Elephant Stables, Hospet

Among the popular landmarks of Hospet, few of the favorites among the tourist include Lotus Mahal, Hazara Rama Temple Complex, Vithala Temple and Elephant Stables. This write-up is going to focus on the Elephant Stables in Hospet and try to bring out its beauty.

Back in the day, the Elephant Stable was used as an enclosure for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. The enclosure had eleven domed chambers with small openings on the sides. It is believed that the state elephants were housed in these rooms and the tiny gateway was used by the keeper (mahout) of the elephant to enter or exit the space.

Let’s uncover the beauty of the Elephant Stables.

Keynote on Elephant Stables, Hospet

Address: Near Zenana Enclosure and Lotus Mahal, Hampi – 583239

Type of monument: Animal stable

Architectural style: Indo-Islamic architecture 

Opening time: 8.30 am – 5.30 pm

Entry Fee: 500 INR (Free for children below 15 years)

Visit Duration: One hour

Best time to visit: November and February is suitable for the trip 

How to Reach: Hampi is a popular tourist destination, frequently visited by visitors. The Elephant Stables, Hospet is just a small walk from the Women’s quarters. It is one of the few buildings in Hampi that require tickets to enter.

Overview of the Elephant Stables, Hospet

The massive Elephant Stables of Hospet are located close to the women’s quarters (zenana). Stables were once used for housing royal elephants, and these structures were beautifully decorated. Surrounded by peaceful well-manicured lawns, the place feels like a haven amidst in the arid landscape.

One of the major attractions of the Hampi ruins, the Hospet Elephant Stables is a major tourist spot. The entire stable has a chain of domed chambers, few of which are interconnected. The central chamber was probably used by the musicians and their band troupes during occasions where elephants were involved.

The entire building followed a symmetrical pattern, with respect to the central hall, and had a tower resembling the shikhara of a temple. Complementary domes on the on either side of the tower is an interesting feature taken from the Islamic architecture.

History of the Hospet Elephant Stables

According to historians, this monument was constructed in the mid of 15th century. Used to house the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire, the place was once elaborately decorated and had a separate chamber for musicians and their troupes.      

The Architecture of Elephant Stables

One of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture, the place is a stark contrast to the other buildings of the Hampi ruins. The monument is built on a rectangular shape platform and had close to eleven domed chambers. These chambers, big enough to house two adult elephants, had metallic hooks attached to their walls and roof and were probably used to keep the elephants. Smaller entrances were used by the keepers of the animals.

The central chamber, one of the most beautifully decorated rooms in the Elephant Stables, Hospet was mostly used by the musicians and their entourage. Usually, such musical troupe was hired for religious and state functions that required the presence of the elephants.

A hidden staircase connected the two levels of the building. From the viewing gallery of the building, the visitors could have a panoramic view of the entire complex.  

Usage of the Dome in the Structure

The distinct central dome sets the elephant stable apart from the rest of the monuments of Hampi. One of the largest domes of the building, the central dome resembles the spire of a temple found in the Dravidian architecture. The other domes, five on each side, were built in different shapes - ribbed, octagonal, drum-shaped, circular, and fluted. All the domes are symmetrical and were ornamented with ornate plaster.     

Things to Do at the Elephant Stables, Hospet

1. Exploring the marvelous architecture of the elephant stable

The trip to the Elephant Stables, Hospet is the highlight of several tourists coming to the Hampi. Although constructed almost six hundred years ago, this building is one of the most well-preserved monuments of the region. Apart from minor wear and tear, and structural damage to the central dome, the monument is still standing strong.

2. Checking out the other beautiful monuments of Hampi

Hampi, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to close to five hundred ancient monuments and temples – each with its fascinating history. Exploring these ruins is a pleasurable experience, and can enrich the visitors with knowledge. Some of the popular landmarks of Hampi near elephant stables are Watch Tower, Queen’s Bath, Lotus Mahal, and Vithala Temple.  
       

3. Taking stunning photographs

The Elephant Stables, Hospet is a beautiful place, suitable for stunning pictures amidst the gorgeous landscape.

Lastly, The Hampi ruins are some of the most fascinating tourist places of India. Surrounded by an arid and stony landscape, Hampi is a wonderful feat of architecture and engineering.

So, what are you waiting for? Head towards this fascinating destination, for experiencing the stunning beauty of these place.