The city of Vijayanagar is such that the pupil of the eye has never seen a place like it, and the ear of intelligence has never been informed that there existed anything to equal it in the world.
- Abdur Razzaq, Persian Traveler in Vijayanagar
What is Hampi Bazaar?
The Hampi Bazaar, a couple hundred meters from the Virupaksha Temple, is a local market.
You will find crafts, souvenirs to purchase to carry back as memories of your trip to Hampi!
What to purchase at Hampi Bazaar?
What was the original Hampi Bazaar?
Back in 14th, 15th centuries, this was where merchants across the world came to trade precious stones!
Columns of 1 & 2 storied structures remain on both sides of 1 km stretch where shops once functioned
It is located just outside the legendary Virupaksha Temple, the heart of Hampi.
There's no definitive record of who specifically built the Hampi Bazaar but the architectural style aligns with other structures built during the reign of Vijayanagara Empire.
The Hampi Bazaar's origins trace back to the founding of Vijayanagara, around the mid-14th century.
When was the Hampi Bazaar built?
One end of Hampi Bazaar ends at the Virupaksha Templea and the other ends at the statue of magnificent Yeduru Basavanna.
Aerial View of the Hampi Bazaar
1. Hidden Treasures and ArtefactsThere are numerous legends about hidden treasures and undiscovered artefacts within the ruins of Hampi Bazaar.
Mysteries around the Hampi Bazaar
2. Destruction and AbandonmentThe sudden decline and eventual abandonment of Hampi Bazaar following the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1565 AD, after the Battle of Talikota, adds a layer of mystery.
3. Architectural EnigmaThe Hampi Bazaar's stone-pillared pavilions' purpose is debated; beyond commerce, they might have served as temporary lodging for travelers and pilgrims.
4. Economic SignificanceMerchants from the world over traded precious stones in this market!
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Story of Founding of the Vijayanagar Empire
This is the story of the two brothers and their Guru, their lives and the founding of one of India's greatest Empires that protected Southern India from invasions for the next 250 years!
In 1565, the Deccan sultanates inflicted a crushing defeat on Vijayanagara at the Battle of Talikota. The city of Hampi was sacked and plundered.
1. Architectural remnantsAlthough worn by time, you can still see the outlines of shops, stalls, and other structures that formed the bazaar.
What to see at the Hampi Bazaar
2. Virupaksha Bazaar StreetThis is the main street of the bazaar, leading from the Virupaksha Temple towards the Royal Centre.
3. Underground chambersSome parts of the bazaar have exposed underground chambers. These were likely used for storage or as workshops for artisans.
4. Religious ShrinesDotted amongst the ruins are small shrines dedicated to various deities. These were likely frequented by the merchants and residents of the bazaar.
Light and Sound Show at Hampi Bazaar
Light and Sound Show:Every evening at 6 PM there is a spectacular Light and Sound show at the Hampi Bazaar Street that you should plan to visit.
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