Ibrahim Rouza

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The beautiful Ibrahim Rouza is among the most elegant and finely proportioned Islamic monuments in India. Its 24m-high minarets are said to have inspired those of the Taj Mahal, and its tale is similarly poignant: built by emperor Ibrahim Adil Shah II (r 1580–1627) as a future mausoleum for his queen, Taj Sultana. Ironically, he died before her and was thus the first person to be laid to rest here. Also interred are the emperor's queen, children and mother.

For a tip (₹150 is fine), caretakers may show you around the monument, including the dark labyrinth around the catacomb where the actual graves are located.

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Nearby Karnataka attractions

1. Malik-e-Maidan

0.55 MILES

Perched upon a platform is this beast of a cannon – over 4m long, almost 1.5m in diameter and estimated to weigh 55 tonnes. Cast in 1549, it was…

2. Jod Gumbad

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In the southwest of the city, off Bagalkot Rd, stand the twin Jod Gumbad tombs, with handsome bulbous domes. An Adil Shahi general and his spiritual…

3. Upli Buruj

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4. Central Market

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This lively market is an explosion of colour and scent, with flowers, spices and fresh produce for sale.

5. Jala Manzil

1.03 MILES

Within the citadel is the delicate Jala Manzil, once a water pavilion surrounded by secluded courts and gardens.

6. Sat Manzil

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The ruins of Mohammed Adil Shah’s seven-storey palace, the Sat Manzil is one of several evocative sites in the citadel.

7. Citadel

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