In the northern-most part of Karnataka lies Bidar-a tiny district steeped in history. The place which played host to the first capital of Rashtrakuta capital is included in this district which also is home to Basavakalyan, formerly known as Kalyani, the capital of Western Chalukyas and the Kalachuris.

However, Bidar is mainly known as a great medieval city and capital of the Bahamani and Barid Shahi dynasties. The fort, the cannons, palaces in ruins, the magnificent tombs and the massive monuments, all combine to make a visit to this place a truly memorable. Bidar witnessed the "religious revolution" under the Lingayat reformist Basavanna, founder of Shaivite sect of Virashaivas.