King's Balance - Historical place in Hampi, Nimbapura - Ballari, India

The King's Balance in Hampi is a fascinating historical relic steeped in legend and significance. Its simple yet evocative structure tells tales of the past, where kings once utilized this balance to weigh themselves against precious goods, symbolizing their offerings to the divine. This ritualistic practice adds an intriguing layer to its historical value. Though modest in size, its historical significance and the stories it embodies make it a compelling stop for history enthusiasts and those seeking to unravel the intriguing customs of ancient Indian rulers. Standing in its presence, one can almost feel the weight of the past and appreciate the cultural richness of Hampi.

The King's Balance in Hampi is a historic site believed to have been used for weighing the king against precious metals, which were then distributed to the poor. It's an intriguing piece of Vijayanagara architecture, featuring two carved granite pillars with a balance beam. The location holds historical and cultural significance, offering a glimpse into the past

This structure present so close to Vijay Vittala Temple is standing tall telling stories of the glorious times of Vijayanagara Empire when the king used to donate precious stones, gold ornaments & ruby stones for the temple during festivals balancing himself against the wealth. Even now you can see the inscriptions over here and the top end of the balance..

King's Balance or Raja Tula Bhara King's Balance is an ancient 15th-century weighing scaled which was used to weigh the king with the royal jewels every year on special occasions. This is a single stone pillar frame just outside the shree Vijaya Vitthal Mandir complex. One can find a way to Virupsksha mandir if you take the riverside walking road and experience a lot other stunning temples Achyutraya temple, Purandarsa Mantapa, Sugreeva Caves, Seeta Seragu, Vridavan, Ancient Stone Bridge, Yantrodharak hanuman temple, Lord Vishnu temple, Lord Rama Temple on the way and will reach to Virupaksh Temple. The monument remains as an amazing example of the glorious days of the Vijayanagara Empire.After centuries, these pillars are still standing tall. vijyngr saamraajyaacaa vaibhvshaalii itihaas.. hNpii tulaa bhaar /tulaa purussdaan Must Visit place.

This whole area is good to visit. You will see many things inside this place. Also go for coracle ride which is very near to this place. That is also cheaper than any other place.

Beyond this gate, further to north is a huge stone balance, a structure meant for weighing the king against precious gems and metals during important occasions like the birthdays and auspicious days like, festive days, Solar and Lunar eclipses and is either gifted to the temple or to the people which is known as Tulapurusha dana. The Balance consists of two lofty carved granite pillars that support a cross beam that has a sala sikhara structure in the middle. One of the pillars has a bas relief depicting a king and two queens, possibly Krishnadevaraya and his queens.

This is rock pillar frame just outside the Vitthal Mandir complex. You will find it on the way to Virupsksha mandir if you take the riverside walking road. After centuries, these pillars are still standing tall, hence the name. If you take the long road on foot from here along the riverside you can reach Virupaksha mandir and see a lot other stunning temples on the way.

The King's Balance also known is located to the south-west of Vittala temple. The structure is five meters tall and is like an archway, carved from stone. It is believed that, on ceremonious occasions like lunar and solar eclipses and Dussera, the King was weighed against gold, jewels and precious stones, which was then distributed to the temple priest. If you keep walking beyond this point you will find Sugriva cave, Rishimukh hill, Kodandarama temple and beyond this will lead back to Virupaksha temple.