This is the famous Stone Chariot at the Vitthala temple in Hampi, North Karnataka, built in the fifteenth century. Its stone wheels are capable of revolving. Often temple chariots are mobile reproductions of a temple. The stone chariot here is in turn a static version of the mobile temple chariot.
About Stone Chariot :
The stone chariot is within the Vijayavitthala temple complex which is an icon by itself and demands special mention. The structure is an unbelievable form of stone chiseling that describes the beauty of this wonderful man-made piece of art. Situated to the east of the hall, Stone chariot has stone wheels which some believe actually rotate. In front of the shrine stands the great Mantapa. Resting on a richly sculpted basement, its roof is supported by huge pillars of granite, about 15 feet in height, each consisting of a central pillar surrounded by detached shafts, all cut from one single block of stone in which the idols of the temple are taken out on a traditional procession.
Attractions Of Stone Chariot In Karnataka :
At Hampi, the stone chariot located in the Vittala Temple Complex is a shrine built in the form of temple chariot. An image of Garuda was originally enshrined within its sanctum. Garuda, according to the Hindu mythology, is the vehicle of lord Vishnu.
The chariot built with many giant granite blocks. The joints of the blocks are smartly hidden in the carvings that adorn the Stone Chariot and due to this it appears as a monolithic structure. It is built on a feet high rectangular platform. All around this base platform is carved with mythical battle scenes. The four giant stone wheels attached to the chariot look complete with the axis shafts. On the wheels are concentric floral motifs.
In front of the chariot two elephants are positioned as if they are pulling the chariot. These elephants where later additions to the chariot and they actually replaced two horses that were carved in that position. The tails and the rear legs of the horses can be still seen just behind these elephant sculptures. A broken stone ladder once gave access to the sanctum is kept between the elephants.
Stone Chariot History :
Built by King Krishna Deva Raya in 1563 AD, the chariot was used for taking out traditional procession of the idols of gods.
Stone Chariot Local Info :
Some important telephone numbers, Contact details: Http://Www.Hampi.In/, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC), Main Hampi Bazaar area, Tel: 08394-241339. Department of Tourism Info Counter, Government of Karnataka, Hampi Bazaar, Hampi, Tel: 08394-241339.
Accommodation: The attraction at Hampi does not have many big hotels close by except for a few small and medium budget accommodations, lodges, guest houses and rooms. Tourists and visitors prefer to make Hospet (13 km) as their base for better staying facilities and comforts.
How To Reach Stone Chariot :
Getting around in Hampi is not that tough, and you can hire auto rickshaws and private taxis. Check with your hotel reception, though, for rates and fare methods. Public buses are also available, though you could avoid them if necessary. The best way to explore the city is on foot or to hire a bicycle or moped or scooter.