Hampi is located in the state of Karnataka in India and can be described as a wholly enchanting location that is on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. This is one of the most attractive historical places, today known as the world heritage site which belongs to the bygone era of Vijaianagara empire. The bravery of Hampi when it came to history, art and architecture can be easily felt when in the region.
Desolate buildings, majestic temples, and scenes that seem out of a movie set, all these features make Hampi a place worth visiting for history lovers, fans of ancient architecture or even for anyone who will hear about this destination. In this guide, we will covering the places of spiritual importance of Hampi from temples to the beautiful landscapes of the place to give you the best Hampi places to visit. No matter if you wish to take a weekend break or if you decide to go on discovering these places, you will be enthralled by the Hampi tourist places.
Places To Visit In Hampi: A Preview Of What Is Yet To Come?
I have formulated my travelog in the format of a map for a reason: Hampi is a bewilderingly large place and every place I am describing is fascinating in its own right. In this guide, the attention will be paid to the top 10 Hampi places to visit and the overview of their history, architecture, and importance. Starting from the biggest temple of Hampi called Virupaksha Temple to one of the most peaceful spots of Hampi, which is known as Hemakuta Hill you will discover the most interesting places in the South-Indian region. This is the right time to start and let me show you the beauty that makes Hampi an evergreen tourist destination.
These Are The Top 10 Places That A Traveler Must See In Hampi:
1. Virupaksha Temple
The Temple of Virupaksha which is devoted to Lord Shiva is one of the greatest Hampi places to visit. It is an early monument of Dravidian architecture boasting of an exquisite tower and the inner sanctum, adorned with archaic friezes. Tourists are in a position to see the various activities performed in the temples and feel the spiritual energy of the temple that existed for several years.
2. Vijaya Vittala Temple
The architectural marvel is prominent for its diva’ pallaki or the stone chariot and the musical pillars. This temple is one among the best Hampi places to visit which exhibits the architectural prowess of the Vijayanagara Empire. This is a big temple with very beautiful carving and has so much history which dates back to 1400 A. D.
3. Hemakuta Hill
According to one source, if one wants to enjoy the beautiful landscape of Hampi, he or she should visit Hemakuta Hill. It is an ideal destination for tourists who seek solace, peace and tranquility since it contains many temples of great antiquity. The hill is also one of the best Hampi places to visit that tourists and visitors should visit to catch the beautiful sunrise and sunset over the various places.
4. Matanga Hill
There are some other peaks to watch sunrise and sunset, Matanga Hill is one of them where the entire Hampi places to visit seen at a glance. It is a Mythological site, that the great sage Matanga had his abode there and did his Tapasya. It is an easy steep which further helps in getting a close view of all the Hampi sightseeing places.
5. Hampi Bazaar
The Hampi Bazaar is an ancient shopping area located at the front of Virupaksha Temple and patrons are always present within this area. This was originally a trade and commerce place and today the shops that adorn this bazaar are trinkets shops, souvenir shops, handicraft shops, and other shops with different local artifacts. Visiting the bazaar the tourists get a feel of the commercial side of the ancient city of Hampi.
6. Queen's Bath
The Queen’s Bath is an architectural marvel in Indo-Islamic architectural style in Hampi. This royal bath is a structural beauty with balconies, arched galleries and a sunken bath, which the queens of Vijayanagara dynasty once used. They are one among the wonderful Hampi places to visit.
7. Lotus Mahal
The Lotus Mahal situated in the Zenana Enclosure is an utterly beautiful structure having lotus shaped arches on the roof and the whole building is symmetrical. It was constructed as a rest house of the royal women and it is one of the most important archaeological Hampi places to visit, distinguished by its attractive architecture.
8. Elephant Stables
The Elephant Stables are a group of rich chambers which were used to be the Elephant Chambers for housing the Royal Elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. It exhibits Hindu and Islamic architecture together, this makes it among the Hampi places to visit that reflect the hybrid culture.
9. Riverside Ruins
The river side of Tungabhadra at Hampi has many ruins such as shrines and carved stones as well as pillars. This is very calm and best suitable for a stroll while taking time to appreciate the remains of the ancient city. It is calm and one amongst the Hampi places to visit.
10. Hazara Rama Temple
The most well-known temple, The Hazara Rama Temple has elaborate base reliefs showing scenes based on the Ramayana. This temple was the royal temple of the Vijayanagara kings and is one of the best examples of art and history in Hampi places to visit among the tourists.
Conclusion
It is worth conceding that Hampi is not just a location but it is more of an experience which is a journey through the time zone. As illustrated in the list of Hampi places to visit below, the sites discussed take the tourists to the historical and cultural roots of this ancient city. Every single location no matter if it is a royal temple or a calm hill station increases the beauty of Hampi in a unique manner that ensures that Hampi stays in your memory for a long time. Be it the detailed Archeological carving of Virupaksha temple or the beautiful view of the sunset from atop Matanga Hill, Hampi is an experience in its own.
If you are having such a plan of visiting this wonder of history then let me recommend you Capture a Trip which is a travel company that makes the trip planning better and specific to your needs. That’s why with Capture a Trip, your journey through the places to visit in Hampi will be quite smooth and full of impressions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the best time to visit Hampi?
There is only one good season to visit Hampi and that is from October to March it is very much suitable for traveling.
2. How many days are enough to have a proper look at the town?
About 2 to 3 days are recommended for visiting in Hampi since it is a concentrated area with numerous sites to visit.
3. Is Hampi good for solo travelers?
Well, of course Hampi is considered a very safe place and which is perfect for the solo travelers seeking for the rich historical and cultural experience as well as for developing their adventurous spirit.
4. Are there any charges from the entrance of the tourist places in Hampi?
For example, the entrance to the Virupaksha Temple and Vijaya Vittala Temple cost money to be allowed in while there are many places that you can visit for free.
5. What should I carry while going for Hampi?
A small quantity of clothes of comfortable types, suitable shoes for walking, sun lotion and hat to avoidOPY suffering from the sun.