Hazar Kothari
The Hazar Kothari (meaning 'Thousand Chambers' or 'Thousand Rooms') is a significant historical structure located within the formidable Bidar Fort complex, specifically situated towards the south of the Takht Mahal. Its primary historical function was to serve as a secret underground passage and ass embly area, built by the Bahmani or Barid Shahi rulers to ensure a safe, clandestine exit for the royal family during times of siege, war, or imminent danger from invading forces. It is essentially an intricate, cave-like tunnel system that connects an underground hall to the outer fortifications of the fort. This strategic design highlights the military genius and foresight of the medieval Deccan architects who prioritized the safety of the ruling elite. The concept is a brilliant example of counter-siege planning, a crucial element in large medieval fortresses. While the name suggests a thousand chambers, it refers symbolically to its complexity and numerous hidden recesses rather than a literal count. It is a testament to the fort's impenetrable defenses and layered security. Access is currently restricted or partially blocked to preserve the fragile, centuries-old structure, but its very existence tells a compelling story of royal espionage and survival strategies employed during the tumultuous periods of the Deccan Sultanates. Its location near the main palaces confirms its role as a high-priority, secure retreat for the royal household.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
30 minutes (Viewpoint only)Place Type:
Heritage, Fortification, Military ArchitectureEntry Fees:
Part of Bidar Fort Complex Entry: There is no separate entry fee for the Hazar Kothari itself, as it is a component of the vast Bidar Fort complex. The general fee for the fort complex, administered by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is typically INR 25 per person...Part of Bidar Fort Complex Entry: There is no separate entry fee for the Hazar Kothari itself, as it is a component of the vast Bidar Fort complex. The general fee for the fort complex, administered by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is typically INR 25 per person for Indian citizens and INR 300 for foreign tourists. This nominal fee contributes to the maintenance and preservation of all monuments within the fort perimeter.
Additional Camera Charges: There are often minor charges for carrying still cameras (around INR 25), and significantly higher charges for professional video cameras, though these rules vary. Entry is free for children under the age of 15.Timing:
Daily Open Hours: The structure is technically open during the operational hours of the Bidar Fort, which are generally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, seven days a week, though access to the actual tunnel is usually barred.
Ideal Visit Time:...Daily Open Hours: The structure is technically open during the operational hours of the Bidar Fort, which are generally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, seven days a week, though access to the actual tunnel is usually barred.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit the fort area, including the Hazar Kothari site, is during the early morning (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) to avoid the harsh midday sun. Fridays tend to be less crowded.Special Events:
Bidar Fort Foundation Day: The structure itself does not host a specific public event, but it is a key historical point mentioned during guided heritage walks organized by the ASI or local tourism groups, especially around April, marking the annual foundation day of the fort...Bidar Fort Foundation Day: The structure itself does not host a specific public event, but it is a key historical point mentioned during guided heritage walks organized by the ASI or local tourism groups, especially around April, marking the annual foundation day of the fort or general heritage celebrations in Bidar.Best Photo Spots:
Near Takht Mahal Ruins: The best photo spot is the signage area near the ruins of the Takht Mahal, framing the passage opening (if visible) with the majestic royal palace ruins in the background.
Fort Rampart Panorama: Since the structure is...Near Takht Mahal Ruins: The best photo spot is the signage area near the ruins of the Takht Mahal, framing the passage opening (if visible) with the majestic royal palace ruins in the background.
Fort Rampart Panorama: Since the structure is underground, another excellent photo opportunity is from the fort ramparts nearby, capturing a panoramic view of the plain where an escaping royal party would have emerged.
Sunset Framing: A sunset shot framing the ruined walls of the fort adjacent to the Hazar Kothari site provides a dramatic and evocative image, symbolizing the fall of a great empire.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Contemplate Deccan History: Stand near the entrance/signage and contemplate the desperate historical scenarios that would have required its use, imagining the royal household escaping in secrecy. Explore the surrounding ruins of the Takht Mahal and the fortifications to understand the political context of its necessity. Study the fort map to locate its position relative to the innermost palaces and the outer walls to appreciate the distance of the escape route. Take wide-angle photographs of the surrounding ramparts, using the knowledge of the underground structure to frame a shot that symbolizes the layers of defense and secrecy. Hire a local, knowledgeable guide who can narrate the specific legends and historical accounts (though perhaps exaggerated) tied to the tunnel's purpose and its use by various sultans during the collapse of the Bahmani Sultanate and...
Information
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Why Famous:
Strategic Royal Escape Route: It is famous as the secret emergency exit or escape tunnel for the Bahmani and Barid Shahi royal families. This function makes it a fascinating point of historical intrigue. The strategic positioning near the Takht Mahal emphasizes its crucial...Strategic Royal Escape Route: It is famous as the secret emergency exit or escape tunnel for the Bahmani and Barid Shahi royal families. This function makes it a fascinating point of historical intrigue. The strategic positioning near the Takht Mahal emphasizes its crucial role in the survival of the dynasty.
Military Engineering Marvel: The structure represents a marvel of medieval military engineering and underground water-harvesting technology, as such tunnels often doubled as part of the fort's overall subterranean network. The story associated with it captures the imagination, giving it a unique fame among the fort's monuments. -
Architecture:
Underground Military Architecture: The architecture of Hazar Kothari is purely utilitarian and military-focused, designed for secrecy and defensive retreat. It consists of an underground hall that transitions into a long, winding tunnel or passage leading toward the outer p...Underground Military Architecture: The architecture of Hazar Kothari is purely utilitarian and military-focused, designed for secrecy and defensive retreat. It consists of an underground hall that transitions into a long, winding tunnel or passage leading toward the outer perimeter walls of the fort.
Dimension: Its exact dimensions are unverified due to restricted access, but the network is extensive enough to facilitate the movement of several people in an emergency. The hall would have been designed for a temporary assembly, built from the same sturdy laterite rock and lime mortar as the main fort walls, ensuring stability against potential bombardment. The structure is an example of the sophisticated underground engineering that characterized Persian and Turkish-influenced military architecture in the Deccan. It lacks the decorative elements of the palaces, focusing entirely on a dark, concealed, and robust passageway, blending seamlessly with the fort's foundational rock.
Focus on Concealment: The primary architectural feature is its concealment, utilizing the plateau's natural rock formation. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest major airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) in Hyderabad, approximately 140 KMS away. From HYD, you can hire a direct taxi or take a bus to Bidar. A domestic airport is available in Bidar for specific routes.
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Near Tourist Places:
Rangeen Mahal (0. 2 KMS), Takht Mahal (0. 1 KMS), Gagan Mahal (0. 3 KMS), Solah Khamba Masjid (0. 4 KMS), Diwan-i-Aam (0. 3 KMS), Mahammud Gawan Madarsa (2. 5 KMS), Chaubara (2 KMS), Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib (4 KMS), Bahmani Tombs (4 KMS), Papnash Shiva Temple (6 KMS)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the fort area is rocky and uneven. Carry water, especially during the summer. Be cautious when walking over ruins and near steps.
Packing: Carry a hat or umbrella for sun protection, sun...
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