will incur a separate, negotiable fee, which is highly recommended for understanding the rich history and architecture in detail:
Car Parking: A small fee for vehicle parking is usually applicable outside the complex entrance:Timing:
Regular Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (confirm with ASI notice board, as it can be seasonal) Ideal Visit Time: The best time is during the early morning (around 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) to avoid the midday heat and to catch th...Regular Timings: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (confirm with ASI notice board, as it can be seasonal) Ideal Visit Time: The best time is during the early morning (around 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) to avoid the midday heat and to catch the best natural light for the interior paintings:
Avoid Peak Time: Avoid the time between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM in the hot Summer months (March to May) due to extreme heat:
Best Month: The period from October to February (Winter and post-monsoon) is the most comfortable for an extended visit and exploration of the entire necropolis:Special Events:
Urs-e-Sharif: The primary special event is the annual Urs-e-Sharif (anniversary of the death) of Sultan Ahmad Shah Wali, which is celebrated with religious fervor: This event draws devotees from across the Deccan and is marked by Qawwali performances, a sandal (sandalwood pa...Urs-e-Sharif: The primary special event is the annual Urs-e-Sharif (anniversary of the death) of Sultan Ahmad Shah Wali, which is celebrated with religious fervor: This event draws devotees from across the Deccan and is marked by Qawwali performances, a sandal (sandalwood paste) procession, and community langar (free meal) Local Ashtoor Festival: Though not directly related to the tomb, the surrounding Ashtoor village hosts minor local festivals and harvest celebrations (like Makar Sankranti in January or local Jatras) that offer a vibrant cultural contrast to the solemnity of the necropolis: Tourists visiting during these times get a glimpse of local Kannadiga culture:
Heritage Week Events: Occasionally, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) organizes special guided tours, lectures, or cultural programs during World Heritage Week (typically in November), highlighting the tomb's significance:Best Photo Spots:
The Gold-Painted Ceiling: The best spot is directly under the dome, focusing the camera upwards to capture the intricate concentric circles and the golden floral motifs that make this tomb unique, best captured when the light is diffused:
Framed ...The Gold-Painted Ceiling: The best spot is directly under the dome, focusing the camera upwards to capture the intricate concentric circles and the golden floral motifs that make this tomb unique, best captured when the light is diffused:
Framed Archway View: Position the camera within one of the massive arched doorways to frame a view of the exterior landscape or a neighboring tomb, using the deep recess for a dramatic contrast in shadow and light:
The Exterior Calligraphy Band: Take close-up shots of the beautiful stone-carved calligraphy band that runs along the exterior facade, especially those sections illuminated by the afternoon sun, emphasizing the craftsmanship:
Tomb's Silhouette at Sunset: Capture a wide-angle shot of the tomb silhouetted against the colorful Deccan sunset sky from a slight distance within the Ashtoor complex, showcasing its imposing height:Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Intricate Fresco Examination: Spend time studying the Persian and Mughal-style floral patterns, calligraphic bands, and use of the Lapis Lazuli blue on the tomb's interior walls and ceiling: Use binoculars to appreciate the high-dome details:
Photography and Light Study: The tomb offers unique photographic opportunities, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when natural light filters through the arches, illuminating the gold leaf in the central chamber: Focus on the contrast between the plain exterior and the vibrant interior:
Historical Context Walking Tour: Engage a local guide to walk you through the entire Ashtoor necropolis, specifically comparing the architecture of Ahmad Shah Wali's tomb with the later, simpler tombs of the dynasty's declining rulers, such as the incomplete tomb...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Capital City's Founder: It is famous as the mausoleum of Sultan Ahmad Shah I, the 9th Bahmani Sultan, who definitively established Bidar as the capital, transforming it into a major center of power, learning, and art: This move gave Bidar its lasting historical importance:Capital City's Founder: It is famous as the mausoleum of Sultan Ahmad Shah I, the 9th Bahmani Sultan, who definitively established Bidar as the capital, transforming it into a major center of power, learning, and art: This move gave Bidar its lasting historical importance:
Exquisite Fresco Work: The tomb is particularly famous for housing some of the best-preserved and most elaborate Persian-Deccani fresco paintings in all of India: These vibrant, gold-laced paintings are a key attraction for art historians, reflecting the Bahmani love for rich, colorful ornamentation:
Earliest and Grandest: Being one of the first and the tallest tombs in the Ashtoor necropolis, it set a high architectural standard for the subsequent Bahmani and Barid Shahi monuments, influencing regional tomb architecture for centuries: It is the most visited tomb among the Bahmani cluster: -
Architecture:
Design and Structure: The tomb is a grand, square structure built with grey basalt and laterite, distinguished by a massive hemispherical dome crowning the top: The structure follows the traditional four-sided plan, typical of Islamic mausoleums: The sheer walls, approximate...Design and Structure: The tomb is a grand, square structure built with grey basalt and laterite, distinguished by a massive hemispherical dome crowning the top: The structure follows the traditional four-sided plan, typical of Islamic mausoleums: The sheer walls, approximately 12 feet thick, support the weight of the lofty dome, providing stability and majesty:
Interior Dimensions and Decoration: Internally, the chamber is a spacious hall, famous for the stucco-work and the well-preserved paintings: The square chamber transitions to a circular dome base via a decorative zone of arches and squinches: The height from the floor to the apex of the dome is substantial, creating a sense of awe: The walls are covered with Quranic inscriptions in beautiful calligraphy, including a noteworthy band in a bright gold color:
Unusual Motifs: A unique architectural and decorative element is the inclusion of the Swastika symbol for ornamentation, particularly noticeable in the ceiling paintings, showcasing the syncretic art and cultural blend of the Bahmani period: This blend of Indian and Persian motifs makes it architecturally distinct: -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest functional major international airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) in Hyderabad, located about 140 KMS away: From Hyderabad, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bidar: Bidar Airport (VDBR) is primarily a defense airbase with limited comme... -
Near Tourist Places:
Bahmani Tombs (Ashtoor) (Adjacent, 0 KMS), Chaukhandi of Hazrat Khalil Ullah (1 KMS), Bidar Fort (6 KMS), Mahmud Gawan Madrasa (5 KMS), Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib (8 KMS), Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple (10 KMS), Barid Shahi Tombs (6 KMS), Chaubara Tower (5 KMS), Papnash Shiva Temple (12 KMS), Jharani Narasimha Temple (10 KMS)
Tourism Tips
-
Health & Safety: Carry adequate drinking water, especially in summer: The area is relatively isolated, so visit during daylight hours and be aware of your surroundings: Wear comfortable footwear suitable for uneven terrain and walking across dry, dusty ground:
Reviews
Information about New and Updated Locations(702+) of Karnataka Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Kudli Kunchikal FallsKundadri HillsKuvempu Kavi Mane Mandagadde Bird SanctuaryNagara FortSakrebyle Elephant CampShivappa Nayaka PalaceTyavarekoppa Lion SafariDarga Hazrath Mardane GaibGaganachukki FallsGaganachukki Falls View PointGanalu FallsHarekada Small FallsIgloor DamKaveri River View Point, SathyagalaKokkare Bellur Bird SanctuaryMalavalli Lake View PointMore PlacesNote:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Ahmad Shah Wali Bahman Tomb
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Anubhava Mantapa
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bahmani Tombs
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Barid Shahi Tombs
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Basavakalyan Fort
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Basaveshwara Circle
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bidar Fort
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chaubara Tower
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Chaukhandi of Hazrat Khalil Ullah
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Dev Dev Vana
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities