Belgaum is a district situated in the northwestern parts of Karnataka. It lies on the border of two states Maharashtra & Goa. It is one of the oldest towns in the state, lying at a distance of 502 km from Bangalore & 500 km from Mumbai.
Once the capital of Rattas, chieftains of Soundest in the 12th and 13th centuries, today it is a modern cantonment town. The ancient fort, oval shaped stone structure encloses an area about 40 hectares and has two gates. Mahatma Gandhi was once imprisoned here. Outside the fort gate, to the left, is the colourful local cattle market. The Masjid-Sata mosque dating back to the 16th century and the two interesting Jain Temples, one with an extremely intricate roof and the other with some fine carvings of musicians are worth a visit. Belgium's watch tower, on Ganapath Galli in the town center, provides a panorama of the flat countryside and distance hills. Sunset Point, on the old racetrack road, also offers fine views.
