Known for its medieval monuments, including the world famous Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur is located in the southern state of Karnataka. Known for their architectural excellence, most of the monuments of Bijapur are built by the Adil Shahi rulers between 15th and 17th century. The Adil Shahi Dynasty was contemporary of the great Mughals in Delhi, Elizabethan rule in England, and Shah Abbas in Persia. And like their contemporaries, the Adil Shahi rulers also ushered in the golden era for Bijapur. The buildings were built from the local basalt, which have a dull brown monochromatic effect, and are simply splendid. In a city still unspoilt by the soulless multi-storeyed blocks, the sun always sets behind a grand dome or an elegant minaret.

The old city of Bijapur is surrounded by fortified walls. Monuments of the city built during Adil Shahi Dynasty are its main attractions. The main attraction in the city is Gold Gumbaz or the Rounded Dome, located in the eastern end of the walled city. In Other attractions Ibrahim Roza is situated in the western outskirts of the city. Gagan Mahal, now mostly in ruins still has enough attraction to pull you there. Near the citadel you can have a good look on attractions such as Sat Manzil (Seven-storied palace), Bara Kaman (twelve arches), and Jala Manzil (water pavilion). Other important attractions in the city are Jama Masjid, Taj Bawdi (water tank), Upli Burj (watch tower), Mehtar Mahal (palace built by the sweepers), and Asar Mahal.

Bijapur is a part of North Karnataka, a region that is steeped in history of great rulers who not only fought with courage and expanded their empires but also excelled in the fields of art, culture, and music. The region was a centre of excellence in architecture and there are structures all around that give a glimpse of its grand past. Aihole and Badami saw some of the most beautiful structures being created during the Chalukyan Era. Gulbarga is the district headquarters known for its association with the Bahamani kingdom in medieval times. Asavana Bagevadi and Kundalasangama are two places associated with the great social reformer and poet Saint Basaveshwara in the early medieval age.