introduction:
The state of Karnataka in southern India is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Hampi.
It is a vast archaeological site that features the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled South India from the 14th to the 16th century. The site covers an area of over 40 square kilometers and is a popular tourist destination due to its unique and well-preserved architecture and historical significance.Two brothers named Harihara and Bukka created Hampi in the fourteenth century, founding the Vijayanagara Empire.. The city grew into a prosperous and influential center of trade, religion, and culture, attracting scholars, artists, and traders from all over India and beyond. It was renowned for its magnificent temples, palaces, and public buildings, as well as its vibrant markets, festivals, and cultural events.
However, in 1565, the Vijayanagara Empire was defeated by a confederacy of Muslim sultanates in the Battle of Talikota, and Hampi was sacked and looted. The city was abandoned and fell into ruins, and was gradually reclaimed by nature. It was rediscovered by British archaeologists in the 19th century, who began excavating and restoring the temples and other structures.
Temples
Hampi tour package from bangalore is famous for its temples, which are some of the most impressive and beautiful in India. The most well-known of these is the Virupaksha Temple, which honours Lord Shiva and is dated to the seventh century.. The temple complex includes several smaller shrines, a pillared hall, a chariot shrine, and a massive gateway tower (gopura). It is still an active place of worship and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.
Another important temple is the Vittala Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its magnificent stone chariot, musical pillars, and intricate carvings. The temple complex includes several other shrines, halls, and courtyards, as well as a stepped tank (pushkarni) and a bazaar (market).
Other notable temples in Hampi include the Hazara Rama Temple, which is famous for its exquisite bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana; the Achyutaraya Temple, which is known for its stunning architectural features such as the mantapa and the pillared hall; and the Lotus Mahal, which is a unique palace with a lotus-shaped dome and delicate arches.
Ruins
Hampi is also home to many other ruins, which offer a glimpse into the city’s past glory. These include the Royal Enclosure, which was the administrative and residential area of the Vijayanagara kings and includes several palaces, platforms, and tanks; the Sacred Center, which was the religious hub of the city and includes several temples, shrines, and water tanks; and the Hampi Bazaar, which was the main commercial hub of the city and includes several shops, pavilions, and platforms.
The most famous of these ruins is the Vitthala Temple Complex, which includes the famous stone chariot and musical pillars. The complex also includes several other shrines, halls, and courtyards, as well as a bazaar and a water tank. The ruins are spread over a vast area and can take several days to explore.
Natural Beauty
Hampi is not just a historical and cultural site, but also a place of natural beauty. The city is surrounded by hills and boulders, which offer stunning views and opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. The Tungabhadra River flows through the city, adding to its charm and providing a source
Getting there
Hampi is located about 350 kilometers from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. The nearest airport is in Hubli, which is about 144 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is in Hospet, which is about 13 kilometers away from Hampi. From Hospet, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Hampi.
Things to do
Explore the ruins
The main attraction of Hampi is the vast array of ruins that are scattered across the landscape. The most famous of these are the temples, which were built during the Vijayanagara Empire. The most popular temples include the Virupaksha Temple, the Vittala Temple, and the Hazara Rama Temple. Each of these temples is unique and features intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
Visit the Tungabhadra River
The Tungabhadra River flows through Hampi and is a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can take a boat ride down the river or simply sit on its banks and watch the world go by.
Take a coracle ride
A coracle is a traditional round boat that is made of woven bamboo and is used to navigate the Tungabhadra River. Taking a coracle ride is a fun and unique way to explore the river and see the surrounding landscape.
Watch the sunset from Hemakuta Hill
Hemakuta Hill is located in the heart of Hampi and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the hill and watch the sunset, which is a truly unforgettable experience.
Visit the Royal Enclosure
The Royal Enclosure was once the administrative center of the Vijayanagara Empire and features several structures, including the Queen’s Bath, the Lotus Mahal, and the Elephant Stables. The buildings are well-preserved and provide a glimpse into the opulence of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Explore the Hampi Bazaar
The Hampi Bazaar is a lively street that is lined with shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Indian clothing. Visitors can spend hours exploring the bazaar and bargaining with vendors for unique items to take home.
Visit the Anegundi Village
Anegundi Village is located just across the Tungabhadra River from Hampi and is home to several historic sites, including the Anjaneya Hill and the Pampa Sarovar. The village is also known for its traditional houses and charming streets.
Where to stay
There are several accommodation options in and around Hampi, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. Many visitors choose to stay in the town of Hospet, which has a wider range of hotels and is located just a short distance from Hampi. Some popular options include:
Hampi’s Boulders Resort
Clarks Inn Hampi
Kishkinda Heritage Resort
Royal Orchid Central Kireeti
Hotel Malligi
Where to eat
Hampi has several restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of Indian and international cuisine. Some popular options include:
Mango Tree
Laughing Buddha Cafe
Gopi Rooftop Restaurant
Kishkinda Restaurant
Sri Venkateshwara Restaurant