Beautiful medieval stone architecture with intricate carvings inside Vijaya Vittala temple at Hampi, Karnataka, India

A time machine called Hampi

4 days | Hampi

Beautiful medieval stone architecture with intricate carvings inside Vijaya Vittala temple at Hampi, Karnataka, India
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Route distance :

117.1 km

Route distance :

117.1 km

Open a window into the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire

The ancient ruins and the charming landscape of Hampi beckon you to discover its rich heritage. Being the erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, this city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts astonishing architectural and sculptural remnants amidst a vast expanse of undulating terrain, giant boulders, and palm groves. Hampi is not just a marvel, it is an emotion, that needs to be experienced.

Spirituality in the city of ruins

Day 1
Ancient architecture at the Vijaya Vittala temple built in the 15th century AD at sunrise at Hampi Karnataka, India
  • Relishing Hampi’s spiritual front

  • Highlights

    Vitthala temple, Badavilinga Temple

Your day is going to be full of adventure so begin your day with a hearty breakfast. Enjoy Hampi’s rice and lentil-based delicacies at the local restaurants near your lodgings then start your exploration. Begin by making your way to the magnificent Virupaksha Temple, one of the most important temples of India, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple serves as a living narrative of the architectural might of the Vijayanagara Empire. There are many marvellous details and wonders that await you inside. After your visit, stroll down to Hampi Bazaar. This once-vibrant marketplace unfolds as a dynamic tableau of culture, echoing the bustle of a busy market that once thrived within these ancient walls. Adjacent to the Hampi Bazaar looms the iconic Monolithic Bull, an impressive sculpture of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s mount, hewn from a single stone. Next, you can proceed to the Achyutaraya Temple, a quintessential representation of Vijayanagara-style temple architecture dedicated to Lord Tiruvengalanatha, an incarnation of Vishnu. The timeless beauty of this ancient marvel never fails to charm any traveler. Following this, make your way to the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, located just a short distance away. With its majestic entrance embellished by two massive pillars and a sheltered colonnade, this sacred temple provides a captivating view of the serene river and the grand city of Hampi.

All this exploration is bound to leave you with an appetite, so head over to any of the nearby eateries. Aside from the wide range of mouth-watering meals, you can also try Vada, a fried delicacy that enjoys popularity among both locals and visitors alike. 

After lunch, your next stop should be the Badavilinga Temple, a holy abode for worshippers of Lord Shiva. Inside, you will be able to view the monolithic granite Shiva lingam, hewn from a single stone. This Linga stands at an imposing 3-metre height and is the largest in Hampi. Next, embark on a journey to the Zenana Enclosure, where a collection of captivating attractions awaits. Start with Queen's Bath, an exceptional architectural marvel that was once the venue for royal swimming sessions. Proceed to the Elephant Stables, where the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire were once stabled, and finally, to the enchanting Lotus Temple. Admire its majestic architecture, fashioned in the likeness of an elaborate lotus structure, and experience a sense of mystique as you step inside.

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Into the divine embrace of Hampi’s temples

Day 2
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  • Hampi’s grandiose architectural marvels

  • Highlights

    Kaladham Museum, Granaries

On your second day, commence your exploration with a journey to Hemakuta Hill. Explore the Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex, where a collection of Hindu temples, shrines, and monuments await your presence. Adorned with elaborate carvings and breathtaking sculptures, these structures will leave you awed by their spiritual grandeur and artistic brilliance.

After this, proceed to the Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple, home to a towering statue of Lord Ganesha. This remarkable creation is carved from a single boulder, attracting millions of devotees to the temple every year. Continue your journey, towards the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple, where the intricately carved monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha stands as a testament to the skill and artistry of ancient artisans.

Take a lunch break now sampling local favourites like dosas, and idlis with delicious hot sambar and coconut chutney. Walk off all the great food you have eaten by heading to the legendary Vitthala Temple Complex, regarded as one of the most splendid temples in Hampi. Right from the magnificent stone chariot that features on the 50-rupee currency note, to the enchanting melodies emanating from the musical pillars, your senses will be captivated by this amazing structure. Now, it’s time to enter the realm of artistic mastery as you marvel at the breathtaking carvings on display at the Krishna Temple. Witness the youthful antics of a young Lord Krishna come alive as you venture into the heart of the temple where the main idol of Balakrishna lies.

The Hazara Rama Temple, translating to the Temple of the Thousand Ramas, is next. Devoted to Lord Rama, it stands as a living testament to the glory of the Vijayanagara Empire, dating back to the late 14th century in Hampi. As the day draws to a close, make your way to Coracle Crossings for a unique ride. Get into the enchanting coracles, quaint basket-shaped, bamboo boats, that take you across the Tungabhadra river, giving you unforgettable glimpses of the ancient city bathed in the golden hues of the sunset.

Answering the regal beckoning of Hampi

Day 3
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  • Capturing Hampi’s photogenic essence

  • Highlights

    Queen’s bath, Zenana enclosure

On your third day, take a journey to the historic village of Anegundi, which is older than even Hampi and was the first capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. Enjoy the natural splendour, encompassing valleys, rivers, rocks, and forests, which serves as evidence of the captivating charm inherent in this semi-rural area. Afterwards, visit the regal Gagan Mahal that once served as the abode of kings and queens, but now serves as the local administration's building, retaining its old-world charm.

After a lunch break, venture to the Nava Brindavana which houses the nine tombs of the nine revered Hindu Madhva saints. Hampi is not just about enchanting, legendary ruins though. Head over to the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Asia’s first Sloth Bear sanctuary. The most prominent among the attractions in this sanctuary is the ‘sweet lick’ area, where bears are enticed using honey-coated rocks. As the evening approaches, head towards Anjanadri Hill, home to the Monkey Temple. This location boasts numerous shrines devoted to Lord Hanuman, including one commemorating his infancy. Be prepared for unexpected encounters with some playful residents—the mischievous monkeys!

Uncovering Hampi’s archaeological treasures

Day 4
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  • Exploring the natural wonders of Hampi

  • Highlights

    Kadalekalu Ganesha, Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary

Begin your fourth and last day by making a trip to the Kaladham Museum. This place is an outstanding tribute to the Vijayanagara Empire and promises an engaging journey, employing cutting-edge technology, interactive imagery, and audio/visual aids to take you back in time to its golden period. Next, be prepared to unravel the historic grandeur of Hampi’s culture and heritage with a visit to the Archaeological Museum at Kamalapura. With an array of sculptures recovered from the Hampi ruins, this place makes a humble effort to display the rich past of the city. Don't miss out on the museum's standout feature - a scaled model of Hampi's topography, presented in not just one, but two forms!

Stop over at the Mango Tree Restaurant along the way! Indulge in scrumptious snacks like Vada, Holige, and many more! Now you can head to Ranganatha Temple and pay your tributes to the idol of Lord Vishnu reclining upon his fierce serpent Ananta, exuding strength as well as serenity. Next, discover the splendour of Ganagitti Jain Temple with its awe-inspiring sculptures of gods, goddesses, and Tirthankaras, narrating timeless tales from the Jain faith. Finally, visit the ancient Granaries that were once a storage facility for the Vijayanagara Empire, but now stand as a symbol of Hampi’s wealthy past. Afterward, you can head over to the city’s bustling marketplaces and discover hidden gems like Ukish - the local handicraft store. Here, you will find traditional Indian handicrafts, offering unique and distinct pieces such as pottery, woodcarvings, and textiles that are perfect for souvenirs and gifts. End your day with the mouthwatering Jolada Rotti and Bisi Bele Bath, making it the perfect finale to your 4-day trip in Hampi.