Explore anegundi: ancient wonders in hampi

Beautiful view of Anegundi Fort in Hampi, Karnataka, India

January

18 - 31 °C

February

17 - 34 °C

March

22 - 36 °C

April

24 - 39 °C

May

24 - 39 °C

June

23 - 36 °C

July

21 - 30 °C

August

24 - 33 °C

September

23 - 34 °C

October

22 - 34 °C

November

19 - 30 °C

December

17 - 28 °C

Major Airports :

Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru

Jindal Vijayanagar Airport (VDY), Vidyanagar

Hubballi Airport (HBX), Hubballi

Nearest Railway Station :

Hospet Junction Railway Station (HPT)

Legends by the riverbank

Located on the banks of the meandering Tungabhadra River, Anegundi emerges from the shadows of history as an ancient village that predates even the famous city of Hampi. As you venture into its rustic charms, you will step into a realm where time seems to stand still. Anegundi means ‘elephant pit’ in Kannada and according to local lore, this was the sanctuary for the mighty elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire's army. Here, the riverbanks echo with the footsteps of these majestic creatures, immortalised in the very name of Anegundi.

If you find mythology fascinating, Anegundi will be a delight for you as it is draped in the mythological embrace of the Ramayana. It is believed to be a part of Kishkindha, the kingdom of monkey kings Bali and Sugriva. As a settlement that is over 3,000 years old, Anegundi weaves together history and myth, with relics like Maurya Mane and Onake Kindi that bear witness to the place’s ancient origins.

Revealing a fortified legacy

Anegundi was founded in the 10th century and served as the mother city of the medieval Hindu capital of Vijayanagara. It was an important administrative centre, with its roots entwined with the ancient cities of the Karnataka region mentioned in the Ramayana. Today, it stands as a testament to heritage preservation and sustainable rural tourism. Though often overshadowed by Hampi, Anegundi has its unique charm which you will find fascinating. Its natural beauty, featuring valleys, rivers, rocks, and forests, is a testament to the enchanting allure of this place. If you seek a retreat into the past, Anegundi is like a living legacy where agrarian crafts, culture, and illustrious history converge.

With a history dating back to the 3rd century B.C. under the Ashokan Empire, Anegundi has witnessed the rise and fall of empires—the Satavahanas, Kadambas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, and more. The echoes of the Vijayanagara Empire resonate through time, with Anegundi holding the mantle of the dynasty's first capital.

Where the royals took refuge

Anegundi played a significant role in the history of Vijayanagara, as it was the refuge for the royal family during tumultuous times. Venture to the heart of Anegundi and you will find the majestic Gagan Mahal, once the residence of Vijayanagara Empire rulers and now known as the Old Palace. Dating back to the 16th century, this charming building boasts of an enchanting blend of Indo-Islamic architecture, painted in a captivating yellow-ochre hue. Adorned with four towers, ornate balconies, and distinctive arched windows, you can hear tales of its purpose as a royal abode for queens and other esteemed family members. The palace's thoughtful design, featuring a pool and an ingenious water drainage system, once kept it cool during the summer months, making it a fascinating historical gem for visitors to explore.

The transition from Hampi to Anegundi marked a new era where Krishnadevaraya's descendants found a haven. Today, the 19th generation of the royal family still resides in this historical enclave, serving as a living connection to a bygone era. It's worth noting that Anegundi's Chief Minister, Deva Raya, became the first ruler of Anegundi in the year 1334.

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Timings

Opening time - 08:00 AM

Closing time - 03:00 PM

The vernacular charm of an ancient plateau

Anegundi is a geological marvel, considered as one of the oldest plateaus on Earth with a rock-strewn landscape that has been shaped over four billion years, giving it an air of antiquity. The presence of prehistoric settlements at Maurya Mane and rock paintings at Onake Kindi add to the geological narrative of the place. You can even witness unique vernacular architecture while wandering through Anegundi. The streets are lined with single-storeyed structures that have two-foot-wide stone walls and intricately carved wooden doors. The skylights, terraces, and pillared verandahs reflect a rich heritage that still breathes life into Anegundi's landscape.

The Anegundi Fort is an example of ancient design methodologies. The Durga Temple and Ganesha Cave Temple within its walls are said to echo with whispers of a bygone era. It is believed that before embarking on wars, the monarchs of Vijayanagara sought the blessings of deities within the fort.

A place of spiritual significance

One of Anegundi’s most noteworthy landmarks is the Pampa Sarovara. According to Hindu mythology, it is one of the five sacred lakes (sarovars) and is believed to be the site where Shabari met Lord Rama, who was searching for his wife Sita. The landscape of Anegundi is steeped in mythology, and every shrine dedicated to Bali, Sugriva, Hanuman, or Parvati as Pampa Devi becomes a pilgrimage into the heart of Anegundi.

Situated in the Koppal district, adjacent to Anegundi and across the Tungabhadra River from Hampi, Anjanadri Hills is believed to be the birthplace of the Hindu deity Lord Hanuman. Born to Anjana, Lord Hanuman was also known as Anjaneya, giving rise to the name Anjanadri Hills, associated with his birth. Climbing 570 steps up the hill gives you amazing views of fields, coconut trees, mountains, and the Tungabhadra River. It's an extra treat along with visiting the temple's main part, where the deity was born.

The revival of Anegundi

Anegundi is a village that has managed to preserve its heritage while embracing modernity. The village has taken initiatives to promote organic farming, performing arts education, and adventure sports, which has brought new life to the village. The Kishkinda Trust, the implementing agency of endogenous tourism in Anegundi, has played a crucial role in preserving the historical charm of Anegundi and setting an example for sustainable development.

As the sun sets over the ancient landscape of Anegundi, it creates a beautiful golden glow on the remnants of imperial structures and rural architecture. Anegundi is a living chronicle that blends the whispers of the past seamlessly with the rhythm of modernity.