Zenana Enclosure

About Zenana Enclosure

If you are looking for top places to visit in Hampi, then the Zenana Enclosure is one of them. The place is one of the main attractions of Hampi tourism, and the area was reserved and protected for the female members of the royal family of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is located quite close to the start of the Royal Enclosure, and the Ranga Temple is also situated nearby.

The architecture of Zenana Enclosure

The architecture of the Zenana Enclosure is mainly Indo-Islamic, and the building style is definitely unique to the other structures present in Hampi that were constructed during the Vijayanagara Empire.

Main Attractions of Zenana Enclosure

In any Hampi Tour Package, you will be directed to these attractions-

Lotus Mahal – The place is well known for boasting the beautiful and magnificent Lotus Mahal. The structure is dome-shaped and is mainly designed with a resemblance to the bud of a lotus. From a distance, it looks like a partially opened lotus bud. There are two stories present in the Lotus Mahal. It has somehow survived the Mughal attacks in Hampi.

The basement of Queen’s Palace – The structure has been entirely ruined at present, except for the basement. The palace base is the biggest among the ones located in Hampi so far, and Zenana Enclosure has this basement in the center. Even though there are no ways to tell at present, it is guessed that the original undamaged structure was massively grand.

Water Pavilion – The place has Water pavilion in the east. This structure is a beautifully decorated platform located in the middle of a pool. The spot is entirely in ruins now. Nevertheless, it still attracts lots of visitors.

Treasury Building – This structure is in the north-west part of the Zenana Enclosure. The building looks very simple at present, and it is suggested that the insides had the quarters which belonged to the eunuchs, the guards of the Enclosure. Strangely, there are no windows or openings inside.

Watch Towers – The Zenana Enclosure has three Watch Towers in three corners. The towers can be accessed by stairs and provide a beautiful view from the top. It is believed that the royal ceremonies were witnessed from the top of these towers.