The palace was built after the original fort was destroyed during the 1757 battle between the Raja of Bobbili and the French-supported Raja of Vizianagaram.
The family of the Raja of Bobbili is of the Velama caste and claims descent from the ancient rulers of the region.
The town of Bobbili is historically renowned for its veena makers, specifically the Bobbili Veena, which is often associated with the patronage of the palace.
The current palace replaced the older mud-walled fort, reflecting the transition to more permanent masonry structures in the region during the British era.
Bobbili Kota is the 19th-century residential palace of the Rajas of Bobbili, constructed following the relocation of the capital after the 1757 Battle of Bobbili. The architecture reflects a fusion of Indo-Saracenic and European styles, featuring expansive courtyards and large halls. It serves as a living piece of history, as it remains the seat of the current royal family. The structure is built using stone and mortar, showcasing traditional craftsmanship of the Vijayanagaram district. It is closely linked to the history of the Bobbili Samsthanam and the famous Battle of Bobbili, which defines the regional identity of the area. The site is a heritage landmark maintained by the descendants of the original rulers.
The main entrance gateway and the front facade featuring the distinctive Indo-Saracenic arches.
Since the palace is a private residence, visitors should remain in publically accessible areas and respect the privacy of the royal family.
Engage with locals in the town to understand the specific historical context of the 1757 battle, which is essential to appreciating the location.
Combine your visit with a search for local artisans practicing the traditional Bobbili Veena craft.
Attempting to enter private residential sections of the palace that are not designated for public viewing.
Maintain a respectful distance from private living quarters; standard conservative attire is recommended for a historical site.
