Hampi is a historic South Indian town famous for its stone temples. Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled amid the mountainous terrains of Karnataka's Bellary district. The stone temples and ruins are a reminder of the area's prosperous history and culture. The Vijaynagara dynasty's capital was Hampi. Krishnadevaraya's reign brought prosperity to the city. Hampi was reputed to be one of India's wealthiest cities during its heyday. Its wealth and splendour were well-known both within the country and abroad, attracting traders from Portugal and Persia.
Tenali Rama, a humorous minister in the Vijayanagara Empire's court of Krishnadevaraya, was known for his wit. As a result, Hampi has a plethora of attractions to see that are sure to pique your interest!
The splendour of Vijaynagara was shattered by a united coalition of Muslim Sultanates, who raided and pillaged the city's treasures as well as the city itself, leaving only ruins to tell its story of glory. The ruins now draw a large number of visitors, including historians, artists, archaeologists, and geologists. Hampi and the surrounding areas still reverberate with the same historic wealth and bounty.
Before we look at the places to see in Hampi, let's have a look at how to get to this temple town.
The following is the distance from the airport:
Hubli Airport, about 145 kilometres away, and Belgaum Airport, about 215 kilometres away, are the nearest domestic airports to Hampi. The nearest international airport is Bangalore Airport, about 350 kilometres from Hampi.
Hampi is well-connected by road, with numerous buses running between Bangalore, Hubli, and Belgaum. Hospet Junction, 13 kilometres from Hampi, is the nearest railway station.
In Hampi, the Most Attractive and Important Places to Visit
1. Sri Virupaksha Temple
The Sri Virupaksha temple is one of the oldest temples in Hampi and one of the most attractive destinations to visit. It is dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. This 7th-century Hindu temple is a major pilgrim site and one of the most remarkable places to visit. In its complex, the Virupaksha Temple has old-style temples, a large courtyard, and gateway towers. All of which will leave you speechless in awe of its grandeur. It is strongly advised that you hire a guide to tour you around the temple's main attractions, including the Sri Virupaksha Temple complex's submerged Shiva Temple.
2. Vijaya Vittala Temple
The Vijaya Vittala Temple is regarded as a masterpiece of architecture. This temple, which dates from the 15th century, is one of Hampi's most important historical structures. This temple, built in the Dravidian style, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Lord Vittala, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is honored in this temple. In the temple halls, the stone chariot, complex sculptures, and artistically done melodic pillars are truly captivating. One of the main attractions is the Stone Chariot. Because there would be no crowds, visiting the temple early will provide the best views.
3. Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex
Hemakuta Hill is a rocky outcropping filled with temples, wall remnants, and broken paths. It is located on the Hampi village's southern side. Among the temples in this cluster, the Mula Virupakshi temple is one of the most popular. The sunrise and sunset views are spectacular from this vantage point.
4. Hanuman Temple
On top of Anjaneya Hill, the Hanuman Temple is nestled. The pilgrims view this location as sacred since it is thought to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. Hampi village is roughly 4 kilometers away from Anjaneya hill. To get there, pilgrims must first take a coracle boat journey and then ascend the temple's stairs. The temple has a peaceful and serene atmosphere and offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views. The temple grounds are home to many monkeys, so keep your valuables safe and don't harass the creatures.
5. Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple
The Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple is located on Hemakuta Hill's southern side. The name of the temple comes from the likeness between a mustard seed, locally known as sasivekalu, and Ganesha's belly. Lord Ganesha is fashioned out of a boulder stone and stands 2.4 meters tall. Another important sight in Hampi is the temple.
6. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
The Ugra Narasimha Temple, also known as the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, is Hampi's largest monolith statue. This 6.7-meter statue, which was built in 1528 A.D., was vandalised by the Mughals in 1565, causing it to be destroyed. Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, is shown as a half-lion, half-man sitting cross-legged with a furious expression on his statue.
7. Queen’s Bath
The regal bathing chamber for the monarch and his wives was most likely the Queen's bath. With its exquisite design, the royal pool is yet another architectural marvel. The massive dome-shaped roof, balconies with small windows, and a rectangular pool in the centre, all set against the backdrop of vast blue skies, will capture your attention. You'll be tempted to buy stone carvings and sculptures made by local artists, so have some cash on hand.
8. Riverside Ruins
Here you may find a group of 108 Shiva lingas carved into flat granite surfaces. The Riverside ruins are popular with photographers, historians, and tourists because of the rock-carved sculpture of Lord Vishnu in a reclining pose. Hiring a local guide is a fantastic idea. Local guides will be able to provide you with comprehensive information.
9. Archaeological Museum
If you are interested in history, the Archeological Museum is a must-see attraction in Hampi. It is located at Kamlapur, a few kilometres from Hampi's main ruins. There are some intriguing artefacts in the museum. A fascinating slice of history can be discovered here, from the armoury to sculptures to paintings to coins.
10. Matanga Hill
The most magnificent views of the mediaeval remains of Hampi and its surroundings may be seen on Matanga Hill. It takes about 30 minutes to go up the hill to reach the Veerbhadra temple. This temple has a rooftop, which is unquestionably the ideal site to witness the sunrise and sunset over Hampi's beautiful environment.
11. Daroji Bear Sanctuary
The Daroji Bear Sanctuary, which was founded in 1994, is home to a variety of animals, including leopards, hyenas, jackals, deers, and sloth bears. The honey-loving sloth bears are only found in India and are only kept at this sanctuary. Because these sloth bears can only be found in India, it is strongly suggested that you stop by to observe them if you are visiting Hampi. For environment and wildlife aficionados, this is an excellent site to visit in Hampi. Make sure you have a decent pair of athletic shoes and plenty of water with you.
12. Tungabhadra Gardens and Dam
Another sight near Hospet is the Tungabhadra Dam, which is 5 kilometres away. This multi-purpose dam serves as a source of water, energy, and flood control. This dam, which spans the Tungabhadra River and one of its tributaries, provides the majority of the water for the fields. The verdant and well-kept gardens are a pleasure to behold. This is one location where your camera can go on a photo-bombing rampage.
Best time to visit Hampi:
The months of October to February are ideal for visiting Hampi because the weather is at its best. The monsoon season is also a wonderful time to travel, but the boulders may become too slippery. Every year in January or February, the Hampi Utsav is a cultural spectacle that is highly recommended.