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There are some places that instantly give you a feeling of déjà vu. It happened with us as soon as we entered the Royal Enclosure of Hampi and set our eyes upon the first structure — Mahanavami Dibba.
We had seen it somewhere. I tried to recollect and after a few seconds of pondering, my brain hit the bull’s eye!
We had seen it in the epic Indian film, Baahubali. Mahanavami Dibba almost mirrored the movie’s grand platform on which the king and his associates held assemblies for their people.
Interestingly, our tour guide informed us that director SS Rajamouli had paid a visit during his recce for the movie. What’s more fascinating, is to imagine how strong and prosperous the Vijayanagara kingdom might have been, who once lived and ruled from this very place.
Come, let me take you through a quick tour of Hampi’s Royal Enclosure in this article, its main attractions, things to know, and important travel tips.
Contents
Must-Visit Attractions Of Royal Enclosure, Hampi
The Royal Enclosure of Hampi, Karnataka, comprises the Vijayanagara emperor’s residing palaces and the kingdom’s main buildings spread across 59,000 square meters. This step-by-step guide will help you explore the place in the easiest and quickest way:
Step 1 – Check out Mahanavami Dibba
It’s best to start from here as you can exit at another point to visit the other places of Hampi. Mahanavami Dibba is an elevated granite platform on which the Vijayanagara king used to be seated to communicate with his audiences and witnessed various processions, including the Mahanavami festival celebrations.
Though the upper pavilion has been destroyed, it features a striking architecture with steps flanked by intricate carvings of elephants and other elements of a procession on a few panels. After admiring its stunning design, you can actually climb up to the top and imagine yourself to be the king for a minute. 😄
Step 2 – Visit Pushkarini (stepped tank)
Just a few meters away from Mahanavami Dibba is a gorgeous stepped tank called Pushkarini. Its symmetrical assortment of stairs culminating down to the water at the bottom is a sight to behold. We spent some time here just admiring the beauty of the tank. The endless open land surrounded by distant boulders also added to the charm of this site.
TWT Tip: I highly recommend exploring the Royal Enclosure with an official guide. Though there are signboards briefly explaining the history of each building, you can have a very insightful tour if you allow a tour guide to take you through the finer details.
Step 3 – Get intrigued by the underground chambers
After a short stroll, you will find a small opening on the ground that leads us to a dark, secret staircase. It goes all the way underground and ends at a small room that was apparently used to store the royal treasure. Fascinating, isn’t it?
Step 4 – Explore the remains of the other structures
As you walk further, you will spot several other lifeless platforms that were once the bases of the other parts of the kingdom. These include the palaces of the king, queen, meeting halls and broken sculptures of elephants. Unfortunately, they have all been heavily destroyed by foreign invaders during the downfall of Vijayanagara Empire. Nevertheless, you can sit here for a while and enjoy the sprawling boulder-studded vistas of Hampi.
Step 5 – Exit near the Hazara Rama Temple
Next, walk towards the exit located near the Hazara Rama Temple, which is one of the most exquisitely-designed temples in Hampi. This way, you can explore the temple as well right after coming out of the enclosure.
TWT Tip: If you’re looking for a clean washroom, you can walk up to Lotus Mahal, which is situated close to the Royal Enclosure. They are quite hygienic and very well maintained.
Right Time To Visit & Spend At Royal Enclosure, Hampi
As the Royal Enclosure is set in a large, outdoor land, it can be very sunny and exhausting if you visit in the afternoon. Hence, the best time to visit would be in the morning, soon after it opens at 6 am, or around 4 pm when the weather gets pleasant.
You will need at least an hour or two to fully explore the place, click your photographs and learn about its history.
How Can You Reach Royal Enclosure, Hampi?
Hampi’s Royal Enclosure is located close to the Hampi Bazaar Road and the area of Kamalapura. You will easily find taxis or autos from here. However, most hotels and resorts arrange for a private cab on request. Hospet has the closest rail connectivity to Hampi, while Bangalore has the nearest airport.
Places To Visit Near Royal Enclosure, Hampi
Some of the nearest places of Hampi that you can visit before or after your visit to Royal Enclosure are:
- Lotus Mahal
- Hazara Rama Temple
- Queen’s Bath
- Matanga Hill
- Virupaksha Temple
- Vijaya Vittala Temple
- Tungabhadra River banks
- Archeological Museum
TWT Experience Summary Of Royal Enclosure, Hampi
It was truly intriguing to witness the remains of one of the most powerful kingdoms of South India. However, the destroyed platforms made us wonder how magnificent the complete structures may have been. It was almost heartbreaking to see how much had been dilapidated. Nevertheless, it’s the perfect place to learn about Hampi’s royal past and give wings to your imagination, as you explore each structure of the Royal Enclosure.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
Entry: Free; INR 600 for foreigners
Location: Google maps
Frequently Asked Questions About Royal Enclosure, Hampi
1. What kind of architecture can be seen at the Royal Enclosure, Hampi?
Though Hampi’s Royal Enclosure was built in Dravidian architecture, today only a few platforms remain that formed the bases of the king’s palace and other chambers.
2. Is photography allowed at Hampi’s Royal Enclosure?
Photography is allowed at the Royal Enclosure and you won’t be charged any additional fee for carrying cameras here.
3. Does Royal Enclosure have any entry fee?
Entry to Royal Enclosure of Hampi is free for Indians and INR 600 for foreign visitors.
4. Can tour guides be hired at the Royal Enclosure?
Official tour guides of the Karnataka government are available at all the heritage sites of Hampi, including the Royal Enclosure.
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