The Ultimate 3-Day Hampi Itinerary for First-Time Explorers

Are you thinking of going to Hampi? If yes, this is the ultimate Hampi itinerary for 3 days of travel. Hampi is a small village in the state of Karnataka, India. It has temples that are very ancient, ruins and beautiful views of nature. It is on the list of the World Heritage sites. To capture beauty and serenity, the right itinerary Hampi is required.

In this Hampi travel guide, you’ll find out how to visit Hampi in 3 days by utilizing the most authentic means. It will cover most tourist sites. Starting from Hampi tourist attractions to see, and ending with tips on what to do by the hour, we’ve got you covered. If you’re wondering, ‘How many days is enough for Hampi?’ or ‘Can we visit Hampi in 3 days?’, this Hampi itinerary guide has it all!

Day 1 of Hampi Itinerary: Unveiling the Historical Wonders of Hampi

For a 3 day Hampi itinerary, begin the tour in Hampi with an exploration of its rich history. Day 1 of Hampi itinerary is for exploring Hampi’s history. Grand temples, intriguing ruins, and ancient bazaars take you back in time.

Morning: Virupaksha Temple & Hemakuta Hill

Start time: 8:00 AM
Virupaksha Temple: Begin your day at the Virupaksha Temple of Hampi. It’s a key landmark. It is a marvellous temple for the great lord Shiva and this magnificent temple was constructed in the 7th century. The artwork and design will contain elaborate engravings. Next, amble through the temple’s long halls to sense its sanctity. Maybe you will get a chance to have an elephant bless you with its trunk if you are lucky.
Time spent: 1. 5 hours
Hemakuta Hill: Hemakuta Hill can be reached, by walking 300 meters ahead starting from Virupaksha Temple. It is a bit serene area that has wonderful temples and great scenic view of Hampi. Spend a little more time here to meditate and to appreciate the beauty of the scenes. It is also an ideal place for getting a good view of the Virupaksha Temple from above.
Time spent: 1 hour

Mid-Morning: Hampi Bazaar & Monolithic Bull

Hampi Bazaar: From Hemakuta Hill, walk through Hampi Bazaar, a historic marketplace. Although it is largely ruined today, the past glories are still recalled. It is the best place to learn the city’s trading history. You can browse local artefacts here.
Monolithic Bull: At the end of the Hampi Bazaar is a big, awe-inspiring, stone sculpture of a monolithic bull. The landmark is a sacred one for Hindus and forms a very good photography spot.
Distance travelled: Walking distance
Time utilized: 45 minutes

Lunch: Mango Tree Restaurant

Time: 1:00 PM
Lunch Time: Have lunch at the famous Mango Tree Restaurant. It has great vegetarian food and a calm, riverside setting. Enjoy mouth-watering South Indian delicacies such as dosas and thalis.

Afternoon: Vittala Temple & Stone Chariot

Vitthala Temple Complex: After lunch, drive 2 km to the Vittala Temple. It’s a must-see in Hampi. You may walk down or go on a short tuk-tuk ride. It contains the emblematic Stone Chariot and musical pillars. This temple complex just leaves one agog with its architecture and historical significance.
Time spent: 2 hours

Sunset: Matanga Hill

Matanga Hill: End the day with a tour of Matanga Hill which is 1.5 kilometres in the direction north of Vittala Temple. The workout is well worth it for the vistas of the rugged terrain and old structures.
Time spent: 1 hour
Dinner: Head back to Hampi town. Eat at a local café, like Gopi Guest House. Enjoy a leisurely dinner before retiring.

Day 2 of Hampi Itinerary: Exploring the Royal Enclosure and Riverside Wonders

On the second day of this Hampi itinerary, you are all about the Royals and more Temple exploration in Hampi. The next day will involve majestic palaces and architectural masterpieces such as temples and monuments.

Morning: Royal Enclosure & Lotus Mahal

Start time: 8:00 AM
Royal Enclosure: This enclosure is about 3 km from Hampi town. Once the seat of power for the Vijayanagara Empire, many buildings are now strewn across it. The most important are Mahanavami Dibba and the Stepped Tank. As you walk through these ruins, imagine the royal ceremonies and military parades that happened here.
Time spent: 2 hours
Lotus Mahal: From the Royal Enclosure, head to the Lotus Mahal standing 1 km away. This beautiful structure was used by the queens. It is a beautiful combination of Hindu-style architecture and Islamic-style architecture. The Zenana Enclosure that forms its surroundings is for the royal women only; it has beautiful structures designed to shelter the queen and her maids.
Time spent: 1 hour

Mid-Morning: Elephant Stables & Hazara Rama Temple

Elephant Stables: A short walk from the Lotus Mahal, they house the royal elephants. This big domed structure is pretty well preserved and flaunts some great craftsmanship.
Time spent: 45 minutes
Hazara Rama Temple: Proceed to the Hazara Rama Temple, which is around 700 meters from the stables. This temple has several detailed but very small frescoes that detail the incidents of the Ramayana. Originally it was owned by the Royal family of the Vijayanagara Empire of south India. The carving and the works done on the stones are just superb and one should spend time just to have a look at the work done on the architectural marvel.
Time spent: 1 hour

Lunch Time: Chill at the River View Café

Time: 1:00 PM
Visit the River View Café: Relax while having your lunch amidst a view of the Tungabhadra River. The wind and views are ideal. They will siphon you before moving you on.

Afternoon: Tungabhadra River-Tunganad & Anegundi

Coracle Ride on the Tungabhadra River: In the afternoon, you have the option to take a coracle ride within the river. Traditional circular boats depict a jovial approach towards Hampi viewing and are hence named the ‘joy boats’. Also, you will be able to drift past some of the lesser-visited ruins and temples.
Time spent: 1 hour
Anegundi Village: It is on the other side of the river and is older than Hampi Village. Hampi is 5kms away from Anegundi. It has archaeological significance, it has temples like Ranganatha Temple and Pampa Sarovar. Take a walk on the barren roads of this calm village. Engage with the people to find out what it is like in the real world of Karnataka.
Time spent: 2 hours

Sunset: Sanapur Lake

Sanapur Lake: It lies just a little away from Anegundi. Sanapur Lake, 3 km from the venue, is an untouched lake, with rocky hills around it. It is very beautiful and a popular spot for sunsets and retreats. It’s a destination a little offbeat, intended for those seeking to avoid the crowds.
Time spent: 1 hour
Dinner: Head back to Hampi. Dine at Laughing Buddha Café, a laidback café with good food. Enjoy a relaxed dinner, recalling the day’s adventure.

Day 3 of Hampi Itinerary: Temples, Caves, and Hidden Gems

Your last day in Hampi is for nature, some lesser-known sites, and relaxation. This will be a day to see some more temples and some more cave carvings and generally relax on the riverside.

Morning: Achyutaraya Temple & Courtesans’ Street

Start time: 8:00 AM
Achyutaraya Temple: Start Day 3 by visiting Achyutaraya Temple, which is located about 2 km away from Hampi’s main bazaar. This is a lesser-known temple. So, fewer people visit it. You can explore the ruins with less chaos. Nearby, the Courtesans’ Street shows the lives of dancers and courtesans in the Vijayanagara period.
Time spent: 1.5 hours

Mid-Morning: Hanuman Temple (Anjaneya Hill)

Hanuman Temple: The last one is Anjaneya Hill which is also 5 kilometers away from Hampi and can be easily accessed by car. However, here you will see the temple of Hanuman, which according to legends was the place where Hanuman was born. This requires a steep ascent that has been estimated to be approximately 600 steps. The top offers a panoramic and spiritual experience. It entertains pilgrims as well as tourists.
Time spent: 2 hours

Lunch: Moonlight Restaurant

Time: 12:30 PM
Lunch: After the morning trek, have lunch at Moonlight Restaurant. It’s a casual spot that serves thalis and fresh juices. This is a good lunch spot before proceeding further with other activities.

Afternoon: Badavilinga Temple & Underground Shiva Temple

Badavilinga Temple: After lunch, one should take a one-kilometer auto-rickshaw ride to the ancient Badavilinga Temple. This temple has got very big Shiva Linga which is mostly under water. This only serves to enhance its allure.
Time spent: 30 minutes
Underground Shiva Temple: From here, head to the Underground Shiva Temple. It is a partially submerged temple structure. It is one of the most mysterious but interesting places you can visit.
Time spent: 30 minutes

Evening: Take a break at the famous Hippie Island in Hampi

Hippie Island: On the last night in Hampi, do visit Hippie Island-Virupapur Gadde which is located across the river. From cafés to backpackers, the feel of Hampi is manifested in its easygoing environments. You could ride bicycles, walk around the paddy fields or just sit by the river sipping on some beer and enjoying the scenery one more time.
Time spent: 2 hours
Dinner: For the last time, have dinner at a trendy café, Shanti Guest House Café. Make it a leisurely meal to end your Hampi trip plan.

Hampi Itinerary: Insider Travel Tips to Explore Like a Local

If you are considering visiting Hampi then you have a great deal in store for yourself! It has a rich history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. Here is how you can explore Hampi like a local if you have 3 days to spend there.

Visual tour of ruins of Hampi, Karnataka

Getting Around Hampi

Just getting around the place called Hampi is half the fun. Although you could rent a car or scooter, the locals cycle or just walk around if they have to move around the city. Hampi has much to explore. It has the ruins of an ancient city and beautiful landscapes. The best way to see them is to go slowly and relax.

Also, renting a bike has a fee. But, it lets one explore unknown areas at their own pace. For longer trips, auto rickshaws are a cheap, convenient option. At least make sure you negotiate on the fare to be charged before you embark on the journey!

Available lodgings for a three-day stay

Hampi has many lodgings, from cheap to expensive. For a more authentic feel, stay at a local guesthouse or homestay. These places make one feel welcome and most of the time this comes with good homemade meals.

For more comfort, there are lovely hotels and resorts. They have amazing views of the ruins. The young, budget-conscious guest can find several cheap, clean, comfy places to stay.

Etiquette and Cultural Information for Tourists

Spend time trying to integrate yourself more into society to make your experience in the country more worthwhile. It is important not to wear short trousers or T-shirts with bare shoulders when finding yourself in such locations. That portion of the body shall not be revealed to anyone since it is indecent to unveil it.

Entering a site barefoot is common in religious places and therefore you have to prepare for it. Hampi is still a rather quiet place, and the people are hospitable and welcoming. A friendly smile and a greeting will help you make friends on the road. It will improve your journey.

Budgeting for Your Hampi Trip

Hampi is cheap. Some planning can make the trip cheaper. The fees at the major temples and monuments are often tiny. So, set aside a little extra for things like guided tours.

Hampi has a local food culture. Its street eats are tasty and cheap. They give an authentic taste of Hampi’s food. For shopping, you can visit the local markets.

Hampi Itinerary FAQs: Planning Your Trip

Can Hampi be covered in a day?

Yes, Hampi is beautiful beyond words, but one has to plan how to cover the place in a day. This World Heritage Site is even more significant due to its vast area. It covers temples, ruins, and stunning nature. However, if your time is limited to a day then one has to select and focus on a few points only. Day tour suggestion includes Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple Complex, and the Stone Chariot.

How many days is enough for Hampi?

In an ideal world, visitors would spend 2 to 3 days in Hampi. It would let them fully enjoy its beauty. Travel is tiring and time-consuming. A 2-day tour will explore the main attraction and allow a few hours to rest. A 3-day Hampi trip plan is better. You can explore more of the region’s culture and history. This visit allows time to enjoy Hampi’s sights. They include the Queen’s Bath, the Lotus Palace, and the Tungabhadra River.

Can we visit Hampi in 3 days?

Yes! This Hampi itinerary meets the intended balance of a 3-day Hampi tour by offering both great sites to visit, and time for relaxation. On the first day, you will be visiting the central ruins and the main temples. On the following day, one can go to the outskirts of Hampi. Do not miss the Hemakuta Temple and the Bazaar of Hampi. On the third day go out and travel to the nearby villages or take a boat ride on the Tungabhadra River.

What’s the best time to visit Hampi?

The climatically favourable time to visit Hampi will be from October to March. These are the cool, dry months. They are ideal for the park’s ruins and beautiful scenery. July and August are very hot. The monsoon, from June to September, brings heavy rain. So, it is best to travel to Hampi outside these months. This will help you get the most from your Hampi travel guide.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hampi has a rich history and culture. Its stunning scenery captivates any traveller who explores it. If you have a long break, then stroll around the villages and the archaeological sites. They offer a deeper experience. This Hampi itinerary suggests places to visit. You can, however, take your time and soak in the locals’ atmosphere. If you are here for three days or on a second visit, this town is always interesting. It’s beautiful. Begin planning your Hampi travel plan now and let the enchants of Hampi cast a spell on you!