Located inside the Zanana enclosure which was the secluded enclosure where the women of the kingdom of Vijayanagar resided, it is the highlight of that part of the ruins. The architecture is a pleasant departure from the other structures you get to see at Hampi, which is a mix of both Hindu and Islamic architecture style, The archways and the balcony with the domed construction resemble a half opened lotus bud and the lotus bud shape carved on to the centre dome as well.
This is also one of the very few buildings that have the plaster intact though it is defaced at several places due to wear and tear, especially; the dampness on the walls is very visible. The intricate carvings on the pillar arches are fine examples of masonry and have tremendous detailing in the artwork. The building is considered to be the socializing area of the women folk in the royal family.
It also has pipes with running water. The entire monument is surrounded by a fortifying wall which is rectangular in plan. The four corners of the fortifications have watch towers that would have been used to keep an eye on the intruders into the Women’s’ chambers. It is also believed that the Lotus Mahal or Lotus Palace was air-cooled and maintained its temperature during summer. The proof of this can be seen in the pipeline work above and between the arches.
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