Hampi Attractions : Virupaksha Temple, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Hazara Ram Temple, Museum, Matanga Hills,Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex
Hampi is a small town in Karnataka. Other name of this town is Pampa. This name is derived from the river Pampa who is the daughter of Lord Brahma. Earlier it was the capital of Vijayanagar Empire. Several dynasties ruled this town. Main dynasties are Aravidu, Tuluva, Saluva and Sangama. During the Vijayanagar kingdom diamonds were sold on the streets. Name of that street is Pan Supari Street. Silver and Gold used as currencies. Most famous festival celebrates in Hampi is Hampi Utsav or Vijaya Utsav.
What to see in Hampi:
Virupaksha Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu Mythology, Lord Shiva and Pampa got married here. Gopuram of this temple is 50 meters high. It is located on the banks of river Tungabhadra. This temple was built in 7th century. This is the major attraction of Hampi.
Lakshmi Narasimha Temple: There is no idol inside the temple. Based on the architecture it is considered that this temple belongs to Jains. However Carvings of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Vishnu and Hanuman can be seen on the walls of the temple.
Hazara Ram Temple: On the walls of this temple episodes of Ramayana can be seen. This is one of the small and cute temples in Hampi.
Museum: It is one of the attractions of Hampi. It was divided into 4 parts. They are Hampi’s Ancient culture, Royal remains, daily used things of ancient Hampi People and Models.
Vijaya Vittala Temple: This temple is famous for rich architectural style. It was built in 15th century.
Matanga Hills: On this hill several temple are located. For the trekking lovers this is the best place in Hampi.
Monkey temple: It is located on Anjanadri Hills. This is a small concrete structure. It is believed that it was the birth place of Sri Hanuman.
Other attractions in Hampi: Other attractions in Hampi are Queen’s Bath, Vithala Temple Complex, Hampi Bazar, Balakrishna Temple, and Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex.
What to see around Hampi:
Lotus Temple / Lotus Palace: It is located 3kms away from Hampi. It is two stored building used by Royal ladies. Lotus Bud is carved on its dome so it is named as Lotus temple. This was built in Indo Islamic architectural style.
Mahanavami Dibba: This is the tallest structure. Two stair cases have to climb to the top of this structure. Beautiful Carvings of Horses, Elephants and other carvings can be seen.
Zenance Enclosure: There are 4 structures inside the enclosure. Queen’s Palace is the largest enclosure of all the 4 enclosure. This is specially meant for Royal Women. It is located 3kms away from Hampi.
Elephant Stables: It is located 3kms away from Hampi. There are 11 domed tall chambers. This is specially meant for Royal Elephants.
Other places to visit around Hampi: Other places to visit the places around Hampi are Daroji Bear Sanctuary, Badami Fort, and Badami Cave Temples.
Getting to Hampi: Only way to reach this place is Roadways. From Gokarna, Bangalore buses are available to reach Hampi. Nearest railway station is located at Hospet. Nearest airport is at Bellary.
Getting around Hampi: Best way to see all the places in Hampi is on foot. Autos and Taxis are available to visit the surrounding places of Hampi.
Best time to visit Hampi: Best time to visit this place is between October to December.
Where to stay in Hampi: Plenty of accommodation is available to stay. Budget and Midrange accommodations are available. Cottages with all the modern amenities are also available.
Where to eat in Hampi: Plenty of restaurants are available to eat in Hampi but only vegetarian and local food is available. Famous snacks of this place are Sandwiches and Burgers.