The Domed Gateway is an ancient doorway situated in the town of Hampi. The huge entrance gateway is an interesting structure that attracts visitors’ attention. It is one of the well-preserved structures of Hampi and has managed to withstand the test of time and human destruction.
Quick Facts
- Timing: Open on all days of the week
- Photography: Allowed
- Visit duration: 30 minutes approximately
- Best time to visit: From November to February
Interesting Architecture of Domed Gateway, Hampi
The domed gateway is designed in the Islamic style of architecture. This sets the structure apart from most other structures in Hampi, as almost all of them represent the Vijayanagara style of architecture.
The sculptured doorway has well-crafted arches and a lovely huge dome. The dome provides the structure its name. The domed gateway has an adjoining guard’s room that was once used by royal guards of the Vijayanagara Empire to keep vigil near the Royal Centre.
An interesting fact to note is that the small guard’s room has an image of the Hindu deity Lord Hanuman carved on one of the walls.
The lost importance of the Domed Gateway, Hampi
The domed gateway is considered to be the main gateway to the Royal Centre at Hampi. It is the only surviving gateway structure to the citadel.
Today the gateway leads to no particular monument, but stands as a reminder of a glorious past. The size of the gateway and its location near the Royal Centre signifies the importance of the gateway during the days of the Vijayanagara Empire.
In fact, this rectangular shaped structure provides a break in the fortification that once encircled the ancient town. Even today visitors flock to the gateway to have a look at the beautiful structure.
How to reach Domed Gateway, Hampi
Though the Domed Gateway is situated near the Royal Centre of Hampi, the place is a bit difficult to access. This is due to the presence of a modern canal that is located nearby.
However, with a little patience and time, the gateway can be reached by anyone who wishes to have a close look at the large and significant structure from the past.
By Air
Hampi does not have an airport of its own. Ballary is the nearest town that has an airport. This means that visitors who wish to reach Hampi by air must take a flight to Bellary and then reach Hampi by means of local transport. Bellary is situated at a distance of about 64 km from the town of Hampi.
By Rail
Visitors wishing to reach Hampi by the rail network must get down at the nearest railway station that is located at Hosapete. The Hospet Junction Railway Station is located at a distance of about 10 km from Hampi.
The town of Hampi can be easily reached from Hospet through one of the frequent buses that commute between the two places. A few local means of transport is also available from Hospet to Hampi.
By Road
Hampi is well connected to many cities and towns by means of road network. The ancient town can be easily reached by bus service from several major towns and cities. Visitors can also hire private cabs and vehicles from cities like Bangalore or Mysore to reach Hampi.
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