Hampi (Karnataka)
- A UNESCO heritage site, featuring ancient Vijayanagara Empire ruins and stone temples.
Hampi Travel Guide – The Lost Empire of Vijayanagara
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, is an ancient city of ruins, grand temples, and historical monuments. Once the glorious capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi is now a mesmerizing open-air museum of history, art, and architecture. With stunning landscapes, boulder-strewn terrain, and a rich cultural legacy, Hampi is a paradise for history buffs, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Top Tourist Attractions in Hampi
Vijayanagara Empire Ruins & Temples
- Virupaksha Temple
- The oldest & most sacred temple in Hampi, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Known for its stunning 9-tiered gopuram (tower) and optical illusion of an inverted shadow.
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Vittala Temple & Stone Chariot (Most Iconic Site of Hampi)
- Famous for its stone chariot, musical pillars, and intricate carvings.
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
- Entry Fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (Foreigners).
- Hemakuta Hill & Temples (Best Sunset Point in Hampi)
- A cluster of ancient temples offering stunning sunrise & sunset views.
- Best time to visit: Early morning or evening.
- Sasivekalu & Kadalekalu Ganesha Temples
- Giant monolithic Ganesha statues, carved from a single rock.
- Achyutaraya Temple
- A majestic temple with an open market area, offering serene, crowd-free exploration.
Royal Enclosure & Palaces
- Lotus Mahal
- A fusion of Hindu & Islamic architecture, shaped like a lotus flower.
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM.
- Elephant Stables
- A row of 11 majestic domed chambers, used to house the royal elephants.
- Queen’s Bath
- A royal bathing complex, with ornate balconies & sunken baths.
- Mahanavami Dibba
- A grand stone platform, where kings watched festivals & military parades.
- Underground Shiva Temple
- A mystical temple partially submerged underground.
Natural Attractions & Adventure
- Matanga Hill (Best Sunrise View in Hampi)
- Offers a panoramic view of Hampi’s ruins & the Tungabhadra River.
- Best Time: Sunrise (6:00 AM – 7:00 AM).
- Anjaneya Hill (Hanuman Temple)
