Royal Enclosure
This fortified area had been the seat of power of the fallen empire. Sprawling over many hundreds square meters, Royal Enclosure is scattered with a number of interesting relics of the bygone era.
T
he most imposing structure in this area is the Mahanavami Dibba or the Dussehra Platform or the ‘House of Victory’King’s Audience Hall or the 100 Pillared Hall is located within the enclosure in the northwest area.
Stepped tank is located in the southeast area.
Adjacent to this is another tank used as a bathing area. Further at the southwest corner is another huge swimming pool style tank (now empty) is located.
The underground chamber is located somewhere between the King’s Audience hall and the Stepped Tank.
Horse trainer Apart from these the Royal enclosure area is doted with numerous relics of buildings, crisscrossing aqueducts supplying water to these water bodies etc. Practically the royal enclosure area is a wide-open ground with little shelters inside. A good amount of walking is required to move from one spot to another. Vehicles, including bicycles has to be parked outside this area. Try to visit in the evenings or early mornings, as you need at least an hour to roam in this area.
Admission is free and photography allowed. The road going towards east from the Underground Shiva temple finally makes a bifurcation, a left turn (towards north) would lead you to the Zenana Enclosure and the right turn (southward) take you to the Royal enclosure area. These localities are somewhat plane and are well connected with a network of roads (mostly dusty though).
Royal Center Map
Map of Hampi showing attractions in Royal Center Map like the Royal Enclosure,Lotus Mahal, Zenena Enclosure, Hazararama Temple, Queen's Bath, Basement of Palaces etc.