A heritage site grabs our attention immediately. It makes us visualise the world that is long lost – what significance the site would have had, what it looked like in the ancient era; one glimpse of the place and a myriad of questions cross our minds.
If you have an eye for architectural wonders, Hampi is the place for you. Located 343 kilometres away from Bangalore, in Bellary district, the ruins of Hampi dot an earthly landscape that has captivated travellers for centuries. If you take a fleeting look at the place, you would see just remnants, beautiful pillars and temple relics; if you understand literary historical significance, you will discover stories that every rock, every pillar narrates, at this World Heritage Site, which was once the capital of the Vijaynagar Empire.
Know the places in Hampi that are a must-visit:
Vittala Temple: This 16th-century temple, standing amid Hampi Bazaar, is definitely the highlight of Hampi. The incredible art gives a glimpse of the grandeur of the Vijayanagar Empire. The musical pillars and the ornate stone chariot that stands in the courtyard remains the pinnacle of Vijaynagar Art. Once you visit this place, you wouldn’t stop admiring the unmatched craftsmanship and the wonderful architecture, here.
Sule Bazaar – Halfway along the path from Hampi Bazaar to Vittala Temple, is Sule Bazaar. The principal centre of trade and commerce in the ancient Hampi, Sule Bazaar, is the most popular attraction of Hampi even today. There are a number of finely carved pillars all around the street, that is fascinating to look at. At the time of the empire, the market was well known for gems, pearls and ivory.
Nandi Statue – Nandi Statue is the main location for the Hampi Arts Festival that draws tourists from across the world. Located at the east end of Hampi Bazaar, is this grand statue, around which stand some of the colonnaded blocks of the ancient marketplace. The statue is admired for its huge size and beautiful craving.
Elephant Stables – A grand building with 11 domed chambers where the state elephants once resided – each chamber has a small opening where mahouts once entered. Don’t miss the sound-and-light show held here at 7 pm. An interesting stop-off along the road is the 6.7m monolithic statue of the bulging-eyed Lakshimi Narasmiha in a cross-legged lotus position and topped by a hood of seven snakes.
Virupaksha Temples – The most prominent building in Hampi and the focal point of Hampi Bazaar, is the Virupaksha Temple. This city’s oldest structures is the only remaining working temple right now. It is believed that Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati in this temple. You can spot the main gopuram – almost 50 m high, from a distance. It was built in 1442, with a smaller one added in 1510. The main shrine is dedicated to Virupaksha, an incarnation of Shiva. Visit the Temple during sunrise and go for a morning bath down by the river ghats.
Best time to Visit: September to March. Go for Hampi Festival, held here for 3 days in November. It is the most important festival celebrated here, organized by the Government of Karnataka with dance, music, drama and processions.
How to get there: The nearest international airport to Hampi is Kempegowda Internation Airport, Bengaluru, and the nearest domestic airport is at Hubli, about 143 kilometres away. There are regular buses and trains from all major cities to Hampi. Book your flight tickets to Hubli on Paytm.
