Lotus Mahal of Hospet
Listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hampi is one of the prime tourist attractions of India. Tour to Hampi is incomplete without exploring the magnificent Royal Centre and the numerous temples of this complex. In this write-up, we are going to focus on the Lotus Mahal in Hospet which is very close Hampi, the beautiful residential quarters of the queens and an important part of the Zenana Enclosure.Standing amidst the perfectly manicured lawns and skillfully carved pavilions – Lotus Mahal, Hospet – was an important recreational mansion for the royal ladies. Also referred to as Chitrangini Mahal, the write-up would help you in uncovering this beautiful palace.
Keynote on Lotus Mahal in Hospet
Address: State Highway 131, Hampi, Karnataka 583239
Type of monument: Summer residential quarters
Architectural style: Indo – Islamic architecture
Opening time: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: INR 500 (Extra charges for camera, entry to Lotus Mahal inclusive of the ticket to Vittala Temple)
Visit Duration: 2 hours
Best time to visit: November and February is suitable for the trip
How to Reach: The Lotus Mahal is easily accessible from different corners of Hampi. Visitors can board public transport, or rent bicycles to reach the venue.
Overview of the Lotus Mahal, Hospet
Used as a recreational palace, the Lotus Mahal was probably the summer quarter of the queen. However, the few historical documents reveal that there might be a possibility of the given palace being a military quarter. Built with brick and mortar, this mansion is one of the remaining secular buildings of Hampi. Interestingly, although signs of mutilation could be seen on the outer walls of the building, it is only one of the handfuls of buildings left unharmed during the siege of the Hampi.Due to the building’s domes resembling half-opened lotus buds the palace, a two-level structure, is also known as Kamal Mahal. The monument has an open base floor with tall sidewalls and arched windows. In the upper tier, you will find balconies with arched windows overlooking the perfectly manicured garden.
According to historians, there were beautiful fixtures that were used to hand curtains or place lamps during the night. The monument is a beautiful example of Hindu-Islamic architecture, with the best features of both styles that could be seen in the building.
During the night, the Lotus Mahal in Hospet is illuminated with serene lightings, making the place a beautiful sight.
History of Lotus Mahal
The Lotus Mahal was exclusively built for the queen and her ladies in waiting of the Vijaynagara Empire. Also, used for official meetings between the king and his ministers, the palace was an important quarter in the royal household. According to some historical documents, during the scorching summer months, the Lotus Mahal was used by the empress for recreational purposes.Music concerts and performances were held at the Kamal Mahal for the entertainment of the royals.
The Architecture of the Lotus Mahal
The domes of the structure resemble half-opened lotus buds, hence the name of the monument. The architecture of the Lotus Mahal has several interesting features of Indo-Islamic style like multi-layered roof design and elaborately detailed arches. The two-level building follows the symmetrical design. The walls of the building are decorated with floral and animal motifs.Considered as one of the most stylish stucco pavilions at Hampi, the first floor of the Lotus Mahal is a closed pavilion. Numerous windows with wooden shutters, an uncommon trait in the buildings of the time, on the upper planes allowed the light and ventilation. The roof of the palace has nine superstructures that look a lot like the Shikhara of the Hindu temples.
The delicate balance of the Hindu and Islamic architectural styles in the Lotus Mahal of Hospet is an appealing feature of the monument.
Things to Do at the Lotus Mahal
1. Marveling the beautiful architecture of the monument
The Lotus Mahal, Hospet is a beautiful building constructed in line with Indo-Islamic architecture. Beautiful architecture and charming ambiance of the monument showcases the feat of the artists belonging during the Vijaynagara Empire.
2. Exploring the nearby quarters
Although the Chitrangini Mahal is one of the important sections of the Zenana Quarters, it is not the only beautiful thing present here. The tour to the Zenana Quarters would not be complete without exploring the elephant stable and the nearby gardens.
3. Relaxing at the perfectly manicured lawns
A huge lawn encircles the beautiful structure of the Lotus Mahal, Hospet, enhancing the beauty of the monument. The lawn is the perfect place to click pictures of the monument. Also, after a hectic day touring the massive Hampi ruins, you can relax at the lawn for a while.
4. Cycling around the Lotus Mahal palace
You can hire twin bicycles, from the Virupaksha Temples, for cycling around the Lotus Mahal complex. During the evening, cycling around the palace complex is a pleasurable experience. Important Tips for Visitors
1. Littering and smoking in the complex is forbidden.2. You can hire a guide during the tour.
3. Sun is very harsh in these regions, so carrying adequate sun protection is important.
4. Stay hydrated to avoid, dehydration related issues.