Hampi srikrishna devaraya darbar.
The royal enclosure in Hampi was the Vijayanagara kingdom’s seat of power. In its prime, it housed as many as 45 buildings including the durbar halls, platform, tanks, underground chambers, and temples. There are three entrances to the Royal Enclosure; two in the north and one in the west.

The architectural style of this enclosure is symbolic of the Vijayanagara style of architecture with traces of Mughal influence. As with all the other features constructed by the Vijayanagara kings, the Royal Enclosure makes ample use of granite and soapstone. All the palaces face the east or the north and were built on raised granite platforms. These platforms feature multiple tiers and are decorated with carved details of flowers, geese, demon faces, elephants and human figures. Though the palaces themselves may not stand today, ask recovered from the site suggests that they used wooden beams and rafters. Domed structures were built with a stone rubble and mortar mixture. The watch towers, elephant stables, and Lotus Mahal are examples of the Islamic influence to this style of architecture


The Royal Enclosure of Hampi has often been compared to an open air museum. Apart from giving the visitor a glimpse into what life was like under the Vijayanagara rulers, it also showcases the architectural excellence of the era and the level of destruction the city witnessed after the decline of the Vijayanagara kings. Some of the most impressive structures here are:

The Mahanavami Dibba

This 3 tiered 8 meter high platform is the only structure that still stands as it did centuries ago. It stands in the northeast section of the enclosure and has a flight of stairs leading up on the east, west and southern face. Each tier of the platform features intricately sculpted moldings that depict the everyday life of that time. As the name suggests, the platform was used during the Navami celebrations and remains of pillar bases indicate that a pavilion once stood in the center.

The Aqueduct

Within the royal enclosure the aqueduct networks of stone ‘pipes’ connect over 20 wells and ponds. A large section of the aqueduct has been restored and some sections deliver water even today. Bukka’s Aqueduct towards the north of the river is the most significant amongst them.

Stepped Tank

Discovered in 1985, the stepped tank is considered one of the most well-preserved structures in the Royal Enclosure. This is a 5 tiered tank that covers an area of 22 square meters and has a depth of 7 meters. Two other significant bathing pavilions in the Royal Enclosure are the Octagonal Bath and the Queen’s bath.

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Basement of Queen’s Palace, Lotus Mahal, Hampi. Copyright Karnataka.com

Hazara Rama Temple

This is the only temple in the Royal Enclosure. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. Bas relics on the walls of the temple depict the Ramayana and are considered the most extensive relics from all over India.


Sri Krishnadevaraya was not killed by anybody, and died naturally. He was very powerful king and he won Kalinga which was very difficult as Ashoka . His kingdom and his administration was even stronger than Mughal Sultanat. In his forces there were army of about 8 lakh soldiers.