Hampi Tour Package
The ruins at Hampi are testament and devotion to many of India’s Kings’ devotion and love for culture and Building. Situated in South India in the state of Karnataka, Hampi boasts of some spectacular ruins amidst great Scenic Landscape. The ruins have green vegetation and huge boulders which bring a unique beauty to the whole 26sqkm area. Most of the area is filled with Temples.
The temples of Hampi are treasures from the Vijayanagara period. A UNESCO heritage site, it attracts visitors from all over the World. Dotted around the hills and valleys are over 500 monuments.
Hampi is also proof to India’s preeminence in city building and Architecture. It has water canals and public baths distributed across the City. It describes the City planners vision at that time which also
included ancient market streets, royal pavilions, bastions, royal platforms, treasury buildings, etc.
Important sites at Hampi:
- Virupaksha Temple: This is the most famous temple in Hampi and is dedicated to Lord Virupaksha (an incarnation of Lord Shiva). The temple complex is a sprawling area with beautiful architecture and a 49-meter high gopuram (tower). Don’t forget to visit the temple’s elephant, Lakshmi.
- Hampi Bazaar: Right in front of Virupaksha Temple, you’ll find the Hampi Bazaar, a street lined with old pavilions, shops, and eateries. It’s a great place to explore the local culture.
- Vitthala Temple: This temple is famous for its iconic stone chariot, which is a symbol of Hampi. It also has remarkable musical pillars and intricate stone carvings.
- Hemakuta Hill Temples: You can climb Hemakuta Hill to explore a cluster of small temples that offer panoramic views of the entire Hampi landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- Achyutaraya Temple: This temple is known for its impressive architecture and is dedicated to Lord Tiruvengalanatha, a form of Lord Vishnu.
- Lotus Mahal: This stunning architectural marvel is also known as the Zenana Enclosure. It’s a beautiful blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
- Elephant Stables: These well-preserved structures were used to house the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. They showcase a mix of Indian and Islamic architectural styles.
- Queen’s Bath: This is an ornate royal bathing chamber with a unique Indo-Islamic architectural style. It is believed to have been used by the queens of the Vijayanagara kings.
- Hazara Rama Temple: This temple is famous for its exquisite bas-reliefs narrating the Ramayana story. It was used exclusively by the royal family.
- Matanga Hill: A hike to Matanga Hill will reward you with panoramic views of Hampi’s landscape, including the Tungabhadra River and various temple complexes.
- Tungabhadra River: You can take a coracle (round boat) ride on the Tungabhadra River to enjoy the scenic beauty and get a different perspective of the ruins.
- Badavilinga Temple: This is one of the largest monolithic Shiva Lingas in Hampi and is always in water due to a natural spring.
- Anegundi: This historic village, located on the opposite bank of the Tungabhadra River, has its own share of temples and ruins, including the Anjaneya Hill, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.
- Virupapur Gaddi: This is the laid-back side of Hampi, across the river. It’s a great place to relax, unwind, and meet fellow travelers.
- Sanapur Lake: If you want a break from temple hopping, head to Sanapur Lake for some relaxing and swimming.
Nearest Airport in Hubli, 140kms from Hampi. The railway station at Hospet Jn is closer at 13kms away.
Excursions include Tungabadra Dam and many nearby agri based plains that can be reached by hiring a car, bike or simply using the State Bus transport.