The stone chariot of the Vittala Temple and the temple’s musical pillars may be the most recognisable architectural structures in Hampi, but they are far from being the only ones. On the banks of the River Tungabhadra, Hampi is home to many Jain and Hindu temples, aqueducts, and the Royal Enclosure, which spans 59,000 square meters. This was once the home of the Vijayanagara King and his Queens. Today the enclosure lies largely in ruins but still speaks loudly of the life it once contained.
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The Story of Hampi
Hampi rose into prominence in the early 14th century when the Kampili Kings rose to power. In 1327, the kingdom was attacked by Muhammad-bin-Tughluq, who took two brothers, Bukka and Harihara, as prisoners along with thousands of other people. These brothers tricked the Sultan into setting them free, then returned to Kampili to set up a kingdom of their own, with its capital at Vijayanagara. Thus, Harihara I and Bukka I of the Sangama dynasty founded the Vijayanagara Empire in 1336.
The Sangama dynasty was followed by the Saluvas and the Tuluvas, each of whom added to Vijayanagara’s architectural beauty. King Krishnadevaraya built many prominent temples and architectural features of Hampi under his patronage in the early 16th century. After his death, the Vijayanagara kingdom began its decline, and the city was rediscovered only in the 1800s as Hampi.
The Royal Enclosure and its Architecture
The royal enclosure in Hampi was the Vijayanagara kingdom’s seat of power. At its height, it housed as many as 45 buildings, including durbar halls, platforms, tanks, underground chambers, and temples. The Royal Enclosure has three entrances: two in the north and one in the west.
The enclosure’s architecture reflects the Vijayanagara style, with traces of Mughal influence. As with all the other features constructed by the Vijayanagara kings, the Royal Enclosure makes ample use of granite and soapstone. All the palaces face the east or the north and were built on raised granite platforms. These platforms feature multiple tiers and are decorated with carved details of flowers, geese, demon faces, elephants and human figures.
Though the palaces may no longer stand, archaeological remains from the site suggest they used wooden beams and rafters. Domed structures were built with a stone rubble-and-mortar mixture. The watchtowers, elephant stables, and Lotus Mahal are examples of Islamic influence on this style of architecture.
Things You Shouldn’t Miss
The Royal Enclosure of Hampi has often been compared to an open-air museum. Beyond giving visitors a glimpse into life under the Vijayanagara rulers, it also showcases the era’s architectural excellence and the destruction the city witnessed after the decline of the Vijayanagara kings. Some of the most impressive structures here are:
The Mahanavami Dibba
This 3-tiered, 8-meter-high platform is the only structure that still stands as it did centuries ago. It stands in the northeast section of the enclosure and has flights of stairs leading up on the east, west, and southern faces. Each tier of the platform features intricately sculpted mouldings depicting everyday life of the time. As the name suggests, the platform was used during Navami celebrations, and the remaining pillar bases indicate that a pavilion once stood in the centre.
The Aqueduct
Within the royal enclosure, the aqueduct networks of stone ‘pipes’ connect over 20 wells and ponds. A large section of the aqueduct has been restored, and some sections deliver water even today. Bukka’s Aqueduct towards the north of the river is the most significant amongst them.
Stepped Tank
Discovered in 1985, the stepped tank is considered one of the most well-preserved structures in the Royal Enclosure. This 5-tiered tank covers an area of 22 square meters and has a depth of 7 meters. Two other significant bathing pavilions in the Royal Enclosure are the Octagonal Bath and the Queen’s Bath.
Hazara Rama Temple
This is the only temple in the Royal Enclosure. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. Bas-reliefs on the temple walls depict the Ramayana and are considered among the most extensive reliefs in India.
The Underground Chamber
This chamber lies between the Durbar Hall and the Stepped Tank and features independent entry and exit routes. It is believed that the Vijayanagara rulers held important discussions with their trusted aides in this chamber.
Durbar Hall
Also known as the King’s audience hall or the 100-pillared hall. Remnants of a stone staircase suggest it may have been a two-storied structure. It is believed to have been made of wood and destroyed in a fire in 1565 AD.
Present Condition of the Royal Enclosure
Today, only the stone platforms remain to mark where palaces and buildings once stood. Since many structures were made of wood, this area seems to have been easier to destroy than other parts of Hampi with complete stone structures. Though it may look empty at first glance, a closer look reveals many interesting relics and details.
How to Reach the Royal Enclosure
Set aside plenty of time when visiting the Royal Enclosure. Hiring a cycle within the enclosure can save time and make the experience more enjoyable. The enclosure is open 7 days a week from 9 am to 5.30 pm. Visitors are recommended to wear comfortable footwear and carry plenty of drinking water.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jindal Vijaynagar Airport (VDY) at Toranagallu, about 35 km from Hampi, served by Alliance Air and Star Air with flights to Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Ballari’s own airport has no scheduled passenger flights. For wider connectivity, Hubballi Airport (about 165 km) and Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru (about 350 km) are the practical alternatives.
By Rail
The closest railway station to the Royal Enclosure is situated at Hosapete. This is 10 km from Hampi and can be reached by bus or car.
By Road
Several buses run regularly between Hampi and other cities across Karnataka. Private taxis are also available on hire from Major cities like Mysore and Bengaluru.
