Sanapur Lake formed by an irrigation reservoir is a great excursion point from Hampi. The natural lake with stunning boulder hills all around makes the theme of this locale.
The road you'll take to reach Sanapur Lake will wind through paddy and banana plantations , before it wiggles around massive boulders precariously overhanging onto the road. Drive to Sanapur Lake and the ambient around the lake has character, you'll savour.
The Royal Enclosure in Hampi is one of the interesting ruins of Hampi. The huge fortified area was once the centre of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Royal Enclosure, as the name indicates, was the place where the King of the Vijayanagara Empire lived and ruled from. This area was secured by double walls.
The Royal Enclosure is spread over 59,000 square metres. It is believed that the complex once housed as many as 43 buildings, all for the use of the royal family. Now, the area has only ruins of several palace bases, water tanks, temple, ornate platform, aqueducts and canals, exquisitely carved doorways and many other structures.
The Royal Enclosure comprised some of the most wonderful edifices of the Vijayanagara era. Like the other structures of that period, these constructions show abundant use of stones and artwork on them. The enclosure was one of those areas in Hampi that have witnessed the maximum destruction. Even then, the ruins within the enclosure succeed to provide glimpses of the splendor of the royal life of the Vijayanagara dynasty.
Few remarkable structures within the Royal Enclosure are:
- The Mahanavami Dibba is one of the most noteworthy structures found among the ruins in Hampi. It is a pyramidal platform that was vital to the Dasara celebrations observed during the Vijayanagara Empire. The main attraction of the high platform is its decorative carvings of elephants, horses, soldiers and stately processions.
- The King’s Audience Hall is a huge structure that was used for hearings by the King. The hall comprises the remnants of 100 pillar-sockets and therefore, is also known as the 100 Pillared Hall.
- The Stepped Tank is an elaborate tank which was used for ceremonial purposes of the royal household. The decorative structure has an area of 22 square meters and a depth of 7 meters. It is a 5 tiered tank and each tier comprises a few steps. The tank now stores rainwater.
- The Underground Chamber is one of the most interesting structures that exist in the Royal Enclosure. It is believed to be a secret chamber where the king held important meetings and discussions with his trusted aides.
- The Public Bath is an enormous pool. It is connected to the main aqueduct that runs through the Royal Enclosure. The watercourse used to provide the pool with fresh water during the days of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is believed that the pool was open for use by the common people as well as for organizing water sports.
- The Royal Enclosure in Hampi has suffered the maximum damage. The open air museum that is scattered with relics from history. The Archaeological Survey of India has renovated some buildings but even in its ruined form it is one of the most interesting spots to visit in Hampi.
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, as 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.
- A tranquil spot perfect for relaxation.
- Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the outskirts of the river.
- Some spots are safe for swimming but check with locals first.
- Cliff-Jumping spots for the brave.
- Coracle rides available.
- A quiet spot with few visitors.
- Located amidst stunning bouldered landscapes.
- A beautiful place to enjoy the sunrise or sunset.
- No restaurants or shops nearby.
- Sometimes locals are selling cold beers or refreshments.
Sanapur Lake, Hampi is located in Virupapur Gadde, otherwise known as Hippie Island. To reach here from mainland Hampi, you must take a short 5-minute boat journey across the river.
The first boat to leave is at around 7 am, and the last is at 5.30 pm. The journey should cost no more than 50 INR/pax each way.
Once you’ve reached the other side, the easiest way to reach the lake is to rent a scooter or bicycle. The distance is approximately 4km.
