Elephant Stables
Ancient Indo-Islamic stables that housed royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire, showcasing remarkable architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Elephant Stables
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient Indo-Islamic stables that housed royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire, showcasing remarkable architecture.
"An impressive structure that was used to provide shelter for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire."
📸 Photography Paradise
Great spot for photography, especially during golden hours.
💰 Entry Fee
A small entry fee is charged, with higher fees for foreigners.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indo-Islamic Architecture
Admire the unique blend of Indian temple and Islamic styles in the 11 domed chambers.
Royal Elephant Chambers
Visualize where the majestic royal elephants were housed, noting the hooks and access points.
Central Domed Hall
The largest and most decorated dome, showcasing temple-like influences.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Photos
Understand the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photography Paradise
Great spot for photography, especially during golden hours.
💰 Entry Fee
A small entry fee is charged, with higher fees for foreigners.
🚶♂️ Explore with Ease
Allow about an hour to explore the stables and appreciate the details.
🎒 Guard Your Belongings
Be mindful of your personal belongings due to crowds.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photography Paradise
Great spot for photography, especially during golden hours.
💰 Entry Fee
A small entry fee is charged, with higher fees for foreigners.
🚶♂️ Explore with Ease
Allow about an hour to explore the stables and appreciate the details.
🎒 Guard Your Belongings
Be mindful of your personal belongings due to crowds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Elephant Stables an impressive and well-preserved historical structure, showcasing the unique Indo-Islamic architecture of the Vijayanagara Empire. The sheer scale of the domed chambers and the glimpse into royal life are highlights, though crowds can be a concern.
"It is an impressive structure that was used to provide shelter for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is in excellent condition that has survived through the years. The elaborate structure indicates the importance attached to the royal elephants during those days. It also suggests towards the amazing craftsmanship of the artisans of that era. Lots of people here, careful with personal belongings. Toilets available. Fee charged for entry. Higher fees for foreigners. Great place for photography."
s vivekananda
"Visited Feb 2025.
One of the few structures that survived more or less intact. Has room for 11 elephants - domed tall chambers, some of them inter- connected.. The lower (inside) side of each of the 11 domes are unique.
Quote:
The tower of the central hall resembles (though mostly destroyed) more like that of temples. However the five pairs of domes on either side are of Islamic in style. They are better preserved and of alternating patterns.
Metal hooks (used to tie the elephants) on the inside roof can be seen. At the rear of each hall are small manhole type openings for the mahouts to enter the elephant compartments."
Gajanan Rao
"I really enjoyed visiting the Elephant Stable in Hampi! 🐘 It’s a cool historical site built to house the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. The architecture is a mix of Indian and Islamic styles, and the 11 large chambers are pretty amazing. 🏰 The central dome is the biggest and most beautiful. Even though the building shows some wear from time, it’s still in good shape and a great place to explore. 🕰️ I spent around an hour here, and it was peaceful and interesting. ✨"
Amey Joshi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Elephant Stables are located just outside the Zenana Enclosure in Hampi. You can reach Hampi by train to Hospet, then hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to the site. Many visitors opt for auto-rickshaws for local exploration.
Yes, the Elephant Stables are a well-known attraction and are usually signposted. They are often visited as part of a broader tour of Hampi's historical sites.
Hiring an auto-rickshaw for the day is a popular and convenient way to explore Hampi's various attractions, including the Elephant Stables.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entry fee to visit the Elephant Stables, with different rates for Indian nationals and foreigners.
The Elephant Stables are typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. It's always a good idea to confirm current timings upon arrival.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site, and advance booking is generally not required for the Elephant Stables.
Yes, photography and videography are permitted inside the Elephant Stables.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around an hour exploring the Elephant Stables, allowing time to admire the architecture and imagine its past.
Yes, restrooms are available at the site for visitors.
The Elephant Stables feature a distinctive Indo-Islamic architectural style, with a blend of Indian temple influences in the central dome and Islamic styles in the surrounding domes.
The Elephant Stables were built in the 15th century to house the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire.
While official guided tours might not always be present, local guides are often available for hire at Hampi's main sites, including the Elephant Stables, to provide historical context.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – for soft, flattering light and fewer crowds.
Focus on the intricate details of the domes, the grand central hall, and the unique Indo-Islamic architectural elements. The exterior shots during sunrise or sunset are also stunning.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always wise to be respectful of the site and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Bring water and snacks, as facilities can be basic. The entry fee is nominal, making it a budget-friendly addition to your Hampi itinerary. Consider making it part of a larger exploration of the Zenana Enclosure to keep the visit varied.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Key shots include the symmetrical rows of domes, the central ornate dome, and details like the interior hooks. Be prepared for crowds during peak times, so arriving early or staying late can yield more unobstructed shots.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Lovers
Take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship, the scale of the chambers, and the historical significance of the structure. Reading up on the Vijayanagara Empire beforehand can greatly enhance your understanding and appreciation of this remarkable monument.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: Indo-Islamic Fusion
The surrounding ten domes, however, showcase a more distinctly Islamic influence, with their alternating patterns and elegant forms. Inside, visitors can still spot metal hooks on the roof, once used to tether the elephants, and small openings that allowed mahouts access to the compartments. This intricate design highlights the importance placed on the royal elephants and the advanced engineering capabilities of the time.
The preservation of the Elephant Stables is remarkable, allowing visitors to step back in time and visualize the grandeur of the Vijayanagara court. It's a site that truly sparks the imagination, offering a tangible connection to a rich historical past.
A Glimpse into Royal Life
Imagine the scene centuries ago: these magnificent creatures, adorned for royal events, being led into their spacious, domed enclosures. The structure's location, just outside the Zenana Enclosure (women's quarters), also hints at its integration into the royal complex. It offers a unique perspective on the daily lives of royalty and their prized animals.
Visiting the Elephant Stables provides a powerful visual narrative of this historical period. It’s a place where history comes alive, allowing you to connect with the stories of emperors, their elephants, and the skilled artisans who built such enduring monuments.
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