From temples to palaces, every structure was built with a deep understanding of wind flow, heat absorption, and local climate. Beauty wasn’t the only goal, comfort was too.
Take Hampi’s Lotus Mahal. It had narrow pipes running through the walls where water flowed, cooling the stone surfaces from within, like a natural refrigerant system.
Stepwells, like those in Gujarat and Rajasthan, weren’t just for water storage. Their depth, shade, and air channels made them 5–6°C cooler than the surface — ideal summer retreats.
In traditional homes like the Havelis of Rajasthan and Manduva Logilis of Andhra, open-to-sky courtyards acted as pressure zones. Warm air rose through the center, pulling in cooler air; perfect natural ventilation.
In temples at Halebidu and Belur, thick stone walls and deeply carved surfaces acted as thermal buffers, absorbing daytime heat and releasing it slowly, keeping the deep inner halls cool.
Material mattered. Locally sourced stone and clay were chosen not just for their looks, but also for their thermal properties: cool to touch, slow to heat, and naturally insulating.
Shade was built into the architecture of forts — projected roofs, pillared corridors, and covered walkways all blocked direct sunlight while allowing air to pass freely.
Palaces had vents at higher points and openings at lower levels, allowing warm air to escape and cooler air to flow in. It was passive, but effective air circulation.
These techniques weren’t random, they reflected deep ecological wisdom. Each region had its own version, tailored to its climate and resources.
Today, as heatwaves become the norm, these ancient ideas are resurfacing, as low-cost, eco-friendly ways to build sustainably in a warming world.