Lotus Mahal

Lotus Mahal, also known as Kamal Mahal or Chitrangini Mahal, is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic architecture in Hampi. This two-story structure was built as a royal retreat and is believed to have been used by the queens of the Vijayanagara Empire. The building gets its name from the lotus-like dome that crowns the structure. The architecture features a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, with arched windows, balconies, and decorative elements. The building is surrounded by a high compound wall and was part of the Zenana Enclosure, the women's quarters of the royal palace. The Lotus Mahal is one of the few structures in Hampi that survived the destruction of the city relatively intact, making it a significant example of the architectural heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire.