All you history buffs out there, Hampi is just the place for you! Short in time? We’ll tell you top 10 must see places in Hampi to visit! The greatest part of visiting Hampi is that you don’t have to go looking for things. Everything about Hampi is magical – from the monuments to the rustic roads to the green fields – Hampi is the perfect destination for explorers as well as people who admire art and architecture. We recommend you to visit during October to February to avoid the harsh Hampi weather. Avail great discounts on Hampi Hotels here!
Hampi, also known as Group of monuments at Hampi, is a UNESCO world heritage site and was the center of the Vijayanagara Empire at the 14th century. Hampi has remained in ruins since 1556 after being attacked and defeated by the Muslim Sultanates, yet, it exudes the historical richness to this day.
Be prepared to be transported to the time of kings and elaborate palaces the minute you put you feet on the copper soils of Hampi!
Top 10 must see places in Hampi in 2019
1. The Virupaksha Temple
One of the most iconic sites in Hampi, the Virupaksha Temple should be a must visit on your list. Dedicated to Lord Shiva known as Virupaksha, it is the main center of pilgrimage at Hampi. The temple celebrates it’s Annual Chariot Festival on February. Lakshmi, the temple elephant is a star among the worshipers and tourists!
2. The Vijaya Vittala Temple
The Vittala Temple housing the famous Stone Chariot and the musical pillars is the second on our list. It is dedicated to Lord Vittala, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The Vittala Temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and is one of the grandest temples in Hampi. The Ranga mandala consisting of the 56 musical pillars is one of the main attractions.
3. The Zanana enclosure
The Zanana enclosure is famous for the Queen’s palace, Lotus Mahal and the Elephant Stable. This makes it another must visit site in Hampi. The Indo-Islamic style of architecture is mesmerizing, and has us think about how beautiful it must have been once upon a time.
4. The Hemakuta Hills
Another thing to put on your to-do list while at Hampi is to witness the beautiful Hampi Sunset. Where better to do it than at the Hemakuta Hills, overlooking lush green fields?! Another great view from the hill is that of the Virupaksha Temple. Experience the best of Hampi weather in the evening on these hills!
5. The step tank
These beautiful structures were often associated with Temples and it’s rituals. Some are also seen in the royal enclosures, built for the royal Vijayanagara families.
6. The Hazara rama temple
So called for the numerous depictions of Lord Ram, and the the story of Ramayana across the walls of the temple. The Hazara rama temple is an architectural marvel. It houses some of the most beautiful carvings. Another spectacular set of cravings depict the celebration of the Dussehra festival at that time.
7. The Malyavantha Raghunatha Temple
The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, and functions 24 hours a day. It is closely associated with the epic Ramayana. It is said that Rama and Lakshmana along with Hanuman’s army rested at this spot on their march to Lanka to rescue Sita. Make sure to catch the beautiful view at the back of the temple!
8. The Durga temple and Snake temple
The Durga temple is one of the most colourful temples in Hampi, even though it’s not as big as the other structures of Hampi. The path that leads up to the mountains will take you to the Snake temple. The view of the Pampa Sarovar from the mountains is one to die for!
9. The Lakshmi Narasimha statue
One of the tallest structures in Hampi, the Lakshmi Narasimha statue stands at a height of 6.7 m! The Narasimha is portrayed to be sitting on the seven headed snake, Adishesha. This great structure was built in the year 1528 and was vandalized at 1565 during the Mughal invasion.
10. Hippie Island
The party hub of Hampi, the Hippie island is nothing like the conservative Hampi on the other side of the beautiful Tungabhadra River. Do remember to take a coracle ride or the water taxi to cross the river!
Make the most of the magical experience by not missing any of these top 10 must see places in Hampi in 2019! A special mention to The Underground Siva Temple and the Sugriva Caves – they are amazing!
