Hampi, one of the ancient village of Karnataka is located on the bank of river Tungabhadra. It was served as the capital city of Vijayanagar Empire in ancient times. This place is certified as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Hampi is an amazing destination for travelling and here lots of beautiful destinations are available to explore. Hampi is beautiful even in its ruined state. It is worth to spend a few days wandering around and discovering the rich, vibrant history of the city Hampi, it is known as the largest open monument city of Asia.
Did you know the real pleasure in exploring Hampi is by walking around? Yes myth tells before the fall of Vijayanagar, diamonds and other precious stones were sold on the streets of Hampi. But the main interesting thing is that the street selling diamonds and other precious stones was surprisingly called Pan Supaari Street in English, it means betel-leaf betel-nut Street. Visitors can still see the exact Pan Supaari Street in Hampi. This place is specifically marked by the Archaeological Survey of India.
Every year in the month of November Hampi Festival is held for 3 days. This is one of the most important festival celebrated here. Govt. of Karnataka organizes this festival. This festival is celebrated with dance, music, drama and processions. According to Hindu epics, Hampi is the place where Rama and Lakshman met Hanuman, Sugriva and the monkey army in search of kidnapped Sita.
It is delight to discover the ruins. Archaeological Museum, Monkey Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Virupaksha temple, Royal Enclosure, Hampi Bazar, Underground Temple, Matanga Hill are some of the amazing place to explore in Hampi. If you are crazy about sun rise and sun set then Matanga Hill is the best destination. The underground temple was built several meters down below the ground. According to myth there is some reason behind this.The weather of Hampi is pleasant to walk around. So, visit Hampi and enjoy your trip.
The best time to visit Hampi is from October to March.
By Air: The nearest airport is at Bellary, about 60 km from Hampi. The nearest international airport is at Bengaluru, about 350 km away.
By Train: The nearest railway station is at Hospet; located around 13 km from Hampi.
By Road: There are regular buses from other major cities of the country to Hampi.
Lotus Palace
Vithala Temple
Zenana Enclosure
Hippie Island