Hampi Blog

Hampi is an ancient village located in the state of Karnataka. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the most prosperous and powerful empires in Indian history, which flourished from the 14th to the 16th century. The village is renowned for its rich history, stunning ruins, and UNESCO World Heritage status. Here are some popular sights we visited in Hampi:  

• Gejalla Mantapa – A unique structure, it’s believed to be an area for royal ceremonies or gatherings.

• Pushkarni – A unique structure, it’s believed to be an area for royal ceremonies or gatherings.

• Vittal Temple – Famous for its stone chariot and magnificent architecture, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vittala, an incarnation of Vishnu.

• Stone Chariot – An iconic structure within the Vittal Temple complex, this is one of Hampi’s most recognized landmarks.

• Tungabhadra River – The river that flows through Hampi, offering beautiful views and a serene atmosphere, perfect for a boat ride or a peaceful walk.

• Hampi Archaeological Museum – A museum that showcases Hampi’s fascinating history and the artifacts from the Vijayanagara Empire.

• Shri Malyavanta Raghunatha Temple – A temple dedicated to Lord Rama, located on a hill offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

• Laxmi Temple – A temple with historical significance, connected to the legend of Shabari from the Ramayana.

• Pampa Sarovar – A sacred lake surrounded by temples, named after the mythological figure Pampa.

• Hanuman Mandir at Anjanadri Hill – The birthplace of Lord Hanuman, with a temple perched on top of the hill, providing breathtaking views of Hampi.

• Lotus Mahal – A beautiful palace with lotus-shaped architectural elements, symbolizing the fusion of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

• Zenana Closure – A palace complex with beautifully designed structures, thought to be the queen's quarters in the Vijayanagara Empire.

• Watch Towers – Tall structures built to keep a lookout for enemies, offering panoramic views of the surroundings.

• Elephant Stable – A well-preserved structure used to house royal elephants, showcasing a unique blend of Indo-Islamic architecture.

• Laxmi Narasimha Temple – A colossal statue of Lord Narasimha, half-man, half-lion, carved into the rock, located near the Hampi Bazaar.

• Virupaksha Temple – One of the oldest and most significant temples in Hampi, dedicated to Lord Shiva, with a magnificent tower.

• Hazararama Temple – Famous for its intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana, this temple was once used by royal families for religious rituals.

• King's Balance – A large structure used for royal ceremonies, where the king was weighed against gold and other precious items, which were then distributed to the people.

ABOUT CORACLE RIDE

The Coracle Ride on the Tungabhadra River is a must-do activity for visitors to Hampi. Coracles are small, round boats traditionally used by locals for fishing. Taking a ride on one provides a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape, with views of the rocky hills, temples, and lush greenery. The ride is both peaceful and scenic, offering a refreshing experience amidst the historic ruins.