Bidar, located in the northern part of Karnataka, offers a variety of transportation options for both locals and tourists. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the city and its surroundings.
Road Transportation
Taxis & Car Rentals
- Services: Available for local sightseeing and outstation trips.
- Booking Platforms: Services like MakeMyTrip offer options for booking cabs in Bidar.
- Self-Drive Rentals: Self-drive car rentals are also available through platforms like Sulekha.
Auto Rickshaws
- Availability: Widely available throughout the city.
- Fare: Typically ₹10–₹20 for short distances; fares may vary based on distance and time of day.
- Booking: Can be hailed directly or booked via local taxi services.
Rail Services
Bidar Railway Station (Station Code: BIDR)
- Location: State Highway 15, Bidar, Karnataka.
- Connectivity: Connected to cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
- Facilities: Offers amenities such as a Tourist Information Centre, computerized reservation counter, waiting room, light refreshment stall, and tea stall.
Train Services
- Bidar–Hyderabad Intercity Express (Train No. 17009/17010): Operates six days a week with a journey time of approximately 4 hours and 7 minutes.
- Yesvantpur–Bidar Express (Train No. 16571/16572): A daily service with a journey time of about 13 hours and 30 minutes.
Air Travel
Bidar Airport (IATA: IXX)
- Type: Military airbase cum domestic airport.
- Operator: Star Air operates flights between Bidar and Bengaluru three days a week.
Metro & Trams
Currently, Bidar does not have metro or tram services. The city’s transportation relies on road and rail networks.
Bus Services
KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation)
- Destinations: Offers services to cities like Bengaluru, Kalaburagi (Gulbarga), Hyderabad, and Mumbai.
- Booking: Tickets can be booked online via the KSRTC website.
KKRTC (Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation)
- Local Routes: Operates buses connecting Bidar to nearby towns such as Kalyan, Humnabad, and Basavakalyan.
- Timetable: Bus schedules are available on the KKRTC website.
Tourist Information
| Attraction | Distance from City Center | Best Time to Visit | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bidar Fort | 2 km | Morning | ₹10 |
| Mahmud Gawan Madrasa | 2.5 km | Morning | ₹10 |
| Guru Nanak Jhira Sahib | 1.5 km | Morning | Free |
| Narasimha Jhira Cave Temple | 3 km | Morning | Free |
| Papnash Shiva Temple | 4 km | Evening | Free |
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: October to February, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
- Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on Bidar’s famous Bidriware handicrafts and local sweets like ‘Chiroti’.