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25 Unforgettable Places to Visit in Hampi

There are so many places to visit in Hampi that you could spend months here exploring them all. However, since most of us don’t have that much time on our hands, here’s bringing you the best places to see and things to do in Hampi that you can easily shortlist for a 3-4 days trip. In that duration, you’ll probably be able to see most of these sites at a fast pace. If you want to take it slower, just choose the ones you like the most based on the images of Hampi’s attractions and their history.

If you’re planning a trip to Hampi, you might also like to check out our detailed Hampi travel guide that not only has a solid itinerary covering the majority of the below mentioned Hampi tourist places but also tells you about how to get there, when to visit, where to stay and other tips.

Can’t travel there? Well, then just enjoy these photos of Hampi. Travelling virtually is all the rage in these times anyway.

The Best Temples in Hampi

There are a plethora of temples in Hampi of which 11 are mentioned overall in this blog post in different sections. In this particular section we are covering the major or unique temple complexes.

Vitthala Temple

Vitthala Temple is the grandest temple in Hampi and a must add to your list even if you’re visiting for just a day. Built in the 15th century, it is dedicated to Vittala, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple exemplifies the creativity and architectural excellence of the artisans and sculptors of the Vijayanagara empire. The highlights of this temple are The Stone Chariot (details below) and the musical pillars that when tapped produce musical notes. It’s a marvel that these single blocks of stone can emit perfect notes!

Pro-Tip: Visit the temple first thing in the morning (8:30 AM) to avoid the crowd. Also, hire a guide.

The Stone Chariot of Hampi

The stone chariot of Hampi is very popular not only because of its visual charm but also because it is featured on the INR 50 currency note. Swipe the Instagram post below to see what we are talking about.

That said, there is much to know about this iconic structure and slightly deceptive chariot.

• It is not a chariot but actually a shrine in the shape of one. The shrine is dedicated to Garuda, the vehicle of Lord Vishnu to whose incarnation the temple is dedicated.
• The chariot shrine might look like a carved monolith but it is actually built of large blocks of granite. The joints are smartly hidden in the carvings.
• It is inspired by the chariot shaped Konark Sun Temple in Orissa – a magnificent structure that the king of the empire was greatly impressed by. And so was I!

Fun Fact: There is a third famous chariot located in Mahabalipuram in Tamil Nadu!

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Hazara Rama Temple

Constructed in the 15th century, the Hazara Rama temple is the only temple located in the royal centre of Hampi. The temple, as the name suggests, is dedicated to Rama – an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The walls of this small temple have carved on them the story of the Hindu epic Ramayana in a comic strip form. These relics are among the most extensive ones to be found anywhere in India. Another highlight of the temple are the black marble pillars that are unlike any others in Hampi.

Virupaksha Temple

Located in the main Hampi area, Virupaksha temple is the most popular temple in Hampi. Why so? Well firstly, it is the only working temple in Hampi. Secondly, it is a 7th-century temple so it is the oldest known temple in Hampi. And lastly, it is also home to a cute elephant called Lakshmi that gives blessings (pictured below).

The main things to see in the temple are the 11 storeyed golden gopuram, the inner courtyard, vegetable paint paintings on the roof of the main temple, a hole in a chamber that works like a pinhole camera casting the shadow of the gopuram on a wall, the serene well (or kund), and also monkeys and squirrels.

Pro-Tip : To see Lakshmi being bathed you can visit the Tungabhadra river at 8 AM. Also, Lakshmi is taken away from the temple at about 5:30 AM-6:00 AM so ensure you meet her before that.

Achyutaraya Temple

Located next to Matanga hill, Achyutaraya Temple is in a somewhat hidden location and hence seldom visited. Most temples in Hampi you see today were built in the 15th century. Since this was constructed by a high officer in King Achyuta Raya’s court in the 16th century, it is one of the last temples constructed before the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The temple is dedicated to Tiruvengalanatha – an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The pillars, towers and walls have exquisite carvings. Despite major parts of the temple being in ruins, it does not fail in grandiosity.

Pro Tip : Visit this temple around midday as leopards have been spotted here in the evening even at 5 PM.

Underground Shiva Temple

The Prasanna Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his avatar as Virupaksha, is located underground. It is one of the older temples in Hampi having been built in the 14th century but interestingly it was discovered only in the 1980s. Because of its location close to the nobleman’s quarters, it is believed that the temple was used for private ceremonies by the royals. After visiting so many temples with exquisite carvings, it is almost refreshing to visit one that is so simple and yet so unique. The area surrounding the temple has a beautiful lawn you can relax on or picnic.

Pro-Tip: Since the temple is underground, it is often submerged in water. The temple, therefore, cannot be visited in the monsoon months from June to September. In other months, you may still find a bit of water in the temple.

Another famous temple in Hampi is the Krishna Temple. You can include it in your itinerary if you have time. We will be covering notable statue temples and others below so read on!

Amazing Royal Monuments in Hampi

These monuments in Hampi are located in the Royal Centre that houses the palaces, durbars, tanks, residences, and baths used by the royals of the empire.

Lotus Mahal

The Lotus Mahal (also known as Kamal Mahal or Chitragani Mahal) is located inside a walled space called the Zenana Enclosure which was used by the women of the royal family. There is nothing to be seen of other buildings in the enclosure as they are heavily damaged. However, the Lotus Mahal is an absolute charmer with its unique lotus bud domes. It is built in Indo Islamic style – the arches of the palace are build in Islamic style and the multi-layered roof design is Indo style.

It is worth noting that all the structures built in Indo-Muslim or Muslim style are in better condition than those that were built in pure Hindu style. This is because when the combined armies of the Muslim rulers of the Deccan attacked Hampi, they only damaged Hindu style structures. So most temples were burnt but such royal structures left intact. However, the structures have anyway deteriorated due to improper maintenance and the wrath of time.

Elephant Stables

These stables located right behind Zenana Enclosure (route pictured above on the right) is a beautiful one built in Indo-Islamic style! It used to house the elephants of the royals back in the day. The structure tells us two things. Firstly, a lot of importance was given to elephants in the Vijaynagara Empire; such a beautiful structure was built to shelter them. Secondly, the building shows the secularism of the Empire since the domes of the stable are built in Hindu, Islamic and Jain styles.

We personally enjoyed our visit here immensely. It is great for photography and also for chilling by the shade of the tree and inside the stables.

Stepped Tank

There are many tanks, kunds or pushkarnis in Hampi. These were built mainly near temples for ritual cleansing before prayers, cleansing of idols and/or to store water during dry months.

This tank located in the royal enclosure is totally different from other tanks of Hampi as it is constructed using finely finished blocks of black schist stones. Built for the royals for religious purposes, it is about 22 square meters in size and 7 meters deep with 5 tiers. The symmetry, colour and design of the structure are simply mesmerizing.

Mahanavami Dibba

Also known as The Great Platform, it is a 3-tiered 8-meter high platform used by the king to watch Dussehra/Maha Navami celebrations. The bottom tier of the platform has interesting war carvings etched on its surface. Since the Dibba is the only structure that stands as is in the Royal Enclosure, you can see a vast expanse of empty land in front of it.

Queen’s Bath

The Queen’s Bath, as the name suggests, was a bath for the queen and other royal women. However, due to its location away from buildings in royal enclosure, it is also often believed to have been a pleasure palace. This 14th-century building doesn’t look like much from the outside as the building is flat and architecture simple. But on the inside, it is super picturesque. The interior is surrounded by consecutive archways and ornate balconies with a sunken 1.8 meters deep empty bath in the centre. You will often find an owl or owlets in the bath – a visual cherry on the cake!

Magnificient Monolith Statue Temples in Hampi

Hampi has grand monolithic statue temples that are simply mind-blowing. Imagine people of that time, moving such large blocks of stone and sculpting it.

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

This temple is dedicated to Narasimha, a lion-faced avatar of Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi as well who was his consort. It is the largest monolith statue in Hampi at 6.7 metres– an imposing sight! And definitely our favourite monolith in Hampi!

Kadalekalu Ganesh

Located on Hemakuta Hills, the Kadalekalu Ganesha is a 4.6-meter statue, the belly of which resembles a Bengal gram (Kadalekalu in local language). The statue is in a sanctum inside a beautiful stone structured temple decorated with tall and ornate granite pillars in the front. This Ganesha statue was built for and frequented by the royal family.

The temple is located on high ground so you can get an amazing view of the Hampi Bazaar and the foothills of Matanga Hill. The entire setting is very serene and you may even find a cool breeze flowing through the temple.

Monolithic Bull

Also known as Yeduru Basavanna or Nandi, this monolithic bull is located at one end of the Virupaksha Bazaar. This statue of the mount of Lord Shiva symbolically faces the Virupaksha Temple also dedicated to Shiva. Though the statue is carved in a coarse style and is also partially mutilated, this Nandi attracts tourists owing to its giant size (also because it’s in the vicinity of other attractions). The surroundings of the bull statue are quite pleasing to the eye. See for yourself in the pictures below.

Pro-Tip: No need to make a seperate visit to this statue. Visit is on the way to Achutaraya Temple or the Tungabhadra River (coracle ride).

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Sasivekalu Ganesha

Sasivekalu Ganesha is a 2.4-metre high statue of Ganesha that was built for the common people of the kingdom. The statue of Ganesha depicts a snake tied around the waist. Per Hindu mythology, Lord Ganesha once ate a lot of food and had to tie a snake around his stomach to prevent it from bursting. The statue is also called Mustard Ganesha as the Ganesha’s belly is shaped like a mustard seed. Unlike the Kadalekalu Ganesha, this statue is placed in an open pavilion.

Badavilinga Temple

Located a few steps away from the Narasimha Statue is this giant shrine for Shiva. At 3 metres, it is the largest Linga in Hampi and is made of impressive black stone. The Linga sanctum is always filled with water as a water canal flows through it. It is believed that the statue was commissioned by a peasant woman and hence the name (The word Badva means poor in the local language).

Pro Tip: No need to plan a visit this statue on a seperate visit since it is located beside the Narasimha statue!

Places to Visit in Hampi for Sunrise and Sunset

Sunrises and sunsets in Hampi are spectacular due to the incredible surrounding landscape. Sure sunrises are more effort, but they’re so worth it in Hampi. Do not miss seeing at least one!

Hemakuta Hills

The Hemakuta hill temple complex is our favourite place to visit in Hampi. Why? You could just loiter here without any aim but still immensely enjoy the ruins, the huge boulders, the views from this vantage point, and not to mention the incredible sunset. Located beside the Virupaksha temple, these hills are easy to access and walk around. The most famous temples to visit here (besides the two Ganesha statues mentioned above) are the Hanuman Temple and the Moola Virupaksha temple which are within walking distance from the Virupaksha Temple. To watch the sunset, sit on either the benches at sunset point or anywhere else you like. We watched it while sitting on the stone railings of a temple! The sunset was breath-taking.

Pro Tip: The sun sets much above the horizon in Hampi because of the haze in the area. Do settle down much before sunset time to not be surprised when you find no sun in the sky!

Matanga Hill

Climb the highest point of Hampi, Matanga Hill, for 360-degree surreal sunrise views. You’ll see multiple hues in the sky, boulder scattered terrain, Hemakuta Hills with all its temples, Virupaksha Temple, Achutaraya Temple, paddy fields till the eyes can see, and mountains in the distance. You might also be shown a cave on your way up – it is believed that Sugriva, ruler of Kishkinda, used to hide here. Yes, the hill is referenced in the Ramayana. There is also a small temple at the top which is dedicated to Veerbhadra – a form of Lord Shiva. The hike is a 40-minute steep one but awesome enough to not be missed. An alternate and easier route is taken to come down which takes you through short steps.

Pro-Tip: Firstly, hire a guide since the path is not defined, steep, and exposed in some areas. Secondly, don’t do this hike at sunset as bears have been spotted at the easy route after dark. You do not want to take the tougher route to come down as you’re more likely to injure yourself.

Tungabhadra River

Hampi is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra river. You can sit on the stones at the bank during sunset. You might not get a clear view of the sun but the evening time here has such a special vibe. But before that, go for a coracle ride in the river. This isn’t your typical boring boat ride, no! It is a ride on a round boat through the canyon of sorts. You’ll have stacked boulders hills on both sides that are dotted with temples (some are even half-submerged). It is an unforgettable sight! Definitely one of the best things to do in Hampi.

Pro-Tip: You may not be able to visit here and do the coracle ride in the monsoon months from June- September as the water levels rise greatly and the current is strong. To do a coracle ride in the monsoons, try Sanapur Lake. Also, it is better to do the coracle ride in the evening as this area is shaded from the sun at the time.

Kamalapur Lake

This was a chance find on a drive from Hampi to our hotel in Kamalapur. Most people including local guides don’t mention it. I don’t know why not – maybe it’s because of a bit of plastic waste you see discarded on the banks.

However, the sunset here is worth an evening. There are benches too for you to sit on and gaze at the sun in comfort and peace. We opened a packet of snacks and some beverages while watching the sun dip into the horizon. It was perfect!

Anjaneya Hill

Anjaneya hill is a bouldered one located on the other side of the Tungabhadra river at Hanumanahalli. This 1-2 hour climb is a pilgrimage for most as this hill is the place where Lord Hanuman was born. As a result, the path is very well defined and shaded to make it easier for devotees to offer their prayers at the hilltop Hanuman temple. Check the sunset time on google and start your hike up well in time to be able to explore the temple and see a spectacular sunset from the top!

Places to Visit Near Hampi

Sandur is a small mining town located about 40 kilometres from Hampi. It has a beautiful landscape characterized by rugged blue-black mountains and narrow lanes through lush fields (also gorgeous sunflower fields). The WelcomHertitage Shivavilas Palace Hotel located here used to be the residence of the King of Sandur. Now it is a 5-star hotel that is a museum in itself the common rooms have been left as-is from the time that the royal family lived here. The library, billiards rooms, vintage cars and living rooms – all take you back in time. This is definitely one of the best places to visit near Hampi.

Paddy Fields on the other side of the Tungabhadra River

When you’re in Hampi, people will refer to the area on the opposite bank of the Tungabhadra river as exactly that – the other side. This area covers villages like Hanumanahalli, Hippie Island (now bulldozed), Anegundi (where apparently most of Hippie Island has relocated after the bulldozing), and Sanapur. The drive around this area has the most picturesque paddy fields. Take a stroll around them or hire a bike (may be available during season time between October-February) and explore the area.

Temples and Sites Beyond the River

These are temples and attractions on the other side of the Tungabhadra river. This area was known as Kishkinda – the mythical kingdom of monkey kings Bali and Sugriva, mentioned in the epic Ramayana. Hence, most of these sites have religious importance!

• Anjaneya Hill: Birthplace of Hanuman. Mentioned above.
• Chinthamani Temple in Anegundi: Chintamani Temple is a Shiva Temple. It is the spot from where Ram aimed and shot his arrow to kill Baali during his fight with Sugriva. The temple is worth a visit by all due to its epic location beside the Tungabhadra.
• Pampa Sarovar Temple: The temple is constructed where Pampa (a form of Parvati) punishes herself to show her dedication to Shiva. Also, Pampa Sarovar is a sacred lake for Hindus – one of the 5 sacred lakes (Panch Sarovar) in Hindu mythology. If you’re not into mythology, consider visiting only from November to December when lotuses are in full bloom at Pampa Sarovar Lake.
• Anegundi Fort: The Anegundi fort with its many gates, tombs and temples (Ganesha Cave Temple and Durga Temple) is a sprawling fort that once used to guard the region.
• Gagan Mahal: Gagan Mahal, once the abode of rulers in the Vijayanagar Empire, is now a local administrative building that is not properly maintained. You can still check it out from the outside if you’re in the area.

Pro-Tip: Eat lunch at Baba Cafe. This café is reminiscent of the Hippie Island days as it has a similar vibe. Due to its awesome location in nature, the cafe makes for a great place to have some beer and international fare.

Tungabhadra Dam

The Tungabhadra Dam, 18 km from Hampi, is a nice short stopover on your route to or back from Hampi. The sheer volume of water it handles is a sight to see.

The dam has a well-maintained Japanese garden located beside it which is great for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. You might also like to visit when the dam’s gates are lit in rainbow colours in the evening between 7:15 to 8:30 PM.

Sanapur Lake

Sanapur Lake located beyond Anegundi on the ‘other side of the river’, is an irrigation reservoir. It is less frequented due to its distance from Hampi and as per us, the lack of much to do here. It used to be THE spot for cliff climbing but as per locals, this has been banned as people have died after jumping in the lake. If you’re interested in cliff jumping, ask the locals if you actually can do that when you get there. Besides that, you can enjoy a coracle ride here (for much less money than at the Tungabhadra river) but overall the ride pales in comparison to the Tungabhadra one – no cliffs, no ancient temples, nothing. The best reason to visit here is the peace, since you’ll hardly find tourists in the area.

Points to Note

Opening and Closing Time : Most attractions open at 8:30 AM-9 AM. We suggest starting your day at the opening time to make the most of it. You can always return to your hotel in the afternoon from 1 PM-4 PM to rest as it gets too hot to explore. Also, it is better to exit most of Hampi’s attractions at or before sunset, to be safe from wild animals like bears and leopards.

Entrance Fees : Only a few attractions have entrance fees – Virupaksha temple with a cost of Rs.25 and Vitthala Temple at Rs. 40. The prices mentioned are for Indian nationals, BIMSTEC and SAARC country nationals. For other foreign nationals, it is Rs. 500 at Virupaksha and Rs. 600 at Vitthala. These prices change often, however. You may be charged extra for DSLRs, though we weren’t. Tripods, video cameras and drones are not allowed inside the attractions.

Guide Cost : The cost for a guide at specific sites are usually Rs. 200-300. This may vary by guide and site. You will definitely need a guide for Vitthala Temple, Virupaksha Temple and to climb Hemakuta Hills. For other sites, use your discretion. If you’d like to have a guide with you all day then the cost is Rs. 1500- Rs. 2000 per day. It is a good investment to really understand the architecture and history of the locations and also make the most of your time. However, they do rush the monument visits.

Not interested in hiring a daily guide or want all possible details about a Hampi visit? Read the detailed Hampi itinerary we have drawn up covering the best places to visit and things to do in Hampi along with where to stay, when to go, how to get around, and travel tips.

Have questions? Do drop it in the comments below, we would love to help out! Also, do let us know if you enjoyed the photos of Hampi and its monuments.

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3 thoughts on “25 Unforgettable Places to Visit in Hampi”

Really it’s a fantastic blog, I’ll definitely visit those places one day. Good work, Keep going.

Thank you. Hope you do 🙂

A very interesting blog about the Hampi places, very impressive. We are offering the eco-friendly tented accommodations and attentive yet discreet service allows guests to truly unwind in comfort amidst the serenity of the Evolveback Hampi Resort.

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Attractions to Visit in Hampi

Here are some of the best places to visit in hampi:, quick navigation.

Virupaksha Temple

The temple is so constructed that its main entrance faces east and homes to two courtyards. No sooner you enter the temple, there is a statue of Nandi with three heads. There is a pillared hall in the center which is reckoned as the Ranga Mandapa. In case you are an international traveler, you have to register yourself at a police outpost with all your essential details. Mostly, this temple remains crowded in December; whereas it celebrates its annual festival in February and it is one of the best places to visit in Hampi. Location : South banks of Tungabhadra river, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: Virupaksha temple is open for the visitors from morning 9:00 am to 13:00 pm. After about 4 hours, again the doors are open visitors from 17:00 pm to 21:00 pm. Price: There are no entry fees. However, you can hire a guide to give you complete information about the temple at its footsteps for a nominal charge of 50 INR. Click Here to Book Now:   Green Planet Dubai Tickets Planning a trip to Hampi? Checkout & Book:   Hampi Tour Packages

Vijaya Vittala Temple

Vijaya Vittala Temple or Vijaya temple of Hampi amongst the ancient Places to Visit In Hampi worthy of visiting. There are fantastic stone structures all around, and the pillars here appear as if they are playing music. This is true architectural excellence of Hampi as it exemplifies remarkable creativity and the beauty of architecture’s imagination. The architecture of this temple dates back to the Dravidian era and reflects South Indian traits. Three towering gateways are encircling the temple along with high compound walls. Maha Mantapa, Stone chariot, musical pillars are amongst the tourist attractions of this Vijaya Vittala Temple. Location:  8FRG+W3H,   Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: The doors of Vijaya Vittala Temple are open from morning 08:30 am to evening 18:00 pm. Price: There are no entry fees to this temple Check Out:  Best Resorts in Hampi Also Checkout & Explore:   Places To Visit In Thailand

Lotus Mahal

Lotus Mahal or Kamal Mahal exhibits an explicit architectural design amongst all the other Hampi tourist places. It is so called as it more or less resembles the shape of a lotus flower. Central dome of this Mahala resembles the bud of lotus and the balcony and passages as petals. The roof illustrates a multi-layered design reflecting and Indo architectural style. There are around 24 pillars to provide excellent support to the arched windows of this palace. Location: SH 131, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: The Lotus Mahal Hampi is open for visitors from morning 08:00 am to evening 06:00 pm. Price: The entry fees of Lotus Mahal Hampi is fixed at 10 INR per Indian, 250 INR per foreigner and no charges for children below the age group of 15 years. Also Recommended:   Best Trekking Tours in Hampi for an adventurous experience

Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple

Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple is present at a distance of around 2km from the famous Virupaksha temple. This temple is a part of a cave standing at the peak of a hill and is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Hanuman. Also, the Tungabhadra river flows through the steps of this hill. Here, you can find Lord Hanuman indulged in a state of deep meditation. Within a distance of five minutes from here, you can find another temple dedicated to Lord Srinivasa. In case you feel hungry, you can approach small stalls nearby selling either mangoes, biscuits or cucumbers. It is best if you plan on your itinerary to this place in between October to March. Location:  8FM9+89H, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: You can visit this temple at any point during the daytime. It takes around one hour to cover your entire visit here. Price: There are no entry fees here. Also, you can easily take in your cameras here to capture some beautiful pictures of this place. Do Checkout: Best Hampi Tour Package From Bangalore

Hampi Bazaar

When you have a day reserved at leisure, do not forget to try a shopping hand at the Hampi Bazaar. It spreads more than a kilometer and the road that passes through this market exhibits pavilions on both roadsides. Alternatively, this shoppers stop is known as Virupaksha Bazaar which is one of the best Places to Visit In Hampi,  Towards the eastern side, you can find a street to be occupied by the local villagers. There is a large Nandi bull statue at the east end of this Hampi Bazaar street. Nearby pavilion exhibits photos of Hampi right from the ancient times. Location: Hampi Bazaar St, Karnataka 583239 Timings: You can stop and shop at any time from morning 06:00 am to night 11:00 pm. Price: No one is going to charge you any expense for your visit to Hampi Bazaar. However, if you are a shopaholic, do not forget to carry a reasonable sum as the place has many things to attract your tender heart.

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Hippie Island

Queen's Bath

Reckoned as a large bath of Hampi, Queen’s Bath exemplifies the Vijayanagara's architectural excellence. It lies close to one of the most awful places to visit in Hampi- the Royal Enclosure. Although built around 500 years ago, this magnificent structure still remains intact in its construction. It’s simplest exterior perfectly blends with an ornate interior to embrace its overall appearance. It a rectangular building admeasuring around 30 square meters and has a large sunken bath at its center. It may interest you to find arched corridors all around this Royal bath. Location:  8F7C+9X9,   Karnataka 583239 Timings: Queen’s bath is open for visitors from morning 08:30 am to evening 06:00 pm. Price: Entry to the Queen’s bath is free from all charges. Suggested Read:   Best Things to Do in Hampi

Matanga Hill

Out of all the places to visit in Hampi, Matanga Hill is the one which is most talked about. It represents the highest point of Hampi, and it’s a picturesque destination for the travel photographers to capture some aerial vies of Hampi. North portion of this hill terminates into Tungabhadra river where you have another religious place to visit-Kodanda Rama temple. Towards the south of this hill, you have a twisting valley with a zigzag Turthu canal. Low-lying Northern section exhibits a trekking trail that connects straightaway to Hampi bazaar. Location: 8FJ9+M83, Hampi, Karnataka Timings: There are no specific timings to climb on the Matanga Hills. However, tourists make it a point to climb this hill early in the morning to capture the allure of sunrise and carry ahead with their downward journey in the evening after sunset. Price: Climbing Matanga Hill is absolutely free of cost.

Elephant Stables

Elephant Stables is amongst the significant tourist places to visit in Hampi to witness a little to absolutely no destruction. It is a long building homing to a series of dome-shaped chambers which once were used for the parking of royal elephants. These chambers are around 11 in their total count; some of which are interconnected. The whole building gives a symmetrical appearance, and the central hall tower reflects the shape of most of the temples here. This central hall has five domes on either side of it which reflects an Islamic style of architecture. Location:  8FCF+C3X, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: The doors of this Elephant Stables are open from early morning 08:30 am to evening 05:30 pm. It takes around an hour to complete your visit here. Price: There is an entry fee of 10 INR for Indians and 250 INR for foreigners. Entry for children up to the age group of 15 years is absolutely free of cost.

Monolithic Bull

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Badavilinga Temple

Badavilinga Temple is a beautiful temple of Lord Shiva and one of the most visited Hampi tourist places. It lies close to the Lakshmi Narasimha temple and homes to a beautiful Linga carved out of a black stone. The linga is around 3 meters high and dates back to the era of the Vijayanagar Empire. This linga lies within a small stone chamber of this temple with only a single narrow opening and is without a ceiling. The pedestal is circular in shape and reflects as the Yone Pitha of Lord Shiva Linga. Location:  8FH5+PJC, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: Badavilinga Temple doors are open for the devotees from morning 05:00 am to night 09:00 pm. Price: There are no entry fees to make your visit here.

Zanana Enclosure

Once reckoned as a secluded area for the Vijayanagara Kingdom’s royal ladies, Zanana Enclosure reflects a sprawling compound with tall walls. Lotus Mahal is the center of attraction of this place. You can either step in through its northern entrance or through its north-eastern entrance. Zanana Enclosure homes to three watchtowers each standing at eastern, south-eastern and northern ends of this magnificent structure. The entire architecture here reflects an Indo-Islamic style. Lotus Mahal, queen’s palace’s basement, treasure building, and water pavilion are some key attractions of this place. Location:  8FCC+88X, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: This place is open from morning 06:00 am to evening 06:00 pm Price: Entry fee here is 10 INR per Indian, and for foreigners, it is 250 INR.

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Most significant of all the religious statues in Hampi, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is the amongst the next best Hampi tourist places to visit. Here, the figure of Lord Narasimha sits on a coil of a snake with seven heads in a Yoga position. This statue has an image of Goddess Lakshmi on his lap. It takes around one to one and a half hour to complete your visit here. The best time to visit this temple is in between October to February. Location: Southern end of Hemakuta group of temples, Hampi, India Timings: You can easily make your way inside Lakshmi Narasimha Temple from morning 06:00 am to evening 06:00 pm. Price: There are no entry fees here. You can click photographs of the temple without any charges.

Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary

You are going to find a lot of Indian Sloth Bears here at Daroji Sloth bear Sanctuary. Hillocks here are rough enough and are dotted with a lot of boulders. The Sloth bear count here goes to around 120. However, the sanctuary also accounts for other species. Tiger, Leopard, Mongoose, Pangolins, Star Tortoise, and Spotted Deer are some other animal species found here. This sanctuary alone exhibits around 90 bird species, 27 butterfly species, and a watch tower at the center. Location: Seetharama Tanda, Karnataka 583215 Timings: Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is open from 04:00 pm to 06:00 pm on all days. Price: For Indian tourists, the entry fee is 25 INR while the foreigners need to pay a sum of 100 INR. If you are eager to bring in your own two or four wheelers, you will have to pay additional charges accordingly.

Old Palace (Gagan Mahal)

This Gagan Mahal dates back to the 16th-century era. Although significant portions of this palace are currently under ruins, it is still amongst worthiest places to visit in Hampi. The palace is small and yellow in color with decorated windows and encircled all over by four beautiful towers. Once here, you can march towards Sarovara Laxmi Temple, Sabari Caves, Nava Brindavana, Durga Temple, and other nearby religious places of importance. It is best to visit here anywhere between October to March. However, take care that there is no public transport here to ride around. Location: Anegundi, Karnataka 583227 Timings: This Gagan Mahal is open for all 24 hours. It takes approximately one to one and a half hour to complete your visit here. Price: There are no entry fees here.

Best of South Goa

Hemakuta Hill Temples

Hemakuta Hill is a vastly stretched zone offering an astounding view of the sprawling ruins, temples, and archways. This is the next best place to watch the sunrise and sunset as tourists find it easier to reach to its top position. Virupaksha temple, Moola Virupaksha temple, Krishna temple and shrines of Lakshmi Narasimha and Badivilinga are some of the best places to visit in Hampi. These temple architectures are entirely different and date back to the era of Vijayanagara king rule. These group of temples has three chambers conjoined to resemble a pyramid roof. Location: Centre of the city, Hampi, India Timings: You can climb the Hemakuta Hill temple at any time from dawn to dusk. Price: There are no entry fees to reach and adore the ancient beauty of Hemakuta Hill Temple. You May Also Like: Best Homestays in Hampi for a relaxing stay

Achyutaraya Temple

The last one to go down in the list of places to visit in Hampi is the Achyutaraya Temple. This temple lies amidst the Matanga Hills and Gandhamadana. This temple exhibits Vijayanagar’s architectural elegance and homes to a beautiful idol of Lord Tiruvengalanatha. All towers, pillars, and walls of this beautiful temple are exquisitely carved and ornamented. The main shrine of this temple is situated amidst a rectangular concentric structure. Location:  8FJC+Q26, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: The doors are opened for a visit from 05:30 am to 01:00 pm. Again, in the evening, the doors are opened from 05:30 pm to 09:00 pm. Price: No entry fee is charged for entry to this temple.

Hazara Rama Temple

This beautiful temple marks its presence at the central focus of a royal area and is dedicated to Lord Rama. The walls of this temple are eager to illustrate the entire Ramayana flow before its visitors. Once you reach here, you can find bas relics of both Hindu deities Lord Rama and Krishna. Also, do not forget to miss on the remnants illustrating a Dasara celebration. Towards its northern side, you may find a sprawling lawn widely stretched apart. The temple has two huge getaways and the interior homes to sculpted columns. Location:  8F99+4G2, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: Reaching this temple is no longer a whammy situation as the doors are open from morning 06:00 am to evening 06:00 pm. It hardly takes two hours to complete your visit here. Price: There is no entry fee being charged by the temple authorities.

Archaeological Museum

A tiny yet worthy of visiting museums, Archaeological Museum of Hampi accounts for the best Places to Visit In Hampi to spend some time with. This museum accounts for four principal sections each dedicated to a different exhibit. The first section exhibits Hampi model, the second section shows sculptures and idols dedicated to Hampi ruins. The third section exhibits tools, arms, and ammunition. The fourth section exhibits artifacts dating back to the pre-historic and post-historic era. Location: Kamalapur Road, Hampi, India Timings: You are free to take a dig at the beauty of this Archaeological Museum from morning 10:00 am to evening 05:00 pm. Price: Per head you need to pay around 5 INR as entry fees. Entry is free for children under the age of 15 years. Photography is permitted only for the lawn exhibits. Also Checkout:  Things To Do In London At Night

Riverside Ruins

Close to a river edge of Kodandarama Temple are a couple of lingas carved on a flat rock surface. The arrays of this Shiv Linga contains around 100 to 1000 such lingas. A little away from this array is Lord Vishnu’s carved sculpture. Also, you can find a lot of tiny shrines that are submerged here and rock surfaces reflecting carved motifs. Be extremely careful while you step on the slippery rock surfaces especially in the monsoons. If the river is stable, you can head towards this place through a coracle ride at a nominal charge of around 25-50 per head. Location: N ear the Kodanda Rama Temple, Hampi. Timings: You can visit riverside ruins at any point of time. Yet, if you plan to take a coracle ride here, you must cross-check with its availability in accordance with your chosen time of visit. Price:  There is no entry fee.

Best of Dandeli

Underground Temple-Prasanna Virupaksha Temple

Underground Shiva Temple’s every single piece of the structure reflects a perfect blend of mythology and history. This is amongst the only places to visit in Hampi lying under water. The central portion of this ancient shrine always lies immersed in water. According to local beliefs, it is the Tungabhadra river which flows through the interior of this temple through canals. There is the main hall, a courtyard, a small hall that leads to the innermost sanctum. All around the temple is a lush green lawn where you can sit and relax for some time. Location: Hampi Main Bus Stand, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: There is no time restriction to reach here. However, it is always better to visit here before sunsets. It will hardly take around 30 minutes to complete your visit to this temple. Price: The temple authorities won't be charging you for an entry to this temple.

Hampi Flea Market

Rice Paddies

Laughing Buddha Cafe

Krishna Temple

Built by Krishnadevaraya, Krishan temple of Hampi is the sign of Orissa campaign’s success. This temple is amongst those hand-picked places to visit in Hampi which are globally reckoned for their exquisite carvings. The love of Krishnadevraya for art and architecture is quite evident from the beauty of this place. For the original idol of this place, you need to head towards Chennai’s State Museum. The temple campus is encircled all over by massive pillars and small shrines. Towards its eastern side, lies a grand hall. You can grab a fresh banana from the Banana plantations that mark their presence to the south zone of this temple. Location: Bellary, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: You can seek blessings here at Krishna Temple from morning 06:00 am to evening 06:00 pm. Price: No authority here will demand any form of entry fees from you. However, photography is restricted only in the premises.

Best of Mysore

Kadalekalu Ganesha

Homing to one of the largest statues of Hindu deity Ganesha, Kadalekalu Ganesha temple is the famous holy shrine of South India. It is situated on the slopes of well-known Hemakuta Hills, and its towering statue is about 4.6 meters high. The temple features a statue carved out from a single massive stone, and the belly of Lord Ganesha resembles a Bengal gram. Entire hall of the temple homes to slender granite pillars and exhibit fictitious characters. The carvings of these pillars reflect the Vijayanagara architectural style of art. Location:  8FM6+4FQ, Hampi, Karnataka 583239 Timings: You can visit this shrine of Lord Ganesha from morning 06:00 am to evening 06:00 pm. Price: There are no entry fees to lead your way to this Kadalekalu Ganesha temple.

Sanapur Lake

Stepped Tank

Stepped tanks here are considered to be sacred tanks for a holy bath before visiting any religious place of importance. Once a while,  they were centers for festival celebrations. There are steps on all four interior sides of such tanks so that you can step down to get in and out of the water. The stepped tank at the Royal center is geometrically larger in its dimensions and is carved out from a green diorite with a complete absence of drainage system. The stepped tank is constructed from black schist stones. Location: Hampi, Karnataka Timings: You can take a dive in the water of these stepped tanks at any time before the sun sets. Price: No entry fees for the stepped tank visit.

Tungabhadra River

Rising from the Western Ghats, Tungabhadra River flow towards the south-east and meets the Krishna river in Andhra Pradesh. Being a perennial river, the water level of this river takes a compelling look in monsoons. Tungabhadra Dam is an ongoing project here to aid in the infrastructure development of this region. After you complete your visit to the Virupaksha temple, you can march ahead to this river from the back of the temple. Throughout your journey, you can easily sip in sweet and tender coconut water. Do not forget to miss on your coracle ride while you plan on your Tungabhadra itinerary. Location: Vijayanagara Ruins, Hamp, Karnataka Timings: There is no specific timing to visit the Tungabhadra river. However, for the coracle ride, you need to reach here before sunset. Price: There is no entry fee to visit either the Tungabhadra river or dam. Coracle riding might charge you per head accordingly.

Pushkaranis of Hampi is sacred tanks in association with the Hampi temples. Pushkarani reminds you to take a precise note of ancient town planning and architectural style of the Vijayanagara era. Many of these pushkaranis served as the event venue for their annual boating festivals. During such celebrations, the idols of both Gods and Goddesses are taken out for a coracle ride. Majority of these Pushkarani’s are surrounded all over by explicitly beautiful pillars and arcades. Location: Pushkarani are found near to Royal Enclosure, Virupaksha temple, Krishna Bazaar, Pattabhirama temple. Timings: You can walk-in here at Pushkarani throughout the day. It takes around 20 to 30 minutes to complete your visit here.  Price: There are no entry fees here at Pushkarani. Both photography and videography are allowed.

Best of Gokarna

Sasivekalu Ganesha

This Lord Ganesha’s statue derives its resemblance from that of the mustard seed, which is referred to as Sasivekalu in the local dialect thereby leading to its name. This statue is located on the Southern foothill of the Hemakuta and is almost half the size of Kadalekalu Ganesha located on the Northern slope of the same hill.

This statue derives inspiration from an incident of Hindu mythology when one day Lord Ganesha had eaten so much food that his stomach almost burst. So in order to protect his stomach the Lord tied a snake around his belly. On this statue one can see the figure of the snake carved in front of his stomach.

This monolithic statue measure 2.4 metres in height and is carved out of a huge boulder. There is an open pavillion built around the statue, which is believed to be constructed by a trader from Chandragiri (present day Andhra Pradesh) in the memory of Narsimha II the mighty Vijaynagara king. Similar to the Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple, this temple too is considered to be one of the important places to visit in Hampi.

Royal Enclosure

The present day fortified area or the Royal Enclosure of Hampi was once the seat of power of the Vijaynagara rulers. In current times this Royal Enclosure is basically a wide open ground consisting of a number of small shelters.

Some of the important structures in here are spread across hundreds of square metres of land and consists of a number of interesting and important relics. Some of the important structures of the Royal Enclosure are the King’s Audience Hall or the 100-Pillared Hall, stepped tank, an underground chamber and the Mahanavami Debbie to the commonly called Dossier Platform.

Since the Royal Enclosure is pretty large a good amount of walking is required to have a look at the entire place. Any kind of vehicles whether manually or automatically driven are not allowed inside the area, so it is advisable to visit this place during early morning or in the evenings, as the atmosphere at these times are more pleasant.

Palace of Vira Harihara

People Also Ask About Hampi

What is hampi famous for, what is there to do in hampi at night, how many days do you need in hampi, how do you cover hampi for one day, what is the best time to visit hampi, is hampi safe to travel alone, how do you cover hampi for 2 days, does hampi have a beach, is it good to visit hampi in july, is hampi worth visiting, how do you get around hampi.

The most common means of local transportation in Hampi is auto-rickshaws. There are also car rental agencies that you can approach in order to get around. The roadways in Hampi are easy, accessible and non-congested. If you want to cross the river in order to reach Virupapur Gaddi, then boats are your only option. The boat fare may vary from INR 50 to INR 100, depending on the time during which you are crossing the river.

What can I buy in Hampi?

Though Hampi is famous for its rich and historical architecture and heritage sites, this city also boasts of great handicrafts and interesting artefacts. Some of the signature items you can collect from Hampi are- - Stone Artefacts and sculptures - Lambani crafts - Leather crafts - Various handmade musical instruments - Crafts made of banana fibre - Local Hampi clothes that are locally hand-made.

Is alcohol allowed in Hampi?

Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited in Hampi. But the region across the river is considered as a more modern version of the town. With a predominant hippie culture, beer and non-vegetarian foods are allowed for consumption and purchase as well.

How can I go to Hampi from Bangalore?

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25 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Hampi

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Vittala Temple / Vijaya Vittala Temple

#1 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 9 km (or 2.3 km by walk) from Hampi Bus Stand and 5.5 km from Kamalapura Bus Stand, Vittala Temple is an ancient monument located on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River in Hampi. It is one of the largest and the most famous structures to visit as part of Hampi tour packages . The Vijaya Vittala or Vittala Temple is the most famous and popular tourist places to visit in Hampi . This temple is famous for its Stone Chariot and Musical Pillars. It was built around the 15th century AD during the reign of King Devaraya II (1422 - 1446 AD). Several portions of the temple were expanded and enhanced during the reign of Krishnadevaraya (1509 - 1529 AD). This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Vittala. The temple is well-known for its exceptional architecture and unmatched craftsmanship. This predominant monument of Hampi is a major .....

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Virupaksha Temple

#2 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 400 m from Hampi Bus Stand, Sri Virupaksha temple is a Hindu temple located at the western end of Hampi Bazaar in Hampi. It is the most famous and important temples in Hampi, and among the must include places in Hampi Packages . Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned as one of the most sacred pilgrimage in Karnataka . Virupaksha is an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and among all the surrounding ruins, this temple is intact and is still in use. This temple is also called the Pampapathi temple and is one of the most places to visit in Hampi . Situated on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River, it is a part of the Group of Monuments at Hampi, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to history, this temple has been functioning uninterruptedly ever since .....

Sri Krishna Temple / Bala Krishna Temple

#3 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 500 m from Hampi Bus Stand, Sri Krishna temple is situated on the Hampi main road. Krishna temple is one of the important places to visit in Hampi , and among the Group of Monuments which is currently listed as a part of the World Heritage Monuments by UNESCO. The temple is situated close to the Virupaksha Temple . According to the history, Bala Krishna Temple was built by Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1513 AD. He built this temple to commemorate his victory over Prataparudra Gajapati, the ruler of the eastern kingdom of Udayagiri (now Orissa) which is mentioned in the inscriptions on the slab. The main idol installed in the temple was the figure of Bala Krishna and now it is preserved in the State Museum at Chennai. This temple was built in Panchayathana style with two enclosures. Built-in the center of .....

Mahanavami Dibba / Dasara Dibba

#4 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Mahanavami Dibba or The House of Victory is a beautiful stone platform situated inside the Royal Enclosure in Hampi. It is also known as Dasara Dibba and is one of the most impressive structures to be visited during your Hampi Trip . Mahanavami Dibba was built by King Krishnadevaraya in 1513 AD after his conquest over the kingdom of Udayagiri, present-day Orissa. The grand platform was used as a stage by the kings to watch the army march past, the war games, and the royal procession that were held during the Mahanavami festival, also known as the Dasara festival, hence the name Mahanavami Dibba. It is one of the most fascinating Hampi tourist places . Dasara Dibba represents the typical Vijayanagara style of architecture. The stone platform is about 12 m in height. The huge structure is a square platform with .....

Hazara Rama Temple

#5 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Hazara Rama Temple is a beautiful temple located at the center of Royal Enclosure. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. Hazara Rama Temple was built in the early part of the 15th century by Devaraya II. The term Hazara Rama literally means a thousand Rama and refers to the large number of Ramayana panels depicted on the walls. This temple is believed to be the private temple of the kings and the royal family of Vijayanagara.. It was originally built as a simple structure within a rectangular complex. It consisted of only a sanctum, a pillared hall and an ardha-mandapa. Later the temple structure was renovated to add an open porch and beautiful pillars. The pillared hall has unique black stone pillars which are raised on a stone platform at the center of the hall. The interior of the temple has richly ornately columns. An empty pedestal with three holes signifies that the temple once had idols of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita. Hazara .....

Pattabhirama Temple

#6 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 1.2 km from Kamalapura Bus Stand and 5 km from Hampi, Pattabhirama Temple is situated near ASI museum in Kamalapura. Along with the Virupaksha and Vittala temples, the Pattabhirama temple represents the creative temple-building ventures of the Vijayanagara rulers. Though it contains two inscriptions of King Achyuta Raya, the temple is believed to have been constructed well ahead of his regime. Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is known for its intricate architecture. It was a prominent destination for devotees during the period of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Pattabhirama Temple is situated in the center of a huge rectangular enclosure. The east-facing sanctum has a three tier vimana with an antarala, maha-mandapa and ardha-mandapa. The large and square maha-mandapa is a finely built structure with tall and slender composite pillars of various types and is the best example of Vijayanagara style architecture. To the east of the ardha-mandapa is the usual .....

Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex

#7 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 600 m from Hampi Bus Stand, The Hemakuta group of temples is a cluster of ancient temples situated on the Hemakuta hill in Hampi adjacent to Virupaksha Temple . Hemakuta, literally meaning golden hillock is one of the most charming hillocks in Hampi. It is dotted by over fifty structures of different types including temples, mandapas, galleries, and gateways of various sizes. Hemakuta Hill offers an excellent view of Hampi Bazaar and Virupaksha temple. The Hemakuta hill has three entry points, one on the south-eastern side, one on the south, and the other on the eastern side of the hill which leads to the street near the Virupaksha temple. There are more than 35 temples on Hemakuta Hill. These temples are built in the pre-Vijayanagara and Vijayanagara periods (9th to 14th century AD). These are referred to as Jain Temples, but many of these temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Two of the .....

Ugra Narasimha / Lakshmi Narasimha Statue

#8 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 800 m from Hampi Bus Stand, Ugra Narasimha Temple is located south of Sri Krishna Temple in Hampi. The Lakshmi Narasimha statue is one of the most imposing sculptures found in Hampi . The specialty of the sculpture is that it is the largest monolith statue in Hampi with a height of 6.7 m. It was carved in 1528 AD during the rule of Krishnadevaraya. The protruding eyes and the facial expression are the basis for this name. This is considered to be among the most important monuments found in Hampi and is visited by a large number of people throughout the year. Lord Narasimha is sitting on the coil of a giant seven-headed Adisesha (guardian snake of Lord Vishnu) and the lions guard the sides of the idol. The heads of the snake act as the hood above his head. The Lord in this temple is in cross-legged yoga position with the belt supporting the knees. The original statue contained the image of goddess Lakshmi, consort .....

Hampi Bazaar

#9 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

Hampi Bazaar is located beside the Hampi Bus Stand and located in front of the Virupaksha temple. It is also known as Virupaksha Bazaar. About a kilometer long, the eastern side of the bazaar ends at the foothill of Matanga Hill. Hampi Bazaar is a unique attraction of Hampi. Both sides of the street have a series of very old pavilions, some single storied and others two storied. These buildings were once the part of a booming market and houses of the upper class merchants. The arcades are open structures with no doors. It was once a place where merchants used to sell precious stones, jewellery, silk clothes, etc. during Vijayanagara rule. It was also a market where cows and horses were traded. The Hampi Bazaar still functions as a market place, though it is no longer as attractive as it was. The western end of the street has been encroached by a number of shop owners and small restaurants. These shops that sell items like ethnic clothes, bags and pooja artifacts. A huge Nandi, .....

Lotus Mahal

#10 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 500 m from Hazara Rama Temple, 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, Lotus Mahal is situated within Zenana Enclosure, a secluded area reserved for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire. This is also known as Chitragani Mahal and Kamal Mahal. Lotus Mahal is the primary attraction of the Zenana Enclosure. Shaped like a lotus flower from the top, the archways of the structure resemble petals of a lotus and provide the whole structure the shape of a half-open lotus. The central dome is carved in the shape of a lotus bud. Lotus Mahal is built in Indo-Islamic style. The two storied structure is symmetrically laid out, with equal projections on four sides. The base of the structure resembles Hindu temple style while the upper superstructure is Islamic in architecture with pyramidal towers. The upper floor of the Mahal has balconies with arched windows. The arches of the ground floor are recessed and ornate. The walls are protected .....

#11 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 22 km from Dharwad, 57 km from Gadag, 76 km from Dandeli, 100 km from Belgaum, 102 km from Sirsi, 104 km from Badami, 147 km from Gokarna, 169 km from Karwar, 177 km from Panjim, 183 km from Shimoga, 205 km from Murudeshwar, 210 km from Ballari, 361 km from Mangalore, 406 km from Bangalore, 435 km from Mysore, and 527 km from Hyderabad, Hubli, officially known as Hubballi, is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is one of the must include places in Karnataka tour packages , and among the best places to visit near Kolhapur . Hubli or Hubballi is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state of Karnataka, and the second-largest city in the state after Bangalore. Lying on the 'Golden Quadrilateral' this multi-faceted city is also known as the cultural, educational, and music capital of the state. The city boasts numerous monuments and monasteries, ..... Distance (From Hampi): 170 Kms Trip Duration (From Hampi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy Temple

#12 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 2.5 km from Kamalapura Bus Stand and 6 km from Hampi, Sri Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy temple is located atop the Malyavanta Hill. This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy Temple was constructed by Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagara Kingdom. According to mythology, Lord Ramachandra and his brother Lakshmana stayed here during the rainy season, in their search of Sita. This 16th century temple was built around a huge boulder in Dravidian architectural style. The east facing temple consists of a sanctum, porch, a large pillared pavilion and a large pillared hall with a large courtyard. There are two gopuras at the temple's entrance. The main shrine consists of Lord Rama, Lakshmana and Sita's idols with the idol of Lord Hanuman kneeling close to them, all carved out of a single boulder. A gap found on the floor is filled with water, which is said to be made by Lakshmana with his arrow. Right behind the temple is a cave temple dedicated to .....

Achyutharaya Temple

#13 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 1 km from Hampi Bus Stand & 500 m from Hampi Bazaar, Achyutharaya temple is located between the Gandhamadana hill and Matanga hill. It is one of the last grand creations of the Vijayanagara dynasty before the fall of the empire. This temple has been built during King Achyuta Deva Raya, by an officer Salakaraju Tirumaladeva. Achyuta Deva Raya was the younger brother of Krishna Deva Raya and succeeded him in 1529. The main deity of the temple is Lord Tiruvengalanatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple was originally named Tiruvengalanatha temple but gradually came to be known as Achyutaraya Temple The temple was built in Vijayanagara style architecture. This temple complex has two enclosures, each marked by an entrance tower. The main temple is situated within the second enclosure. The main temple consists of a garbhagriha, an antarala, sukanasi, a rangamandapa and an ornate Kalyana mandapa. The Kalyana mandapa of the temple is a spacious structure .....

Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple

#14 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 250 m from Hampi Bus Stand, The Kadalekalu Ganesha temple is situated on the slope of the Hemakuta Hill in Hampi . It is a remarkable monolithic statue and one of the most popular tourist sites in Hampi. Kadalekalu Ganesha is one of the largest statues of Lord Ganesha in Hampi. The giant Ganesha statue is 4.6 m (15 feet) tall and was carved out of a single boulder. The belly of this statue resembles a Bengal gram (Kadalekalu in Kannada) and hence the statue has been given the name of Kadalekalu Ganesha. The temple of Kadalekalu Ganesha is a beautiful stone structure. A sanctum is built around the statue. The pillared hall in front of this sanctum is decorated with tall and beautiful pillars. The sculptures on the pillars are depicted with mythological characters. The pillars are constructed in the typical Vijayanagara style of architecture. One of the pillars has a carving depicting naughty infant Krishna hiding .....

Royal Enclosure

#15 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, The Royal Enclosure in Hampi is a huge fortified area that was once the heart of the Vijayanagara Empire. This was the place where the royal family of the Vijayanagara Empire used to reside and the durbar used to be performed. Spread over an area of 59,000 square meters, it is believed to have once housed over 45 buildings, all used by the royal family. This center was separated from the main Hampi center by an irrigation canal. The sprawling area was protected by double walls. It had three entrances, two on the northern side and one on the western side. The Royal Enclosure contains the ruins of several palace bases, water tanks, temples, ornate platform and canals and many other structures. Unlike the temples, which were constructed with stone, many of the palaces were built out of wood. The most impressive structure in the Royal Enclosure is the Mahanavami .....

Stepped Tank

#16 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 100m from Mahanavami Dibba and 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand, The Stepped tank is located in Durbar Area in Royal enclosure of Hampi. This famous Stepped Tank was excavated by Archeological Survey of India during 1980-1983. This tank is very ornate and one of the most beautiful monuments of Hampi. The Stepped Tank is constructed using finely finished blocks of black stones. This Tank was probably used by the royals for religious purpose. The beautiful tank is about 22 square meters and about 7 meters deep. It has five distinct tiers, each fitted with steps set in a pleasing pattern. The marks on the tank and individual blocks indicate the direction of flow of water. The water to this tank was drawn through the intelligently designed stone channels which are well preserved till date. Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

King's Audience Hall / Durbar Hall

#17 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, The King's Audience hall, also known as Durbar Hall is located inside the Royal Enclosure at Hampi. It is a ruined structure whose remnants can be spotted on the western side of the Mahanavami Dibba or Dasara Dibba. The King's Audience Hall was built during the time of the Vijayanagara Empire. According to the famous historian Abdul Razzak, who visited Hampi during the reign of Devaraya II, the King's Audience Hall was one of the most magnificent buildings in Hampi during that time. It is believed that this is the place where the king addressed his administration and the public. The King's Audience Hall was a huge building built with huge blocks of stone and wood. The structure has a ruined stone stairway at the rear of the hall that suggests it might have been a two storied building. The super structure is not present right now. Vestiges of pillar sockets and bases show that it was originally a .....

King's Balance

#18 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 10 km from Hampi Bus Stand (or 1.5 km by walk) and 6 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, King's Balance is located southwest of Vittala Temple , at the end of the Kampa Bhupa's Path in Hampi. It is one of the best places to visit in Hampi. King's Balance is also called Tula Bhara or Tula Purushadana. It is regarded as one of the unique monuments of Hampi. It consists of two lofty carved granite pillars about 15 feet high supporting a stone beam about 12 feet in length. It has three hoops on the underside from which the balances or scales are hung. One of the pillars has a bas-relief depicting a king and two queens, possibly Krishna Deva Raya and his consorts. The structure appears like an archway. According to the legend, the balance was used by the king to weigh himself with gold, gems, silver, and precious stones and distributed to the temple priests on certain occasions like Solar .....

Queen's Bath

#19 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 1 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand and 3 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Queen's Bath is located close at the entrance of the Royal Enclosure in Hampi. The Queen's Bath is believed to be constructed by Achyuta Raya for the women of the royal family of Vijayanagara. Built in Indo-Islamic style, the Queen's Bath is an elaborate structure with a simple exterior and an ornate interior. It is a rectangular building and is surrounded by ornate balconies, each having a set of three windows. Each arched bay surrounding the bath is decorated with intricate carved stucco ornamentation on the ceilings and the vaults placed above the arched bays. The depth of the pool is 6 feet and has stone steps leading to the bottom of the tank. This 30 square meter structure is surrounded by a moat on all sides and a bridge like structure is made to reach the pool. Probably this was designed to prevent people from entering the area when the royals were bathing. The Queen's Bath is an empty .....

Zenana Enclosure

#20 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 500 m from Hazara Rama Temple, 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, The Zenana enclosure is located near the Royal Enclosure at Hampi. This was a fortified and secluded area reserved for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire. The structures of the Zenana Enclosure are designed in the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. Zenana Enclosure has several structures such as the Lotus Mahal, Basement of the Queen's Palace, Water Pavilion, Treasury Building and the Watch Towers. The major attraction inside the enclosure is the Lotus Mahal. Apart from this, there are remains of water pavilion with a decorated platform in the center and Elephant Stables. The Queen's Palace is located at the middle of this area. This is the largest palace base excavated in the Hampi ruins so far. The Royal Treasury Building is a rectangular structure that is located in the north-western corner of the enclosure. The enclosure is surrounded by a fortifying .....

Elephant Stables

#21 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 500 m from Hazara Rama Temple, 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, Elephant Stable is an ancient monument located just outside the Zenana Enclosure in Hampi. The Elephant Stable is an impressive structure that was used to provide shelter for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is one of the very few structures not suffered the damage during Deccan Sultanate attack on Hampi and is a major attraction among the tourists. This is a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture. There are 11 domed tall chambers. The whole building looks symmetric with respect to this central hall. The center chamber is specially decorated and big. The other 10 domes represent the Islamic style of architecture. Each of the domes was decorated with ornate plaster on the interior as well as the exterior. Metal hooks on the inside roof can be seen. The elephants were tied to these hooks from the center of the ceiling. At the rear of .....

Vira Harihara Palace

#22 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Vira Harihara Palace is an ancient structure located within the fortified area of the Royal Enclosure, south of Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi. Only the ground level of the structure can be seen today. The base of this palace, along with a number of other residential structures is located inside a compound. The area was also called the Mint, based on the mention in one of the chronicles by the travelers who visited this capital in the 15th century. It is believed that the palace belonged to Harihara Raya II, the third king of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Palace is said to have been constructed in the 14th century. After Harihara II, the palace was used by the subsequent kings of the Vijayanagara Empire. The entry to the building is through the eastern side of the wall. The original boundary walls protecting the palace still remain. The tiered foundations showcase the architectural skills of the Vijayanagar craftsmen. It is believed that .....

Matanga Hill

#23 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 1 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Matanga Hill is located at the eastern end of the Hampi Bazaar. It offers a breathtaking view of the ruined city and the beautiful landscape below. Matanga Hill is one of the major places to visit in Hampi. Being the highest point in Hampi; this is the best spot to get an aerial view of Hampi and its surroundings. There is a small temple on the top of Matanga Hill. On the way down there is a small cave marked where it is believed that Sugriva, ruler of Kishkinda, used to hide. According to mythology, Matanga Hill is one of the holy places described in the epic Ramayana as the base of Saint Matanga. It is also the place where Sugriva benefited from the magical protection of the sage Matanga who had placed a curse of death on Vali, if he dared enter the area of Matanga Hill. Being the highest peak in Hampi, the hill is a trekker's delight and offers pleasing views of the entire town below. There are many trekking paths that .....

Archeological Museum

#24 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 300 m from Kamalapur Bus Stand and 4 km from Hampi Bus Stand, The Archaeological Museum at Kamalapur is dedicated to the ruins of Hampi and surrounding places. The sculptures from various locations of the Hampi ruins were collected by British officers and housed earlier at elephant stables. The first museum of Archaeological Survey of India was established here in 1972. The antiquities were shifted to a modern building at Kamalapur. This museum exhibits elegant replicas of Krishnadevaraya and his queens greeting the visitors at the entrance. The Museum houses a large collection of sculptures and artifacts spread across four galleries. The first gallery of the museum contains two scaled models of Hampi along with all historical monuments. The larger model presents a complete topography of the region along with the monuments and temples located on it. It also displays the hills and rivers in Hampi. It provides an excellent idea about the various attractions .....

Mahadeva Temple - Itagi

#25 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 26 km from Koppal, 43 km from Gadag, 70 km from Hampi, and 79 km from Badami, Mahadeva Temple is an ancient temple situated at Itagi in the Koppal district of Karnataka. It is one of the popular heritage temples in Karnataka, and among the popular places to visit near Hampi as part of Hampi Tour Packages . Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Mahadeva Temple at Itagi was built in the year 1112 CE by Mahadeva, a commander (dandanayaka) in the army of the Western Chalukya King Vikramaditya VI. It was constructed on the general plan of the Amruteshwara Temple at Annigeri. The Mahadeva Temple has the same architectural components as Amruteshwara but there is a difference in their articulation. The well-executed sculptures, finely crafted carvings on walls, pillars, and the tower make it a good example of complete Western Chalukyan art which speaks volumes about the taste of the Chalukyan artisans. An inscription dated 1112 CE .....

Most Asked Questions on Hampi

The best time to visit Hampi is from October to March. This is also the time for exploring the archaeological ruins of Hampi. This is the busiest season in Hampi and often hotels run full and tourist places are crowded.

Hampi usually requires complete 2 days to visit the most important attractions. Hampi can be mixed with near by wonderful destination like Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Hampi trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Hampi tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 7250 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 9000 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Hampi like Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Sri Krishna Temple, Mahanavami Dibba, Hazara Rama Temple, Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex, Lotus Mahal and Hampi Bazaar. If you have time, you can dedicate a day to visit near by places like Badami, Pattadakal. Hampi is famous for archaeological ruins belonging to the erstwhile medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijaynagar.

Hampi is a must include place in many treveller's list as this world heritage site is famous worldwide for its incredible hitorical ruins, sprawling landscape of enormous boulders and fascinating rock formations. Once the flourishing kingdom of mighty Vijayanagara kingdom, it is housed as many as 2,000 spectacular monuments. It is also packed full of exciting things to do and see like coracle ride on Tungabhadra River and do some trekking to Matunga hill to witness mesmerizing sunrise and senset.

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Things to Do in Hampi & A Complete Travel Guide

Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than Hampi – a hidden gem in the heart of Karnataka, India. Our Things To Do in Hampi – A Travel Guide will explore its breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture; this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dream destination for history buffs and wanderlust seekers alike.

But before you embark on your journey to this enchanting wonderland, we’ve covered everything you need to know! From must-visit attractions to top things to do and insider tips, get ready to dive into the ultimate guide for planning your trip to Hampi. Let’s make memories that will last a lifetime!

Table of Contents

Introduction: Brief overview of Hampi

Hampi, located in the southern state of Karnataka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most captivating destinations in India. It is a small village once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire , which ruled South India for over two centuries from the 14th to 16th century AD .

The ruins of this ancient city are spread across an area of about 26 square kilometres . They are surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it a picturesque destination. Despite being in ruins, Hampi continues attracting tourists worldwide due to its rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels.

A Mix of Culture, Nature & History

One of the main reasons why Hampi is a must-visit destination is because it offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty . The temples and monuments here testify to the grandeur and opulence of the Vijayanagara Empire. The intricate carvings on these structures depict scenes from Hindu mythology and showcase outstanding craftsmanship.

Apart from its historical significance, Hampi also has a spiritual aura that can be felt throughout the village. With over 500 temples scattered around its landscape, Hampi is considered one of the holiest places for Hindus. The Virupaksha temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the oldest functioning temples in India and attracts thousands of devotees every year.

In addition to its cultural importance, Hampi also offers breathtaking views with its boulder-strewn hillsides , lush green paddy fields, and glistening Tungabhadra river flowing through it. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with activities like trekking , rock climbing, and coracle rides available.

In conclusion, Hampi is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience India’s rich history and culture, along with its natural beauty. The village has something to offer everyone and promises an unforgettable trip filled with ancient wonders and enchanting experiences.

Getting There: Different modes of transportation to Hampi

Hampi is a popular tourist destination located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is known for its rich history and ancient ruins, making it a must-visit place for history buffs and adventure seekers. However, planning your transportation mode is essential before embarking on your trip to Hampi. This section will discuss the various modes of transportation available to reach Hampi and their pros and cons.

The nearest airport to Hampi is the Hubli Airport, approximately 160 km from the town. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Hampi from there. The airport has good connectivity with major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi.

• Fastest mode of transportation.
• Flights are available from major cities in India.
• Comfortable journey.
• Expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
• Limited flights may result in higher airfare during peak season.

2. By Train:

The closest railway station to Hampi is Hospet Junction Railway Station (HPT), which is around 13 km away from the town. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from there to Hampi.

• Affordable option.
• Trains are available from major cities in India.
• Scenic train journey through rural landscapes.
• Limited trains may require advance booking during peak season.
• Longer travel time compared to flights.

Hampi has good connectivity with major cities in Karnataka, like Bengaluru, Mysore, and Hospet. You can take a bus from these cities to reach Hampi. The town also has local buses that connect different parts of the town.

• Cheapest mode of transportation.
• Good connectivity with nearby cities.
• Local buses provide an authentic experience of the town.
• Long travel time.
• Buses may only be comfortable for a short distance.

4. By Car/Taxi:

You can also opt for a private car or taxi to reach Hampi from nearby cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, or Goa. You can either hire a self-drive car or book a chauffeured taxi service.

• Flexible timings and routes.
• Allows you to explore nearby places at your own pace.
• Expensive option if travelling alone.
• Traffic may result in longer travel time during peak season.

In conclusion, your transportation mode depends on your budget, comfort level, and travel preferences. It is recommended to plan your trip in advance and book tickets accordingly to avoid any last-minute hassles. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, a trip to Hampi will surely be an enriching and memorable experience.

Best Time to Visit

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, India, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history and stunning architecture. This ancient city was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is now home to numerous ruins, temples, and other historical sites that attract visitors from around the world.

If you are planning a trip to Hampi, it is crucial to choose the right time of year to visit. The weather, festivals, and tourist crowds can significantly impact your overall experience. To help you plan your trip effectively, here are the ideal months to visit Hampi based on these factors.

The best time to visit Hamp i is during the winter season , which lasts from October to February . During this time, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F – to 86°F) . The cool breeze makes it perfect for exploring the outdoors and visiting various historical sites without feeling too hot or uncomfortable.

Summer in Hampi starts in March and lasts till June , with scorching temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F). It can be scorching and humid during this time, making it difficult for tourists to explore outdoor attractions. Monsoon season begins in July and ends in September, bringing heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans.

Tourist Crowds

Hampi receives a high influx of tourists during the winter season from October to February . If you want to avoid large crowds, planning your trip during the shoulder season is best, from March to June or September to October. There are fewer tourists during this time, and you can explore the attractions at your own pace without feeling rushed or crowded.

In conclusion, the ideal time to visit Hampi would be from October to February when the weather is pleasant , and plenty of festivals and events are happening. However, to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season (March – June & September to October)  . Plan your trip accordingly and have a memorable experience exploring this ancient city.

Where to Stay in Hampi

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India, offers diverse accommodation options for various budgets and travel preferences. These accommodations include:

• Budget-friendly hostels:  Ideal for budget travellers, hostels provide shared dormitory-style accommodations with basic amenities and a chance to connect with fellow travellers.
• Guesthouses:  Family-run guesthouses offer more privacy than hostels and often provide simple rooms with attached bathrooms. Some may offer home-cooked meals.
• Heritage hotels:  For a unique experience, heritage hotels provide a glimpse into the city’s history while offering modern comforts. Many also organize cultural activities and guided tours.
• Resorts:  Luxury resorts, located away from the main tourist areas offer top-notch facilities, serene surroundings, and various activities like yoga, spa treatments, and outdoor adventures.
• Boutique hotels:  Combining heritage charm with modern amenities, boutique hotels offer personalized services and attention to detail, often in or near the main tourist areas.
• Camping:  For adventure seekers, camping is an option. Campsites offer basic tents; some provide luxury tented accommodations with attached bathrooms.

It’s advisable to book well in advance during the peak season (October-March) due to the town’s popularity. Hampi caters to travellers with various budgets and preferences, ensuring there’s a suitable place to stay for everyone.

Must-See Places in Hampi

Hampi is a mesmerizing destination with a rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to countless ancient temples, monuments, and ruins that will leave you in awe. If you plan a trip to Hampi, add these must-see places to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

• Hampi Bazaar – Stroll through this bustling market street, which was once the commercial hub of Hampi during its prime days. You can find everything from handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, and traditional food here.
• Lotus Mahal – Also known as Chitragani Mahal or Kamal Mahal, this striking palace was used by the royal women of the Vijayanagara Empire during their recreational activities. The architecture of this palace resembles a lotus flower, hence the name.
• Matanga Hill – This is the highest point in Hampi and offers stunning views of the surrounding ruins and monuments. Many trekkers go here to catch a glimpse of the sunrise or sunset.
• Queen’s Bath – This is a large, well-preserved bathing complex built for the royal women of the Vijayanagara Empire. It consists of a central pool surrounded by arched corridors and balconies.
• Zenana Enclosure – This was the secluded area where the royal women lived in Hampi. The Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, and other structures can be found within this enclosure.
• Purandaradasa Mantapa – This memorial hall is dedicated to the famous poet Purandaradasa, a devotee of Lord Krishna. It houses a statue of him and his compositions carved on the walls.

Temples of Hampi

• Virupaksha Temple – This magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the oldest functioning temples in India. The intricate carvings and sculptures on the temple walls will leave you amazed. Take advantage of the famous chariot festival held here every year.
• Hemakuta Hill Temples – For breathtaking views of Hampi’s landscape, head up to Hemakuta Hill. You’ll also find many ancient temples and shrines scattered across the hill, including the famous Virupaksha Temple.
• Vittala Temple Complex – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars that produce different sounds when struck. The complex also houses beautiful mandapas (halls), shrines, and other structures.
• Achyutaraya Temple – Located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The annual Purandaradasa Festival is celebrated here with great pomp and show.

Hampi is a treasure trove of historical and architectural wonders. Each place has a unique story and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history or architecture. Remember to carry your camera to capture the beauty of these magnificent structures.

Top 9 Things to Do in Hampi

• Visit the Temples:  Explore the awe-inspiring ancient temples in Hampi, such as Virupaksha Temple, Vitthala Temple, and more, which offer a glimpse into the rich history and architecture of the region.
• Watch Sunsets:  The surreal landscapes of Hampi make for stunning sunset views. Enjoy the magical sight of the sun setting behind the boulders and temples.
• Shopping at Hampi Bazaar:  Hampi Bazaar is a vibrant marketplace where you can shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, jewellery, and traditional clothing. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
• Indulge in Local Cuisine:  Savor local Karnataka cuisine at the numerous cafes and restaurants. Try dishes like bisi bele bath, jolada rotti, and the delicious masala dosa.
• Bouldering:  Hampi is a mecca for bouldering enthusiasts. The unique rock formations provide a challenging and picturesque backdrop for climbers of all levels.
• Cliff Jumping:  If adventurous, indulge in cliff jumping by the Tungabhadra River. Leap into the clear waters and experience an adrenaline rush.
• Cycling in and Around Hampi:  Rent a bicycle and explore the charming villages and stunning landscapes around Hampi. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Explore the Hippie Side in Anegundi Village:  Anegundi, just across the river, offers a more relaxed and bohemian vibe. Discover the laid-back cafes, art scenes, and vibrant community.
• Take a Coracle Ride:  Experience a traditional coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River. These circular boats offer a unique and serene way to enjoy the region’s scenic beauty.

Hampi, with its cultural richness and natural beauty, offers diverse activities that cater to all interests, from history and spirituality to adventure and relaxation.

An Ideal 5-Day Itinerary for Hampi

1: Arrival and Exploration

• Arrive in Hampi and check in.
• Visit the Virupaksha Temple.
• Explore Hemakuta Hill.
• Enjoy a riverside sunset.

2: Temple Tour

• Explore the Vithala Temple complex.
• Visit Royal Enclosure.
• Explore the underground Shiva temple and the Lotus Mahal.
• Sunset at Hemakuta Hill.

3: Adventure and Nature

• Go bouldering among the unique rock formations.
• Explore Sanapur Lake or Anegundi Village.
• Evening in Anegundi for a taste of the bohemian side.

4: Riverside Activities

• Enjoy a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River.
• Explore Anjanadri Hill and the Monkey Temple.
• Return to Hampi.

5: Relaxation and Departure

• Cycle around Hampi and explore the remaining sites.
• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
• Check out and bid farewell to Hampi.

In conclusion, Hampi is a truly magical destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Proper planning and preparation allow you to maximise your trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From exploring ancient ruins to trying local delicacies and indulging in adventurous activities, there’s something for everyone in Hampi. Therefore, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with rich experiences and lasting memories with our travel guide .

While Hampi is a remarkable destination, two days can provide a taste of its beauty and history. During this time, you can explore the main temples, like Virupaksha and Vithala, and enjoy bouldering and local cuisine. However, to delve deeper into its richness, consider extending your stay to 3-4 days for a more comprehensive experience.

Absolutely, Hampi is a must-visit destination. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with awe-inspiring temples, surreal landscapes, and vibrant culture. Hampi has something to offer, whether you’re a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, or someone seeking serenity. Ensure you check for the latest travel advisories and conditions before visiting.

Hampi’s uniqueness lies in its rich historical heritage, captivating architecture, and dramatic landscape of massive boulders set against a cultural backdrop. The Virupaksha Temple, the Vithala Temple complex, and the enchanting bouldering opportunities are some of its highlights. The town’s laid-back ambience and bohemian vibes in nearby Anegundi make it unique.

Ideally, to experience the essence of Hampi, you should spend at least 3-4 days. This will allow you to explore the numerous temples, enjoy activities like bouldering, and immerse yourself in the local culture. However, you can glimpse the main attractions in 2 days if you’re on a tight schedule. Still, a longer stay is recommended for a more enriching experience.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Visit the Old Ruins of Hampi (Updated for 2021)

About this blog: This Hampi Travel Guide presents you with evocative pictures and travel tales from the ruins of ancient Hampi, Karnataka, a state from south of India. This article also aims to help you in planning to explore the ruins of Hampi during 3 days trip to Hampi. You may tweak the plan a bit and adjust it to a 3 days/ long weekend itinerary for Hampi. Hampi is a UNESCO world heritage site for immense historical value and a weekend destination from Bangalore, Hyderabad and Goa . Often referred to as India’s answer to ruined historic city of Pompeii, Hampi evokes intriguing memories of the days of kings and queens and kingdoms and invasions and battlefields. It is one of the safest destinations of solo women travelers in India.

This is the only Hampi travel guide you need to plan your trip to Hampi, choose a safe and nice stay and explore the old ruins of Vijayanagar Empire.

Traveling to Hampi: Destination at a glance!

Quick travel tips to keep in mind for this Hampi travel guide .

• Hampi is a UNESCO world heritage site in Karnataka, India. Please be respectful while exploring Hampi’s historic ruins.
• Multiple ruins of ancient Hindu temples and royal complex dating back to the Vijayanagara empire of 1500 CE.
• Hampi is a great weekend destination from Bangalore, Goa and Hyderabad .
• Easily accessible by domestic flight and train and bus. Road trips to Hampi from Bangalore is rewarding as well.
• Hampi is a safe destination for solo female travelers. I solo traveled to Hampi in July and had absolutely no issue.
• Cost of traveling in Hampi (moderate/budget): Hampi is suitable for backpacking to mid-budget travels. Hampi is not very expensive.
• Offbeat tourist attractions in Hampi: nature trails, bear sanctuary, hippie vibes at the hippie island of Hampi, birding at the backwaters of Tungabhadra, Tungabhadra river, ideal for school excursion.

Pin this post on Hampi travel for later!

The Rise of Hampi as a Tourist Destination

…from the Numbness of History

Hampi has been featured on the New York time’s list of best destinations around the world in the recent past. Ever since, millions have swarmed into the bouldered vast pastures of the ruined wilderness that Hampi is! Located at Central Karnataka in the southern part of India, Hampi is a world UNESCO heritage site. It safeguards the ruins of the medieval Vijayanagara empire..

However, my introduction to Hampi dates back to the 90s while reading Sunil Ganguly’s Bijaynagarer Heere (The Diamond of Vijayanagara), from Kakababu, a fantasy series for children written in Bengali. I knew of the ancient temple that plays the sound of flute if you know how to tune into its flanking pillars, or whatever remains of them. The never ending secret tunnels, the lure of hidden chests filled with gold and gems, the melancholy of an empire’s heydays: Hampi, the capital city of the erstwhile Vijayanagara has buried innumerable secrets by the banks of river Tungabhadra.

Archaeological survey of India has been operational in the fields of Hampi, still excavating historical anecdotes from an era bygone. Recently, there was a news of unearthing a few KGs worth of gold and precious stones.

Physically, I visited Hampi a year before NYT ranked it as the second best place to visit in the world or something like that!

My trip to Hampi revolved around unearthing and visualizing stories from the as I had experienced in the books on Hampi on balmy afternoons in Kolkata as a child. Sharadindu Banerjee’s Tungabhadrar Teere (by the banks of Tungabhadra) is another astounding piece of literary fiction set in the era. Syam Benegal’s directorial venture, “Bharat ek Khoj” based on Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s Discovery of India played back in my mind as I stepped in the cradle of nature that hides Hampi from the world outside

While Hampi featured prominently in international backpacking bucket list post the NYT feature, the destination has always remained an enigma among the locals. Often hailed as the last bastion of contemporary Hindu India, Hampi’s riches and glory were insurmountable at a time when the dominos in the north of India fell at regular intervals to invaders from the northwest. Hampi scaled even greater heights in international politics. Her wealth and prosperity is known to have evoked awe and reverence among the western traders. Many compared Hampi to be a greater city than contemporary Rome. You do not have to trust my words. See the remnant of the massive monuments of Hampi and your eyes will tear up in the thought of looting!.

Hampi’s history is not as linear as two religiously empowered political parties fighting amongst each other and uprooting the defeated. Although seeing the ruins and systematic destruction of Hindu idols, for example the Lakshmi Narasimha Statue with two of his hands cut off as a part of the message, you may be tempted to overcome with rage. 

The fall of Hampi in many ways bore semblance to the final conquest of the Indian peninsula, translating to the whole of India. The south of India, with 5000 KM long coastline, enriched with wealth beyond measure sits as the crown jewel of Golden Bird, India is famously known for. Conquering the Vijayanagara dynasty of Hampi stood paramount for the political interest in those days.

Ironically anarchy prevailed and no other salient ruler could ever scale upto what Vijayanagar was.

Also read: Offbeat day trips from Leh when you are spending 5 days in Leh!

Conquests had been the order of the yesteryear’s politics. Incessant bloodbath to conquer Vijayanagara that lasted for 6 months had turned Tungabhadra river into florid red. Kings and queens fell. So did the deity inside old sanctums.

There is only one thing we say to death: Not today.

The emptiness of Vijayanagara is haunting. It is difficult to contain grief and pain as you walk on the now cobblestoned red earth, dotted with Gulmohors. In summer, the red blooms of Krishnachura caress the scorched Earth, as if mother nature still tries her best to comfort a sunken child. Gentle breeze maneuvers through sunflower fields. Tungabhadra flows fiercely at the bend of the giant boulders. Ethereal sunsets take place everyday. 

Nature agrees with Hampi, not the humans. Not any longer. 

Long before tourism boards promoted Hampi as a budding destination, people tried to rebuild the habitat but all efforts went into vain. Nature reclaimed Hampi and moved the birds, snakes and sloth bears in the capital of erstwhile Vijayanagar empire. Vijayanagara empire lives in our heart and mind. Hence, non-erasable.

Hampi, the Heart of Historic Vijayanagara Empire

When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground. 

Pardon me for consecutive references to Game of Thrones but anyone who has been an avid follower of the series will see a similar set of events unfolding in the context of Vijayanagar empire. In fact, every empire that ever stood to the gnaw of time, rose to fame and glory and kissed dirt subsequently has followed the same set of rules. 

That is how the Game is played. 

I got my closure on whys and hows for Hampi from Game of Thrones. That’s uncanny but I could have never written such a detailed travel guide without watching it!

Hampi as a place has been long standing even before the Vijayanagara empire came to be. There are references on Hampi in Indian epic of Ramayana, as Pampa-kshetra, Kishkindha-kshetra or Bhaskara-kshetra. Ashoka’s rock edifice retrieved from Bellary district of Karnataka points at Hampi’s existence too.

Vijayanagara empire came to be with rulers Harihara 1 and Bukka 1. The latter stretched the empire to the borders of Goa. Ancient inscriptions state that there was an established trade route between Goa and Vijayanagara. The Portuguese, Italians and the Moorish traders made entry to the Vijayanagara court through that waterborne pathway.  The Coracle boats are believed to be brought by the Arab traders.

Hampi grew steadfast amid turmoil in the northern frontier. By 1500 CE, historians ascribe Hampi-Vijayanagara to be the world’s second-largest medieval-era city, next to only Beijing. Hampi’s riches and landscaped metropolitan plan were described by the tradersmen from Persia and Portugal. However growing enmity with neighbouring Deccan Sultanates and continuous battles eventually plagued the city and contributed to the eventual fall of Vijayanagar Empire.

On the eventful nights of the fall of Vijayanagara, the city was pillaged, looted, burnt and the spell of destruction lives to tell the tale till date. I am writing this with a heavy heart and choked throat.  Since millenia, we have known wars to be futile but will there ever come a time, we will truly learn?

Today, Hampi is known as a UNESCO world heritage site. 

Hampi today stands as a prominent tourist destination with historical importance. Virupaksha temple, the only remaining temple of Vijayanagara empire, remains a pilgrimage spot. The fact Hampi was a part of the eminent Indian philosopher Adi Shankaracharya’s Yatra from south to north of the country made it an important pilgrimage stop.

Local schools conduct excursions in the archaeological zone. My trip to Hampi was basically a game of tailing a group of young school children who would not leave me be! I resisted, tried to change the routes and be comfortably numb in my mind, desperately seeking tranquility to immerse in the ancient ruins of Hampi. The next moment, two of these kids in indigo shorts and white shirts appear from thin air and smile! In an hour or so, I gave up.

Looking back, I feel grateful. I was not ready to see that massive scale of destruction that mad-danced in Hampi from the pages of history. We are the people who grew up in the legacy of world wars and holocaust and multiple media renditions of the same. I wish we would have known a bit of our own history as well. Say for example, the opium war of Asia?

Looking at Hampi ruins, I was reminded of the horrors of bombing Buddha statues of Bamiyan , Afghanistan .

Also read: Things to do in Dalat, Vietnam

How to reach Hampi?

By Flight: Bellary is the only domestic airport close to Hampi, located at a distance of 60 km. You may also fly into Hubli (143 KM) or JSW Vidyanagar  Airport  in Toranagallu (40 km) based on flight availability.

By train: In case you fan-girl the mighty Indian railway, trust Hospet Junction to bring you 13 km close to the ancient group of monuments in Hampi. The night train Hampi express from Bangalore makes it an easy trip. From Hospet, the rest of the country is well connected with Hampi.

Roadtrip to Hampi: Hampi is almost equidistant from Goa, Hyderabad and Bangalore, requiring a road trip journey of 6/7 hours at a stretch.

Compared to Badami, Aihole or the Pattadakal temples, road to Hampi is a treat to drive in. Roadtrip to Hampi from the three major citiesof South India remains a delightful experience.

How to plan a trip from Bangalore to Hampi?

From Bangalore, Hampi is located at a distance of 350 KM and can be reached through NH4 highway. You must not forget to stop at the Chitradurga fort en route.

There are multiple night buses that leaves Bangalore and reaches Hospet the day next. Bangalore night buses to Hampi leaves from Madiwala, Silk Board, Majestic and makes stop once in the night for washroom and food break. Carry tissue and other hygienic needs.

I took one such night bus, reached Hospet the next morning at 6 am, paid 200 rs to an Auto and reached the hotel I was staying in. I stayed at Hampi Heritage Resort and I would advice you more on the best neighborhood to stay in Hampi n the following section.

You can take the night train to Hampi from Bangalore station. Hampi Express. It reaches Hospet the next morning and is a delightful journey.

How to explore the Ancient Ruins of Hampi

Aka things to do in Hampi in 3 to 4 days. A rough guide to plan your short Hampi itinerary.

First thing first, to discover the archaeological ruins of Hampi, you need to get your hands on an illustrated map pointing at the areas open to tourists. ASI (Archaeological survey of India) is continuing excavation in Hampi at various sites and unearthing facts from the past. 

Every hostel/hotel/guest house in Hampi (or nearby areas of Anegundi and Hospet) provide the root map of hampi.

The archaeological ruins of Hampi are spread over an area of 26 sq km. There are over thousands of temple ruins and cultural anecdotes. 

You can walk that 26 sq km area of Hampi over a span of three days. There are stops to rest. Autos ply a short distance. A government bus runs frequently till Hampi Bazar from Hospet. A few coracles on the water. Using them, you may check out Hampi’s many magnificent Dravidian temple ruins, dilapidated pillars, grandiose royal+  forts, stables, the river bank at Tungabhadra, local life that endured centuries of trauma. 

If you are in a hurry, you can squeeze in all these in 2 days, or just explore the ruins on the banks of Tungabhadra river.

If you are keen, you can spend even a whole month in Hampi to read all the wall panels on temples, explore newer and lesser known avenues, and witness mesmerizing sunsets over sprawling fields of paddy. A guide said scholars come and live in Hampi for three months at a stretch.

Essential things to know before you plan your Hampi itinerary

• How to start exploring the ruins of Hampi

Roughly speaking, there are three clusters of ruins in Hampi.

1. Sacred Ruins (temple complexes)

2. Metropolitan ruins (the urban ruins where the king and his subjects resided) and

3. Riverside ruins.

You need at least 3 to 4 hours to explore each of the ruin clusters. Carry water bottle, umbrella, sun screen (enough sun shield basically), a nice walking shoe and camera. Photo opportunities are endless!

You will ideally reach the urban ruin first in case you are traveling from Hospet (I did). If you are taking a bus to Hampi Bazar (from Hospet again), you shall reach the Sacred ruins first.

• How to plan a three days trip in Hampi?

For your three days stay in Hampi, allocate each day for each of the ruins I mentioned above and end the day with one great sunset show. There are beautiful sunset viewpoints in Hampi. I shall note them down below. If you have completed sightseeing in two days, allocate one day to explore the Daroji bear Sanctuary (famous for appearing in India’s jungle hero series on discovery). You may also indulge in rock climbing sessions. 

• If you have only one day in Hampi…

Start the day early. Start with the urban ruins of Hampi and continue to the sacred ruins by the banks of Tungabhadra river. End the day with a sunset view from the Hemkuntha hill. Probably you will not be able to cross the river with a one day itinerary in Hampi however it is still worth it if you are hard pressed for time. It is a rushed and quick Hampi itinerary indeed.

• Do you need a guide to see the ruins of Hampi?

The day I reached Hampi, I met an auto driver. He took me around the ruins of Hampi and doubled as a guide very kindly. The Hampi ruins have detailed illustrations by ASI and that does the job of explaining well if you have patience to read. Unlike Fatehpur Sikri, Hampi did not have a guide center from where I could hire a local guide. It is a pity because I would not recommend solo female travelers to hire a guide without any authority. Not just in India, anywhere in the world. I suggest look up in the groups of Trip advisor forum and collect a guide’s number from the travelers in recent times.

The Must Visit Temples and Ruins at the group of Monuments, Hampi

Following table will give you a rough idea for what are the ruins you need to look for while exploring the ruins of Hampi. This is no way an exhaustive list. But these are the prominent spots. Once you are near any of the temples, you are close to a spot full of vibrancy. I will delve deep into each temple site in the next section.

Once you are inside the archaeological site in Hampi, you are almost inside an open museum. Look around and you can marvel at everything! I promise.

Best things to do when Traveling in Hampi

Important places to visit in Hampi

1. vijaya vittala temple: the stone chariot of hampi.

One of the largest temple complexes in Hampi, Vijaya Vittala houses the iconic temple where pillars play music. A guard stands, with red blood eyes, and now prevents people from trying it out themselves. Be a sweet maidan and ask him to play for you when no one is around and he might just… who knows?

Vittala temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. A lot of ravages have stripped down the temple’s shikaras and gopurams. However, the stone chariot stands tall. It even makes a feature in the new Indian currency note! Find out. 

To avoid tourists, plan you trip early on the day to Vittala Temple complex. 

At Vittala temple, an electric vehicle run by the local women will bring you to the main temple complex from the gate for a mere INR 10 payment. It was very heartening to see the local community of women taking part in tourism in Hampi.

2. Virupaksha Temple: Living Shiva Temple of Hampi

The most prominent temple from Hampi, Virupaksha temple is “living” and did not fall prey to the destruction spell. I am not entirely sure why. But I am more than glad that its Shikhara rises to the sky. 

Truth be told, Virupaksha is the heartland of Hampi. Locals, devotees, pilgrims, priests and everyone visits this temple. I have later visited the Living Chola temples in Tamilnadu and had been equally awestruck by those temple, again dedicated to Shiva. 

Daily Puja takes place in the temple. Remove your shoes. The temple has a step well attached to it.

3. Hazara Rama Temple: Epitaph of Ramayana

A rather small temple but Hazara rama is a beautiful place of worship which is believed to be a part of exclusive access to the royal family. The temple wall is inscribed with various stories from Ramayana. The school children from execution were actually reading off various Kaands from the wall. A lot like what they did with hieroglyphics in ancient Egypt . Next to it is the Dussera dibba, believed to be King’s seat from where he would be entertained.

4. The Lakshmi-Narasimha Temple: One of its kind

The first time I saw a Narasimha statue, though I grew up hearing stories of “Daitya Kule Prahlad”, was at Hampi. Looking at his hands cut off, I felt a pang in my heart. 

The Nara Simha, loosely translating Human-lion, God is another Avatar of Vishnu. He sits atop coiled Seshnag, with Lakhkhi on his Lap. 

Also read: Humans of Hampi!

5. The elephant stable and Lotus Temple of Hampi

Somehow the elephants stable did not have to suffer much from the massive destruction that otherwise reduced Hampi to rubble by the end of Vijayanagara empire.

Each elephant quarter is huge, bigger than a standard flat size of Kolkata (bad joke, sorry humans), and does not house elephants any longer. They look very pretty in front of the sprawling  green field. 

Close to the elephant stable, you have Lotus Temple, an instance of Indo-Islamic architecture. The Gombuj and curves atop the roof do bring back memories of the north. “The north remembers.”

Also look out for Jenana mahal, a queen’s bath, a step-well (Pushkarini) in the surrounding area. These ruins are in much better position compared to the temples.

6. Badavi Linga : The Big Shiva Linga

Inside a small and dark sanctum a huge Shiva Linga (the largest I had seen in Hampi) is housed close to the Narasimha temple. Ir is maintained by an elderly priest, always in a white dress. His picture is often posted on Instagram, hugging the Shivalinga.

7. Krishna temple commemorating Vijayanagar’s Win over Utkala

Opposite to the Krishna Market, stand the beautiful Krisha temple which originally housed the Balakrishna statue, now on display at the Chennai state museum.

8. Sasivekalu Ganesh, Hemkuta Hills

I overheard a guide stating, this Ganesha statue took birth from a mustard seed and is still growing. He sits atop the mother Parvati, but has overgrown her with time. A snake is wrapped around his belly to reduce his growth! This story brought a smile in my face. Gods in Hinduism are very much a part of our daily family! I an an atheist but I feel these emotions in my heart! Also check out the Kadalekalu Ganesha Ganesha nearby. Hemkuta hill temple complex has a fantastic share of small yet beautiful ancient temples dating back to Vijayanagar empire.

9. Anjaneya Hill and Hanuman temple on top of it (believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman)

10. The Underground temple of Prasanna Virupaksha. I saw a huge lizard here!

11. Check out the Hampi museum by Archaeological Survey of India. This is particularly interesting for those conducting a research on ancient Hampi.

The Temple elephant of Hampi

At the Virupaksha Temple of Hampi, lives an old elephant named Krishna. Usual practice demands you go close to the elephant, it touches your head with the trunk, which is considered as a blessing and you feel overjoyed. I didn’t do it. In fact, I did not see the elephant also. Temple elephants in India is a long standing practice of animal cruelty. Do not go by the evocative pictures of Krishna playing with the water of Tungabhadra. It has been broken as a baby elephant.

Also read: Rameswaram, the beautiful temple town at India’s southern most tip!

The Most Beautiful Sunset Spots in Hampi

Hampi is a photographer’s delight. The gigantic boulder reflects sun rays in abundance especially during the golden hour. If you can climb a bit higher, you will often be awarded with a prized view of the water, the banks of Tungabhadra river, life on Earth and the orange ball of fire on the way down (or up, depending on time).

For a gorgeous sunset picture in Hampi, you will ideally want the Shikhara of Virupaksha temple in front and the sun going down at the background.

• Matanga Hill: the highest point of Hampi: Named after the sage from Ramayana, Matanga Hill is located close to the Achyutaraya temple at Nimbapura, near Hampi Bazaar. It is an easy climb of 30 minutes. Can be bicycled. Matanga Hill looks stunning during sunrise as well. 
• Anjanadri Hill: Believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman, the monkey god of Hindu religion, the hill derives its name from his mother, Anjana devi. Anjanadri hill  is located at Anegundi, so you have to cross the river and start a bit early from the sacred ruins site. 
• Hemakuta Hill: Remember the hill with ethereal lights, a forlorn tree and a small temple? That is Hemakuta hill for you! It is the easiest climb among all the sunset points mentioned above, yet gives you beautiful vistas to watch the sun go down. Hemakuta hill has brilliant photo opportunities for a Hampi sunset lovers.
• The Sanapur lake, on the Hippie island of Hampi. However, here you will find no ruins to reflect the glorious golden hour on your photo, hence not my favourite.

Word of caution: In case you are venturing out late in the evening, alone or at the wee hours of the day, be cognizant of the fact leopard attack is a possibility here. Try to stick to a group lest you become a palatable dinner to the wild cat!

Other places to click great photographs in Hampi!

• Riverside waterborne culture of Hampi
• The coracle rides, specially during golden hour and you are somewhere at a height camturing this!

Hampi Bazar

• The paddy fields (specially the sunflower field)
• The shepherd with his cows by the boulders. You will find this imagery multiple times in Hampi.

Also read: The ancient doors of Zanzibar!

The Hippie Island in Hampi

The “other” side of the river is loosely referred to as Hippie island in Hampi. During monsoon, this piece of land often gets submerged in water. 

The real name of Hippie island is Virupapura Gadde. It is a rather cheap place to stay, eat good and varied food items, explore the ruins on the other side and.. Ahem… smoke weed (?). I have only heard rumors of the latter part. 

Hampi island or Hippie island is painfully beautiful. Lush green rolling fields filled with seasonal crops kissing the horizon. You climb atop a hill and experience one of the most magical sunsets in life. Life easily gets attuned to the slow, peaceful and laid back vibes of the Hippie island.  

Hippie island is dotted with relics from the past. Each of them referring to various “Kaand” of ramayana. All of them invariably point towards the realm of the Vijayanagara era. The Durga temple, The anjaneya temple atop the hill, Pampa sarovar lake adjacent to the Laxmi temple. Plenty to explore in this part of Hampi as well. Local frequent here compared to tourists.  

Compared to guest houses close to Hampi Bazar, Hippie island is far cheaper. Time is a luxury which is found in abundance at this place. ATMs are a rare sight. Cottages with thatched roofs double as guest houses. Cicadas claim the land at night. 

Sanapur lake is only 4 KM away from Hampi island, an easy bike ride. 

Also read: Bonedi barir Durgapuja in Kolkata! the century old houses of Kolkata and how they celebrate Durgapuja.

Also read: How to spend a long weekend in Goa?

Offbeat Things to do in Hampi

Rock climbing in hampi.

With steep profound boulders all around, it is a no-brainer that Hampi will be a favorite spot among the rock climbers. While the local boys easily climb atop these gigantic rocks raising heads aiming for the sky, we would recommend you the tourist signing up for a rock climbing session. There are plenty of schools at the Anegundi site. Your home-stay is likely to be able to arrange for one. You can rent gears as well. 

Where did the boulders come from in hampi? A part of the Eastern Dharwar Craton, the Hampi boulders are now decaying remains of once large monolithic mountains. However Hindu mythology associates them with a dramatic battle between Bali and Sugriv, the monkey kings. Another reference to Ramayana. 

Explore the ancient Rock Paintings in Hampi

Ask your guide to show you the caves decked up with ancient rock paintings. Locals believe these paintings go back to the age of Ramayana. I am not a historian so “I doubt everything” nonetheless it is worth noting the guide’s enthusiasm. It is as if he is unraveling magic! This is off the regular touristy tracks and difficult to find by your own.

Daroji Bear Sanctuary

Once upon a time when humans had abandoned Hampi for good and nature prevailed at large, regular residents of the rocks and caves were wild boars, leopards and sloth bears. With tourists now revisiting parts of Hampi and business sprawling, man-animal conflict was on the rise. Government further assigned a specific area for wild animals. Daroji Bear Sanctuary is one small national park that houses close to 100 sloth bears in it, safe from human habitat and tourist places. The bear sanctuary is open from 2 pm to 5 pm. Sloth bears often come out and lick jaggery off the boulders. You need to pay INR 500 for the entry fee. Go with a camera or binocular for better view. 

Explore the Sanapur lake

If you love being close to the water, visit Sanapur lake side. It is close to the famous Hippie island in Hampi. There is a place for cliff jumping at the Sanapur lake. They might scare you saying there are crocodiles in the lake but I heard this is to scare off the drunkards only.

Ankasamudra bird sanctuary

Located 40 km off the ruins of Hampi, Ankasamudra is an upcoming birding destination in the state of Karnataka. During monsoons, trees are submerged in water and it makes for an ethereal sunset spot. You need to drive to this place and we recommend you have your own car.

Wander off to a nearby village

At the risk of repeating myself, I have never seen people anywhere else in India as amiable as those in Hampi. I wandered off the paved route in more numbers than ever. Stopped by the sunflower fields. Stopped by the paddy fields. Could never get enough of the children frolicking around the gigantic boulders. I often forgot the route map provided and the trail leading to the temple ruins.

The abundance of life makes up for the eerie emptiness at Hampi monuments. Those remain the most prized moments from my trip to Hampi. 

Proceed further and explore more beyond Hampi

Close to Hampi, there lives a few more astounding ancient monuments. You can explore them if you have a couple of days more to explore. I have not done this yet but this remains high up my bucket list:

• Badami: Cave temples from fifth century
• Pattadakal: UNESCO world heritage temple
• Bijapur: Famous for the Gol Gombuj
• There is also a winery by KRSMA estate close to Hampi.
• Lepakshi: cluster of ancient Hindu temples
• Belgaum: famous for the sweet named Kunda in Karnataka

Visit Tungabhadra Dam and adjacent garden

Tungabhadra dam is also known as Pampa Sagar. It has an adjoining garden and sunset is beautiful here. Visit during monsoon to see the dam in full prowess. I loved this since I am a fan-girl of rivers around the world !

Also read: Offbeat yet fun things to do in Goa!

Public Transport in Hampi

You can not compare Hampi’s public transport system with that of a large metro city, say Bangalore or even Udupi. Yet, if you plan ahead, you will be able to explore Hampi without renting a car. 

Rent a Bike in Hampi

If you love the freedom of having a car yet do not want to shell out as much money, I suggest rent a bike. Renting a bike in hampi is similar to that of renting a bike in Goa to explore her beaches . It is as cheap as INR 300 a day and petrol is on your own. If you are two people exploring Hampi, this is a very sweet deal for a day. 

Cycling in Hampi

Check with your guest house and you may be able to rent a bicycle. Hampi roads are nicely paved and perfect for cycling however Sun scorches bright at times and that is stressful. Carry water and sun guard accordingly.

Hire an Auto Rickshaw

This is the easiest way to go around in Hampi. Oftentimes, the auto drivers know what tourists want and they deliver exactly that and even more. I paid INR 600 for an auto ride back in 2017 for 6 hours. I think prices will increase now but a good bargain might just land you a good deal. For shorter distance, an Autoride must not charge more than INR 70 to 100.

The Bus for Hampi Site-seeing

There is a government bus that runs from Hospet to Hampi every 15 minutes from morning 8 am. The last bus leaves Hampi Bazar at 6 pm. It costs a mere INR 15 bucks and drops you at the Hampi ruins you need to visit. Go to the conductor and pay your fare before taking a seat. That is how they operate in Karnataka.

Boat to cross the other side of Tungabhadra River

The round boats, coracles, mostly cater to tourists. For a cheaper transfer to the other bank of Tungabhadra river, trust a water taxi. Ferries are close to Hampi Bazar. A one way ferry transfer is not more than INR 50. The last ferry leaves at 5:30 pm. After which, you need to pay a pricey fare to an auto to cross the bridge and visit the other bank.

Also read: Bonedi Barir Durgapuja in Kolkata!

A foodie’s Guide to Hampi

Guide to the best cafes and restaurants in Hampi

In Hampi, like the rest of south India, you will be served with piping hot Dosa and crispy fried vada and delectable steamed idli almost at every corner. Add to that a spread of tropical fruit. Green coconuts. Grilled corn served with a side of fiery hot green chutkey. And peanuts. These are the regular street foods in Hampi. I find them filling, hygienic since they are mostly cooked in front of me, and surprisingly affordable. 

For a good dine in experience, I recommend the following restaurants. 

At the sacred ruins side of the river

• Tamarind Tree
• The Mango Tree 
• Funky Monkey 
• Sagar Hotel
• Tibetan Kitchen

At the Anegundi side of the river

• The Laughing Buddha
• The Goan Corner 
• Ujwal Sunrise Cafe
• Sasi restaurant (with great view of the river)

A few must try dishes in Hampi: Mirchi Bhaji (fried chillies), Filter Kaapi (the iconic local coffee of Karnataka), Appe, banana flower curry (local delicacy in Hampi). 

Over the time, Hampi has developed an eclectic gourmet culture. A lot of the credit goes to inbound traffic coming all the way from Goa. You will be now finding restaurants catering Tibetan cuisine, Israeli cuisine, even Pizza at certain places. 

The area surrounding Archeological ruins of hampi is a no meat and no alcohol zone. For meat, fish and alcohol you need to visit Anegundi or Hospet. Anegundi is closer and serves fresh catch from the river. 

In lieu of branded alcohol, please do not drink local moonshine unless you know what you are getting into. 

Please note many of the restaurants, especially those close to the Hippie village remain closed during monsoon, thanks to overflowing Tungabhadra. Plan your trip accordingly. 

Best time to visit Hampi

Hampi is sweaty hot and Humid for all the year around.

It is best to visit Hampi during the dry season, post monsoon. From October end to February is the perfect time to explore the old ruins of Hampi and even go for bouldering. 

However, I visited Hampi during July/August. I was lucky that it did not rain even though the sky was overcast. Many restaurants, guests houses are closed during peak monsoon. So do call them up before visiting. Muddy roads and uneven murky trails could be a challenge too. Rock climbing in Hampi is a distant possibility during monsoon.

Where to stay in Hampi

The place you choose to stay in can make or break your experience in Hampi. Check out Booking (.) com to find preferred stay in Hampi at good value prices.

Heritage Resort Hampi, somewhere midway between Hampi Bazar and Hospet

I chose to stay at the Heritage Resort Hampi . (Check out here ). I will list out the pros and cons. 

Beautiful stay at a villa with a pool and decent but pricey in-house restaurant. Highly recommend this place if you are traveling with family and have a mid budget estimate. A short walk from the main road and easy to use public transport as well. Upscale stay near Hampi.

Far off from the sunset spots. 

You are better off to stay at Hampi heritage resort with a car. Though I did not have a car and I could easily access public transport of Hampi.

Absolutely nothing to do here at night.

Similar Luxury and Upscale properties near Hampi

• Evolve Black
• Hyatt Place
• Hampis Boulder Resort

Hampi Bazaar, in short, is the nerve center of today’s Hampi. Many small guest houses are located close to Hampi market. Some of them have amazing views over the river. Hampi does not have any hostel per say but these guest houses have similar facilities and prices.

Pros of staying close to Hampi Bazar:

You are close to the market place hence you get to see a lot of people. Very close to the archaeological ruins. Walk-able distance. Great for morning photo-shoot.

Cons of staying close to Hampi Bazar:

People. A lot of them. I would just leave it to that!

Best guest houses to stay close to Hampi Bazar:

• Gopi guest house
• Archana River View
• Padma Guest House
• Chilloutbamboo Guste house (super cheap)
• Gopi Plantation stay 

Hampi island

Hampi island is idyllic and laid back as I had described before. Staying here automatically translates to staying close to nature. 

Less people. Peaceful. Really cheap options. Away from local tourists. Nature reigns. 

Nothing much to do at night. Limited option to go out after sundown. You have to cross the river to reach Hampi island. Crossing river makes you time bound since the last ferry leaves at 5:30 pm. After that, you need to take a long turn and detour to reach the bridge. That said, Hampi island also has some of the best subset spots in Hampi.

• Happy Treat Hostel & Cafe in Hampi
• Drunken Monkey
• Tutti Hampi Chattai Cottages (My favorite from the list)
• Gowri Guest House
• Hotel Gowri

If you love living close to a city and can not let go of the urban pleasures of life, Hospet is your choice. It is also great value for money. Every morning, a bus eaves Hospet for Hampi. The journey is for 30 minutes. It is a good idea to make Hospet your base and travel to and fro to Hampi. You will always get a return bus from Hampi Bazar to Hospet. You can easily rent a bike as well. Hospet has many hotels and restaurants close t the bus station.

Camping in Hampi is allowed at designated camping stations only. You can not and should not camp anywhere in Hampi since the group of monuments is a protected area and often frequented by wildlife at night.

Things to know before Planning a Visit to Hampi

Timing for visiting the temples and ruins.

Most of the temples in Hampi are open from sunrise to sunset, from 6 in the morning till 6 at night, roughly. None lives in the archaeological zone and you will be asked to leave premises after sundown by the security guards. Leave. The rocks and old lakes are deserted at night by humans but not by the sloth bears or the leopards. I know I am repeating these words but this is very important.

In the afternoon, there is a recess time from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. Avoid entering the temples at this time and get done with your lunch break (or experience nature’s bounty around Hampi).

What is the entry fee for Hampi temples?

To enter the temples of Hampi, you are not required to pay anything. Maybe a slight charge if you are carrying a camera. However, a few temple complexes do charge a minimal fee (less than a USD) per person. This ranges from INR 30 to INR 50 and often comes with an electric car plying you for a few KM distance. I think it is worth it.

Follow a respectable dress-code for Hampi

There is no set dress code in Hampi however I strongly recommend to dress up modestly. 

These are ruins but these are temples and heavily revered amongst the locals. A few of the temples are worshipped till date. You need to cover from shoulder to knees and enter the sanctum. 

In rural India, modest clothing can help you cross the bridge easily and foster true friendship which leaps the curious first impression. “Extra” skin show can bring a lot of unnecessary attention and that at least makes me feel uncomfortable. 

Besides, the Sun is horrid in Hampi. You need to cover up to save your skin a few unwanted blisters and rashes ( I do). 

I always carry a scarf during my travels. A scarf has many utilities from cleaning my camera lens to wiping sweat to saving my modesty which outrages deep seated patriarchy. Everywhere. EVERYWHERE around the globe! 

There was no rule for barring entry to followers of different religions. I had seen this practice of entry allowed for Hindu only in the temples of Bhaktapur in Nepal , another UNESCO site on the ancient silk route and Madurai temple in Tamilnadu.

Potable water in Hampi

You can fill up drinking water at various spots. One place I know is close to Virupaksha temple. They charge you INR 2 for a liter of water bottle. This saves a whole lot of single use plastic bottles.

Festivals of Hampi

The might and splendor of the ancient Vijayanagara empire is remembered through Hampi Utsav or Vijaya Utsav. The festival takes place every year in winter and date and time are announced on the Karnataka tourism website. Do not miss out Janapada Kalavahini, celebration of folk dance and other artistic performances. 

Mobile Network is bleak

Internet /wifi /smooth mobile network is still a luxury in Hampi. Specially applicable if you choose to stay at the riverside cottages and small guest houses. Please adjust accordingly.

No Meat and No alcohol Zone

Hampi archaeological site is a meat free and alcohol free zone. You may get some egg though for a meal.

Women on period/ carrying leather products inside a temple

Many people frown if you are a woman and on your period and entering temples. Sometimes, it is explicitly mentioned. Carrying a leather bag is not permissible also since most of the leather is derived from cow skin. And cows are holy in this part of the world.

Prasad/ food offerings from the temple

Many of Hampi’s 2000 odd temple runs are “living”. Worship does take place here every day. In case you are visiting one and offered an “offering”, a morsel of food, accept that with gratitude. It is an easy way to show respect and assimilate with the locals. It can be a sweetmeat or a banana. Do NOT throw this. 

Photo Etiquette

Asking for permission will take you a long way!

While locals in Hampi are the cordial lot, know your limit. Photographing women taking a bath by the riverside is not culturally acceptable in India. Before you click a picture of a man performing a Puja, ask for permission if you can click him. More often than not, it is awkward for the uninitiated to face a camera lens in between regular errands. This holds exceptionally true as you venture in the local habitat of Hampi, off regular tourist trail. 

Things to be aware of to be safe in Hampi: 

Do not take a guide if you think he is being unnecessarily pushy. 

Do not venture into the road at night since leopard sighting is a regular thing here. Snakes too.  

You have probably seen a few movies already which were based in Hampi. Rowdy Rathore (Bollywood), The Myth (Jackie Chan starter from Hollywood) are some of the prominent movies in the list. 

An Approximate Budget for your Hampi trip

Set aside INR 300 for food and INR 500 for lodging. Another INR 200 for using pubic transport and miscellaneous. This is the bare minimum you need to spend in Hampi on a daily basis.

Hampi is not an expensive area even though nowadays it is overrun with tourists (I mean pre lockdown). The backpackers’ huts or guest houses are mostly budget friendly and of great value for money. Think less than INR 1000 per night.

If you hire an auto rickshaw for local commute, and they are found aplenty, you are expected to pay not more than 600 rs a day. For shorter commute, the price is even lesser. If you are lucky enough to catch the government bus that goes from Hospet to Hampi Bazar every day, multiple times during sunny hours, you will pay not more than INR 20. That deal is the sweetest!

The Coracle rides being a touristy thing will charge you more than the regular boats that locals use to cross Tungabhadra river. Look for the local ferries.

Bargain hard when in Hampi. Locals are helpful, honest and friendly. Those associated with tourism business will try to charge a higher price but once you settle on a good price, you will remember their hospitality for long.

If you are willing to eat food from street-side vendors, you will be surprised at the price. Its affordable and decently hygeinic. For eating at the established restaurants, prepare to shell out 300 to 500 INR per meal per person. In case your (local) driver is taking you to a dining place, chances are his meal will be complimentary from the restaurant.

FAQs about planning a trip to Hampi

1. is hampi a safe place for travel.

I traveled in Hampi as a solo female traveler. I dropped off the bus midway to shoot sunset by a forlorn water-body. On the way back, I found no bus or auto to get back to my destination. An auto plying locals stopped midway and gave me a lift. He did not even charge me money. When I asked why so, he said, “Why are you walking alone?” I assume people are concern for solo travelers, specially female, being solo at forlorn places and goes out of the way to help you.

Just do not venture alone at extreme off the route and you will have a great time in Hampi. Women I met in Hampi were always extra loving and extra caring, specially when they see a “madam” walking alone with a camera. Forever grateful to those smiling faces who invited me to share a plate with them at the picnic spots. Women in rural India are incredible and more. There lies the soul of my big old beautiful country. Period.

2. What is the language spoken at Hampi?

Locals speak Kannada. They are Kannadiga. They also understand English (mostly who are associated with tourism) and Hindi too.

3. Does Hampi have a beach?

Hampi does not have a beach. The hippie island in Hampi is just the other bank of Tungabhadra river which has lesser ruins, excluded from the archaeological zone and is dotted with a number of affordable guest houses.

4. Can we cover Hampi in 2 days?

It is best if you allot at least three days to Hampi to see all of the tourist attractions it has on offer. If time is short, you may also explore Hampi in a quick 2 days visit. f you are rushed, we recommend taking a guide!

5. Where else I can go from Hampi?

From Hampi, you may go on and explore the old old ruins and temples of Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal temples (another astounding UNESCO world heritage site in India).

6. What should I wear in Hampi?

Unless you are entering the temple sanctums, you are good with normal shirt and pant or any short of western wears. However, keep in mind this is rural India and excessive skin show is frowned upon. My number one tip for traveling safe in India would be to try and blend in with the locals as much as you can! Please remove your footwear before entering a temple complex . Even when it is ruined. Please do this. I can not emphasis enough on this. This is like coming to my house and not removing shoe.

7. What is the best time to visit Hampi?

Hampi is hot and humid all the year around however in Indian winters, humidity level is tolerable. I would suggest plan a visit to Hampi from November to February.

8. Is it okay to smoke weed in Hampi?

I have heard the hippie island is (in)famous for weed and smoking in many backpackers’ group. However, I do not smoke myself and this is a criminal offence in India according to IPC. So, do your math!

I hope this Hampi travel guide serves the purpose and helps you plan a solo trip (or with family) to this astounding place of historical importance. You can also check out the following places in Karnataka.

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25 Responses

What an interesting place. So many things to see and experience. Thanks for sharing this special part of the country with us.

Oh your photos are so lovely. I have not heard of this place, I would love to visit. We want to get back to this region and spend more time…hopefully soon we will all be able to travel again. Great piece. I’ll save it for future reference.

Please give option to share in what’s app

Hi Selvi. Thank you. I will add that tight now 🙂

What a detailed description of the place. Loved it. One can plan out the travel easily with your tips. I loved the in and around places of Hampi. I always felt that it has only architectures. I need to put this on my bucket list.

Wow!! so many great things and amazing pictures.Thanks for sharing this.

Hi Madhurima,

This is such a great post. I really love reading about India. It is such an amazing country and I also love Indian people. They are so kind, nice and humble people. I was in India this year for two months. I was mostly traveling in South India and I didn’t visit Hampi. I got to learn about it too late. I met foreigners who stayed there for over a week because they loved it so much. After I’d heard so many good things about Hampi, I wanted to go there and explore it. But because of the coronavirus, I had to leave India.

I will definitely remember your guide about Hampi when I’m in India next time.

All the best, Diana

This post is so amazing & so thorough! I feel like I’ve been to Hampi now… but it looks so amazing that I do hope to visit in person one day. Pinned & saving this post for later for India travel inspo.

What an epic post, an excellent guide. I was really happy for the trip down memory lane. I visited Hampi around 13 years ago (probably before it was on the NYT’s list!) and absolutely loved it. The temples, river, sunset…such a special place.

Great post with loads of useful info and beautiful pictures. Thanks for sharing

Never been to India but it is so high on my bucketlist. Want to go there next year, Hampi looks amazing!

What a thorough post! I hope to make it to Hampi! Pinned this post for future reference 🙂

What a wonderfully thorough guide! And such beautiful photos, I pinned it for later 🙂 Thanks!

This was such an interesting read and comprehensive guide. I’m going to save it to come back to and read again there is so much detail! Thank you for sharing, I now want to visit all the ruins at Hampi. Your photos are so beautiful.

Beautiful photos! India has been firmly on my bucket list for a long time. I hope to make it out there soon!

Wow – looks absolutely breath-taking! Just look at those details.

Wow! What a detailed guide! I’ve not travelled to India, so I’ve not done much research. Hampi sounds incredible though. And you’re pictures of the ruins and surroundings are spectacular!

I had never heard of Hampi before reading this post – it looks fantastic! Hampi is now on my India must visit list!

Wow! Thank you for all the thorough information. Great tip about how to respectfully dress there. Thank you for gathering all this info in one place.

What a great in depth guide! Love the photo of the girls with the flowers in their hair! Thanks for sharing!

Wow! This is seriously comprehensive! Thank you for all of the information. I love it when I stumble on your posts. So much great inspiration.

Oh wow I’ve been to South India so many times but never heard of these ruins! They look amazing and I just might detour to Karnataka the next time I’m headed there!

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This is absolutely gorgeous. Dying to go now that we can travel again

Definitely adding to my list for when I (finally!!) travel to India 🙂

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• 29 Most Riveting Places To Visit In Hampi That Are A Must In 2024!

23 Mar 2023

Located on the banks of the River Tungabhadra, Hampi is a small yet enchanting temple town bounded by the intriguing historical ruins of Vijayanagara city in the state of Karnataka. With a host of tourist places to see in Hampi, this dreamworld made of boulders, monoliths, and ruins of ancient edifices is a delight for tourists and thus is considered among best places to visit in Karnataka . The various engrossing places to visit in Hampi see a perennial influx of history-buffs, families, and photography enthusiasts. The status of the UNESCO World Heritage Site further accentuates the eminence of Hampi as one of the most popular historical and religious tourist places in India.

29 Best Places To Visit In Hampi

While visiting this heritage land, make sure to not miss out on these places and witness the architectural beauty of Hampi.

1. Vijaya Vittala Temple

Image Source Vijaya Vittala Temple is a 15th-century structure that is also considered the largest of all historical structures in Hampi. This humungous temple is dedicated to Lord Vittala- an incarnation of Lord Vishnu- and is a must-visit amongst all Hampi tourist places. The extraordinary stone chariot , arrays of huge pillars in the temple halls, and intricate sculptures are the true embodiments of the bewitching architecture of the centuries-old Vijaya Vittala Temple. Timings: 08:30 am to 5:30 pm (all days) Entry fee:

• INR 10 for Indian nationals and US $5 for foreign nationals
• Video camera fee- INR 25
• Still camera fee- Nil

Visit duration: Approximately 2 hours Tip: Visit as early as possible to avoid crowds and to witness the best views of the temple.

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2. Sri Virupaksha Temple

Image Source Believed to be the oldest functioning temple in India, Sri Virupaksha Temple is a 7th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is also considered one of the most significant religious places to visit in Hampi and attracts a huge number of pilgrims from all over India. The sprawling campus of the Virupaksha temple houses a huge courtyard, huge gateway towers, and other old-style structures that will leave you in an awe of its immense grandeur. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee:

• INR 5 for Indian nationals and US $5 for foreign nationals
• Video camera fee- INR 500
• Still camera fee- 50
• Local guide fee- INR 50
• Shoe safekeeping- INR 10

Visit duration: Approximately 1.5 hours Tip: Hire a guide to show you around the major attractions of this temple including the underwater Shiva Temple within the Sri Virupaksha Temple complex.

3. Hanuman Temple

Image Source Hanuman Temple is another famous religious site located on the top of the Anjaneya Hill which is considered as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. About 4 km from Hampi village, one has to cross a river using a small boat with paddles and then climb up the stairs to reach the Temple. The serene and picturesque ambience of this temple offers mesmerizing views of sunrise and sunset, making it one of the perfect places to see in Hampi and around. Timings: Open all days dawn till dusk Entry fee: None Visit duration: Approximately 30 – 45 minutes Tip: Beware of the monkeys in the temple premise and do not tease the animals.

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4. Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex

Image Source Hemakuta Hill is a wonderful place lined by a number of Hindu temples, ruins of fortified walls, and broken pathways. Mula Virupaksha Temple in Hemakuta Hill Temple complex is one of the most prominent places to visit in Hampi. Timings: Open all days from sunrise till sunset Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 3-4 hours Tip: Don’t miss the sunset view from Hemakuta Hill.

5. Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple

Image Source Located on the south side of Hemakuta Hill, the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple derives its name from the resemblance between Ganesha’s belly and mustard seed which is locally known as Sasivekalu. It houses a 2.4-meter statue of Ganesha spectacularly carved out of a boulder stone depicting a snake around Lord Ganesha’s stomach. The history of the magnificent pavilion that surrounds the statue of Ganesha dates back to 1506 A.D. making this temple a famous tourist attraction in Hampi. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 45 minutes Tip: Visit Kadalekalu Ganesha located on the northern slope of Hemakuta Hill.

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6. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Image Source Within the ruins of Hampi, the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple- also known as the Statue of Ugra Narsimha- is the largest monolith statue in Hampi. This 6.7-meter high statue was built in 1528 A.D. which was vandalized in 1565 during a Mughal raid over the Vijayanagara Kingdom. The statue of Lord Narasimha- an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and a half-man, half-lion- depicts the deity sitting in a cross-legged position in its fierce form. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 1 hour Tip: Carry battery backup for your camera as the place is quite photogenic.

7. Queen’s Bath

Image Source Probably, a royal bathing complex for the erstwhile king and his wives, this majestic and enormous ancient building sets the clock back and is one of the major places to see in Hampi. The beauty of the ruins of Queen’s Bath gets to you the moment you lay your eyes on the unbelievable architectural style of this ancient royal pool. A huge courtyard in the front with a dome-shaped roof, balconies with small windows, and a rectangular pool made of bricks in the middle with open blue sky greet you at the Queen’s Bath in Hampi. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes Tips: Carry adequate cash with yourself. Purchase stone carvings and sculptures made by local artists here.

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8. Riverside Ruins

Image Source An array of 108 Shiva Lingas carved on the flat rocky surface and a finely rock-carved sculpture of Lord Vishnu in a reclining position make Riverside Ruins one of the most enticing places to visit in and around Hampi. A number of small shrines, statues, pavilions, and carved artefacts within this cluster of ruins make it a perfect place for photographers and historians. Exploring historical ruins is one of the best things to do in Hampi  and while visiting this spot, you can surely treat the history buff in you. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: INR 30 Visit duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes Tip: Hire a local guide to help you explore the Riverside Ruins

9. Hampi Bazaar

Image Source

Located in the foothill of Matanga Hill, Hampi Bazaar is one of the popular Hampi sightseeing places. It is an ancient street stretching over a kilometer and lined with ruins of pavilions. Hampi Bazaar once used to have bustling shops, restaurants, and residences on both sides of it. At one end of the Hampi Bazaar, you can find a huge Nandi bull with a photo gallery on the other side. The lavish pavilion in front of the Nandi bull statue plays host to the famous annual Hampi Bazaar. Shopping at local stores and eating at restaurants are the best things to do in Hampi at night.

Timings: 06:00 am to 11:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 1-2 hours Tip: Explore the tourist spots of Hampi Bazaar on a rented bicycle.

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10. Archaeological Museum

Image Source The Archaeological Museum in Hampi is one of the most noteworthy Hampi tourist places having four different art galleries that house a wide variety of artefacts. Ancient coins, statues, paintings, metal plates, armoury, and sculptures of various Hindu deities can be found here. All four sections of this museum are worth exploring and a treat for history buffs and kids. Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (all days, except Friday) Entry fee: INR 5/per person (Free entry for children under the age of 15 years) Visit duration: Approximately 1.5- 2 hours Tip: Do not click pictures outside the museum as photography is allowed only in the open lawn outside the art galleries.

11. Matanga Hill

Image Source Matanga Hill offers panoramic views of the historical ruins of Hampi and its surroundings. After trekking up the hill for around 30 minutes, you will find Veerabhadra Temple sitting right at the top of Matanga Hill. This temple has a rooftop, which is unarguably the best place to witness sunrise and sunset over the lovely landscape of this historical Hampi town. Timings: Dawn to dusk (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 3 hours Tip: Carry a mini torch/flashlight as Matanga Hill and the paths leading up to the hilltop aren’t well lit.

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12. Daroji Bear Sanctuary

Image Source Daroji Bear Sanctuary is a protected forest area where you can witness lovely Indian Sloth bears strolling around or climbing up the trees or playing around with each other. Established in 1994, this sanctuary also houses leopards, hyenas, jackals, spotted deers and various other species of animals and plants making it one of the most favourable places to see in Hampi for nature and wildlife lovers. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee:

• INR 50 per person for Indian national
• INR 300 per person for foreign national
• Parking fee-INR 500 per car

Visit duration: Approximately 3 hours Tips: Wear good sports/hiking shoes. Also, carry adequate drinking water with you. You can see bears marching down from nearby hillocks in the evening.

13. Tungabhadra Dam

Image Source Among famous attractions in Hampi and surrounding places to visit, the Tungabhadra Dam pure natural bliss. With lovely flamingos playing around the beautiful garden on one side of Tungabhadra Dam, it’s the best place to take out your camera for some great shots. Timings: 08:30 am to 6:30 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 1.5 – 2 hours Tip: Watch out for the beautiful music fountain that starts around 7:00 in the evening.

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14. Hippie Island

Hippie Island is one of the sightseeing places in Hampi, known for its astounding beauty. As the island is named after a vibrant culture, you can enjoy vacationing here in the lively ambiance of this island. Located across the Tungabhadra River, the initial name of the island was Virapapur Gadde.

Timings: Daily 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 4-5 hours  Tip: Don’t miss mesmerizing views of sunsets along with the live jam sessions conducted on the beach

15. Gagan Mahal

Gagan Mahal is a magnificent architecture that dates back to the 16th century. However, the significant areas of this palace are currently ruined but the palace is worth visiting. You can also head to the nearby popular attractions including Sabari Caves, Nava Brindavana, Sarovar Laxmi Temple, Durga Temple, etc.  Timings: 24 hours Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 1 hour  Tip: The place is like a paradise for history lovers.

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16. Krishna Temple

17. Sanapur Lake

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18. Hazara Rama Temple

19. Elephant Stables

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20. Stepped Tank

21. Monolithic Bull

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22. Kamal Mahal

23. Zanana Enclosure

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24. Kadalekalu Ganesh

Kadalekalu Ganesh is a crucial religious attraction in Hampi. Visitors will experience traditional stone architecture in this temple. There is a 15 ft long monolithic stone statue of Lord Ganesha which is believed as the largest in the world. Add this sacred spot to your list of places to visit in Hampi in one day to seek the blessings of the ‘Vighnaharta.’

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee: NIL Visit Duration: 1-2 hours Tip or places to visit: Lotus palace, Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Bazaar, and Hippie island are a few attractions that tourists can plan to visit while on a trip to Kadalekalu Ganesh.

25. Tiruvengalanatha Temple

Image Credits: Ms Sarah Welch for Wikimedia Commons Also known as Achyuta Raya Temple, it is one of the popular and stunning places to visit in Hampi . This temple was built in 1534 AD and was named after the main deity who is a form of Lord Shiva. This temple was a few of those last temples built during the Vijayanagara Empire. Sitting between Gandhamadana and Matanga hills, the temple, however, lies majorly in ruins that were as a result of attacks on it by the Bahmani Kingdom. Timings: Daily 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Entry fee: None Visit duration: 1-2 hours Tip: Make sure you wear modest clothes that are not at all revealing as a token of respect to the religion.

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26. Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex

Image Credits: Dineshkannambadi for Wikimedia Commons Hemakunta Hill Temple Complex is home to many temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the southern region of Hampi, these temples are amongst the most ancient ones that can still be visited in Hampi. This is what makes the complex amongst the top places to visit in Hampi . A lot of these temples were constructed between the 9th and 14th centuries, even before the famous Vijayanagara Empire that ruled Hampi. Timings: Daily 6:00 am to 6:30 pm Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 2-3 hours Tip: Do not forget to carry your cameras to capture the beauty of these places

27. Krishna Pushkarani

Image Source One of the most sacred places in Hampi, Krishna Pushkaranis takes you back to ancient times. This famous tourist spot allows one to get a glimpse of the architectural style of the Vijayanagara era. You will find many such Pushkarnis all around the city. Located near Krishna Bazaar, this remarkable water tank is one of the best places to visit in Hampi. Timings: Open throughout the day Entry fee: None Visit duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes Tip: While visiting here, don’t forget to explore nearby Krishna Bazaar

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28. Prasanna Virupaksha Temple

Image Source One of the most famous temples in Hampi , Prasanna Virupaksha Temple was built during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. The temple is dedicated to Prasanna Virupaksha, who was an avatar of Lord Shiva. Surrounded by lush greenery, this striking temple boasts an alluring architecture that intrigue visitors. Besides this, the central part of the shrine is always immersed in water that makes the temple all the more special. Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry fee: None Visit duration: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour Tip: Spend some time on the lush green lawn of the temple

29. Laughing Buddha Cafe

Image Source Hampi boasts numerous cafes where vacationers can spend some cosy time and among the best ones is the Laughing Buddha Cafe. While offering spectacular views of the Tungabhadra River, this lively cafe serves some mouth-watering meals along with refreshing drinks. You can savour your meal while enjoying light music in the background. The cafe impresses visitors with its menu that includes a wide range of sizzlers, curries, and pizzas, and Israeli cuisine as well. Timings: 8:30 am to 10:00 pm Entry fee: NA Meal for two: INR 1,000 approximately Tip: To treat your tastebuds, try some Israeli delicacies

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Best Time To Visit Hampi

Hampi tourism is at its peak, from October to February, as the weather is pleasant and great for sightseeing.

The month of January/February also is an ideal time to visit Hampi, owing to the cultural extravaganza that takes place in Hampi Utsav .

How To Get Around In Hampi

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How To Reach Hampi

By Air- Hubli Airport and Belgaum Airport are two major domestic airports located at distances of 144 km and 215 km from Hampi, respectively. Bangalore Airport is the nearest international airport which is about 350 km from Hampi. By Road- Hampi is among beloved weekend getaways from Bangalore and is well connected to Hospet, Hassan, Mysore and other nearby cities by road as buses ply regularly. Tourists travelling to Hampi by road can also avail taxis that are available from nearby towns and cities. By Train- Hospet Junction- the nearest railway station to Hampi, is about 13 km away.

The aforementioned places to visit in and around Hampi, give you every reason to skip mountains and beaches. Especially if you are an architecture and history buff, these places will surely intrigue you and allow you to have a memorable vacation. Plan your vacation to Hampi with TravelTriangle and enjoy your enthralling vacation! For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Hampi

What is Hampi famous for?

If you are a history buff who likes to explore the heritage relics, then Hampi should definitely be on your list. The scenery of Hampi feels right out of a history book. It is a place for free souls and hippies. Enjoy the nature scenes of the place, camping under the stars, and take a boat ride on the river. Hampi can be so much fun for adults as well as for kids.

What is there do in Hampi?

There are so many things to do in Hampi . For starters, visit each and every temple and ruins Hampi is famous for. All those relics that you see on Indian rupee notes are from Hampi. The charming town is located by the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Taking a coracle ride on the river is a one-of-a-kind experience. You will feel free-spirited in Hampi. Such is the nature of this place. You should also attend the Hampi Utsav that is a celebration of colour and culture.

How do I cover Hampi in 2 days?

You can easily cover Hampi in 2 days. Just get a scooter or a bike on rent and roan around Hampi at your leisure. Start with Virupaksha Temple, Vijay Vittala Temple, and hill temple Complex on day 1, visit the Hampi bazaar to buy some souvenirs from your vacation. On day 2, you can cover Queen’s Bath, Hazara Rama Temple, Stepped Bank. If you have time, you may cover a few more attractions in Hampi before you leave.

How many days are sufficient for Hampi?

Two days are sufficient to visit this World Heritage Site. The place is full of historic monuments and to visit the places nearby two days are sufficient.

When is the best time to visit Hampi?

October to February is the best time to visit Hampi as the temperature is pleasant to explore the city. One can also visit during the monsoon season but should be careful as it gets quite slippery.

Is Hampi safe to travel alone?

Hampi is quite a safe place for solo travellers. As far as the safety of female solo travellers are concerned, one should be cautious in any part of the world.

Where should I stay in Hampi?

Some of the best Hampi hotels are Kishkinda Heritage Resort, Clarks Inn Hampi, Hotel Gowri and Thilak Home Stay to enjoy a luxurious stay.

What are the best places to visit in Hampi?

The best places to visit in Hampi include Hanuman Temple, Hampi Bazaar, Tungabhadra Dam, Stepped Tank, Kamal Mahal, Daroji Bear Sanctuary, and more.

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Timeless Places to See in Hampi, Karnataka – India’s Unforgettable Ruins

Lost in the lost kingdom of Hampi 

Everyone travels to Hampi, one of the best places to travel in Karnataka and a UNESCO World Heritage site, to see the ruins of the ancient Vijayanagar empire. They say Vijayanagar was once the richest empire in the world. But I didn’t visit Hampi just to see the ruins. My favorite part about Hampi was the nature that cradles Hampi in her lap as if sympathizing with her for the tragedies the empire suffered.

Also, this was not my first time in Hampi, and I was better informed about the place.

My first trip to Hampi from Bangalore was about a few years ago. Back then I had made a list of places to see in Hampi that included the main Hampi attractions such as the Virupaksha temple, the Vitthala temple, and the other ruins that form the groups of monuments at Hampi. That was a three-day Hampi trip from Bangalore that only left me wanting to see more of this archaeological wonder of the South.

When I traveled to Hampi the second time recently, I didn’t make a Hampi itinerary. Why?

When you Google search about Hampi, you are bound to get overwhelmed by the number of things to do in Hampi. Hampi images filled with historical buildings and unbelievable boulder arrangements amidst a lush spread of fat palm and tall coconuts would not only leave you amazed but bewildered.

I hear you.

Must Read : Finding Sloth Bears in Daroji Bear Sanctuary, Hampi

Please do not think that Hampi is the playground of Indiana Jones and that you won’t be ever able to see all the best places in Hampi.

The trick to enjoy Hampi is that don’t be meticulous about a “things to see” list and instead let yourself go with the flow . And mind you, you would never be able to see all of Hampi in a few days.

After reading the history of Hampi and a couple of the places to see around Hampi, I realized that the best way to explore Hampi is to get lost in Hampi.

I booked a beautiful cottage in the Sanapur area of Hampi (treated myself a little bit on my birthday), which is far off from the mainstream Hampi, and soon we set off on a Bangalore to Hampi road trip.

Also read: If you love nature, you should consider going to Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India

Statutory Warning: Such dosa pictures are going to pop up frequently in this Hampi guide so better get used to them. Or close this tab but where will you go then? 😉

What can you expect in this places to visit in Hampi travel guide?

• About the Bangalore to Hampi road trip.
• Where is Hampi and the History of Hampi.
• What are the places to see in Hampi

What are the different ruins in Hampi?

• Day one in Hampi.
• Day Two in Hampi.
• Day Three in Hampi.
• Day Four in Hampi.
• What is the best time to visit Hampi?
• How to reach Hampi?
• How to reach Hampi from Bangalore?

What clothes can you wear in Hampi, India?

• Which area to choose for staying in Hampi?
• What are the places to stay in Hampi?
• Optional – Books to read to prepare for your Hampi trip.

But not staying limited to the most recommended things to do in Hampi, I would take you on offbeat Hampi trails, too.

We would wander together in Hampi villages watching wild langur families drink water from tiny streams, admiring the sparrows that frolic around in lush paddy, taking a moment to appreciate the cows resting with their calves outside homes, petting the cat and kittens and dogs and puppies that are never prepared for a car in the village streets, gorging on yummy dosas that the local food shops will never let you have enough of, and gazing down on the lost kingdom of Hampi from the top of tall Hampi hills.

Oh, did I mention that Hampi is also a great place to chill by the Tungabhadra river or see sloth bears eat jaggery off boulders ?

I don’t know what is not there in Hampi.

Are you ready?

You can jump to the history of Hampi and Hampi itinerary directly. 

About the trip from Bangalore to Hampi by car

Even though my  nomadic lifestyle helps me travel slow and use public transport, I often return to Bangalore to be with my partner and meet my friends. And we often rent a car to go on a road trip from Bangalore as the amazing places to see near Bangalore are the best part of being in the city.

Karnataka (where Hampi and Bangalore both are) is a good state to drive for the roads are well-made, and palm and coconut trees fringe them on both sides.

On your way from Bangalore to Hampi by road, you will also get to see the infinite windmills dotted on the horizon making the drive pretty surreal after a while.

Bangalore to Hampi distance is about 340 km via NH50 and NH48. Thanks to the good roads, we did the drive in 6 hours (excluding the time we stopped to eat and relax).

On the way, we stopped at local Udupi and Shiv Sagar restaurants to stuff ourselves with crunchy dosas and soft idlis.

I mean how can you not. Have you looked at one of these crispy goodnesses?

Suggested Read: Road trip from Bangalore to Coorg – Another cultural and natural heaven of Karnataka

Something you need to know about the  road trip from Bangalore to Hampi   — You will have to pay at many tolls so keep that cash ready. 

How was the road trip back from Hampi to Bangalore? 

Gorgeous. If you are not in a rush, stop at one of the many dhabas in Tumkur and eat some dal rice and onion pakora. I bet you won’t regret the half an hour stop. 

Where is Hampi and Hampi history

Hampi is located on the banks of the river Tungabhadra in east Karnataka. Once the capital of the rich Vijayanagar empire in South India, Hampi is now known for the more than 1600 ruins, sculptures, and relics that have been discovered over centuries on either above the land or excavated from under the earth.

But how did these artifacts and historical monuments came to Hampi in the first place?

Many versions of the history of Hampi fill the internet. Also, Hampi has been mentioned innumerable times in Hindu mythology.

According to the  Hindu Puranas , the goddess Parvati (also known as Pampa) meditated on the Hemakuta hills in Hampi to persuade Lord Shiva to marry her. The Hampi river which we call Tungabhadra came to be known as the Pampa river. The Sanskrit word Pampa together with the Kannada word Hampa became Hampi. ( I don’t know what Hampa means, do you?)

In the  Kishkindha Kaannd of Ramayana (one of the many chapters of Ramayana), Hampi is suggested to be the place where Ram met the monkey king Sugreev and asked his help to free his wife Sita from Ravana’s captivity. The Matunga hill, where I will later send you to see a stunning sunset, is known to be the place where Ram crowned Sugriv as the king.

Relics and sculptures excavated at Hampi support these stories.

An insider tip — while you explore the ruins of Hampi, see the engravings, sculptures, and paintings on the walls of these remains closely. Most of them have Ram and Sita or Parvati and Shiva’s beautiful figurines carved out of stone. 

Relics dating as old as 3rd century BCE, some of them from the Ashoka empire, have been excavated in Hampi making us wonder since when has this place been inhabited by people from around the world.

But this is the story of an ancient Hampi. Post the mythological era, Hampi was the capital of at least four dynasties one of them being the Vijayanagar empire that made Hampi their capital in the 14th century. 

Insider Information: Anegundi, a tiny village that not many people even visit now, was the earlier capital.

The rulers of the Vijayanagar empire who were passionate about art, architecture, and literature  built many engraved and remarkable temples and other structures around Hampi.

The history and excavations say that  Hampi city was one of the world’s grandest cities filled with riverside markets, rich trade centers, stunning temples, and agricultural farms. Persian and Portuguese traders visited Hampi frequently to get a chunk of the trade hub of the world. 

But for how long could such a prosperous city protect herself? In the 15th century, Muslim looters and plunderers invaded the Vijayanagar empire, filled their caravans with all the gold and diamond they could get, and left Hampi in ruins.

Women committed  Jauhar to save themselves from the invaders, and we were only left with history. 

Though Vijayanagara kingdom wasn’t the only one who added to the Hampi heritage and many other dynasties contributed to the relics, now all those creations are scattered around the 16 square miles of the Hampi ruins area – these ruins form the Hampi Unesco site or the group of monuments at Hampi that attracts more than half a million tourists every year. 

Only in the 19th century did the lost kingdom of Hampi was found again by Alexander Greenlaw, a British East-India company soldier who photographed the ruins and Hampi found its way on a historian’s and a traveler’s map when the prints became popular later on. (I have heard that those prints can be found in the office of the Deccan Heritage Foundation.)

With so much to see, Hampi is nothing but stories written in stones.

Another place to visit in India if you love history and old monuments – Nawabi places to see in Hyderabad in 3 days

A question — Did you know that excessive mining of iron-ore and manganese has started to endanger the ancient sculptures at Hampi?

What are the places to see in Hampi?

This question is subjective as the things you see or do in Hampi depends on the time you have there. Traveling to Hampi for a month? That’s great, and the upcoming Hampi activities and places that I will talk about can keep you busy even for a month.

Going to Hampi for a day or a few days? I would say that o ne day in Hampi is not enough. I was in Hampi for about five days out of which I was doing honest Hampi sightseeing (if that’s a thing) for about four days.

But you don’t have to see it all for rather than worrying that you can’t see it all you have to have a great time exploring this marvelous gem of South India. I am going to talk about the things that I enjoyed doing and the places that I loved in Hampi below. You can choose one or many out of them as you like.

And if you ask me for the best p laces to visit in Hampi in one day, I would say that visit the Virupaksha and other temples nearby that I will describe on my day 3. See temples for half a day, relax by the riverside for some time, and then climb up the Matunga hill for a perfect sunset.

What about the places to visit in Hampi in two days? To spend two days in Hampi, you can take up any of my two days from the itinerary below. As per your priorities and places you like, mix up a few things to see in Hampi.

Suggested Read: Road trip from Bangalore to Panchapalli Dam and Bettamugilalam Village

Before moving onto possible itineraries let’s understand the ruins structure.

Hampi has three main ruins — the sacred ruins that are the main temples (Virupaksha, Vitthala, Achutharaya, and more) spread around the river, the urban ruins that are mostly from the Vijayanagar empire and cover a big complex — the lotus mahal, elephant stable, and the queen’s bath all are part of it, and the third is the riverside Hampi ruins that are scattered around the river in small sculptures, on boulders, and in hidden carvings.

When I visited Hampi, the riverside ruins were submerged underwater so I can only talk about the sacred and the urban ruins. 

What is the best way to trace these ruins?

In my day to day Hampi itinerary in the next section, I am listing down a few trails that I followed because they felt natural to walk.

Please note – I am not providing a trail map here as you can find one easily at your hotel or at the various Hampi tourist attractions. You can also click a picture of the Hampi monuments map at one of the ruins. I walked and kept finding the way to the next ruins and didn’t follow any map. Do what feels natural and easier for you. 

Choose a trail or a ruins area and off you go. Carry water, sunscreen, wear comfortable clothes, and simple footwear. 

Day 1 in Hampi 

Exploring the area around my cottage near the Sanapur lake, driving around in the villages of Hampi, lunch at Gangavathi, and climbing up Durga temple. 

I started my  Hampi trip by exploring the paddy fields and climbing up boulder hills around my stay in Hampi. I was staying near the Sanapur lake for I liked that area. More details on my choice of place and cottage are in the best place to stay in Hampi section below.

The Sanapur lake is popular for cliff jumping, but as I am still a novice swimmer, I walked around the lake and watched the idyllic boatmen chill next to their coracles. If you go cliff jumping, don’t get scared by the crocodile warning side on the lake for that is just to scare drunk men who have been known to jump in the lake for fun.

What about these giant boulders that you see scattered in Hampi?

Those are local granite boulders that have formed due to the erosion happening for millions of years that has transformed rocks into spherical boulders. Even a sister place of Hampi known as Ramanagra has similar granite boulders  off which Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra jump around freely in the movie Sholay. 

By looking at the Hampi boulder scene, you would also agree with my idea that Physics students should be brought to Hampi to do some real-life friction understanding. 

Before heading off to any ruins, we took our car for a spin in the Hampi villages and drove by lush paddy fields that were the playgrounds of gorgeous langurs and sparrows. 

When we got really hungry we made our way to Gangavathi, a small town near Hampi, for some heavy lunch, and then climbed onto the top of the Durga temple to digest the peppery mushrooms and spicy dal. 

After climbing some stairs and avoiding the guide who wanted to force his guidance upon us, we walked further up and watched the sunset from the top of the Durga temple. (I have nothing against guides but if they push too much, I never hire them.)

From up there you can see Pampa Sarovar, other temples, river Tungabhadra, and green paddy spread in chess-like squares all over Hampi. We watched the sunset from the top and then called it a day.

Summarizing what you can do on your day one in Hampi — Take it slow. Try to absorb the place for it’s quite random, to be frank. A lovely random though. 

Depending on where you are staying, drive or walk around green fields, watch nature do its thing, climb on the top of a hill, any hill, to watch the sunset and see Hampi from a bird’s eye view. This top view of Hampi will give you a good idea of how the ruins are spread or rather how the city is spread, and then when you explore it the next day, you won’t feel so overwhelmed. 

Another unusual landscape of India that you might like – Spiti Valley, Indian Himalayas

Day 2 in Hampi – Things to do in Hampi on your second day

Immersing in local food and admiring the Indian sloth bears in the Daroji Bear Sanctuary.

First things first. A few crispy dosas filled with spicy potatoes fried in curry leaves and a couple of plates of idli at a local food shop in Virupapur Gaddi helped us start our day. 

Soon we headed off to the Daroji Bear Sanctuary that was an hour away from Virupapur Gaddi and half an hour away from Kamalapur (if you are staying there). 

If you have less time and want to see the ruins first, just skip to what I did on the third day in Hampi for that is a ruin-filled day. 

Did you know that most of the caves within the intriguing Hampi boulders housed many leopards and bears when Hampi was reduced to a jungle and not many people visited or lived there? Now the animals have been restricted to national parks such as Daroji bear sanctuary. 

The ruins of Hampi  and the surrounding mischievous area that could have been straight out of an Ashoka war movie was once dense with Indian sloth bears, leopards, and wild boars. Over time, Hampi became popular, visitors started coming in, tourism helped people to settle down in the villages, and the animals became a threat to humans and vice-versa.

The wild animals were moved and restricted to the Daroji bear sanctuary that lies about forty-minutes away from Hampi and is one of the most-recommended yet offbeat places to visit near Hampi.

If you love wildlife, you should go to Daroji but not at 2 pm as many of the articles recommend. Though the sanctuary is open since 2 pm, you won’t see sloth bears that early for they only come out to eat around the evening when the weather is cooler. 

The staff of the sanctuary puts liquid jaggery and honey on many rocks in the park. Around 5 in the evening, you would see sloth bears venture out and lick the sweets off the rocks. 

Recommended Read: Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Hampi – Home of Indian Sloth Bear

Dinner was at a local place called Manju cafe which comes up as Mango Cafe in Google. Nice place run by a local lady but it is only for people who are in the Sanapur/Anegundi side. Here is the Google maps location for Manju cafe. 

There is a small Muslim shrine in front of the shop so you can also have a look at the religious rituals. I was in Hampi at the Muharram time and could see a regular rush of the devotees at the shrine.

Summarizing what you can do on your day two in Hampi — Eat and watch adorable sloth bears eat, too. 

Day 3 of Hampi itinerary

Ruin-Filled day.

This is when I finally went to the main ruins near the Tungabhadra river. 

As I was staying in Sanapur, going to Hampi sacred ruins or the main temples along the river bank meant always crossing over the Tungabhadra river and also the many villages of Hampi. Tungabhadra was at a high level in September when I visited for the monsoon had just finished its job, and ferries and coracles weren’t allowed to cross the river. 

So we drove straight off to the other side of the river and parked at Virupaksha temple . 

Virupaksha, a temple dedicated to Shiva as Virupaksha is another name of Shiva, is one of the most popular and revered temples in Hampi that has been there since the 7th century.

I won’t go into the many geometrical alignments of the temple but I can tell you that the grandeur of this temple blew away my mind (and I have seen a lot of temples). I am not a temple fan but when I witness a temple like Virupaksha, I know that I have seen one of the many manmade unique creations that would never be made again for the first time. 

The tower you see in the picture is only the first Gopuram(tower) and you will see another tall Gopuram one when you go inside. But first, you will pass through a courtyard, a three-headed Nandi bull, intricately carved stone pillars, langurs eating off bananas, and a plethora of people who come to Virupaksha to pray.  

There is also an inverted shadow of the gopuram inside the temple whose creation nobody has been able to figure out. 

As you walk further ahead and arrive at the backside of the temple, you can find the banana fields of Virupaksha that support the temple expenses. I loved that backyard with more wild monkeys, huge trees, stone-pillared columns, and an amazing view over the Tungabhadra. How it would have been to live there in the 14th century with all that prosperity?

Virupaksha also has an elephant that I didn’t see and, maybe for the good, as I don’t support the idea of keeping animals in captivity. Hate me as much as you can, but I can never justify keeping an animal restricted. 

From the back of Virupaksha, you can walk up to the Hemakuta hills which is where they say Parvati prayed to Shiva. And soon the views change and you see the two gopurams of Virupaksha in a row like dazzling pillars of gold standing tall above everyone. Indian classical music echoes in the area so you might want to sit down for a bit and soak in all the energy. 

I had left my slippers in front of the Virupaksha so while I ran around admiring the views my feet sizzled.

Insider tip – If you want to climb up Hemakuta hills, first get out of the Virupaksha mandir and then go there.

Also, as you get out of Virupaksha and walk straight ahead, you see the directions towards Hampi bazaar which was empty when I visited. I walked along another one of stone-arcaded galleries to find myself at signboards that marked Vitthala and Achyutharaya temple. 

I could have gone straight to the staircase that seemed tempting or towards the Matunga hill that stood on the right, but I turned towards the Vitthala temple trail. The 1.5-2 km walk alongside the river would have been pretty beautiful but water from the Tungabhadra had flown into the pavement, and I had to turn around again.

This time I took a mud trail on the right side of the path that brought me out at the monolith Nandi. From there I took the stairs up to arrive at the Achyutaraya temple.

As you can see in this picture every sight was getting prettier so I sat down for a while, read about Hampi, and then continued walking. Strolling under the shades of the stone-corridors supported by some 80 columns, I was in the complex of Vitthala temple.

Vitthala temple is popular for its musical pillars and stone chariot, and I didn’t spend enough time exploring and understanding the two. Until the next time then. 

From the Vitthala temple, I continued walking to many more temples and, finally, I was at the rowdy riverfront again that restricted us from walking on. 

When the river wouldn’t be flooded, you can go back to the Virupaksha the same way but I had to retrace the entire way. 

Insider tip: Have lunch at one of the local stalls in the Virupaksha parking space, The ladies there make fresh food and serve it with a smile. And outside Virupaksha temple, you can fill your water bottles from the filter machine. Two rupees for two liters. 

In the evening, we drove to the Urban set of ruins that encloses Queen’s bath, the Mahanavami platform, stepped tanks, and many other scattered ruins nearby.

While roaming around in the ruins, you will see a number of stepped tanks that were made to bathe in the royal era. 

The boundary walls that you can see in the image hold water ducts that are coming away from far off, and one can imagine if Tungabhadra was directly brought into the bathing stone pools. 

Don’t miss driving by or walking randomly to the top of a hill to watch the sunset. Matunga hill could be your choice for this day as you are in the area. We were pretty tired and a bit away from the Matunga hill so we just watched the sunset along some paddy fields. 

Summarizing the places to visit around Hampi on your third day — Though this was a long day, I loved every bit of the Hampi World Heritage site. But make sure you slow down near the sunset as Hampi sunsets are better than you have seen them at a lot of places.

READ NEXT: If you are road tripping in karnataka, do consider traveling to the  Kali Adventure Camp on the Kali river  in the Dandeli wildlife sanctuary. Ain’t not many places like these.

Day 4 of the Hampi trip – Things to see in Hampi when you have had an idea of Hampi.

Ruins and local food, but a slower day. 

We started off this day slowly and first enjoyed a late breakfast in Kamalapur only to go to Virupaksha temple side again (the previous day we had left Hemakuta hills early as our feet was burning).

Hiking up the Hemakuta hills for the second time was worth it for the panoramic views of Hampi from up there. (the featured image is clicked from the top of the Hemakuta hills.)

While coming down, you would come to another large complex of the Urban ruins and encompasses the two popular Ganesh – that is the Kadalekalu Ganesh and the Sasivekalu Ganesh.  

Insider tip – As you get down from the hill of Kadalekalu Ganesh, you will see a map of the ruins of that area. Remember to click a picture of that map and keep it with you. 

Now you can either choose to explore the ruins in the surrounding area or go to some other ruins. We drove to the Queen’s bath ruins area for we wanted to explore that more. 

After walking around in that area, hiking random hills to find scattered ruins, climbing up some temples on the way, we went to Lotus Mahal, the elephant stables, and the other temples that share the large complex of the stables. 

You will also find a big Hanuman idol in one of these complexes. 

Though we saw a lot of popular Hampi sites that day, my favorite was the scattered and unpopular sculptures and engravings that we discovered just by taking random turns on the hills.

Summarizing what to do in Hampi on your fourth day — Choose an area and explore more ruins. The space around Queen’s bath is a good place to start. 

I hope I have given you enough places to choose from on your Hampi trip so that you can make your own itinerary.

But remember that Hampi cannot be seen or even understood in one trip. When I researched the places around Hampi while writing this Hampi travel blog,  I found so many ruins that I hadn’t seen, wall paintings or sculptures that I had missed, or hilltops that I hadn’t climbed for I was already exhausted from the day’s explorations.

Well, there is always a second time.

Related Read:  Belligundi waterfall, literally silver falls, in Sharavathi valley, Karnataka  could be your next place to visit if you are in Karnataka and love to go on hidden paths in dense jungles.

While driving back to Bangalore, we stopped in Hospet at a place called Sai idli (in front of the Shan Bagh hotel) that our cottage owner had told us about. The place makes the softest idlis I have had to date.

What is the best time to visit Hampi?

I would be a bit biased while telling you about the best time to see Hampi for I went to Hampi in September when the rain gods had left Hampi lush and Tungabhadra overflown. The velvety greenery of the place after the rich monsoon, the cool weather with the hints of receding rains, and the occasional light showers added a romantic hue to Hampi. 

But because Tungabhadra was gushing in full flurry, you couldn’t go from one side of the river to the other just by a coracle; riverside ruins were submerged, and many places were closed down. 

Having said that, local places were functional and serving food, prices were down, Hampi wasn’t crowded, and overall the weather was just a cherry on the top. 

If you don’t want to visit Hampi just post-monsoon, you can choose to go there anytime from October to February/March post which Hampi would be too hot. 

How to reach Hampi, Karnataka?

Hampi by air — Hubli is the nearest airport to Hampi. At a distance of 164 km, you would take about 4.5 hours to reach Hampi by taxi or self-drive car.

You can also take a bus from Hubli to Hampi. Hop on to  Redbus  to book a bus from Hubli to Hampi or Hospet and Kamalapur — nearby towns and villages to Hampi. Even though Redbus shows Hampi as the bus dropping point, I am not sure if the bus takes you to the main Hampi area. Do check with the bus operator when you board the bus. 

Hampi by road — Either you can take a car and drive to Hampi from where you are. We drove to Hampi from Bangalore in about 6 hours.

Hampi by bus — Or you can also take a bus to Hampi or the nearby towns Hospet and Kamalapur. Check for the tickets on  Redbus .

Hampi by train — Nearest railway station to Hampi is the Hospet station that is about 11 km from Hampi. Go to  Irctc to book a ticket for Hospet. Hospet to Hampi is about half an hour’s journey.

How to reach Hampi from Bangalore? How to go to Hampi from Bangalore? How far is Hampi from Bangalore? What is Hampi to Bangalore distance?

Please see the Bangalore to Hampi road trip section to find answers to most of these questions.

Apart from driving to Hampi, you can also take a direct bus from Bangalore to Hampi. Or get into a train and get down at the Hospet railway station and then make your way to Hampi with a taxi or an auto-rickshaw (I have heard tuk-tuks connect these two places). 

Irrespective of common thinking, you are not expected to wear traditional clothes in Hampi. If you like Indian clothes, then feel free to wear them, but you don’t have to feel obliged to dress in Indian attire.

But as Hampi is a religious center and some people might find a very-short clothing offensive, I suggest a normal t-shirt/top and skirt or cotton pants/jeans would do no harm.

Which area to choose for staying in Hampi? From where would you be closest to the best places to visit in Hampi?

Along with the main ruins area, Hampi has many connecting villages and, so, naturally many places to stay. 

Some people choose to stay near the Hampi ruins and the main temples that we saw above. But I stayed on the other side of the Tungabhadra river, away from the Hampi main group of monuments.

Why? I love staying in areas away from the tourist action especially if I have a commute such as a beautiful car. 

Amongst the many places to stay near Hampi such as Kamalapur, Anegundi, and Hanumanhalli, I chose the Sanapur area for that is lush green. 

Sanapur was close to the villages of Anegundi, Virupapur Gaddi, Pampa Sarovar, Hanuman temple, Durga temple, and the Anjaneya Hill which I never climbed for I felt it was too crowded (rows of cars parked outside). I have heard that the views from the top of the Anjaneya hill are amazing, so now I am happy that I have a reason to go to Hampi again. 

Oh, they say that Virupapur Gaddi is the Hippie island of Hampi. But I didn’t choose Sanapur for its proximity to the Hippie island as I wasn’t planning to go there. 

My experience with hippie places is that you seldom get local and cheap food there. People live in their own world within the destination and go out to experience the place only to return to that world. But I wanted to be part of the real and local Hampi. 

Nature helped for in September, the time I went to Hampi, rains had overfilled Tungabhadra to the extent that she had overflown out of her basin to submerge most of the Hippie island. The road from Virupapur Gaddi to hippie island was also submerged; If the great man who sits in his restaurant just opposite the submerged road hadn’t warned us, we would have landed in the water instead of cutting a birthday cake later (hippie island has more bars and restaurants where we wanted to be for a small celebration on my birthday).

Hippie island might never open again for it violates the rules of UNESCO preserved places – you cannot have any construction within a particular radius of a UNESCO site.

A note to the authorities — Pease put a signboard on dangerous roads warning the people not to go any further. 

Sanapur was a great area to stay if your priorities are similar to mine. When you go towards Sanapur, you will see rolling paddy fields on both sides, palm trees will sway in a distance, dogs, and cats won’t buzz from the streets, kittens and puppies would play on the road, wild langurs will walk by casually, and steamy idly will make you so idyllic that world would seem like a good place again. 

Oh, if by chance you visit Hampi in the monsoon, the rain will wash away your leftover worries, in case there was any left.

What are the best places to stay in Hampi?

Update April 2024 : I stayed at the gorgeous Hotel Gowri in Hampi. I don’t recommend it anymore. On a recent stay in March 2024, I wanted to run away from the guesthouse, so poorly managed and malfunctioning it was.

Here are some of the other places to stay in Hampi. 

Places to stay that are away from the main Hampi. 

Hostel Wayfarers Hampi — Wayfarers seem a clean, hassle-free hostel with mix bunk and female dorm rooms, double room with a balcony, and tents next to the riverside. Located close to Anegundi so away from the main Hampi, this hostel has a restaurant and bar at the property though don’t expect any local food here. 

See the prices and book Wayfarers  here . Do opt for an airport shuttle while checking out if you are coming to Hampi by air. 

Places to stay near the Hampi ruins area. 

Gopi Guest House – Gopi is a place for people looking for simple and clean rooms near the Virupaksha temple and in the main Hampi ruins area. 

Gopi guest house comes with a rooftop with views of the river and a restaurant. 

See the prices and book Gopi guest house  here .

Archana Guest House river view — Located near the main temple ruins, Archana Guest House has double rooms with beautiful views over the river from the restaurant and room balconies. 

See the room prices and book Archana Guest House  here .

Shankar Homestay — If you are new to the Hampi area or India altogether, I would recommend staying at Shankar homestay for they have got amazing host reviews. 

Even though rooms do not have panoramic views of the river and the temples, set amidst a farmhouse Shankar homestay could be the nature break you are looking for. Only 2-3 km away from the main temples, Shankar homestay has double rooms and some of them come with a terrace. 

See the prices and book Shankar homestay Hampi  here  on Booking.

Stay options in Hampi for the Luxury lovers. 

Clarks Inn Hampi – Clarks Inn is a hotel located in the Kamalapur town of Hampi. Clarks Inn comes with a range of amenities to make you feel comfortable such as toiletries, hairdryers, wifi, hot shower, kettle in the room, et cetera. 

Check the prices of Clarks Inn and book it  here .  

Hyatt, Hampi – Located at a distance of about one hour from the main Hampi area, Hyatt is located in the Bellary district. Hyatt is always a recommended option for people who love to stay in comfort and choose a luxurious stay for their families. 

Hyatt comes with an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and an all-day dining room. Go  here  to see the prices and book your stay in Hyatt. 

Books to read if you want to understand Hampi further

• H. Longhurst’s 1920s publication  Hampi Ruins Described and Illustrated  
• Hampi: A Story in Stone by John Fritz and George Michell
• Where Kings and Gods Meet: The Royal Centre at Vijayanagara, India by John M. Fritz ,  George Michell ,   M. S. Nagaraja Rao  
• New Light on Hampi: Recent Research at Vijayanagara by John Fritz and George Michell
• Hampi Research pdf published by Shodhganga gives a good historical summary of Hampi

Looking for historical places in Karnataka?  Go through these  Karnataka destinations  collected from my (scattered) ten years in the state.

Would you love to get lost in Hampi? Still confused about what to see in Hampi? Let me know in the comments.

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6 thoughts on “Timeless Places to See in Hampi, Karnataka – India’s Unforgettable Ruins”

Such a lovely collection of your experiences ! Very rich with detail and I experienced almost all of this during my visit to Hampi 🙂

Hi Arthy, I am glad you had a great time in Hampi.

what an extensive guide!! love your wrriting and also the pics

Thanks, Amruta 🙂

Wow, such a comprehensive guide. Never know about this place before. Thanks for sharing!

You are most welcome. Have fun there 🙂

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Hampi: The Perfect Itinerary For An Epic Trip

The mere mention of Hampi evokes thousands of feelings in our hearts. Once the capital of the esteemed Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi has now enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to her architectural and sculptural remains.

Table of Contents

Know before you go: all about Hampi:

Hampi was originally known as Pampakshetra. It was named after Pampa, a reincarnation of Sati. Pampa had fallen in love with Shiva, who was then meditating at Hemkuta Hill. Eventually, Shiva was impressed by Pampa’s dedication and married her. In fact, Shiva is known as Pampapati in Hampi. Also, Hampi is a contorted term derived from the word ‘Pampa’.

In Ramayana, Hampi was called Kishkindha. It was the kingdom of monkeys. It was from here that Rama embarked on his mission to rescue Sita from Lanka.

Historically, Hampi was the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. It was the second largest city of the Medieval Age. It was also the richest city in the contemporary world. Foreign visitors from Persia, Italy, Portugal, and Russia have left chronicles of a prosperous city, which was conquered by the Deccan Sultanate troops in 1565 CE, ravaged for six months, and then abandoned.

Know more about Hampi from our previous blog post here .

Where is Hampi located:

Hampi is located in central Karnataka, near the state border with Andhra Pradesh. It is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. It is 376 km from Bengaluru and 165 km from Hubli.

How to reach Hampi:

• By air: The nearest airport is at Torangallu (32 km from Hampi), which, in turn, is well–connected with Bengaluru by air.
• By rail: Hospet (13 km from Hampi) is the nearest rail station.
• By bus: Overnight bus services are available from Bengaluru.

As for us, we reached Bengaluru from Kolkata by flight. Then, we boarded the train from KSR Bengaluru station. We reached Hospet at 7 AM after an overnight journey. From Hospet, we took an auto to Hampi. The auto charged INR 250.

What is the best time to visit Hampi:

Given its rocky terrain, Hampi remains excruciatingly hot during most part of the year making it extremely difficult to explore the ruins. Hence, it is best to visit Hampi from October to February. The temperature remains moderate and the chances of rainfall are almost nil during this time.

How to travel within Hampi:

The most convenient way to travel in and around Hampi is by auto. The daily fare of an auto is around INR 1000. Don’t forget to bargain a bit.

You can rent a scooter and bike at INR 200 – 300 per day depending on the type of vehicle.

You can also rent bicycles at INR 100 – 150 per day.

Where to stay in Hampi:

We stayed at KSTDC Mayura Bhuvaneshwari at Kamalapura. The room was decent and provided with all amenities. We also loved the food here. The staff are cordial too. You can check the current room rent and book rooms from here .

The Clark’s Inn Hampi is another good option for accommodation. This hotel is located just opposite the Archaeological Museum.

Books on Hampi:

We will suggest reading about the Vijayanagara Empire before travelling there. It will help you to understand the history of Hampi and thereby feel this amazing place. Read “A Forgotten Empire” by Sewell and “Hampi Vijayanagara” by Fritz & Michell.

What are the things to do in Hampi:

1. The best and most important thing to do here is obviously to explore the countless ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire.

2. Sunset in Hampi is regarded as one of the best in Asia. Watch beautiful sunsets from Hemkuta, Matanga, and Anjanadri Hills.

3. Take a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River, especially during the sunset.

4. Don’t forget to visit the Archaeological Museum. True, Hampi is often considered an open museum. Yet, its museum houses some spectacular and important relics of Vijayanagara.

5. Explore the rural side of Hampi. The paddy fields, coconut groves, and banana plantations add to its idyllic beauty.

6. If you are up for an adventure, you can go rock climbing in Hampi.

7. Hampi is also known for birding.

8. You can also visit the Daroji Bear Sanctuary to see sloth bears.

How many days are enough for Hampi:

No matter how many days you stay at Hampi, you will end up wishing to spend a few more days there. Alas! If only, our bosses at work understood!

Ideally, 3 days will be sufficient to explore Hampi. We spent 3 days and covered even some of the off-beat places here.

In this blog, we will share our very own itinerary. Along with that, we will also chalk out itineraries for 2 days and 1 day. You can modify them at your convenience.

On our first day, we started our exploration by visiting the following places in and around Kamalapura:

1. Vijaya Vittala Temple:

This is one of the most important temple ruins of Hampi. It is considered a masterpiece of Vijayanagara temple architecture. Since it remains crowded for a good part of the day, we visited around 7 in the morning.

On entering through the eastern ‘gopuram’, the magnificent stone chariot grabs all the attention. The stone chariot believed to be inspired by Konark’s Sun Temple, is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions here.

Later, we took the dirt road on the left of the Vittala Temple and reached the King’s Balance . The Vijayanagara emperors are believed to have had themselves weighed on this balance against gold and precious stones, which were later distributed among temple priests.

2. Malyavanta Hill:

This place is laced with tales from Ramayana. Rama is believed to have spent four months here while looking out for Sita. The relief carvings of Shiva lingams and Nandis found on the hill were worshipped by him. We were also captivated by the panoramic view of Hampi from above Malyavanta Hill.

The summit of Malyavanta has the beautiful Raghunatha Temple. It is only in this temple that Rama can be found worshipped in a seated position.

3. Bhima’s Gate:

Next came Bhima’s Gate. A slab carved with Bhima, Mahabharata’s hero, was found here, hence the name.

4. Ganagitti Jain Temple:

An inscription of 1385 CE on the ‘dipa-stambha’ mentions that this Jain temple was built by Irugappa, a general of Harihara II. The structure of this temple is quite simple and austere in style with plain outer walls.

5. Pattabhirama Temple:

Our next stop was Pattabhirama Temple, which is one of the largest temple complexes in Hampi.

The temple was dedicated to Lord Rama. It was probably built by Achyutaraya of the Tuluva dynasty. It once formed the nucleus of an urban cluster called Varadevi Ammana Pattana, named after one of the queens of Achyutaraya.

A short walk from the temple brought us to its ‘pushkarini’. We also visited the Domed Gateway nearby, which once served as an entrance to the urban cluster from the southeast.

Post-lunch, we decided to explore the Sacred Cluster of Hampi.

6. Narasimha Monolith:

This colossal statue, standing at 6.7 meters high, is extremely popular among tourists. It was commissioned by Krishnadevaraya in 1528 CE. The Narasimha is seated cross-legged beneath the Sheshanaga.

Originally, there was a statue of Lakshmi seated on the lap of Narasimha. Sadly, nothing is left of the figure of the goddess.

7. Badavi Linga:

Right next to the Narasimha statue, there is a monolithic Shiva linga, which is about 3 meters tall.

8. Krishna Temple:

This is another significant temple ruin of Hampi. It once formed the epicentre of the Krishnapura urban cluster.

The temple was commissioned by Krishnadevaraya in 1515 CE to celebrate his victory over the Gajapati rulers of the then Orissa. During its heyday, this temple housed a granite icon of infant Krishna, which was brought from Udaygiri.

9. Virupaksha Temple:

It is one of the few intact and active temples in Hampi, which remained unscathed from the destruction caused by the Sultanate. During the Vijayanagara Empire, it was the main temple and principal centre of pilgrimage. Even today, throngs of pilgrims visit this temple every day.

The temple is dedicated to Shiva, who is venerated as Virupaksha and Pampapathi here. Along with him, his two consorts – Pampa and Bhuwaneshwari – are also worshipped here.

10. Kadalekalu Ganesha:

After Virupaksha Temple, we went to the Hemkuta Hill. Here, we first visited Kadalekalu (roughly translated to gram seed) Ganesha.

The 4.5-meter-high statue has been carved out of a massive single boulder.

11. Sasivekalu Ganesha:

This is another prominent monolithic statue of Ganesha, rising at 2.4 meters. The word ‘sasivekalu’ locally means mustard seed.

An inscription nearby informs that a merchant engaged in the business of mustard seed had commissioned this temple.

• The first day of exploring Hampi ended with catching the sunset at Hemkuta Hill.

The first half of the second day was reserved for exploring the Royal Enclosure area.

1. Queen’s Bath:

One of the most attractive structures of the Royal Enclosure, the building is influenced by Indo-Islamic architecture.

The name, however, seems to be a misnomer. It was probably used by male courtiers and their female companions.

2. Mahanabami Dibba:

This raised platform was used by the Vijayanagara emperors for receiving honourable guests, watching army processions, games, and cultural performances, and most importantly celebrating the Navaratri festival.

Nothing exists in the upper portion of the platform. Only the base has survived the trial of time. It has countless carvings, which depict the day-to-day lives of the Empire.

From the top of the platform, the entire Royal Enclosure and palace area can be clearly seen. You can also check out the remains of various structures that have been excavated over the years.

3. Hazara Rama Temple:

This temple is another excellent specimen of Vijayanagara temple architecture. As it is located right in the middle of the Royal Enclosure, it is believed that the temple was exclusively used by the King.

This temple was built by Devaraya I of the Sangama dynasty in the early 15th CE. It was dedicated to Rama. The outer walls of the main temple have three tiers of carving, featuring 108 scenes from the Ramayana.

4. Zenana Enclosure:

This is a high-walled compound, which has two excavated palace structures and watchtowers. Contrary to popular belief, historians believe that the women of the Vijayanagara court did not live there. Since it is located in the vicinity of elephant stables and parade ground, the kings and their commanders most likely used it.

5. Lotus Mahal:

The Lotus Mahal is the most attractive structure inside the Zenana Enclosure.

It is characterized by a cluster of nine pyramidal towers and lobed arches.

6. Elephant Stable:

This is another specimen of Indo-Islamic architecture in Hampi. It comprises eleven chambers, each of which could accommodate two elephants.

After having our lunch and a bit of rest, we started the second phase of our exploration.

7. Coracle ride on Tungabhadra:

The coracle ride on Tungabhadra is one of the pleasant experiences in Hampi.

8. Kodandarama Temple and riverside sculptures:

The Kodandarama Temple is another active temple of Hampi. It is dedicated to Rama and his consort, Sita.

The surrounding area has many sculptures, notable among them are countless miniature lingas and a set of carvings portraying the avatars of Vishnu.

We also visited a cave temple, which remains submerged during the monsoon. It has interesting carvings of Shiva, Veerbhadra, a half-man and half-bull form of Nandi, etc.

9. Achyutaraya Temple:

It is also known as Tiruvengalanatha Temple. It was built in 1534 CE, not by Achyutaraya as the name suggests, but by his brother-in-law.

The temple is in a dilapidated state, although its grand scale and magnificence can still be asserted.

10. Matanga Hill:

We ended our day with another glorious sunset, watching it from the top of Matanga Hill.

We started our third day by visiting the Archaeological Museum in Kamalpura. It has a fascinating collection of artefacts excavated from various sites of Hampi. The museum is divided into three galleries: the Shaiva Gallery, notable for life-size sculptures of Virbhadra and Bhairava; the Vishnu Gallery, showcasing statues of Garuda, Hanumana, Vishnu, and so on; and the General Gallery, displaying coins, weapons, copper plate inscriptions and such other artefacts of Vijayanagara Empire.

Afterward, we went to Anegundi, which was the first capital of Vijayanagara rulers. Anegundi is located on the northern bank of Tungabhadra. It is also believed to be the monkey kingdom of Kishkindha, as mentioned in the Ramayana.

The places of interest in Anegundi are as follows:

1. Anjanadri Hill:

It is believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman, the monkey god. You need to climb 575 steps to reach the top, which has a temple dedicated to Hanuman.

The Anjanadri Hill is also one of the best places to enjoy the sunset in Hampi. We were also amazed by the panoramic view of Hampi that this hill provided.

2. Anegundi Fort:

This was a fortified citadel, which housed a Durga temple and a Ganesha temple.

3. Pampa Sarovar:

This is a holy lake, where Pampa performed penance to show her devotion to Shiva.

4. Sanapur Lake:

It is one of the most scenic places in Anegundi. This natural lake is surrounded by stunning boulders and rocks, which further add to the charm of this place.

We loved this place as it was far less crowded than the rest of Hampi. We found it perfect for enjoying a bit of tranquillity. Also, coracle rides are available here.

Anegundi is also known for its picturesque rural beauty. It is dotted with paddy fields, banana plantations, and coconut groves.

2-days itinerary for Hampi:

If you are visiting Hampi for two days, you can opt for our plan for the first two days, following it to the T. You will have to give Anegundi a miss in that case.

1-day itinerary for Hampi:

In case you have only one day to explore Hampi, we suggest visiting only the most important places. It will be impossible to cover all the places in a go.

Start early with Vijaya Vittala Temple. Then proceed to the Royal Enclosure and visit the Queen’s Bath, Mahanabami Platform, Hazara Rama Temple, Lotus Mahal, and Elephant Stable.

Grab a quick lunch and start exploring the Sacred Cluster. Start with the Narasimha monolith and continue with the Krishna Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Kadalekalu Ganesha, and Sasivekalu Ganesha. Finish your day’s trip by watching the sunset from Hemkuta Hill.

Things to remember:

1. The monuments in Hampi remain open from 6 AM to 6 PM.

2. The Archaeological Museum remains open from 10 AM to 5 PM. It is closed on Fridays.

3. Entry fees are required for visiting Virupaksha Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, and Zenana Enclosure. For the rest of the monuments, entry is free.

4. Drones and tripods are not allowed in Hampi.

5. The weather in Hampi is quite hot even at the end of October. Hence, we suggest starting as early as possible. Explore until lunch and take a break afterwards as the sun remains harshest between 12 PM to 3 PM. Start travelling again after 3 in the afternoon.

6. Though Hampi is known for mesmerizing sunsets, you can catch the sunrise from Matanaga Hill. However, the climb is a bit difficult as there is no paved way. It will be tricky to climb the precarious stairway before sunrise.

7. It is unsafe to travel around Hampi after sundown. Bears and leopards lurk around the hills and caves in the darkness.

8. Though the ambience of Hampi is quite chilled out, we suggest dressing modestly as most of the monuments in Hampi are religious in nature.

9. Carry an umbrella, wear hats and sunglasses, and drink plenty of water. Keep yourself hydrated with coconut water, which is easily available in Hampi.

10. Carry sufficient cash as ATMs in Hampi are mostly non-functional.

11. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options are available in Hampi. The restaurants around Hampi Bazar however serve only veg. Some of the best eateries in Hampi are Mango Tree, Gopi Roof Restaurant, Ganesh Old Chillout, Funky Monkey, The Bridge, and Laughing Buddha.

12. We would suggest taking a guided tour of Hampi. It will make your tour more organized and you will get to know countless titbits about Hampi. We hired Mr. Bhanu. He was an excellent guide. He charged us INR 2000 per day. His contact number is 09449409070.

For reading about the Great Living Chola Temples of Thanjavur, visit our latest blog here .

The Floating Pebbles

Related posts.

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Kalimpong: Romancing the Vibrant Hill-station

Kamakhya Temple: The Legendary Temple of the Bleeding Goddess

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• Unlock Best Places Of Hampi For A Trip With Friends

Unlock 10 Best Places Of Hampi For A Trip With Friends

Web Desk Updated: May 18, 2024 10:17 AM IST

Best Places To Visit In Hampi With Friends

Hampi, an ancient Indian village located in Karnataka state, is a place that tells of the historical and cultural wealth of India. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, and today it is a UNESCO heritage site that attracts people from all walks of life. It has interesting ruins with huge rocks scattered, stunning green paddy fields, and a river known as Tungabhadra, making it a good destination for traveling with buddies. In this post, I will give you the best places to visit in Hampi that are just perfect to see alongside your friends.

1. Virupaksha Temple

In Hampi, commence your journey at the Virupaksha temple, which happens to be among the oldest and most important temples in this area. The god here is called Virupaksha; that's why this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its looming structure as well as intricate carvings make it an extraordinary sightseeing spot. Don't miss out on their elephant that blesses you with some money!

2. Vittala Temple Complex

The architecture of the Vittala temple complex has always fascinated tourists across various parts of the world because it's unique, especially the iconic stone chariot. The halls or temples are so many, with Vijayanagara art being depicted by meticulous carvings shown inside each one of them. The most astonishing part is the Ranga Mantapa musical pillars, which make music when touched gently. This attraction provides friends with a chance to admire how creative the ancient Indians were.

3. Hampi Bazaar

Hampi bazaar, situated next to Virupaksha temple, is an animated street that runs over a kilometer long. Historically, it was where dealers from other countries met and sold jewels such as gemstones, silk clothing, etc. Nowadays, there are many shops where you can buy souvenirs and handicrafts and eat local snacks. It is a good place that allows one to learn about the culture of the region and engage with the welcoming residents around.

4. Matanga Hill

5. coracle riding on the tungabhadra river.

Moreover, do not overlook the coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River when in Hampi, as these activities cannot be found elsewhere. Actually, coracles were vessels with a round shape traditionally used for moving along streams. Riding through such scenery together with your friends via coracles watching boulders and ancient ruins on both sides can never be forgotten.

6. Elephant Stables

One can visit the Elephant Stables, which was a magnificent building used for keeping elephants by the Vijayanagara Empire. The structure has numerous domes and stands as proof of the empire's prosperity and power. It makes for a great photo opportunity and also helps visitors have a better understanding of royal customs.

7. Lotus Mahal

Another important site that one should consider visiting is Lotus Mahal due to its calm environment as well as unique architectural design. It represents a Hindu-Islamic combination, showing how multiculturalism existed in the Vijayanagara Empire area. Around this mahal there is silence, hence making it ideal for relaxed talking amongst pals.

8. Anegundi Village

Anegundi Village also has its own ruins, and the history of this village is older than that of Hampi.

This will be a trip back in time. There are beautiful landscapes and ancient fortifications, and the village is not crowded.

9. Hampi Utsav

Should you visit early November, you will have the opportunity to participate in Hampi Utsav, a colorful festival that breathes life into the ruins through dance, music, and drama. It is a cultural extravaganza that showcases local traditions and arts something worth remembering with friends.

10. Sanapur Lake

Finally, relax at Sanapur Lake, a man-made reservoir- that serves as a popular hangout place. You can take a dip or just sit by the beach." This serenity, in combination with beauty, makes it an ideal spot for you to reflect upon your journey full of adventures in Hampi.

Hampi is more than just a place; it's both a destination and an adventure itself. Thus, it makes a good place for friends to explore together because it involves history, culture, and some adventures. The entire point of each location is learning, but there are fun moments as well. So get your bags ready, call your friends, and pack up for Hampi, where adventure awaits you like no other.

• Topics News">friends trip to hampi
• Topics News">Hampi
• Topics News">Hampi With Friends
• Topics News">lotus mahal in hampi

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• > 25 Pics Of The Magnificent Ancient City Of Hampi That’ll Put It On Top Of Your Travel Bucket List

Jan 12, 2018 at 12:46 AM

25 Pics Of The Magnificent Ancient City Of Hampi That’ll Put It On Top Of Your Travel Bucket List

Hampi in Karnataka is one of the most beautiful places to exist in today’s world. It has ancient monuments depicting the culture and significance of the ages gone by.

An Instagram account hampi_royal is dedicated to showcasing Hampi’s grandeur to the world. They have stunning pictures ranging from its monuments to the people inhabiting modern day Hampi.

Badavilinga 

A broken statue of Nandi Bull in hampi on a beautiful morning. Pc @bobbyjoshii follow us to see the beauty of hampi. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #darlingweekend #travelworld #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #view #landscape #lonlyplanetindia #darlingweekend #ig_india #travelindia #goodmorning #india #bbctravel #bangalore #heritage #indiapictures #hampi_royal A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Oct 2, 2017 at 10:41pm PDT

A coracle ride in hampi is a must.

Rock climbing at hampi awesome shot 🙂 Courtesy @whoisram follow us to see the beauty of hampi. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #darlingweekend #travelworld #india #bbctravel #landscape #lonlyplanetindia #karnataka #hampi_royal #bangalore @streets.of.india #solotravel #travelrealindia #nature #rockclimbing #tourism #travel #adventure A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Oct 14, 2017 at 3:32am PDT

Even a week won’t be enough to explore this magical place.

The calm and the serene ! HAMPI ! pc @mnerallaecho follow us to see the beauty of hampi. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #darlingweekend #travelworld #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #thetravelwomen #travel #bangalore @streets.of.india #solotravel #travelrealindia #discover_india #travelgram #instatravel #tourism #hampi_royal #worldtraveler #indiatravelgram #nature #adventure A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Oct 20, 2017 at 10:40am PDT

That’s centuries of history speaking to you.

Amazing architecture💕 ! HAMPI ! Courtesy @happym0nkeys Follow us to see the beauty of hampi. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #thetravelwomen #travelrealindia @streets.of.india #solotravel #bbctravel #travelindia #tourism #hampi_royal #worldtraveler #indiatravelgram #bangalore #bbctravel #worldcaptures #architecture #monuments #goa #india #travelalone A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Oct 27, 2017 at 8:54pm PDT

Near Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy Temple there are around 27 Nandi statues and Shivalingas carved on the rock bed nearby.

Sasivekalu Ganesh One of the least damaged idiols at Hampi… 💕 Courtesy @navaneeth_unnikrishnan Follow us to see the beauty of hampi. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #thetravelwomen #travelrealindia @streets.of.india #solotravel #bbctravel #architecture #tourism #hampi_royal #worldtraveler #indiatravelgram #bangalore #monuments #goa #india #travel #traveldiaries #goodevening A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Nov 1, 2017 at 3:32am PDT

The Stepwell, Old Hampi

Quite often I found myself in a fix of what to photograph, the land or the skies, and each kept on complementing and competing the other! Perhaps the lost colours of the barren Kingdom came alive with those of the skies { the elephant stable in hampi } 😍 Courtesy @bluebandanas follow us to see the beauty of hampi ☺️ #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #thetravelwomen #travel #bangalore #karnataka #architecture #india #cultural #heritage #travel #traveldiaries #monuments #tourism #worldcaptures #beautifuldestination #travelphotography A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Nov 13, 2017 at 12:46am PST

This is simply breathtaking.

H.A.M.P.I I came I saw I captured Am ending my hampi travel pictures with this sunset picture, coz sunsets are always a promise that tomorrow will be a beautiful day! Courtesy @manjunath.mv follow us to see the beauty of hampi. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #tourism #travel #architecture #monuments #history #sunset #heritage #bangalore #hampi_royal #worldtraveler #indiatravelgram #darlingweekend #travelworld #india #travelalone A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Nov 20, 2017 at 2:44am PST

In case, you haven’t seen a gorgeous sunset in a while.

HAMPI 💕 Courtesy @amit.kodere Follow us to see the beauty of hampi. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #tourism #hampi_royal #worldtraveler #sunset #adventure #nature #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #solotravel #architecture #monuments #goa #instagram #solo #karnataka #bangalore #travelworld #ruins #nature #travel #tourist #goodevening A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Dec 9, 2017 at 2:59am PST

The majestic Hampi ruins

There are some places you have to see for yourself. Hampi is definitely one of them. Courtesy @pitoou Follow us to see the beauty of hampi #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #natgeoindia #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #tourism #travel #adventure #nature #karnataka #bangalore #solotravel #solo #landscape #heritage #monuments #moscow #beautifuldestination #darlingweekend #travelworld #india #travelalone #hampi_royal A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Dec 17, 2017 at 3:12am PST

Hemkut jain temples

Watch Tower at hampi. The three Watch Towers are located in three corners of the enclosure. Each tower is a two storied structure built in the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. There are steps that lead to the top of two of the towers😍😊 Courtesy @antonithin13 Follow us to see the beauty of hampi and tag us photos. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #thetravelwomen #travel #bangalore #karnataka #architecture #india #cultural #heritage #goa #india #travelalone #tourist #worldcaptures #sunset #tourism #ruins #moscow A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Dec 26, 2017 at 7:42pm PST

Please take me there!

King’s Balance in Hampi is an ancient and rare balance scale. This rare balance scale is also known as Tula Bhara or Tula Purushadana. The King’s Balance was used in the 15thcentury. It has a fascinating history associated to it. The story goes that the balance was used by the kings of the Vijayanagara Empire on special occasions like the New Year’s Day, Coronation ceremony, solar or lunar eclipse, Dasara, etc. The king used to weigh himself with gold, silver, gems, precious stones and jewellery and give away those things to the priests of the temples in charity. Courtesy @deeghii Follow us to see the beauty of hampi and tag photos to feature. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #photography #tourism #hampi_royal #solotravel #ruins #travelalone #worldcaptures #history #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #thetravelwomen #travel #bangalore #karnataka #architecture #india #cultural #heritage #goa #instagram A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Dec 30, 2017 at 12:03am PST

Nobody can get tired of clicking pictures here.

Saraswati temple 😊 ! HAMPI ! Courtesy @shivashankar_banagar Follow us to see the beauty of hampi and tag photos to feature. #hampi #beautiful #natgeo #natgeotravel #unescoworldheritage #unesco #photography #incredibleindia #incredibleviews #indiapictures #instagram #karnatakatourism #indiatourism #explore #tourism #travel #karnataka #architecture #india #cultural #heritage #monuments #art #bangalore #hampi_royal #worldtraveler #temple #history #beautifuldestination #traveldiaries A post shared by hampi (@hampi_royal) on Jan 3, 2018 at 9:54pm PST

The emblem on the ₹50 note is from Hampi.

All images have been curated by hampi_royal . You can follow them to witness more of the Hampi magic.

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Unlock 10 Best Places Of Hampi For A Trip With Friends

Best places to visit in hampi with friends.

Hampi, an ancient Indian village located in Karnataka state, is a place that tells of the historical and cultural wealth of India. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, and today it is a UNESCO heritage site that attracts people from all walks of life. It has interesting ruins with huge rocks scattered, stunning green paddy fields, and a river known as Tungabhadra, making it a good destination for traveling with buddies. In this post, I will give you the best places to visit in Hampi that are just perfect to see alongside your friends.

1. Virupaksha Temple

In Hampi, commence your journey at the Virupaksha temple, which happens to be among the oldest and most important temples in this area. The god here is called Virupaksha; that's why this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its looming structure as well as intricate carvings make it an extraordinary sightseeing spot. Don't miss out on their elephant that blesses you with some money!

2. Vittala Temple Complex

The architecture of the Vittala temple complex has always fascinated tourists across various parts of the world because it's unique, especially the iconic stone chariot. The halls or temples are so many, with Vijayanagara art being depicted by meticulous carvings shown inside each one of them. The most astonishing part is the Ranga Mantapa musical pillars, which make music when touched gently. This attraction provides friends with a chance to admire how creative the ancient Indians were.

3. Hampi Bazaar

Hampi bazaar, situated next to Virupaksha temple, is an animated street that runs over a kilometer long. Historically, it was where dealers from other countries met and sold jewels such as gemstones, silk clothing, etc. Nowadays, there are many shops where you can buy souvenirs and handicrafts and eat local snacks. It is a good place that allows one to learn about the culture of the region and engage with the welcoming residents around.

4. Matanga Hill

Matanga Hill, on the other hand, is absolutely perfect for those who love trekking, as it provides the best panoramic views of Hampi. Crowned by a high peak in this locality, it gives an amazing sight, particularly during daybreak or sunset. The hiking can be done easily, and it's just fun when you are with one another as friends. At its summit level, you will see all the hampi spread out below you beautifully.

5. Coracle Riding on the Tungabhadra River

Moreover, do not overlook the coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River when in Hampi, as these activities cannot be found elsewhere. Actually, coracles were vessels with a round shape traditionally used for moving along streams. Riding through such scenery together with your friends via coracles watching boulders and ancient ruins on both sides can never be forgotten.

6. Elephant Stables

One can visit the Elephant Stables, which was a magnificent building used for keeping elephants by the Vijayanagara Empire. The structure has numerous domes and stands as proof of the empire's prosperity and power. It makes for a great photo opportunity and also helps visitors have a better understanding of royal customs.

7. Lotus Mahal

Another important site that one should consider visiting is Lotus Mahal due to its calm environment as well as unique architectural design. It represents a Hindu-Islamic combination, showing how multiculturalism existed in the Vijayanagara Empire area. Around this mahal there is silence, hence making it ideal for relaxed talking amongst pals.

8. Anegundi Village

Anegundi Village also has its own ruins, and the history of this village is older than that of Hampi. This will be a trip back in time. There are beautiful landscapes and ancient fortifications, and the village is not crowded.

9. Hampi Utsav

Should you visit early November, you will have the opportunity to participate in Hampi Utsav, a colorful festival that breathes life into the ruins through dance, music, and drama. It is a cultural extravaganza that showcases local traditions and arts something worth remembering with friends.

10. Sanapur Lake

Finally, relax at Sanapur Lake, a man-made reservoir- that serves as a popular hangout place. You can take a dip or just sit by the beach." This serenity, in combination with beauty, makes it an ideal spot for you to reflect upon your journey full of adventures in Hampi.

Hampi is more than just a place; it's both a destination and an adventure itself. Thus, it makes a good place for friends to explore together because it involves history, culture, and some adventures. The entire point of each location is learning, but there are fun moments as well. So get your bags ready, call your friends, and pack up for Hampi, where adventure awaits you like no other.

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Historical Places in Hampi That You Must Visit

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List of Historical Places in Hampi

Here is the list of 20 historical places in hampi that you must visit, 1. virupaksha temple, hampi.

The Virupaksha temple (or Prasanna Virupaksha temple) is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra river at Hampi, Karnataka. Built during the 7th century, the beautiful architecture and history of the temple contributed to it being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is abode to one of the forms of Lord Shiva called Lord Virupaksha. While it is located at present day Hampi, it was once a smaller shrine in the middle of the ancient and majestic Vijayanagara empire. You will find beautiful stone inscriptions dating back to the 7th century on the walls of the temple as proof of its rich heritage. Architecture-lovers and history-buffs, do visit the temple when you are in Hampi!

2. Vithala Temple, Hampi

The most impressive structure in Hampi, the Vithala Temple dates back to the 16th century and is a truly splendid example of rich architecture. The famous stone chariot, which has become an iconic symbol of the architecture of Hampi, is located inside the premises of this temple.

3. Elephant Stables, Hampi

The Elephant Stables served as an enclosure for royal elephants back in the day of the Vijayanagra Empire. Eleven domed chambers are seen here with a particularly decorated one which served as an enclosure for the musicians during any performances.

4. Queen's Bath, Hampi

A part of the Royal Enclosure, this aquatic enclosure was the Royal bath during the times of the Vijayanagra Empire. It was built in such a way that no outsiders could enter the bath, and has lost much to ruins at the date.

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5. Lotus Palace, Hampi

Close to the Zenana Enclosure, is a monument that stands out in its design and style from most of the structures of Hampi. Another complex, for royal women, this one gets its name from the lotus-like dome

6. Monolith Bull, Hampi

The ride of Lord Shiva, the bull is represented here as a sculpture placed on a high platform. It is partially ruined, but is a major attraction owing to its huge size.

7. Big Shivlinga, Hampi

Carved out of a single boulder, this Shivlinga stands at a height 3m amidst water. It is a major attraction in Hampi.

8. Zenana Enclosure, Hampi

The Zenana Enclosure was primarily the Women's Quarters. A part of the Royal Enclosure, this was a place especially for the Royal women i.e. the Queen and her friends and companions. This palace is the biggest excavation that has been done in Hampi. The south east corner has the Lotus Mahal.

9. Monkey Temple, Hampi

On top of the Anjaneya Hill, at a distance of 2 kilometres from the Virupaksha Temple , the beautiful Yantradharaka Hanuman Temple also known as the Monkey Temple is present inside a cave. The temple being 500 years old is dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

10. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Hampi

This temple features the biggest effigy in Hampi, of Narasimha sitting on SeshaNaag i.e. the seven headed snake acting as a shelter to him. The idol of Goddess Lakshmi is placed along with that of Narasimha.

11. Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex, Hampi

The Hemakunta Hill houses a temple complex, many of them dedicated to Lord Shiva. These are all protected by a fort, providing a secluded atmosphere.

12. Old Palace, Hampi

The Old Palace, surrounded by a fort, and is in ruins as of today. It is located in Anegondi, for which kingdom this palace served as the center.

13. Mahanavami Dibba, Hampi

This structure served as a focal point from where the Vijayanagara kings ruled their Kingdom. Various aspects of courtly life are depicted on this huge structure, including a gem studded throne.

14. Achyutraya Temple, Hampi

This temple is also known as the Tiruvengalanatha Temple, after the main deity, a form of Lord Shiva. It has modern architecture in comparison to the other temples of Hampi. Many carvings here depict mythological legends, seen on pillars, walls and monolith blocks.

15. Hazara Rama Temple, Hampi

Hazara Rama Temple, a mesmerizing temple dedicated to Lord Rama, is located in Hampi Village in the south-western Indian state of Karnataka. The breathtaking view of the temple and its intricate carvings attract tourists from all over the world. From a distance, one will notice the beige granite temple under the clear blue skies.

16. King's Balance, Hampi

King's Balance is an ancient 15th century attraction which was used to weigh the king with the royal Jewels every year on special occasions. The jewels were then donated to the temple priests. The structure has intricately carved pillars. It is made of granite and the pillars support a stone beam that has hoops which were used to suspend the balance.

17. Sasivekalu Ganesh, Hampi

Sasivekalu Ganesh has a gigantic monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha. The statue is over 8 feet tall and was created in the memory of a Vijayanagara King - King Narasimha II. It is often associated with the legend of Ganesha when he tied a snake around his belly when his stomach was about to burst after he had consumed a lot of food. The snake can be clearly seen around Lord Ganesha's belly.

18. Kadalekalu Ganesh, Hampi

Kadalekalu Ganesh is an important religious attraction in Hampi. The temple has traditional stone architecture and is located on Hemakuta Hill and has a huge 15 feet monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha which is a believed to be one of the largest in the world. The reason why the attraction is called Kadalekalu is because the belly of the deity is chiselled to look like Kadalekalu (Bengal gram).

19. Riverside Ruins, Hampi

Riverside Ruins have a splendid cluster of ruins 108, 1008 Shivalings, several shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu and other Hindu deities, some of which are partially submerged. These Ruins can be spotted all across the gorge. The excitement of identifying the idols is an experience to remember.

20. Anegudi village, Hampi

Located on the banks of River Tungabharda, Anegundi village is famous for the Aramane Palace Ruins, the Kamal Mahal, the Huchappayana Matha Temple, the Ranganatha temple and the Nava Brindavan. The village is older than Hampi and is considered a World Heritage Site. The rich culture and the beautiful architecture of the important monuments make it at apt attraction for tourists.

This post was published by Aqsa Aleem

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Tyumen – the First Russian City in Siberia

2 Comments · Posted by Sergei Rzhevsky in Cities , Photos , Travel

Tyumen , founded in 1586, is a large city with a population of more than 700 thousand people located in the south of Western Siberia, about 2,200 km east of Moscow , the administrative center of the Tyumen region .

It was founded as a defensive outpost, which played an important role during the initial colonization of Siberia and the Far East. In the 18th-19th centuries, the town turned into a large transit and trade center, as well as a center of crafts. Photos by: Slava Stepanov .

In the second half of the 20th century, large oil and natural gas fields were discovered in the region. It was an important event in the history of Tyumen, which contributed to rapid industrial growth of the city.

The multi-level embankment on the right bank of the Tura River. The total length of the embankment is about 3 km. There are sculptures and bronze bass-reliefs dedicated to the history of the city here.

Today, Tyumen is one of the industrial and cultural centers of Western Siberia with a developed business and social infrastructure. Tyumen regularly occupies the leading places in the quality of life ratings.

The Pedestrian Bridge of Lovers across the Tura River – one of the main attractions of Tyumen.

Tsvetnoy Boulevard with entertainment and sports facilities, shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes.

“The Seasons” – the largest fountain in Tyumen.

Administration of Tyumen.

The Tyumen Circus.

Government of the Tyumen region.

On the square in front of the government building there is a monument to Lenin.

The Savior Church (1794-1819) – one of the most beautiful churches of Tyumen.

The Holy Trinity Monastery (early and mid 18th century) – one of the oldest architectural ensembles in Siberia.

Znamensky Cathedral (1768) – the main Orthodox church of Tyumen.

The Tyumen Drama Theater – the largest drama theater in Russia.

Memory Square. In the center there is a stele in the form of a candle – a memorial dedicated to the Tyumen residents who died on the fronts of the Second World War.

“Pyotr Stolypin” – a 20-storey business center, which is the highest building in Tyumen (88 meters). On the roof of the building there is an observation deck.

Residential areas.

Silver Streams Public Garden in the Voynovka district.

“LetoLeto” (“SummerSummer”) water park.

Tyumen Railway Station.

Voynovka Classification Yard.

The Heat and Power Plant #2 located in the south-eastern part of Tyumen. It supplies about 40% of the heat the city needs.

DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton Hotel Tyumen.

Welcome to Tyumen !

Tags:  Tyumen city

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Guy Lanza · December 4, 2021 at 1:14 am

Tyumen is a beautiful and progressive city as your report points out. But, it is also home of the University of Tyumen – an excellent intellectual center and rapidly rising research center.

Marion · February 11, 2022 at 9:23 am

I have enjoyed seeing your city, region on this page. would very much like to contact fire station. I would like to buy outfits for my two cats like there mascot cat seen in video. I live in Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. Look forward to hearing from you. Kindest regards.

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The 12 best places to visit in Tyumen (the oldest siberian city)

It is the oldest city in siberia and has many points of interest. find out about the best places to visit in tyumen, russia..

The first Siberian city was founded in 1586. Tyumen has been unofficially titled the oil and gas capital of Russia. The city’s population is 707 000 people, which continues to increase. According to RBC Holding, Tyumen is one of ten the most quick-growing towns in Russia. Don’t let the mention of oil-hungry businesspeople leave you thinking this is a dull, money-focused city, though. The city has a buzzing street life in summer and a couple of worthwhile sights that, taken together, will keep you entertained for a day or so.

Tyumen is also the stepping stone to the gorgeous old town of Tobolsk, a few hours’ bus or train ride away. Tyumen is a cultural, business, educational and administrative center of the Tyumen region. Most of the city’s population comprises young people under 35.

Here are always places to go in the evening and to see during weekends. Cozy cafes, luxurious restaurants, the best theatres and philharmonic concert hall, and museums reminding about the rich history of the city — all that is Tyumen. These are the best places to see in Tyumen, Russia.

1. Tyumen’s Holy Trinity Monastery

Tyumen’s Holy Trinity Monastery is located in the historical center of Tyumen. It is just a few minutes walk from the Tura Embankment. The monastery was founded on the picturesque bank of the Tura River in 1616. Almost a century later, in 1708, the old wooden monastery was rebuilt with stone. Shortly after, the monastery was named Holy Trinity. The building process was conducted under the leadership of metropolitan Philophey Leschinsky. Later, he took monastic vows and lived in seclusion for the rest of his life. After he died in 1727, he was buried at the monastery’s entrance.

During the Soviet period, the monastery was used as a dormitory for a military platoon and the headquarters of the city’s water control system. The monastery was returned to the Tyumen diocese in 1995, but the first service was not held there until 2003. In 2005 the relic of prelate Philophey was uncovered and is now kept in the Peter and Paul Cathedral monastery. In 2007 a square was dedicated to Philophey near the monastery. Today Holy Trinity Monastery is open for everyone to see and tour while it continues to hold regular liturgical services.

2. Znamensky Cathedral

The history of Znamensky Cathedral found its roots in the first half of the 17th century, when a small wooden chapel was first erected at the site of the current Cathedral. The old wooden chapel was replaced with the construction of a stone church which began on September 1st, 1768. The church’s previous name was given in honor of Mary, the Mother of God, and her icon within the church. The building was dedicated only 33 years later, in 1801. The church’s first stone building was painted white and consisted of the main chapel, a bell tower, a refectory, and a porch.

After the Revolution of 1917, the Cathedral was used as a transit prison. Still, between 1933 and 1941, the church was returned to the diocese. With the beginning of World War II, however, it was again taken over and used to house dislocated army forces. Finally, the Cathedral was returned to the eparchy. On June 19th, 1994, the clergy held a liturgical service for the first time. Today Znamensky Cathedral is a functioning church and one of the most beautiful symbols of Tyumen.

3. Tyumen Bolshoi Drama Theater

In 2008, The Tyumen Bolshoi Drama Theater got a new building built in record time for one year and eight months. With a 158-year history, the theater is the most prominent Drama Theater in Russia. The history of the Tyumen theater began even before the first building. It is known that in 1858 the St. Petersburg guest expressed his admiration for Amateur performances.

This fact was recorded, and the city’s theatrical history was reckoned from it. History tells us that in 1890, the first Guild merchant, an honorary citizen of the municipality Tekut’ev Andrei Ivanovich, founded a permanent theatre, which entered the town history called Tekut’evsky. Andrei Ivanovich, in love with the spectacle of dramatic scenes, supported theatre for 26 years.

In 1916, before his death, he bequeathed the theatre to the city. The City Council accepted the gift, and newspaper announcements began to inform about the performances not in the Tekut’ev’s theater but in the city theatre named Tekut’ev. After the October revolution, the theatre received the name of V. I. Lenin.

Under the leadership of the Petrograd director Valmar, it was staged such performances as “Idiot”, “the Power of Darkness”, “the Living corpse”, and “the Day”. In subsequent years the core of the repertoire included Russian and foreign classics, the best works of modern drama.

4. Saint George Ascension church

Through the parishioners’ efforts, this church was erected on the Tura River’s left bank. The church began as a stone two-storied building with a bell tower and two thrones: one is on the first floor in honor of Saint George and the other in honor of the Ascension of God is on the second.

After the October Revolution in 1929, the church was closed, and a workshop of tanners and chemists used its building. In 1934-35 the church became a dormitory for driving school students and combined operators. Later the building was under the governance of Tuymen’s fur coat fabric company.

Only in 1996 was the building returned to the diocese of Tobolsk and Tyumen. Two years later, services were resumed there. Step by step, in 2005, the bell tower was restored. In 2006, the church participated in the government program entitled “Cultural memorials restoration.” Now it is a functioning church that adorns the historical center of Tyumen.

5. Church of the Saviour

The Church of the Saviour, also known as the Church of the Image of “The Saviour Not Made by Hands” or shorter Spasskaya Church, is a church in Tyumen, Tyumen Oblast, Russia, located at Lenin Street, 43, at a crossroad between the Chelyuskintsev Street. Built-in a late 18th-century Siberian Baroque and early 20th-century neorussian style, the building is one of Siberia’s oldest and most expressive churches, under monument protection.

It is believed that the early wooden church was raised in 1586 and reconstructed after several fires into a stable stone building in the late 17th century. The Church of the Saviour saw another two rebuildings in the late 19th century. However, after the 1917 October Revolution, the church was subject to confiscations of its property in 1922, and in 1930 was closed and became a momentary prison.

After the failed attempt to destroy the church two years later, it has been used as an archive and a library. The building storage material for the Tyumen Local Historical Museum is expected to be returned to the local eparchy in 2019.

6. Tura Embankment

The only thing in the Russian four-level structure of this kind and one of the favorite holiday destinations among residents and visitors alike. Here, close to each other is full of the city’s attractions: Lover’s Bridge, historical area, the museum “City Council” Architecture and Construction University, and Holy Trinity Monastery. Embankment and bridge of lovers – the city card is depicted on the magnets, postcards, and other souvenirs tourists bring from Tyumen.

Construction of the promenade continues today, and it planned its expansion on both sides of the river Tura. Throughout the embankment, scattered monuments of famous people, life, and activity were somehow linked to Tyumen. Summer, early Fall, and spring – are the best time for walking and spending time on the waterfront.

It is always noisy: many people are playing songs with a guitar, working fountains, flash mobs, and holding various events, to the bridge of lovers traditionally come to the newlyweds. In the summer promenade Tours – the most popular holiday destination for residents.

7. The Lovers’ Bridge

The Lovers’ Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge over the Tura River in the Central District of Tyumen. The bridge was built in 1987 – five years after the collapse of an old wooden bridge in the exact location. The last name of the bridge was Peshehodniy (Pedestrian). Still, in 2003 local DJs Maria Kondratovich and Timur Shkval arranged an unusual contest called “The most unusual kiss”.

After this event, the city mayor Stepan Kirichuk offered to rename the bridge the Lovers’ Bridge. Then, on July 26th, newly married couples, the director of the Red Army Radio Station V. Bogodelov, and the city’s mayor performed an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the bridge.

8. Kolokolnikovs Estate Museum

The Kolokolnikovs Estate Museum is the only remaining classical merchant’s estate in Tyumen. The building’s facade combines classical and baroque architecture elements and traditional Siberian carving. The doors open to a luxurious, brightly lit hall with lofted ceilings and walls decorated with vivid paintings of the Kolokolnikovs family.

One painting depicts an old trade shop, representing the collective image of the city’s shops. Stepping through the doors of the Kolokolnikovs Estate transports one back to the unique atmosphere of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The permanent exhibit of the Kolokolnikovs Estate Museum is called “The History of the House”. It is dedicated to the history of the merchant families, such as the Ikonnikovs and the Kolokolnikovs. The exhibit will also explain the historical events in this house, one of which was the monumental meeting between the future Emperor Alexander II and the great Russian poet V. Zhukovsky in 1837. In 1919 the estate was used as the headquarters of Marshal V. Blyukher.

9. Gorodskaya Duma Museum

The building of the Tyumen regional Museum of Local Lore Gorodskaya Duma was built in the second half of the XIX century. It is a magnificent example of Russian provincial architecture. The high ladder and a stepped attic give the museum its slenderness, combined with a Corinthian portico and massive columns — the traditional buildings of public institutions and architectural elements.

The Window into the nature constant exhibition introduces the variety of Flora and Fauna of the Tyumen region and its ancient inhabitants. An integral part of the museum is a small paleontological Museum. The skeleton’s collection of mammoth, fossil bison, woolly rhinoceros, and cave bears is presented at the museum. In addition, visitors can get acquainted with the Botanical, Zoological, and entomological collections.

10. House Masharova Museum

The House Masharova Museum is an old house built in the neoclassical style and previously belonged to N. Masharov, a famous manufacturer and one of the founders of the iron industry in Tyumen. The museum is a monument to late 19th and early 20th-century Siberian architecture and is renowned for its luxurious décor.

Traditional musical events and temporary exhibitions are regularly organized in the House Masharova Museum. They take place in the chamber-like atmosphere of the welcoming hall of the merchant’s house.

The permanent exhibition called the Family Book tells the tale of the family’s life at the end of the 19th century. During a tour of the house built, you will see many authentic items of a past era and discover the etiquette of a traditional family from Tyumen.

11. Alexandrovsky Garden

The original name of the Alexandrovsky Garden is the Country Garden. The garden appeared on a vacant plot of land in 1851 when thousands of linden, birch, spruce, and pine trees were planted in the area of about 100 acres (40 000 m²) with the money of the merchant Ivan Ikonnikov.

The garden was named after the crown prince Alexander, the future Tsar Alexander II, who visited Tyumen on May 31st, 1837, during his journey through Siberia. After the October Revolution of 1917, the garden was abandoned until 1948, when a small portion of it was restored through the employees’ efforts of a ship-building plant.

The landscape of the garden was adorned with a pond, a small bridge built traversing the ravine, a shooting range, and a restaurant with a terrace. In the 1960s, it was abandoned again, and by the 1970s, it fell into disrepair. Later a development effort began on the garden’s premises with the construction of houses, a kindergarten, and garages. A road to the Profsoyuzny Bridge was also built through the park.

However, the renewal of the garden did not begin until 2007. Although ten times smaller than the original garden, the grounds were restored, and the Alexandrovsky Garden became its official name. The fountain was rebuilt as well as sculptures of citizens styled after the 19th century. Some statues include the Hussar, Ladies on a Walk, A Girl at Rest, and the Boy.

12. Rasputin Museum

Grigory Rasputin was a friend of the last Russian emperor Nikolay II and his family. Rasputin is one of the most mysterious and exciting personalities of the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries. In the 1900s, among Saint Petersburg’s high society, he had the reputation of the Tsar’s family friend, a religious elder, a seer, and a healer.

The exposition includes a cosmetic mirror, broken down in the middle that symbolizes the broken life of its owner, an icon of St. Simeon Verhotursky the Righteous, who is highly honored in Siberia, and the plate of the famous Kuznetsovky porcelain factory with the monogram of the empress, which Rasputin gave to his god-daughter Iraida Kolesnikova during her christening, an old Viennese chair from the Rasputin’s house. There is an authentic platband from the famous home of Rasputin, and the only thing remained of the building.

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