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7 Must-See Places in Hampi: Your Ultimate Travel Itinerary

Author: sid
Date: 10 Mar 2024
virupaksha_temple_in_hampi

Over the last few days, we have added a bunch of blogs elaborating on the important tourist attractions in Hampi. Our idea was to give you reasonably detailed background of Hampi and such places before you actually visited. It is naturally much more enjoyable, when someone walk you through the history and significance of where you are visiting.

What is there to see in Hampi?

They say you will not be able to cover the entirety of Hampi even in a weeks time. Roughly, there are two areas that you should look to cover. The north and south of the Tungabhadra river. The northern part is the Kishkindha kingdom referred to in Ramayana and the southern part is the medieval city of Hampi.

Both these areas have more than enough places to visit.

However, today we look at 7 must see places in Hampi and summarize them quickly below:

Virupaksha Temple

Photo by Divya Hungund on Pexels.com

Virupaksha Temple, intricately carved and the most active shrine in Hampi, stands tall amidst ruins. Dedicated to Lord Shiva (Virupaksha) and his consort Pampadevi (linked to the Tungabhadra River), it’s been a pilgrimage site for centuries. This architectural marvel, built by an official under the Vijayanagara Empire, reflects the grandeur of the era. It’s the heart of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-visit for history, architecture, and religious significance.

Viththala Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vitthala, an incarnation of Vishnu, it served as a place of worship during the Vijayanagara era. It renowned for its intricate carvings and unique structures like the iconic stone chariot, it’s a testament to the empire’s artistic excellence. While you are there, remember to look at the musical pillars too!

Hemakuta Hill

It has one of the oldest clusters of temples in Hampi, dating back to the 9th-14th centuries, both pre-Vijayanagara and Vijayanagara eras. The hill itself was once fortified with tall stone walls.

Legend says Lord Shiva meditated here and married Pampa, causing it to rain gold (“hema” in Sanskrit). There are many Shiva temples, a Ganesha temple, and Jain temples.

The hill offers beautiful, panoramic views of the tragic Hampi ruins. While here do remember to take pictures.

Hazara Rama Temple

Hampi, Hazararama Temple

The temple walls are like a giant stone comic strip depicting the entire Ramayana epic. You’ll see scenes of Rama’s life, from his birth to the battle with the demon King Ravana.

The temples exquisite carvings will make you marvel at the architectural prowess of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Matanga Hill

If you are at Hampi, you cannot miss to visit the Matanga Hill. The hill offers a moderate trek to the top. The views of the entire Hampi together with the Tungabhadra river is mesmerizing. Do not miss it when you are in Hampi.

Pattabhi Rama Temple

Pattabhi Rama Temple, Hampi

The Pattabhi Rama Temple is a magnificent Hindu temple complex located in Hampi, India. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the temple boasts intricate carvings and sculptures. The main gopuram, or tower, is a stunning example of Vijayanagara architecture. Unlike the more popular temples in Hampi, Pattabhi Rama Temple remains relatively lesser visited, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors to explore its historical significance.

Anjaneyadri Hill

The birth place of the legendary God Hanuman ji. Hanuman is the much loved monkey God in Hinduism. He is much loved for his kindness, courage, strength, selflessness and single minded devotion to Lord Ram.

The hill has about 550-600 steps to the top. The top is windy and has a temple dedicated to Lord Ram and Hanuman adjacent. There is a continuous chanting of the Ramayana epic for more than a decade. A whole bunch of monkeys await you at the top but, they are peaceful and quiet in the presence of their lord Hanuman.

Thankful to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Panorama_of_Hampi_from_Anjaneyadri_hill.jpg

The panoramic view from the top of the hill is exceptional. Something to remember for a lifetime.

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