“Abode of Historical Ruins”
Karnataka’s treasure trove, Hampi is filled with history and serenity that makes it an orthodox of age-old Vijayanagar empire. The city of ruins is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the shadowed depth of hills and valleys in the southernmost state of India, Karnataka. Enclosed by 500 ancient monuments, bastions, treasury structures, bustling market lanes, erotic temples, and remnants of yesteryear.
A former capital of the Vijayanagar empire, Hampi is an abode of many religious shrines located at every foot-step and each one has uniquely featured in terms of architecture. Be it the beautiful enriched cultures or the marvelous artworks of temples, Hampi has been established itself to be that one promising tourist destination in Karnataka which ensures a mind-blowing escape.
Things to do
Climb over the huge boulders
Enormously huge boulders dotted in the vast spread landscapes of Hampi are a perfect one to enjoy rock climbing for a real-life adventure. For exploring the boulders, you can rent a bicycle to come across huge stones.
Coracle Ride
One of the best things to do in Hampi, Coracle Ride will take you to the Tungabhadra river. Since the regions around Hampi, coracle boating has been widely used along the swirling waters of Tungabhadra. It is recommended to carry on this activity along with the assistance of an experienced person.
Hike up to Matanga Hill
Matanga Hills behold its prominence as one of the reckoned historical attractions of the city. There’s a trekking trail connecting the Hampi bazaar with the temple of Achyuta Raya. It is the highest point to climb and capture the panoramic views of the surrounding beauty.
Shopping in Hampi Bazaars
Hampi street markets are loaded with plenty of exquisite and authentic handicrafts at affordable prices. There are many things to shop in Hampi like stone artifacts, Lambani, and leather crafts, musical instruments, and clothes that you can take back as a souvenir. While strolling around the streets, there are a lot of cuisines to try for satiating your hunger.
Best time to visit
October to February is the month of the winter season that brings a pleasant atmosphere to explore Hampi without any hassle. Usually, the city experiences moderate and dry temperatures throughout the year, but summers bring soaring high climate and therefore it is recommended to avoid visiting during this time. Monsoon gets inconsistent rainfall while keeping the temperatures a little low with humidity.
The 15th-century structure of the Vijaya Vittala Temple is the largest attraction of all the historical structures in Hampi. This humongous shrine is devoted to Lord Vittala - an incarnation of Lord Vishnu that is a must-visit attraction of the city. The extraordinary stone chariot, intricate sculptures, and an array of huge pillars that reflects the true embodiments of bewitching architectural design.
Located on the top of Anjaneya Hill, Hanuman Temple was considered as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. A small boat ride will be required to climb up the stairs to reach this shrine. Its pleasant and serene location offers breath-taking views of sunrise and sunset.
A huge courtyard with a dome-like roof, small windows, balconies, and pool area of Queen’s Bath is an enormous ancient building set of the clock back. The fascinating beauty of the ruins of Queen’s bath will entice you with its architectural style of the ancient royal pool.
One of the ancient temples in India, Sri Virupaksha Temple is the 7th century Hindu Temple devoted to Lord Virupaksha - an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is reckoned as one of the most significant religious attractions of Hampi that draws the attention of pilgrims from all over the country.
From the list of religious attractions of Hampi, Hazara Rama Temple is a one that is devoted to Lord Rama. The enormous walls of this temple exhibit the significant chapters of Ramayana through the finest photography art.