Hampi - Explore the Ancient Ruins & Heritage Sites
The erstwhile City of Victory, Hampi, is today reckoned as a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site in India that owes its importance to the legacy left behind by the Vijayanagara Empire. It is a famous heritage town in Karnataka that features the largest open-air museum in the world, along with magnificent palaces, ancient temples, waterworks, markets, hammams, and more. Founded by Harihara and Bukka, Hampi was once the royal city and the centre of trade.
From diamonds to pearls, silks, and brocades, merchants traded precious commodities in this capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Besides its grandeur, the uncanny boulder-strewn landscape of Hampi is also recognised as one of the oldest exposed surfaces on earth.
A delightful place to catch a glimpse of the magnificence of a bygone era, the imposing monuments in Hampi and their architectural brilliance will never cease to fascinate visitors. It is among India's best places, with stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich heritage in store.
History of Hampi
The excavations in Hampi suggest its history dates back to the Neolithic and Chalcolithic eras, i.e., the 2nd and the 3rd century. It is believed that in the 3rd century, Hampi grew to prominence and became an integral part of the Mauryan Empire. Many proofs in the form of rock edifices belonging to the timeline of Ashoka have been found in the region, which supports the fact. In 1336 AD, Hampi became the capital of Vijaynagar and flourished under the rule of Krishnadeva Raya, who belonged to the Tuluva Dynasty. The ruins, along with this place's concert halls, bazaars, and boulders, speak of the eminence of the Vijayanagar empire.
Talking about trade, Hampi had a good flow of commerce with Vijayanagara and became the wealthiest empire. Over two centennials, the flourishing city witnessed four rulers on its throne.
Folklore of Hakka and Bukka
Hakka and Bukka were local chiefs who once went on a hunting expedition. They encountered an unusual mystery of a hare chasing a hound while hunting and narrated the incident to Guru Vidyaranya. This made Guru so fascinated with the land that he shifted his capital to Hampi. This was the beginning of this flourishing kingdom, which is why it became popular as the City of Victory.
History Behind its Name
Hampi’s name is derived from one of the old names of the Tungabhadra River: Pampa. In the Kannada language, Pampa became Hampe, from which the name Hampi has been taken.
Legend Associated with Ramayana
Interestingly, there is a legend associated with Hampi that dates back to the time of the Ramayana. In one episode of the Ramayana, both Lord Ram and Lord Lakshman travelled to the land of monkeys, which was none other than the soil of Hampi. This anecdote is backed by proof that suggests its mythological significance.
Top Attractions in Hampi - Best Places for Tourism & Sightseeing
If you were searching for ‘Hampi places to visit’ , then, your quest ends here! Hampi is among the best places to visit in Karnataka. The ruins here are spread over an area of around 26 sq km. The last Hindu kingdom's remains highlight the Vijayanagar Empire's richness. However, the major attractions of Hampi are the Virupaksha and Vitthala temples. The bygone past of this place, along with its ruins, comes across as fascinating and is a prime reason for travel enthusiasts to visit this place. So check out the list of major attractions in and around Hampi and know why it is so popular.
1. Virupaksha Temple
Hampi is famous as the heritage temple town of Karnataka, home to many beautiful temples. One such temple is Virupaksha Temple, which is highly renowned for its stunning architecture and popular among tourists for Hampi sightseeing. This temple is also known as the Pampapathi Temple. It traces its roots back to the 7th century, making it one of the oldest functioning temples in India. People with religious inclinations are bound to like this place. Virupaksha temple is one of the best historical places in Karnataka.
2. Vijaya Vittala Temple
The Vittala temple is known for its enchanting architecture and one of the famous Hampi’s tourist places that will takes you on a historical tour. The main attraction of this breathtaking temple is its beautifully carved stone chariot. This iconic temple also features musical pillars, which are genuinely fascinating. Due to its magnificence, this temple was considered one of the most famous structures in Hampi. Also, this temple serves as the venue for the famous Purandaradasa festival.
3. Hampi Bazaar
Hampi Bazaar is where you can indulge in some gratifying retail therapy. You can shop for jewellery, clothes, and antiques and discover this market's beauty, as it was once a residential area where the nobles used to stay. This market is one of the best places to visit in Hampi carrying an old-world charm which fascinates shopaholics and history buffs alike.
4. Matanga Hill
Matanga Hill offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over Hampi’s ruins and landscapes, making it a must-visit spot for photographers and trekkers.
Read More : Best Hampi Trip Quotes And Caption For Instagram
5. Hemakuta
A cluster of ancient temples with stunning panoramic views, perfect for history buffs and meditation seekers.
6. Archaeological Museum
The Archeological Museum is one of the best places to see in Hampi. It will take you back in time when this place was flourishing and known to be the richest. There are various galleries where beautiful sculptures, gold coins, precious stones, and myriad artefacts are displayed for public view. This museum is a treat for history buffs and travel aficionados.
7. Lotus Mahal & Zenana Enclosure
A unique structure with Indo-Islamic architectural influences, the Lotus Mahal is believed to have been a royal retreat for Vijayanagara queens.
8. Elephant Stables
A well-preserved structure where royal elephants were kept, featuring eleven domed chambers with Indo-Islamic design elements.
9. Hazara Rama Temple
Known for its detailed carvings depicting the Ramayana, this temple was used by Vijayanagara kings for private worship.
10. Tungabhadra River & Coracle Rides
The Tungabhadra River adds a scenic charm to Hampi, and traditional coracle boat rides provide a fun and immersive experience.
11. Anjaneya Hill (Hanuman Temple)
Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, this hilltop temple offers divine vibes and panoramic views.
12. Ruins of Vijayanagara
If you visit Hampi, you will have the amazing opportunity to discover the fascinating sights of the ruins of Vijayanagara. These ruins, withstanding the testimony of time, depict the grandeur and architectural finesse of the Vijayanagara Empire. These ruins are not only a top attraction for heritage lovers but also a dream for trekkers and hikers as they are spread over a massive area. Ensure you wear comfortable shoes while exploring this spectacular site in Hampi.
13. The King's Balance
One of thebest Hampi visiting places, The King’s Balance, also known as Tulapurushandana is a sight to behold. This magnificent arch-like structure, which is about 5 m tall, is located southwest of the Vittala temple. This place in Hampi holds much importance as it was a site where the King was weighed with gold and many other precious stones during the eclipses and the festival of Dussehra. The carved pillars speak volumes about the grand rituals practised during Krishna Deva Raya’s kingdom.
14. The Narasimha Statue
This is another famous Hampi tourist places which is a brilliant monolithic statues, witnessing the Narasimha statue is a sight to behold. This mammoth-sized statue is carved out of a single stone and depicts the artisans' dexterity from the bygone era.
Festivals to Attend in Hampi
1. Pattadakal Dance Festival
The Pattadakal Dance Festival is quite famous among the locals of Hampi. It is an annual festival organised by the Government of Karnataka in the town of Pattadakal. The performances by the participants in this festival are quite awe-inspiring and give a kaleidoscopic view of their colourful culture.
2. Kambala Festival
A famous traditional festival of Karnataka that is celebrated every year, the Kambala festival is fantastic. Once it was a favourite pastime of the royals, this buffalo race festival has become a prominent tradition. This age-old tradition is carried out by the farming community and Tuluva landlords. Do attend this festival for an enriching experience.
3. Hampi Festival
The Hampi Festival, also known as the Hampi Utsav, is a cultural festival of Karnataka held every year between November 3rd and 5th. It recreates the grandeur of the Vijayanagar Kingdom through dance and music. Artists perform and enact anecdotes from the glorious era, along with fireworks and puppet shows, which are the top attractions of the festival. This festival is celebrated with great fervour and gives an opportunity to delve into the region's rich past.
Things to Do in Hampi :
- Trekking : Climb Matanga Hill or Anjaneya Hill for breathtaking views.
- Photography : Capture the stunning ruins, landscapes, and sunsets.
- Adventure : Try rock climbing or a coracle boat ride.
- Cycling & Walking Tours : Explore the ruins at your own pace.
- Shopping : Buy souvenirs like stone carvings and handicrafts from Hampi Bazaar.
Best Time to Visit Hampi :
- October to March : Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
- April to June : Extremely hot; not recommended.
- July to September : Lush greenery but occasional heavy rains.
- Hampi Utsav (November) : A grand festival with music, dance, and cultural performances.
Tips for Visiting Hampi :
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot.
- Carry sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as the sun can be strong.
- Bargaining is common in local markets, so don't hesitate to negotiate prices.
- Respect the sanctity of the temples and dress modestly.
Why Visit Hampi?
- A paradise for history lovers – Walk through centuries-old ruins.
- A photographer’s dream – Unique landscapes and sunrise views.
- A backpacker’s haven – Budget-friendly and laid-back.
- An adventure hotspot – Trekking, bouldering, and river rides.
- A spiritual escape – Temples and peaceful surroundings.
Accommodation in Hampi :
- Luxury Stays : Evolve Back Kamalapura Palace, Hampi’s Boulders Resort.
- Mid-range Hotels : Heritage Resort Hampi, Clarks Inn Hampi.
- Budget Stays : Mowgli Guesthouse, Gopi Guesthouse.
How To Reach Hampi :
Hampi is an intriguing city located in Karnataka. However, you cannot reach it directly by Flight or train. The idea behind not developing its infrastructure is to maintain this heritage town in its original state. This is, in fact, a thoughtful initiative to preserve our glorious past, which is present in the ruins here.
So here’s the best way to reach Hampi without any hassle.
- Nearest Major City. Bellary
- Nearest Airport. Bellary Domestic Airport
- Nearest International Airport. Bengaluru Airport
- Nearest Railway Station. Hospet Station
- Distance from Bellary. 53.1 km
By Air
Hubli Airport is the second nearest airport to Hampi, and it is situated at a distance of around 160 km. This airport serves the twin cities of Hubli and Dharwad. It is considered the third busiest airport in Karnataka and 45th in all India. This airport has overall good connectivity with other Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata; however, if you are travelling from other countries, then you will have to take a flight to Bengaluru, which serves as the closest international airport to Hampi.
- Distance from Bellary Airport. 60 km
- Distance from Hubli Airport. 160 km
- Distance from Bengaluru Airport. 350 km
After deboarding at the airport, you must cover the remaining distance to Hampi via cab or some other means of transportation.
By Train
Hampi doesn’t have a railway station. The nearest railway station is Hospet, which is located around 13 km from Hampi. Hospet has good connectivity with other Indian cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Goa. Some good options are Hampi Express, Amaravathi Express, and Haripriya Express.
- Distance from Hospet Station. 13 km
After you deboard at the railway station, you can quickly get a cab or bus to Hampi.
By Road
Hampi has good roadway connectivity with other cities. You can take interstate buses to reach Hampi, or you can drive down to Hampi in your own car or bike, depending on your comfort and budget.
- Distance from Raichur. 135.8 km
- Distance from Hubli. 139.3 km
- Distance from Anantapur. 141.3 km
- Distance from Bangalore. 342 km
- Distance from Mumbai. 685 km
- Distance from Kolkata. 1,826 km
- Distance from Delhi. 1,860 km
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q 1. Why is Hampi famous?
A 1. Hampi is famous for the glorious heritage of Vijayanagar Empire that is found in the ruins here. It is reckoned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it is home to about 500 ancient relics that includes monuments, temples and captivating ruins.
Q 2. Why should people visit Hampi?
A 2. Visiting Hampi is a once in a lifetime experience as people get to witness the grandeur of Hampi in its beautiful monuments and temples.
Q 3. Who discovered Hampi?
A 3. Harihara and Bukka founded the Vijayanagara Empire in 1336 AD.
Q 4. Which is the best time to visit Hampi?
A 4. Winter season between October to February is an ideal time to visit Hampi.
Q 5. Is there an entry fee for visiting Hampi’s monuments?
A 5. Many sites in Hampi are free to visit, but some monuments like the Vittala Temple have a small entry fee.
