Lotus Mahal

Overview of Lotus Mahal

The Lotus Mahal in Hampi is one of the finest of the Vijayanagar Era. The architectural supremacy can be witnessed through the lotus-shaped structure. The unique building is located in the Zenana Enclosure, a separate area where only royal women of the Kingdom can access. The glorious historic structure is also known as the Chitragani Mahal and Kamal Mahal. The Lotus Temple falls amongst the lucky structures of Hampi which weren’t destroyed during the downfall of the Empire.

The preserved and remarkable designs make as one of the top places to visit in Hampi. 

Brief History of Lotus Mahal

The phenomenal tourist spot in Hampi was constructed within the premises of Zenana Enclosure. It was built for serving multipurpose to the royal families of the Vijayanagar Kingdom. The structure was especially designed for the royal women of the Kingdom. Ladies of the Empire could spend their leisure timings into indulging with lavish recreational activities. Although the Palace was for dedicated to the Royal women, the Mahal was the venue for several meetings between King and his ministers.

Even, in the map of 18th Century, Lotus Mahal was marked as Council Chamber. The multipurpose, exquisite beauty is a must-see in Hampi tour package. The Palace also held cultural programs within it.

The architecture of Lotus Mahal

The name suggests the architectural structure of the Palace. The passages and balcony of the Lotus Palace are covered with a dome, which resembles the Kamal Mahal with open buds of a lotus flower. The overall construction of the structure is a mixed bag of Indian and Islamic styles of architecture. The double storied building has the curves of Islamic style whereas several layered roofs are of Indo architecture. The tourist spot is a perfect symmetrical palace.

There are 24 pillars to hold the arched windows which give the shape of pyramidal influenced lotus structure. Amongst many spots in Hampi tourism, the Lotus Palace has the best-preserved carvings within the walls and pillars. You’ll astonish to witness the best works of birds, sea creatures, and similar patterns on the stones. Lotus Mahal is one of the apt places to showcase the top-class Indian architecture.