Lotus Mahal

#365dayschallenge #portrait #cultureofindia #pindleindia #pindlemedinipur #Thenuclear_11 #365dayschallenge #saikathazra_photography #365dayschallenge #streetphotography #karnatak Quick Facts about Lotus Mahal Timing: Open on all days of the week from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry fee for adults: INR. 10 for Indians and INR 250 for foreign tourists Entry fee for children: Entry is free for children under 15 years Photography: Allowed (no extra charges levied) Visit duration: 2 hours approximately Best time to visit: From November to February Architecture of the Lotus Mahal, Hampi As the name given to the palace is because of the shape it resembles. The balcony and the passages covered with a dome that looks like an opened lotus bud. The central dome is also carved as a lotus bud. The curves of the palace are given an Islamic touch while the multi-layered roof design is moreover related to Indo style of buildings. The style and designs is an inquisitive blend of Islamic and Indian way of architecture. The palace is a two-storied building, well-structured symmetrically. It is surrounded by a rectangular wall and four towers. These towers are also in pyramidal shape giving a lotus-like structure visual. Around 24 pillars are present to support the arched windows and balcony of the palace. The walls and pillars are carved beautifully with patterns like sea creatures and birds History of Lotus Mahal, Hampi The Lotus Mahal was a part of Zenana enclosure, a place where royal families of Vijayanagara Empire resided. Lotus Mahal designed as a palace for royal ladies of those times to mingle around and enjoy recreational activities. The Mahal also served as a meeting point for the king and his ministers. This place is also referred to as a council chamber in the maps found in History It is said that the Queen of Krishna Deva Raya used to spend most of the time seeking pleasure and peace in the palace. The palace also served as a meeting point for the king and his ministers. Kamal Mahal is also referred to as a council chamber in the maps found in 18th century. Kamal Mahal and Chitrangini Mahal are the other names by which it was known earlier. Several musical concerts and other recreation activities were held at this place.