Top 10 Places you must see in Hampi

Hampi, an ancient city in Karnataka, India, symbolises great ruins, mysterious pasts, and a typical setting. UNESCO has marked Hampi as a World Heritage Site. Coming historians, naturalists, and lovers of architecture visit this place. Read the following article for the list of the 10 most important places you must see in Hampi. It also answers questions such as “What is popular in Hampi?” and “How can one go for tourism in Hampi?” This Hampi guide will attempt to provide information to travellers about this beautiful city.

The 10 places you must see in Hampi

Hampi is an embodiment of natural, historic, and aesthetic wonder in Karnataka. There are a lot of places to visit in Hampi as the city is rich in historical and architectural value. Following are the main Hampi tourist attractions which outline the great history and culture of the place:

1. Virupaksha Temple: Hampi: The Centre of Monuments

One of the 10 places to visit in Hampi is Virupaksha Temple. The Virupaksha Temple is a Lord Shiva temple. Still upright, it was built in the seventh century. The great gopuram, or the gateway tower, huge friezes, and imagery carved out faultlessly are examples of the greatness of the Vijayanagara Empire. Another reason important for visitors to arrive is due to the chariot celebration popularly called “Rath Yatra”. Both tourists and pilgrims flock to this place.

Why is the Virupaksha Temple at Hampi so important?

The Virupaksha Temple is one of the very few ancient Indian temples among the places to visit in Hampi that remain active. Among all Karnataka temples, it is also among the most famous ones. It displays the representations of mythology, gods, and animals as art on the temple, showing the spiritual nature of people then. There is also Lakshmi, a temple elephant that blesses the tourists through her trunk.

Timings

It opens daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, and there is an environment of extreme calm within and outside the temple.

2. Vitthala Temple: Stone Chariot Marvel

The next place among the places to visit in Hampi is the Vitthala Temple, which houses the icon of the Stone Chariot. In fact this place is among the many attractive sites to visit in Hampi by many visitors. If you had to select exactly one place you must see in Hampi, it would have to be this temple!

There are a number of spectacular features in the temple. It has a number of musical pillars built out of granite that produce different musical notes mimicking different instruments when struck.

Originally built by Dev Raya II in the first half of the 15th century, the temple was later significantly expanded by Krishnadeva Raya. After the famous siege of Cuttack, Krishnadeva, inspired by the Chariot structure of the Konark temple, built the smaller stone chariot as a shrine to lord Garuda here.

What Makes Vitthala Temple Unique?

The stone chariot is a popular site in Hampi. It looks like a statue, but it’s a detailed, immobile structure. It has become one of the most important architectural marvels and historical structures of Hampi. The musical pillars, which play notes when struck, are a temple specialty. They delight visitors.

Entry Fee and Timings

An Indian visitor has to spend only Rs 40 at the entrance of the park, whereas a foreign visitor has to spend Rs 500. Temple timings: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Towards the afternoon, you will see thousands of these, and therefore, it’s advisable to visit in the morning when there are few people.

3. Hampi Bazaar: The Historic Market Place

Also counted among the most famous places to visit in Hampi is the Virupaksha Temple Bazaar or the Hampi Bazaar.

The original Hampi Bazaar is no longer functional. It has pavilions on both sides of a street running nearly upto 1 km. Back in the heydays of Vijayanagar Empire, this used to be a center of traders and merchants from the world over. Travelers have mentioned in their accounts that gems, and other precious metals used to be sold over the street here! It often marks the prosperity of the empire.

Today, the original market no longer exists. However, close to the Virupaksha temple, there does exist a small stretch of local shops from where you may purchase souvenirs.

What to Expect at Hampi Bazaar?

A stroll down the street is possible for the visitors. The various pavilions and shops that existed here in ancient times are seen as ruins by them. It is excellent for taking a walk and clicking some memorable snaps besides shopping for souvenirs. There is also a statue of Nandi, the bull of Lord Shiva, adorning the place and quite religious as well.

4. Lotus Mahal: The epitome of Hindu and Islamic Architectural Style

Lotus Mahal is one of the most striking architectural monuments in this historic city of Hampi. The lotus-shaped royal pavilion is designed on the tenet of Islamic and Hindu architectural styles. The balconies and arches depict flowery designs. This is one of the well-maintained structures in Hampi’s royal enclosure. Some say, this was used as the Zenana quarters for the royal women.

Why Visit Lotus Mahal?

Lotus Mahal in Hampi is delicate. It is small compared to the huge hill and massive ruins. This makes it a popular spot for photos and relaxation. Designed serenely and aesthetically, it represents the multicultural heritage of the Vijayanagar period.

5. Royal Enclosure, Hampi: An Imperial Life Overview

This was a formidable structure put to use for housing the palaces of the Vijayanagara kings. It is one of the most visited and famous Hampi tourist attractions today. There are several constructions within the enclosure, including the Mahanavami Dibba, a ceremonial pavilion, a decorated water tank, stepped tank.

This structure a must see in Hampi, if you want to first hand witness where the royalty of the Vijayanagar lived and how they led their lives.

Why Should You See the Royal Enclosure?

This is one place that gives an insight into the abundance of living that the royal family at Hampi had been accustomed to. The view from the top of Mahanavami Dibba is brilliant. Another wonder of ancient engineering is the stepped tank.

6. Elephant Stables: A Testament to Royalty’s Grandeur

Elephant Stables is another one of the best places to visit in Hampi. The Elephant Stables in Hampi are inevitable symbols of the majestic beauty of the Vijayanagara Empire. This is a long building with eleven domed rooms. It is believed to have kept royal elephants. They are a classic example of Indo-Islamic architecture. So, they are a must-visit in Hampi for those who love the empire’s regal past.

What is Special about the Elephant Stables?

The Elephant Stables has a symmetrical, large, uniquely designed structure. In the Vijayanagara kingdom, elephants symbolise royal events and religious processions.

7. Matanga Hill: The Best Point of View to Capture Hampi

If one is feeling adventurous, then Matanga Hill is the place to be. It falls on one of Hampi’s highest points, thereby enabling a great view of the river, rocky hills, and temples. The best time for viewing this rock is during dawn and sunset. Hence, it is among the places to visit in Hampi.

It is said that the Matang Hill housed the ashram of Sage Matanga of Ramayana. He was the one who cursed Baali, the vaanar king, that ultimately resulted in his death. Today at the top, there is a small temple. Especially for those who have a keen interest in Ramayana or are super enthusiastic about treks, this hill is a must see trek.

However, if this does appeal to you, do take guidance from the locals on the safest and best paths and times to embark on the climb. Some paths to the top are risky.

Sightseeing from Matanga Hill

Matanga Hill offers a grand view of all the attractions in Hampi. Many find it quite interesting to wake up early in the morning and climb this hill to have a glance at the magical sunrise, which brightens the ruins and the river.

8. Achyutaraya Temple: A Treasured Discovery

Many temples in Hampi are more popular. But, the Achyutaraya Temple is a true marvel like them. This Hampi temple, between Matanga Hill and the Tungabhadra River, is a quiet, calming place away from the hustle and bustle. This 3-acre site in Hampi is among its least explored areas. Intricate wall carvings and a row of ruined temples, now overgrown, surround it.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Like all other temples in Hampi, this temple too has a vast bazaar and pushkarni just outside it. Infact, this is also one of the lesser visited places of Hampi. So, if you enjoy the off beat places, then this is certainly a must see in Hampi for you!

Why Visit Achyutaraya Temple?

The Achyutaraya Temple is perfect for those who want to wander the royal area and find peace in the ruins of Hampi. The best part is that the temple is off the tourist trail. It is serene, so one can reflect and wander.

9. Sasivekalu Ganesha and Kadalekalu Ganesha: Majestic Monolithic Statues

Sasivekalu Ganesha and Kadalekalu Ganesha are the most famous monolithic sculptures of Hampi. These two sculptures are of Lord Ganesha. Both of them are gigantic and were carved out from a single stone. Constructed somewhere around the middle of the 14th century, it is one of the major sculptures of Ganesha in South India. The Sasivekalu Ganesh is about 8 feet tall, while the Kadalekalu Ganesh ido stands at a15 feet, making it one of Hampi’s largest idols!

Both these temples are situated on the Hemakuta Hill. Some of the best shots of Hampi can be taken from this hill.

Why are those statues so important?

These statues are examples of the kind of nature as well as the enormity of the attractions in Hampi. The carvings on these idols show that skilled artisans made them. They stand out as part of the best attractions in Hampi.

10. Tungabhadra River: The Lifeline of Hampi

Another key destination that a visitor should not miss is the Tungabhadra River sources at Hampi. This has been the life giver to this town; in fact, it grows into something like a religious place or even a line dividing religious groups. You may go coracle riding, observe the Hampi temples that are located beside the river, or just walk around the river Babylon.

How to Plan a Trip to Hampi

Now that we know what are the top places to visit in Hampi, let’s see how to plan a trip to Hampi. Visiting Hampi is not as simple as picking a travel date. It’s about understanding and experiencing the culture of this famous heritage site. To get the best from your tour, you need a plan. It should cover Hampi’s famous tourist spots and travel logistics.

READ About Tungabhadra River and things to do there

Research and Itinerary

First, one has to know which places Hampi has to offer in terms of interest. The top places to visit in Hampi are the monuments, temples and the bazaar. Some of the historic tourist sites in Hampi include the Elephant’s Place, the Lotus Palace, and the Chariots. This way, having a schedule would let everyone know how to visit each one of these places and at what time.

Accommodation

Choose the type of lodging depending on the price range. Options range from the most basic rooms for rent to five-star hotels. See to it that you book earlier than the rainy season or during a festival time when most tourists are travelling.

Travel

Road connectivity to Hampi is excellent and it can also be accessed by Jeep very conveniently. The nearest major city is Hospet, which is about 13 kilometres away from Hampi. From there, one has to take a taxi or board one of the local buses, which are readily accessible. If you prefer rail transport, then Hospet Junction will be the closest rail station.

5 Places to catch stunning views of Hampi

Sightseeing

As a result of this, it is recommended that the tours be done in the morning and towards evening given the hot and sunny weather. The best time to start your tour of the temples and ruins in Hampi is very early in the morning. This will assist you in steering clear of the sun. This would have been disappointing, to have traveled through the region and not get a chance to explore the Hampi outdoors, as there is more to historical puzzling irregularities that were found scattered all around the area.

Additional Tips

To supplement the information above, here are additional tips to help you get the best out of your tour in Hampi and avoid unforeseen pitfalls. It suggests ways to explore the area and maximise your Hampi visit. The reader will fully appreciate the site’s rich history and culture. While these 10 are must see in Hampi, it is by no means a comprehensive list.

Special Attractions: Hampi is famous for its temples and ruins. The unusually shaped stones and the atmosphere around that place look very exotic, which is why it is a special place.
Night Visits: Although most of the sites and architecture of the Hampi area are visible during the night, it is not advisable and safe to do so.
Travel Tips: Wear proper shoes, carry enough drinks and don’t forget to carry an umbrella and a hat with sun lotion. If one wishes to explore more of its cultural and historical significance, one can take an organised tour.

These considerations in planning travel will make the tour of Hampi’s magnificent and ancient sites wonderful.

Conclusion

So, there you have the list of places to visit in Hampi. Hampi is not just a historical site or park. It is an open history in its ruins, temples, and landscape. Hampi has many tourist spots. They mix devotion, history, and nature. They include the grand Virupaksha Temple and the quiet banks of the Tungabhadra River. From the daring peak of Matanga Hill to tracing the historical steps in the Royal Enclosure, Hampi has it all for everyone. This list of ten heavenly tourist spots is a great Hampi guide. It links to the best of Hampi’s ancient world. Hampi has friendly people, interesting architecture, and stunning views. Its history adds to its charm.

FAQs

What is Hampi especially known for?

Hampi is about old city ruins, grand temples, and fine friezes and sculptures. Each of these architectures was constructed during the time of the Vijayanagara Empire, the great kingdom of Southern India. These include the Virupaksha Temple, the Vitthala Temple, the Stone Chariot and the Natural Rock Formation.

North of the Tungabhadra river lie important places related to Kishkindha Kaand of Ramayana, including Anjaneyadri Hill and temple, the birth place of Lord Hanuman, and Pampa Sarovar.

What sets Hampi apart?

Tourism in Hampi depends on the rich historical backdrop and mesmerising rocky hills and ruins. It is a combination of architectural beauty, such as the Hampi Bazaar and Elephant Stables, and the beauty of nature. It is one location that can be described as a tourist’s paradise.

What is the procedure to be followed in order to participate in Hampi sightseeing?

The most convenient way to travel from one place to another in Hampi is walking. However some parts of the town are distant and will require you to have some sort of conveyance. If you have your own vehicle, it is great. Otherwise, you may also rent bicycles or autorickshaws for a day. Another option is going on a guided tour. It will make clear each site’s historical importance to you. Additionally, it will ensure that the majority of the topmost attractions in and around Hampi are covered.

Is it safe to visit Hampi at night?

Most historical monuments in Hampi close in the evening. Certain places among the ruins of Hampi are better avoided at the night. But there are things to do at the Virupaksha Temple and along the Tungabhadra River. Also, some homestays, guesthouses and cafes host cultural troupes in the evening. However, best to get advice from the hotel or homestay you are staying at to get inputs on specific places of Hampi.