hampi visit by car

One Day Hampi Sightseeing Trip by Cab

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and rich cultural heritage of Hampi – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will leave you spellbound. Join us on our One Day Hampi Sightseeing Tour by private car and let us take you on a journey through time. You’ll be transported back to the days of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire.…

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and rich cultural heritage of Hampi – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will leave you spellbound. Join us on our One Day Hampi Sightseeing Tour by private car and let us take you on a journey through time.

You’ll be transported back to the days of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire. Marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural wonders that have stood the test of time. Our expert driver-cum-guides will provide you with fascinating insights into the history and culture of this magnificent place.

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the beauty of Hampi. Book your Hampi Local Sightseeing Tour today!

Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, Hampi is a sprawling landscape of natural rock formations. The massive boulders and monuments are a treat for the eyes. Once a fortified city and the capital of the Vijaynagara Empire in the 14th century, it is now in ruins. It now houses remnants of its prosperous and glorious past in the form of temples, palaces, shrines, pillared halls, memorial structures, royal complexes, and sacred shrines.

Divided into two by the Tungabhadra River, Hampi offers an unmissable experience for every traveler. You can witness jaw-dropping vistas of sunrise and sunset over the ruins. Visit the several temples scattered all over. By hiring a tour guide you can learn about the ancient culture, history, and architecture of Hampi. You can trek, aimlessly roam around, relish a South Indian thali, and shop at the local bazaars.

On your one-day Hampi local sightseeing tour by private cab , you can spend plenty of time exploring the abandoned city of Hampi. You can take your children and parents with you on a spiritual tour and enjoy a refreshing break from the bustling city for a day.

• Book this Tour
• What to Expect
• Places to Visit

Terms & Conditions

Highlights of hampi sightseeing tour by cab.

• Full-day Hampi local sightseeing tour
• Duration: 8 to 10 hours
• Tour by Private Cab (not shared with others)
• Pickup & Drop: Hampi Hotel / Home
• Places Covered: Virupaksha Temple, Balakrishna Temple, Mahanavami Dibba, Hazara Rama Temple, Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stable, Vittala Complex, Stone Chariot, Musical Pillars, 100 Pillar Mandapam, and Vittala Temple.

Package Price for 1 Day Hampi Sightseeing by Cab

Amaze / Etios / Dzire

4 seater / sedan.

Maruti Ertiga

6 – 7 seater / suv.

Toyota Innova

Toyota Innova Crysta

Tempo/ Force Traveller

12 seater / lcv.

21 Seater / LCV

Price on request, book your 1 day hampi sightseeing tour package.

Following are the car rental companies that are organizing this private tour, select your preferred vendor from the list, check availability and book your tour!

Are you a Cab vendor? List your company on Oneday.travel

Good to know

What’s included.

• Pick and drop from Hotel / Home in Hampi
• Cab for Hampi sightseeing as per the above Itinerary
• Vehicle Parking Charges
• Toll-gate Charges if any
• Driver Allowance

What’s not included

• Entry Ticket Fee at tourist places in Hampi
• Breakfast, Lunch or any meal
• Lodging / Accommodation at Hampi
• Vehicle beyond the mentioned time duration
• Vehicle beyond the designated tour route

What to Expect on your Chikmagalur Sightseeing Trip

We will pick you up from your accommodation early in the morning so that you get the best views of Hampi. We will start the journey from the popular Virupaksha Temple and head to the Balakrishna Temple. You can also witness the Mahanavami Dibba and the ruins of Hazara Rama Temple. You can also explore the Lotus Mahal and Elephant Stable. 

Next, we will head to Vittala Complex where you can explore the complex, the Stone Chariot, Musical Pillar, and 100 Pillar Mandapam. We will wind up the trip with a visit to the Vittala Temple before dropping you off at your place of stay.

Itinerary of One Day Hampi Sightseeing Trip

Pickup from your Hotel in Hampi at 8:00 AM

Drop back at your Hotel in Hampi by 8:30 PM

PLEASE NOTE: Guests can visit all the tourism places near Hampi listed above or remove any of the places that they don’t want to visit. In order to include any other sightseeing place, guests can check with their cab provider while booking this Hampi city tour by private car.

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Places to visit in Hampi in one day by private car

Some of the best places to visit in Hampi in one day on your sightseeing tour include:

1. Virupaksha Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Virupaksha Temple is the oldest temple in Hampi and the oldest functioning temple in the country. It consists of a series of small temples, a community kitchen, a water tank, and a 750 m long ruined stone market. On this one day trip, you can marvel at the regularly repainted 160 feet high gopuram and several other monuments around the temple. 

The temple is believed to date back to the 7th century AD. It has 3 towers, out of which the main one on the east is an imposing structure built in the 15th century. The Eastern gopura is the main entrance. It has carvings of Hindu gods and goddesses on its floors. Its inverted shadow falls on one of the walls inside the temple. You will be amazed by the beauty of the stucco figures and paintings.

• Must See / Things to Do: Offer prayer to Lord Shiva at the country’s oldest temple. 
• Timings: Open on all days of the week from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Entry Fee: Free

2. Balakrishna Temple

Next on your one day Hampi sightseeing tour is Balakrishna Temple.  Also called the Krishna Temple, it is a 16th-century temple now in ruins. You can witness its elaborately carved stone pillars and towers, and a sacred water tank. 

The temple was built by Krishnadevaraya of the Vijaynagara Empire in the Panchayathana style. The main shrine is in the center which has a sanctum, maha mandapa, Ardha Mandapa, a pillared pavilion, a Devi shrine, and many sub-shrines.

Southeast of the main shrine is the temple kitchen. Yalis are carved on the pillars while figurines of the elephant riders embellish the entrances to the temple hall. The eastern main tower highlights the Vijaynagara architecture and epic stories carved on its walls.

• Must See / Things to Do: Marvel at the stunning architecture of the temple.
• Timings: Open on all days of the week from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

3. Mahanavami Dibba

Marvel at the splendor of Mahanavami Dibba, a breathtaking attraction on your Hampi local sightseeing tour by private car. The House of Victory, Mahanavami Dibba, or Dasara Dibba is an exquisite stone platform within the royal enclosure.

It is the tallest square structure in the area with three layers. The largest monument with a wooden mandapa on top was burnt down during Hampi’s destruction. The two lower levels are made of granite. 

Mahanavami Dibba was used as a stage to watch the army march past, the war games, and processions during the Mahanavami festival. It has two stairways to reach the top. While the top provides marvelous views of the surrounding areas, the lower one has ornate carvings of elephants, horses, soldiers, and processions.

• Must See / Things to Do: Enjoy the majestic views of the surroundings.
• Timings: Open on all days of the week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

4. Hazara Rama Temple

Inscriptions regard it as Ramachandra Temple. Hazara Rama Temple is a small yet dominant shrine in Hampi. The once ceremonial temple of the royal family was dedicated to Lord Rama. Constructed in the early 15th century, it is famous for the lovely relics and panels portraying the Ramayana story. 

The former simple structure had one sanctum, a pillared hall, and Ardha Mandapa. Later, an open porch and beautifully carved pillars were added. It is the only temple in Hampi to have carvings on the compound wall. The sprawling lawn on the northern side leads to Pan Supari Street further down.

• Must See / Things to Do: Witness the ruins of the ceremonial shrine of the royal family.

5. Lotus Mahal

Lotus Mahal is also called the Chitrangini Mahal. It is a significantly secular structure and historical landmark of Hampi. The 2-story building is finely plastered and has built-in Rubble masonry. Carvings of sea creatures and birds adorn the walls and the pillars. Lying within the Zenana enclosure its lotus-like structure is a treat for the eyes. 

The central dome appears like a lotus bud. The passages and the balcony resemble an open lotus bud. While the multi-layered roof depicts Indian architectural style, the curves of the palace indicate Islamic style. It was a segregated zone used by the royal women of the Vijayanagara dynasty.

Learn something new at Lotus Mahal, an educational tourist attraction on your one day Hampi local sightseeing trip.

• Must See / Things to Do: Spend time marveling at the beautiful royal enclosure dedicated to women.
• Timings: Open on all days of the week from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry Fee: INR 10 per person for Indians and INR 250 for foreigner

6. Elephant Stable

Constructed 600 years ago, it is an impressive structure providing shelter to the royal elephants of the Vijaynagara Empire. Gajashala lies to the east of the royal center. It features 11 square chambers, aligned north and south. There are arched openings and alternate flat and fluted domes. 

The central dome is the largest and the most decorated out of the 11 domes. You can reach the roof through the stairs in the middle of the stable. It was one of the few which suffered the least damage during Hampi destruction. You can spend 1 hour on this sightseeing tour exploring the amazing craftsmanship and Indo-Islamic architecture.

• Must See / Things to Do: Visit the royal elephant stable and be amazed by its beauty.
• Timings: Open on all days of the week from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM

7. Vittala Complex

Located northeast of the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Complex is situated near the Tungabhadra River. It is an artistically designed temple and market complex. One of the largest and most famous structures in Hampi, it entices tourists with its exceptional craftsmanship and wonderful architecture. It houses the Vittal Temple, dedicated to a form of Krishna called Vithoba. 

You can also witness the brilliantly sculpted moving Stone Chariot or Ratha standing in the temple premises along with the musical pillars. You can record videos and click photos of this astounding place on this sightseeing tour.

• Must See / Things to Do: Imagine life in the era gone by.
• Timings: Open on all days of the week from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fee: INR 30 per person

8. Stone Chariot

Situated on the grounds of the Vijaya Vittala Temple, it is a lavish carving of a divine Hindu vehicle. Devaraya II, one of the rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire, built it in the 15th century. Although it appears as a monolithic structure, it was made of massive granite blocks. 

It is an iconic shrine dedicated to Garuda, Lord Vishnu’s Vahana. It is also believed that the chariot’s wheels moved in the past. Renowned as the Jewel of Hampi, it is one of the three most popular stone chariots in India. Earlier the huge statue of Garuda was seated atop the chariot but now it is empty.

• Must See / Things to Do: Witness the magnificence of the stone sculpture.
• Timings: Open on all days of the week from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM

9. Musical Pillars

Get lost in the wonders of Musical Pillars, a captivating stop on a one day Hampi sightseeing by cab. The 56 Musical Pillars are also known as SaReGaMaPa Pillars. The main pillars have been designed as musical instruments. Each main pillar is covered by 7 minor pillars which create such musical sounds. When struck with a thumb they produce musical notes sounding like bells ringing. 

When they are also hit with sandalwood sticks, they produce rhythmic sounds. Housed in the large Ranga Mandapa in the Vittal Temple Complex, it is a pleasing site. The mysterious architecture is a source of pride for India. Geologists believe it is because of a large amount of silica and metallic ore present in the rocks.

• Must See / Things to Do: Listen to the sweet music and see the awe-inspiring architecture.

10. 100 Pillar Mandapam

It is a notable attraction inside the Vittal Temple complex. Around the Pradakshin path for walking around the sanctum, you will come across the 100-pillared Mandapam in the southwest direction. It was formerly used for ceremonial wedding functions by the royal family. 

You can notice the brilliant carvings on the pillars and the walls with human figurines. Sculpted friezes of horses, elephants, and swans are worth watching. The roof and vimana are completely in ruins. You can find pillared cloisters all around the enclosed wall.

• Must See / Things to Do: Explore the beautiful ruins.

11. Vittala Temple

The 3-km long Vijaya Vittala Temple is an architectural extravaganza and the last place to visit on your Hampi sightseeing trip. Constructed by the Vijayanagara kings during the early to mid-16th century, it is dedicated to Vittala, a form of Sri Krishna. Later on, several sections were renovated and added to enhance the beauty of the shrine. It is situated in the northeastern part of Hampi on the Tungabhadra riverbank. 

You can notice its unmatched grandeur and features of classic South Indian temples. Built in Dravidian architectural style, it stands in a large rectangular enclosure. Every hall, pavilion, tower, shrine, and the building is made of stone and reflects the sheer brilliance of craftsmen.

• Must See / Things to Do: See the architectural brilliance of those times.

Things to Do on your Hampi Sightseeing Tour

The ancient city of Hampi is a popular tourist destination in India . There are many things to see and do in Hampi beyond spiritual sightseeing.

What to Shop during your Full Day Chikmagalur Sightseeing Tour by Car?

Hampi is a colorful place, also known for its ample scope for shopping. There are historic market stalls lining up the streets in front of the Virupaksha Temple. Handcrafted stone artifacts like replicas of deities, oil lamps, and figurines of Nandi, Ganesh, and Shiva Linga are quite popular as trinket items.

Get bags, jewelry, belts, patches, and souvenirs depicting Lambani crafts. The brightly colored fabric used for making such stuff is often hand embroidered and infused with metal balls, mirror work, and antique coin lookalikes. 

Handmade leather puppets, bags, footwear, and accessories are pretty common. If you are a music lover or you know someone, you can acquire wind and string musical instruments like flute, Djembe, and Ektara. Banana fiber crafts include bags, pen stands, baskets, and cushion covers. Cheap Hippie clothes like Kurtis, pants, and dresses are widely available on the streets. 

You can also purchase Hampi souvenir t-shirts on your day trip. Handmade home décor and traditional jewelry sets make interesting gift items. You can also find foreign and Indian books. You have to walk more through the narrow and crowded lanes to best explore the vibrant flea markets of Hampi.

What to Eat during your One Day Chikmagalur Sightseeing Trip by Taxi?

You can try a wide variety of delicious local dishes in Hampi. The typical South Indian platter is awesome. Sit back and relax in the myriad cafés and decent hotels and restaurants. You can also get western options on the menu. Savor crispy fried momos, North Indian cuisine, pastries, pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and herbal teas at prominent restaurants. 

You can have terrific veg options but non-veg is difficult to get since Hampi is a temple town. Don’t forget to try a Kannada meal with a variety of food items included in the thali. You have to take a ferry ride and cross the river for non-veg food. Big fine-dine restaurants and hotels serve Italian, Japanese, Chinese, and Continental dishes. There are countless street food stalls where you can grab a quick bite while shopping or sightseeing.

Travelers are requested to follow the given itinerary for 1 day Hampi city tour package. Ideally this full day tour package cannot be customized, however if guests prefer to visit different set of places during this Hampi sightseeing tour by private car, they can check the possibility of the same with the above listed car rental companies and request for a custom quote.

We recommend our guests to stick to the time spent at each tourist attraction in Hampi as per the Itinerary schedule. In case of any delays or additional time spent at a particular place, driver or car rental company will not be responsible to cover all the places mentioned in the itinerary.

Please also note that if a particular sightseeing place is closed on the scheduled day of the tour, it may not be covered from the list of sightseeing places. Please check the possibility of visiting an alternate place with listed cab vendor before you book the tour.

Ideally, no. However guests can check if it’s possible to customize the tour with the above listed Hampi cab vendors before booking the trip. Additional charges might apply.

Exploring the ruined city of Hampi will strain your legs, so it will be a wise decision to hire a private cab. Since Hampi is well-accessible by road, you will find the car ride relaxing and enjoyable. You can halt at several points, refresh yourself and soak in the natural abundance along the route.

It is a great option to load your car with numerous souvenirs while returning. For an unplanned de-stressing from the hustle and bustle of the city, one day Hampi local sightseeing by a private rental car is a great and smart choice.

Hampi Itinerary: how to spend 3 days in Hampi

This post is a travel guide with a 3 day Hampi itinerary. Hampi is located in the state of Karnataka in South India. It was the capital of the Vijayanagara empire and is still home to hundreds of ancient temples. The ruins cover a large area and it is easy to be overwhelmed as a first time visitor.

Most backpackers stay much longer than planned, because of the relaxed atmosphere, the slow pace of life and the range of activities available. It would take months to see all the ruins in Hampi and once you get tired of history you could enjoy the outdoors and go hiking or boulder climbing. The rocky landscapes in the area are just as impressive. 

I made this Hampi itinerary after my own trip. I loved Hampi so much that I stayed there for almost a week. For those with less time, I would say 3 days in Hampi is the minimum you need. This way you can see the most important places without rushing things.

Hampi history

It’s hot in the fierce sun and sweat is dripping from my back. In front of me, the rocky landscape of Hampi absorbs the heat and provides little respite from the sun.

It’s the second day of my Hampi itinerary and I am on my way to the Vittala temple. Everywhere I look I see remnants of the old Vijayanagara empire. One of the largest and most powerful empires in medieval India In the 14th century, Hampi was the capital of this vast Hindu kingdom and it was described as a prosperous and wealthy city untill it was defeated by Muslim armies in 1565.

Hampi was a major center of political, economic, and cultural activity during the Vijayanagara Empire and was known for its grand architecture, rich cultural heritage, and impressive monuments. The town was home to many important religious structures, such as the Virupaksha Temple, the Hampi Bazaar, and the Royal Enclosure, which served as the residence of the Vijayanagara kings.

Hampi’s history goes back even further though and people identified the area around Hampi to be the monkey kingdom of Kishkinda as described in the Ramayana. Before the Vijayanagara empire, the Hoysala kings, famous for the Somnathpur temple near Mysore and the Belur and Halebid temples , already built the first religious buildings in Hampi

Nowadays Hampi is a small town catering to backpackers and religious pilgrims that visit the still functioning Virupaksha temple and monkey temple. Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage site and there are over 1600 remains of temples, palaces, horse stables, ganesh statues and other structures.

A 3 day Hampi itinerary

Hampi itinerary day 1: virupapur gaddi & anegundi.

When making a 3 day Hampi itinerary with the best places to visit in Hampi it is good to realize that the area is dividided by the Tunghabadra river and that the sights are clustered around three centers.

Most places to visit in Hampi are at the side of the bazaar with one cluster around the Virupaksha temple and another cluster around the Royal enclosure. The other side of the river called Virupapur Gaddi also has some interesting ruins and offers a more quiet and peaceful experience.

To cross the river you can take a boat that leaves frequently once full. Virupapur Gaddi also has some nice homestays, good restaurants and plenty of places to rent a bike.And that is exactly what I would recommend you to do on your first day. Driving your motorbike with the wind through your hair among green rice fields is a highlight in itself.

Anegundi village

The first day of our Hampi itinerary we explored Virupapur Gadi. Our first stop was the small village of Anegundi. The Kishkinda Trust is running several projects here to promote rural tourism and to empower the community. The sleepy town remains an off the beaten path destination which is part of its charm and so are it’s green rice paddy’s and palmtrees. On top of that Anegundi has some temples as well.

Durga & Monkey temple

On our wayt back from Anegundi we stopped at the Durga and monkey temple. The temples are still used and a favourite stop for religious pilgrims. The monkey temple is of great importance to Hindus because some believe that the Hindu monkey god Hanuman was born here.

Both temples require an effort to climb endless steps to the top of a hill that offers a magnificient view over Hampi. The Durga temple is less high and less crowded, but the monkey temple offers a better view.

Sanapur Lake

The sanapur lake is a nice spot to end the first day of your Hampi itinerary and watch the sunset. The blue lake surrounded by rocks gets few visitors, but is a great place to visit. Read more in this guide from Our Taste for life about Sanapur lake . 

Hampi itinerary day 2: Hampi by Tuk Tuk

The second day of our Hampi itinerary we were contemplating whether we wanted to hire a motorbike and drive around ourselves or go with a tuk tuk to see the places to visit in Hampi on the Virupaksha side of the river.

We decided that the weather was too hot and treat ourselves on a tuk tuk for the day. This turned out a great decision, because the roads were much dustier and rockier than in Virupapur gaddi. On top of that our tuk tuk driver showed us some temples that were not in our guidebook such as an underground shiva temple and a large statue of Narasimha, the incarnation of Vishnu.

Vittala Temple and stone chariot

The famous stone chariot that is on most pictures of Hampi is in the beautiful Vittala temple. The Vittala Temple is built in the mid-16th century during the rule of King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is one of the well-preserved monuments in Hampi, known for its intricate carvings, rich history, and architectural beauty.

Insider tip : The temple is a long 2 kilometer walk through rocks and boulders, but it is worth every step you take. If you want to escape the heat I would advise you to do this early in the morning or the afternoon. Tuk tuks are not allowed to reach the Vittala temple, but if you really don’t want to walk there is a crowded white tourist van going up and down.

Laxmi Narasimha

Narasimha is a Hindu deity and one of the avatars (incarnations) of Lord Vishnu. He is depicted as a half-man, half-lion being and is considered a fierce and powerful form of the deity. The name “Narasimha” literally means “man-lion,” and the deity is revered for his ability to provide protection and support to his devotees.

The large statue of Narasimha in Hampi is among the largest in Karnataka. Next to the statue is a small temple with a big Shiva lingam inside.

Elephant stables & Lotus Mahal

The former royal palace grounds offer some interesting sights. Not to be missed are the elephant stables and the lotus mahal. These well preserved buildings are known for their unique architecture, which features a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, including domes and arches, and its intricately carved walls and pillars.

The Lotus mahal was used by the royal women and is believed to have served as a place for relaxation, entertainment, and possibly for holding meetings.

Queens bath and stepped baths

Hampi is a dry landscape and the baths must have involved some advanced engineering. Access to clean drinking water remains a struggle for people in the area, even now. The queens bath is a beauty inside, but the stepped baths used by the citizens of the kingdom are no less impressive.

Hazara Rama temple

Last, but not least of our tour was the Hazara Rama temple. When our tuk tuk driver stopped we almost felt we had seen enough for the day. We were wondering whether to drag our tired bodies into the sun again for one more temple.

But this was not just another temple. This was like a book with the detailed carvings on the walls telling endless stories. Elephants marching forward, women dancing, warriors fighting and horses getting ready for battle.

Tip: The Vittala temple requires a ticket that is also valid for the royal enclosure (lotus mahal and elephant stables) and the archeological museum in Hospet. We visited the museum as part of our tuk tuk tour. My advice is that if you have enough time on the second day of your Hampi itinerary, it is worth having a quick look, but not a must see.

Hampi itinerary day 3: Hampi on foot

Our tuk tuk tour left us in awe, but also tired and overwhelmed. The Virupaksha temple and some Ganesh statues are just accross the river from virupapur gadi and we decided to leave them for the next day. The third day of our Hampi itinerary we explored the area on foot.

Laxmi: the temple elephant

I always have mixed feelings of tourist activities involving elephants. In South India many temples have a temple elephant that hands out blessings to people in exchange for a few rupees.

Laxmi is Virupaksha’s temple elephant and every morning around 8 AM she goes to the river to get a bath. Her caretaker gently washes her and she seems to be enjoying this daily ritual. Still, I feel that a crowded temple is not the place for an elephant.

Virupaksha temple

The Virupaksha Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as Virupaksha. The temple is considered one of the oldest and most sacred shrines that dates back to the 7th century. It was a major center of Hindu worship during the Vijayanagara Empire (1336-1565) and continues to be an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus.

Virupaksha temple is thus still functioning and of great importance for Hindus. It is therefore the most crowded of all temples with both people and monkeys. The monkeys are fun to watch, but you should take care if you carry any food items or even just a water bottle.

The monolithic ganesh statues

Behind the Virupaksha temple are two impressive monolithic statues of Ganesh. The hindu god with an elephant head who loves sweets and removes obstacles. Sasivekalu and Kadalekalu Ganesha are an easy walk up the boulders behind the Virupaksha temple and should not be missed.

Hampi itinerary travel tips

The best places to stay in hampi.

There are three places where you can stay in Hampi. First of all there is Hospet which has the nearest railway connection. The town is a transport hub and not very scenic, but offers some decent hotels. It is also convenient if you need to catch an early morning train.

The second option is Hampi bazaar . Here you will find yourself right in the centre of Hampi. However, there is a constant struggle between the hotel owners and the authorities that rather see the hotels go to preserve the archeological heritage.

The third option is Virupapur gadi . You will have to cross the river with a small boat that runs between 7 am and 5 pm, but this is the most scenic and peaceful location. Homestays with good reviews in this area include  Srinivasa homestay , Arjun homestay and Vinayaka homestay

The best places to eat in Hampi

Hampi has no shortage of vegetarian friendly restaurants. Most of them have a laid back atmosphere catering to backpackers on a budget. Again there is a cluster of restaurants around Hampi bazaar and Virupapur gadi.

Hampi bazaar : Mango tree in the middle of a banana plantation is a big favourite among travellers and I understand why. Their thali’s are excellent. For good homemade pasta head to nearby Suresh restaurant.

Virupapur gadi : The food at um cafe was ok, but my main reason for coming back was the relaxed atmosphere and the great view from their rooftop terrace.

When to visit Hampi

Hampi is best visited during the cooler months of October till March. It is also the peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to make advance bookings.

From March onwards it can get unbearingly hot in Hampi and July will bring monsoon rains till September. The area experiences heavy rainfall and many monuments and ruins may be inaccessible.

What to pack for Hampi

Even in the cooler months the sun is strong and there is little shadow among the rocks. Always bring a sun hat and sunscreen to Hampi. Sturdy shoes or sandals are another must for hiking the rocky terrain.

At last bring mosquito repellent . Locally you can buy Odomos that is great against mosquitoes.

Safety in Hampi

During the day hampi is a very safe place. However, the rocky landscape is also the home of snakes and sloth bears. Therefore it is better not to walk around the ruins at night. If you want to see sloth bears you can visit the Daroji sloth bear sanctuary not far from Hampi.

Solo female travel in Hampi

Hampi is not more or less safe for solo female travellers than other touristic places in India. There is no reason not to go to Hampi as a solo female traveler, but it helps to dress conservatively and use your instinct. If it doesn’t feel good it probably isn’t.

Romance and other scams are not unheard of and it is better not to get too friendly with local men that are eager to talk with you or guide you around. Remember, nothing is for free. It is also better not to walk around alone at night in quiet areas. 

How to get to Hampi

Hampi is in the north of Karnataka . The nearest city is Hospet. Hospet is a transport hub with frequent buses and trains to places in Karnataka and beyond. 

If people visit Hampi it is often the only place they visit in Karnataka, but Karnataka has so much more to see. Don’t miss beautiful Mysore with its palaces and great food or the temple beach town of Gokarna . 

Hospet to Hampi : From Hospet you should take a riksha to Hampi (15-20 minutes). If you stay in virupapur gadi take the boat to the other side of the river. The boat runs from 7 AM till 5 PM.

Train to and from Hampi : Hospet has a train station. You can check time tables and book your tickets online directly through the  Indian railways  (IRCTC). Unfortunately this is not always a straightforward process. For a small extra fee you can use  12goAsia  or  Makemytrip . There is a daily nighttrain from Bangalore to Hospet.

Bus to and from Hampi : There are also daily nightbuses From Hospet to Goa or Bangalore. Be aware that some offer a pick up from virupapur gadi included in your ticket. However, this means that you will be stuffed with 6 people in a rickshaw for a one hour journey to a bridge crossing the river to reach Hospet from where the actual bus departs.

It might be more comfortable and quicker to take the last boat (around 5 pm) to the other side of the river and take a rickshaw from there to Hospet on your own cost.

Sustainable travel to Hampi

Hampi is one of the top tourist sites in Karnataka. Karnataka is a beautiful state, but to preserve its culture, it is important to be aware of the possible negative impacts mass tourism can have.

Support the local community:  You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, markets and restaurants. It is better to try South Indian cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. South Indian food is very vegetarian friendly and it is easy to follow a vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can also try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Karnataka has a well-developed public transportation system. It is easy to reach Hampi by train or bus. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of private cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Leave no trace principle : I encourage you to take all your trash back with you when you visit the temples in Hampi and don’t leave any trash behind. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly. Learning a few basic phrases in Kannada, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post about the best places to visit in Hampi with a 3 day Hampi itinerary contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

20 thoughts on “Hampi Itinerary: how to spend 3 days in Hampi”

Hampi is like a treasure trove. There are just so many things to see that one visit is not enough. Glad to see that you explored the other side of the river too. Cheers

Wow Ellis you are a rockstar! You seem to have seen more of India than most Indians I know. Hampi is in my bucket list for a long time but I keep waiting for a long weekend to explore it for 3 days atleast, and somehow end up with another plan when that weekend comes 🙁 This is a fantastic guide. I went to Talakad though in Karnataka which is very close to Bangalore. Did you check out the hippie island in Hampi?

woow this is just beautifully curated post.I am visiting Hampi in upcoming months and this would be so helpful for my travel.I would love to explore anegudi village

Beautiful! I went several years ago but didn’t take many photos and I regret it so much. Love the elephant stables! It was so hot when I went, I remember being drenched in sweat. Love India!

Lovely photos! So many monkeys! We had a great time in Hampi too, we celebrated Holi there and it was great to experience it in a smaller place with some locals. We also went to the swimming hole further up the river because it was soooo hot when we were there!

I’ve never heard of Hampi before but this looks wonderful. I think the relaxed atmosphere would be super appealing.

Hey Ellis you have studied well before describe the place in blog.. and you have taken care every single aspect which need to be cover while visiting this place..

Wonderful Image!! Thank you for sharing valuable information. I enjoyed reading this post. The whole blog is very nice found some good stuff and good information here Thanks for sharing…

Amazing blog! Interesting post, beautiful pictures, A very detailed, inspiring and informative post.

Please note Virupapur Gaddi demolished by government. No homestay and restaurants now. This is for your information

I had the best lassi ever from the Mango Tree restaurant.

Informative and well-written post on Hampi. Ancient temples and monuments of Hampi are worth seeing. We hired a local guide to understand the history behind each of the sites, we visited.

I have been lucky enough to do several trips to Hampi, even if they have all been for short durations. I still have SO much to see there! Your blog takes me back to beautiful memories of this special place

Amazing blog! Interesting post, beautiful pictures.

beautiful picture and nice blog post

Great content! Super high-quality!

nice articles ! keep it up !

Interesting post, beautiful pictures

I am planning to visit Hampi, Badawi n Aihole. Found your blog post useful and good.👍 A local guide would be useful at such historical sites. Keep writing on your journeys. Good luck.

Hampi is famous for its beauty, it’s a upcoming tourist spot in India. Tourism in Hampi is famous for its ruins belonging to the erstwhile medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagara, and it is declared a World Heritage site. Hazara Ram temple is a must watch place here.

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2-Day Hampi Itinerary

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• Hampi in 2 days
• 1-Day Hampi Itinerary
• 3-Day Hampi Itinerary
• 4-Day Hampi Itinerary
• 5-Day Hampi Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: northwest side of town, shree vijaya vitthala temple.

Queen's Bathhouse

Elephant Stables

Lotus mahal, underground shiva temple, virupaksha temple, hampi, shri lakshmi narasimha temple, where to eat, hampi roof restaurant, mango tree restaurant, old chill out ganesh restaurant, hampi archeological museum in kamalapura, hazara raama temple, hampi shri krishna swami temple, kadalekalu ganesha, saasivekaalu ganesha, sri malyavanta raghunatha gudi, sanapur lake, suresh restaurant, funky monkey restaurant, chillout bamboo restaurant, sagar hotel hampi, popular road trips from hampi, what's the weather like in hampi.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Hampi for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Hampi in January
• Weather in Hampi in February
• Weather in Hampi in March
• Weather in Hampi in April
• Weather in Hampi in May
• Weather in Hampi in June
• Weather in Hampi in July
• Weather in Hampi in August
• Weather in Hampi in September
• Weather in Hampi in October
• Weather in Hampi in November
• Weather in Hampi in December

All road trips from Hampi

• Hampi to Bengaluru drive
• Hampi to Mumbai drive
• Hampi to Hyderabad drive
• Hampi to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
• Hampi to New Delhi drive
• Hampi to Chennai (Madras) drive
• Hampi to Jaipur drive
• Hampi to Pune drive
• Hampi to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) drive
• Hampi to Panjim drive
• Hampi to Kochi (Cochin) drive
• Hampi to Agra drive
• Hampi to Munnar drive
• Hampi to Udaipur drive
• Hampi to Pondicherry drive
• Hampi to Kathmandu drive
• Hampi to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Hampi to Ahmedabad drive
• Hampi to Mahabaleshwar drive
• Hampi to Mahabalipuram drive
• Hampi to Kalpetta drive
• Hampi to Madikeri drive
• Hampi to Kodaikanal drive
• Hampi to Chikmagalur drive
• Hampi to Lonavala drive
• Hampi to Varanasi drive
• Hampi to Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) drive
• Hampi to Tirupati drive
• Hampi to Jodhpur drive

Explore nearby places

• Hoovina Hadagalli Taluk
• Chitradurga
• Mantralayam
• Chikka Madhure
• Mahadevapura
• Hubli-Dharwad
• Dharmavaram

All related maps of Hampi

• Map of Hampi
• Map of Kamalapur
• Map of Hospet
• Map of Sandur
• Map of Koppal
• Map of Bellary
• Map of Hoovina Hadagalli Taluk
• Map of Bhairapur
• Map of Lakkundi
• Map of Gadag
• Map of Adoni
• Map of Pattadakal
• Map of Badami
• Map of Davanagere
• Map of Davangere
• Map of Harihar
• Map of Chitradurga
• Map of Mantralayam
• Map of Chikka Madhure
• Map of Devanhalli
• Map of Bagalkot
• Map of Haveri
• Map of Raichur
• Map of Shiggaon
• Map of Mahadevapura
• Map of Anantapur
• Map of Hubli-Dharwad
• Map of Saundatti
• Map of Astakatti
• Map of Dharmavaram
• Map of Hosadurga

Hampi throughout the year

• Hampi in January
• Hampi in February
• Hampi in March
• Hampi in April
• Hampi in May
• Hampi in June
• Hampi in July
• Hampi in August
• Hampi in September
• Hampi in October
• Hampi in November
• Hampi in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Hampi?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 2-Day Hubli-Dharwad Itinerary
• 2-Day Badami Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

A Complete Hampi Travel Guide 2021: Hampi Itinerary & Tips

Hampi is an incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site located by the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka, India. The ancient city’s boulder-strewn landscape delights the eye; lush paddy fields and serene lakes soothe the soul, and the timeless ruins with their impressive history and architecture amaze the mind.

Here is a Hampi travel guide with a solid itinerary to maximize your time, details of how to get there, places to stay in Hampi, how to get around and tips for your visit!

Before we start, let us tell you that the face of Hampi has changed in the last year. If you’ve read or seen any content on Hampi before landing on our Hampi travel blog, then note that Hippie Island and restaurants like Mango Tree in Hampi don’t exist anymore. Because of this, your Hampi itinerary could look a lot different from what you had initially planned. Luckily for you, this blog post is from our visit after these changes so you’ll get the most updated information.

Brief Hampi History

Hampi was the capital city of the mighty Hindu Vijayanagar Empire for over 200 years (around 1336 AD to 1565 AD) covering all of southern India south of the Tungabhadra river. The city was an important centre of trade since it controlled both cotton and spice trade routes of Southern India and traded gold, pearls, and other precious items by the kilo. The rulers fortified the kingdom and used their wealth to build an impressive city with beautiful palaces, temples, monolithic statues, markets streets, and monuments.

After the death of the empire’s greatest king, Kishnadevaraya (reigning period 1509-1529), the kingdom soon fell to the combined armies of the neighbouring Muslim rulers of the Deccan. The city was ravaged and plundered and now lies in ruins.

In around 1 CE (the era of the Ramayana) this area was called Kishkinda – the kingdom of monkeys. The Hindu God Hanuman was born in the area!

When to Visit Hampi

Hampi’s main tourist season is in winter from October to February. To avoid crowds, you can also visit in March (explore early morning and evening) and September (rains slow down and Hampi is very green). Know that in the rainy season, however, you will not be able to take a coracle ride in the Tungabhadra due to the strong current!

We have only travelled to Hampi in these off-season months and it turned out to be awesome. Lots of peace when exploring the ruins.

How to Reach Hampi

Flight: Toranagallu (11 km), Bellary (61 km) and Belgaum (191 km) are the nearest airports to Hampi. However, since flights are limited to these locations, it would be best to fly to Bangalore (351 km) and then take a bus or hire a car and drive for around 6 hours to Hampi. Book your flight here .

Car: Hampi is at a drivable distance from major cities like Bangalore (351 km or 6 hours), Hyderabad (385 km or 7.5 hours), and Panjim Goa (346 km or 8 hours). We love this method of transport and have always gone on a Hyderabad to Hampi road trip. The drive is a pleasurable one with vast fields and bouldered hills. 

Bus: You can book an overnight bus to Hampi in all cities mentioned above like Bangalore, Hyderabad and Goa. You can book this on Redbus. If living in the neighbouring town of Hospet, you can catch a local KSRTC bus to Hampi which takes about half an hour.

Train: Hospet Railway Station, located about 12 km from Hampi is the nearest station. It is directly connected to major cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Goa, etc. From Hospet, you can take a local bus to Hampi which takes about half an hour.

Days Required to Explore Hampi

You need a total of at least three days to see the main sights of Hampi – Two days to explore the heritage area side and one to explore the other side of the river – Anegundi, Anjaneya Hill, etc.!

Four-five days is ideal for a slower, more comfortable, visit!

Places to Stay in Hampi

To make the most of your time in Hampi, it is best to stay at a distance of 0-10 km from Hampi – the closer the better! Know that Hampi isn’t a town in itself. Locals live in a small village called New Hampi but the location doesn’t have any hotels or accommodation. So, you will have to opt for the area near Hampi or at nearby villages.

We have stayed at below given (first two) Hampi resorts and hotels and highly recommend them in terms of location.

Clarks Inn – Located in Kamalapur Town 4.7 km from Hampi’s main attractions, it makes for an ideal place to stay. Small but well-appointed rooms with an in-house restaurant and a small pool! Perfect for those who’ll spend their days exploring and look for only basic comfort in their accommodation. We booked this for only Rs.2000 per night making it a super budget stay, but per our understanding prices are not so low during season time. Check prices and book property here .

Heritage Resort Hampi – Located 7 km from Hampi, this resort is a great mid-range option for families and couples looking for a relaxed and comfortable stay amongst nature. Large rooms, great food at the restaurants, happy hours, evening entertainment, amazing greenery (lots of mango trees) and a decent-sized swimming pool make this stay option one of the most ideal resorts in Hampi. Check prices and book this property here .

Evolve Back Hampi – For the ultimate luxury, opt for this Hampi resort located 9 km away. The architecture of the resort is inspired by that of the Vijayanagar Empire. You’ll feel like you’re staying in a palace. We haven’t stayed here but would love to someday! Check prices and book property her e .

If you’re on a tight budget and don’t care much about worldly comforts, opt for a homestay. You’ll not only save money but also have an authentic local experience.

How to Get Around Hampi

Having your own set of wheels is super convenient. However, if you can’t do that, hire an auto-rickshaw for the day.

You can also opt to hire rickshaws to transport you from one location to the other but this might be more time consuming and you may not find rickshaws outside all points of interest especially if travelling out of season.

Earlier, scooters used to be available for rent, but now due to the demolition of the hippie area, we are not sure if it is possible. It would be best to enquire about scooter hire at your accommodation or ask guides in the Hampi area on Day 1.

Hampi Itinerary – 3 Days

Here is a 3-day Hampi itinerary that will help make the most of your time.

Day one’s itinerary has been written assuming you will be reaching by mid-day or morning, checking into your accommodation and stepping out only after lunch.

If you type Hampi on Google Maps, it takes you to the main Hampi area consisting of Virupaksha Temple and Hemakunta Hills. This is the area you should explore today to get a flavour of what Hampi is all about.

Park your car at the Virupaksha Temple parking or take an auto till there and start your walking adventure for the day. You won’t need a vehicle till after sunset to go back to your hotel.

Sri Virupaksha Temple

Dedicated to Virupaksha, an incarnation of Shiva, this is the most popular and probably the oldest temple in Hampi as it was built in the 7th century (most other sites were built in the 15th century). It is a must-visit for two reasons:

• It is the only working temple in main Hampi
• You get to meet and get blessings from an adorable elephant called Lakshmi.

As you approach the temple, you’ll be welcomed by a beautiful gold Gopuram. Leave your shoes on the left side of the entrance (Rs.2), buy your ticket (Rs. 25 per person), and hire a guide (Rs. 200). You’ll start at a serene courtyard, admire vegetable paintwork on the roof of the main temple, gape at a fascinating opening in the wall that works like a pinhole camera, see a charming kund, and various temples dedicated to other Hindu gods.

The visit should take about half to one hour.

Hemakuta Hills

When we think about Hampi, the Hemakuta hills is what comes to mind. It is a hilltop (made of one huge rock) dotted with several temples and smaller boulders. While the most iconic place to visit here is the Moola Virupaksha Temple just a 3-min walk from Virupaksha Temple, we say don’t sweat it. Just climb the hill and explore on your own though we must mention we love the frangipani tree at the Hemakuta Hanuman temple. Watch the sunset sitting on one of the cliffside benches (google sunset point Hemkuta) or anywhere else that appeals.

Remember the sun doesn’t set at the horizon but much above it due to the haze in the area. Don’t miss the sunset thinking you have a lot of time. Also, as soon as the sun sets, get ready to leave. If you don’t, a police guard will usher you out.

Wondering why this is important? Well after sunset, bears and leopards freely roam the Hampi area. You wouldn’t want to serve yourself as dinner to these animals 😛

Vijaya Vitthala Temple

The Vithalla Temple is dedicated to Vittala, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is the most popular, beautiful and fascinating structure in Hampi and attracts a significantly large crowd. Therefore, it is best visited first thing in the day.

The temple opens at 8:30 AM so ensure you’re at the parking by 8:15 AM. Since the temple complex is at a distance of about 1.3 km from the parking, you will have to choose between the two options for getting to the temple – a 15-minute walk or a golf cart ride for Rs. 10 per person. We recommend you walk to the temple visiting various sites on the way and take a golf cart when exiting to save time and energy for the rest of the day.

While walking to the temple’s entrance, you will see the Pushkarni (water tank), Guduregombe Mandapa (temple), and lastly structures that used to be a marketplace. At the entrance buy a ticket (Rs. 40 per person). Keep the ticket safely as it is used at some other sites you’ll be visiting today as well.

On entering the walled temple complex through the gopuram gate, you’ll immediately notice the stone chariot that is featured on India’s Rs. 50 notes. A marvel! Further, you’ll see the Nritya/Ranga mandapa (dance hall) that has musical pillars. When tapped, these pillars that are made of a single piece of resonant stone, make musical sounds. It’s an absolute wonder! This mandapa is shut for maintenance so you may be shown this phenomenon at another mandapa.

After your visit, check out the King’s balance nearby (300 metres) or head directly to the Queen’s Bath (in the Royal Centre) which is about 5 km from here.

The visit should take about 1-1.5 hours.

Royal Centre

Hampi is divided into two – the Royal Centre and the Sacred Centre. Today, for the first half of the day, you’ll be exploring buildings in the royal centre that houses the palaces, durbars, tanks, residences, and baths used by the royals of the empire. Start at Queen’s Bath the first building in the Royal Centre area.

Queen’s Bath

The Queen’s bath makes for a short and interesting visit. Constructed in Indo-Islamic style, the structure has a simple exterior and an ornate interior with a colossal sunken bath. Due to its distance from the royal enclosure, it is believed to be a pleasure complex. Arched corridors and ornate balconies are what makes this place worth the visit. An owl and owlets are often found inside the empty bath. An additional delight!

After exploring the bath for about 15-20 minutes, head to the Royal Enclosure located 550 metres from the Queen’s bath. Better to take your vehicle instead of walking it if you have one!

A guide is not necessarily required to explore this structure and as such, you won’t find any outside it.

Royal Enclosure

The royal enclosure was the seat of power of the Vijaynagara Empire. In its heydays, this 59000 square meter area housed 45 buildings including the great platform, durbar halls, tanks, and underground chambers.

The main places to see in the Royal Enclosure are:

Mahanavami Dibba (Great Platform) – This 3 tier 8-meter-high platform is the only structure in the enclosure that still stands as it did back then. The raised platform was used by the king to view the Navami/Dussehra celebrations. There are beautiful war carvings at the lower sidewall of the structure.

The Underground Chamber  – This is where spies were held for questioning. It is constructed in a manner that left spies wondering where they are and was made soundproof with flowing water above.

The Stepped Tank  – This is a 5-tiered super-symmetrical and aesthetic 7-metre deep tank that was used for ritual bathing before prayers by the royals. It is different from other tanks in Hampi as it is made of black schist stones to heat and purify the water.

It’ll take you about 30-45 minutes to see the above three structures. Other structures in the enclosure are absolutely ruined so we did not see them. But if you wish you see them anyway then you’ll take about an hour!

Next, proceed to the Hazara Rama Temple located 280 metres from the Royal Enclosure.

Hazara Rama Temple

The Hazara Rama temple is a small but beautiful temple that was used only by the royal family. As the name suggests, it is dedicated to Vishnu in his aspects as Lord Rama. Since the geographical area is a part of the epic Ramayana, it isn’t tough to reason why there exists a temple entirely dedicated to showcasing Ramayana stories on its walls. The pictorial stories are almost like a comic strip carved along the exteriors of the main shrine. The temple also has black marble pillars that are unlike any other in the city.

The Hazara Rama Temple will take about 20-30 minutes to explore.

Zenana Enclosure

Now, proceed 500 meters along the dirt path to the Zenana Enclosure, a fortified and secluded area for the then royal ladies including the Queen. Per our guide, this structure was primarily used to house the royal women and protect them in times of war. The area was protected by eunuchs and the only man allowed inside was the king.

The main attraction here is the Lotus Mahal built in Indo-Islamic style. You aren’t allowed to step inside which doesn’t matter much as the beauty can be appreciated from outside itself!

You’ll take about 10 minutes here.

Elephant Stables

Just through a pathway from the enclosure, located right outside it, is the famed Elephant Stable. This structure used to provide shelter to the royal elephants, clearly showing their importance in the empire. The architecture has fluted arches topped with Jain, Hindu and Muslim style domes. The secular nature of this Hindu empire was something we appreciated a lot.

You can explore the stables and just sit in the garden and relax for a bit. It will take another 15-20 minutes to explore this area.

Lunch and Relaxation

It’ll be around lunchtime by now. So, head to your hotel, grab a bite and relax for a bit before heading back to explore.

Note that all the famous restaurants you must have heard of do not exist anymore so eating at your hotel restaurant is a good option. If you don’t want to head back to the hotel, ask a guide for information on where to eat.

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, one of the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Lakshmi as well who was his consort. It is the largest monolith statue in Hamp – an imposing sight! You’ll take about 5-10 minutes here.

Badavilinga Temple

Located a few steps away from the Narasimha Statue is this giant shrine for Shiva. At 3 metres, it is the largest Linga in Hampi and is made of impressive black stone. Another 5-10 minutes are required to admire this structure.

Kadalekalu Ganesha

Next visit the Kadalekalu Ganesha, a 4.6-meter statue, the belly of which resembles a Bengal gram. The temple is a beautiful stone structure decorated with ornate tall granite pillars (that reminded me of Roman ruins for some reason). This Ganesha statue was worshipped by the royals.

This structure is located on Hemakuta hills 450 meters from the Narasimha statue. It will take about 10 minutes to visit.

If you’re a devout Ganesh follower or simply would like to see another Ganesh statue, then you can also visit the Sasivekalu Ganesha – a 2.4-metre high statue of Ganesha that has a snake wrapped around it (to prevent it from bursting due to over-eating per mythology). This Ganesha statue was built for the common people of the kingdom. It is located just 170 meters away from Kadalekalu so you can visit both statues with just 15 minutes to spare.

Coracle Ride on the Tungabhadra River

The coracle ride on the Tungabhadra river was our favourite experience and we’re sure you will enjoy it too. The evening is the best time for a coracle ride as the area is in shade in the evening.

The round boat (coracle) is rowed on the river between massive boulder-strewn cliffs on either side. It is incredibly serene and so hypnotising that you’ll forget you’re in present-day India. You’ll see flowing water, boulders, temples perched precariously atop these boulders and some even submerged in the water. The boatman will tell you about these temples and tell you other interesting facts about the area. Then he will ask you for permission and spin the boat. Shut your eyes and enjoy as the world rotates around you!

We only did the half an hour ride and weren’t completely satisfied, so I suggest you do the whole one hour ride.

The coracle ride costs Rs. 400 per person for half an hour and Rs. 750 per person for an hour.

Sunset at Kamalapur Lake

For sunset, just sit on the benches on the banks of Kamlapur Lake (you’ll see this from the road itself while going from Hampi to Kamalapur) and enjoy as the sun dips and the birds fly by! You’ll only be able to do this if you have your vehicle as there is no transport available in the area.

Phew, that was a long day. It feels longer than it was but for sure it will be tiring. Sleep early to be rejuvenated for the next day’s adventures.

Matanga Hill

Do a sunrise climb to Matanga Hill that has a small Veerbhadra temple at the top. The view from the hill is incredible. You’ll see vast expanses of paddy fields, mountains, scattered boulders, Hemakuta Hills with all its temples, Virupaksha Temple and Achutaraya Temple. You might also be shown a cave on your way up. The hike to Matanga hill is not to be missed!

I suggest hiring a guide for this hike since the path is not defined. As it is just through rocks, it is exposed and slippery in some areas so it is ideal to have someone knowledgeable and confident guide you up. Besides that, the hike isn’t gruelling at all! It takes 40 minutes to reach the top. You will have to start the hike between 5:30 AM-6 AM but confirm the time with your guide first. The hike back down is is a relatively easy one through proper stairs.

It is always better to do this hike at sunrise than at sunset due to the danger of bears after dark!

Have Breakfast and Change

It’ll be around 8:30 AM-9 AM by now. Go back to your hotel to change out of your sweaty hike wear and have breakfast. If you want to catch a little nap (like we did) you can do that too and head out by 10:30 AM -11 AM. You will not be coming back to the hotel until after sunset!

If you don’t care about hotel breakfast, then explore Achyutara temple (below) first before going back to change, as it is located right beside Matanga Hill.

Achyutaraya Temple

We didn’t visit this temple ourselves (despite plenty of requests to our guide), however, it is a great place to visit as far as I know. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Tiruvengalanatha, a form of Vishnu. The pillars and walls of the temple have exquisite carvings and ornamentation. The temple is secluded so few people visit!

Park your car/ get off at the Virupaksha Temple parking. Now head toward the opposite side of Virupaksha temple. You’ll see the Hampi Bazaar on either side and the Monolithic Bull at the base of the hill before heading to explore the temple. The visit will take an hour or so.

Note that this temple cannot be visited after 5 pm as leopards have often been stopped after that time, so visiting during the daytime is ideal!

Lunch at Baba Café

Head to the other side of the river for a relaxing lunch at Baba café. This café is reminiscent of the hippie island days with a similar vibe. Due to it’s awesome location amongst nature, the cafe makes for a great place to have some beer and international fare.

Attractions around Anegundi

Visit temples at Anegundi only if you’re religious or into the Ramayana. We only visited these because our guide had planned today’s itinerary with no interference from us. As per us, these temples are not architecturally beautiful – just regular temples.  

• Chinthamani Temple: Chintamani Temple is a Shiva Temple visited by Ramayana enthusiasts. It is the spot from where Ram aimed and shot his arrow to kill Baali during his fight with Sugreev. The temple is worth considering for all due to its epic location beside the Tungabhadra.
• Pampa Sarovar Temple: Pampa Sarovar is a sacred lake for Hindus – one of the 5 sacred lakes (Panch Sarovar) in Hindu mythology. The temple is constructed where Pampa (a form of Parvati) punishes herself to show her dedication to Shiva. If you’re not into mythology, consider visiting only from November to December when lotuses are in full bloom at Pampa Sarovar Lake.
• Anegundi Fort: The Anegundi with its many gates, tombs and temples (Ganesha Cave Temple and Durga Temple) is a sprawling fort that once used to guard the region.

Another famous spot is Sanapur Lake. Again, we did not find it worth the visit. This is where cliff jumping took place. However, per our guide cliff jumping is now banned as several people have lost their lives while at it. If you wish to cliff jump, do ask the locals before attempting it. We did a coracle ride here too but it paled in comparison to the one on the Tungabhadra. Do a coracle ride here only in the Monsoons when coracle rides in the Tungabhadra are not possible due to the strong current.

You can do all the things mentioned above if they appeal to you. Else, simply drive around the area through lush paddy fields. This is the bit I loved. Riding a bike here (if available) is an excellent option!

Anjaneya Hill

This hill is known to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman! There is a Hanuman Temple on top of the hill which takes about 2 hours to climb through a well-defined shaded path. Check the sunset time on google and start your hike up well in time to be able to explore the temple and see a spectacular sunset from the top!

This brings us to the end of the three days Hampi itinerary. If you have more time on hand you can consider visiting the  Krishna Temple near Kamalapur, the Underground Shiva Temple  or the  Tungabhadra Dam  at a distance of 27 km from Hampi. The dam’s premises has a Japanese style garden that makes for a pleasant visit.

Read our post on the 25 best places to visit in and around Hampi for more details or options for things to do.

Hampi Travel Tips

Photography : Drones, tripods, high-resolution cameras, and any out of the ordinary camera equipment is not allowed at Hampi’s sites. We carried our DSLR without issues, however. You aren’t even allowed to sketch, paint or draw at the sites. Per our knowledge, you can do all of this on the other side of the river – Anegundi and surrounds.

Guide : Hire a guide to understand the ancient ruins better. A full day guide cost around 2000 per day but due to COVID, some may ask about 1500 per day. However, while they make navigating the ruins of Hampi a breeze and make you understand the structures better, they also kind of put pressure on you to hurry up in order to show you as much as possible.

If you’re okay with that, do use full day guides. Honestly, we felt it was a bit rushed. 

Photographers, bloggers and vloggers would be better off hiring guides at specific structures. Follow this itinerary and hire guides at Vithalla Temple, Royal Center, and for the Matunga Hill hike. 

When hiring one, ensure he/she speaks your language fluently. Ours wasn’t very fluent in English or Hindi so sometimes it got very difficult to understand what he was explaining.

Google Maps : Download offline maps of the area on Google Maps to navigate easily. The internet is quite sketchy in Hampi.

Cash : Keep cash on you to pay for things like tender coconut, sugar cane juice, entry tickets, guide hire, coracle ride etc. While UPI is widely accepted, it doesn’t work a lot of times because of bad internet.

Shoes : Wear comfortable walking or sport shoes as you’ll be walking all day and hopefully even hiking. 

Clothes : Wear comfortable clothing in Hampi. There are no restrictions on what you wear to temples. However, it will be better to dress appropriately (cover midriff and knees) to not hurt the religious sentiments of worshippers. 

Day Bag Items : Important things to carry in your day bag for exploring Hampi:

• Sunscreen : Physical sunscreen without a white cast
• Some light snacks to eat in case you get hungry midway – We always carry Whole Truth Minis for a quick but healthy bite.
• A filled reusable water bottle (at least one each per person). We particularly like collapsible bottles to save space or the thermos type bottlesto keep water cold .
• A reusable straw for drinks on the trip. Think tender coconut and sugar cane juice. Yum!

Hope this Hampi travel guide mentions all that you were looking for. Comment below if you thought our Hampi travel blog post was helpful. Also, do tell us if we are missing any information you’d like mentioned in the post.

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Essential Travel Guide for Visiting Hampi in Karnataka

The Evocative Ruins of One of India's Greatest Hindu Kingdoms

TripSavvy / Faye Strassle

Laid-back Hampi was the last capital of Vijayanagar, one of the greatest Hindu kingdoms in India’s history. The area has some amazing ruins, intriguingly intermingled with large boulders that dot the landscape. It's a must-visit destination in India , and an incredible energy can be felt there. Plan your trip with this Hampi travel guide.

Emperor Krishna Deva Raya built many temples and other structures at Hampi during the powerful reign of the Vijayanagar Empire in South India, from the 14th to 16th centuries. The flourishing capital was regarded as the center of South India , and its vibrant marketplace was one of the largest trading hubs in the world selling all kinds of goods to foreigners.

Hampi was naturally fortified by hills that protected it from invaders approaching from the north and south. However, its glory finally came to an end in 1565 when the five allied Deccan Sultanates of Bijapur, Bidar, Berar, Golconda and Ahmednagar succeeded in defeating ruler Rama Raya (the son-in-law of Krishna Deva Raya) in the Battle of Talikota. Six months of subsequent plundering reduced Hampi to ruins. Sadly, its grandeur was never able to be reinstated.

Hampi's ruins were discovered in 1800 by Colin Mackenzie, who became the first Surveyor General of India under the British East India Company. Extensive excavations followed, and are still being carried out by the Archeological Survey of India. In 1986, Hampi was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hampi is located in central Karnataka , approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles) from Bangalore in South India.

How to Get There

The nearest airports are Bellary/Ballari (two hours away) and Hubli (four hours away). From there, you'll need to arrange bus or taxi transportation.

Alternatively, the closest railway station is in Hospet , about half an hour away. Overnight trains run to Hospet several times a week from Bangalore and Goa. Buses also operate from Bangalore and Goa, as well as from Mysore and Gokarna in Karnataka, and will drop you in Hospet. The train is definitely more comfortable and preferable though. From Hospet, you can take a bus or auto-rickshaw to Hampi. The local buses are frequent and inexpensive, and better than a long and dusty auto-rickshaw ride.

The best time to visit Hampi is when it's cool and dry, from November to February. In March, the weather starts getting unbearably hot.

If you enjoy local color and culture, make sure you go during the three-day Hampi Festival (also known as the Vijaya Utsav). Dance, drama, music, fireworks, and puppet shows all take place with the ruins of Hampi as a backdrop. This popular (and crowded) festival usually happens in November but has been moved to January in the last couple of years, so it's wise to check the dates with Karnataka Tourism beforehand.

In March or April, the Virupaksha Car Festival is held to mark the annual marriage ritual of the gods and goddesses. It's the largest religious festival in Hampi.

Hampi is also a good place to celebrate the Holi festiva l in South India, in March.

How to Visit

Hampi is ideally explored on foot or by bicycle, so it's important to wear comfortable shoes. Hiring a scooter is also an option.

The main group of monuments (including the Vittala Temple, Elephant Stables, and Royal Center) requires an entry ticket. The cost is 600 rupees for foreigners and 40 rupees for Indians. The ticket also provides entry into the Archeological Museum. The Vittala Temple is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The Elephant Stables, which once housed the royal elephants, are open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily. Get there as early as possible to beat the crowds.

The surrounding ruins can be explored at leisure and there is no charge.

A guided tour is helpful to uncover Hampi's extensive history. Options offered by Travspire include a full-day heritage tour, half-day tours including stories from the Ramayana narrated by a local guide, and a six-hour village tour of Anegundi and surroundings. There's also a tourism office at the Virupaksha Temple, where you can hire guides and bicycles. Lakshmi Heritage Tourist Home has decent quality bicycles for rent near the temple too.

Do note that meat and alcohol aren't available in Hampi town as it's a religious place. However, both can be obtained across the river in Virupapur Gadde. Ferries depart riverside near the Virupaksha Temple.

There aren't any ATMs in Hampi. The closest ones are in nearby Anegundi and Kamalapura. It's a good idea to make sure you withdraw the cash you'll need while in Hospet.

What to See and Do

Hampi's ruins stretch for just over 25 kilometers (10 miles) and are made up of more than 500 monuments.

Most striking is the Vittala Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It's situated amid boulders on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River not far from the center of town, and represents the culmination of Vijayanagara temple architecture. Its main hall has 56 pillars that, when struck, make musical sounds. To the east of the hall is the iconic Stone Chariot. Most incredibly, its wheels can still turn!

The Royal Center, where Vijayanagar rulers lived and governed, is another must-see. At its core is the ornate Hazara Rama Temple, with panels of intricate sculptures featuring regal processions of elephants, horses, musicians, and warriors.

The ancient traditional water tanks, or step wells, are another highlight in and around Hampi. Their aqueducts carried water all over the city. The Stepped Tank at the southeastern side of the Royal Enclosure is particularly impressive. It remained covered by mud and sand, with a mound on top, until about 20 years ago.

In the Main Bazaar, the towering Virupaksha Temple is still actively used for worshiping Lord Shiva. The temple existed in a much smaller form before the Vijayanagar Empire, perhaps as early as the 8th century, making it one of the oldest structures in Hampi. The temple is open from sunrise until sunset, and there's a nominal entry fee. Allow at least an hour and a half to enjoy it.

Hampi is also renowned for its monolithic sculptures. Some, such as the Kadalikelu Ganesha in a temple on Hemakuta Hill, are as high as 15 feet tall. What's really remarkable is that one misplaced chip when carrying out the sculpturing would've caused the granite rock to fall apart. There are beautiful sculptures on rocks alongside the river, which were prototypes of those inside the temples.

Sunrise and sunset over the village, viewed from atop the central Matanga Hill, are truly magical and not to be missed.

If you have time, take a ferry across the river to Anegundi and explore the ancient structures there as well.

Where to Stay

There are two main areas to stay in Hampi -- near the bus stand and Main Bazaar, and on the edge of paddy fields across the river in rural Virupapur Gadde. The lively Main Bazaar area is packed with cheap guesthouses, shops, and restaurants. Budget accommodations at Virupapur Gadde are preferred by hippies and backpackers who want to spend time chilling out. Many people choose to spend a couple of nights in each place to experience their different atmospheres.

Hampi's upmarket properties are all located out of town.

What Else to Do Nearby

If you're into wine, don't miss visiting award-winning Krsma Estate vineyards, about two hours north of Hampi.

A side trip northwest of Hampi to the heritage sites of Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal is worthwhile to see monuments and ruins from the Chalukya Empire, which ruled there between the 4th and 8th centuries.

East of Hampi, Bellary Fort is another Vijayanagar Empire monument from the 16th century. Tickets cost 300 rupees for foreigners and 25 rupees for Indians.

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Hampi Itinerary – How To Spend 1 Day In Hampi

Posted on Last updated: 25 April 2024

Categories India , Itineraries

Hampi is a small town located in the southern state of Karnataka in India and was once the capital of the medieval Vijayanagara Empire.

With its rich cultural heritage, this ancient city is in fact listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some amazing things to see and do.

From ancient monuments and beautiful temples to bustling street markets, the town of Hampi has it all.

Building a one day in Hampi itinerary is tough, with so much to see and do, we’ve narrowed down the best parts, into how to do Hampi in a day.

Table of Contents

How To Get Around Hampi

Hampi is a sprawling city which you could walk around, but as you only have 1 day you could choose from the following.

Bike/Scooter

A popular and cheap way to get around Hampi, there are plenty of places to rent a bicycle or scooter, along with a helmet and lock.

We found renting a bicycle an excellent way to get around to where we wanted at our own pace.

Jumping in a rickshaw (tuk tuk) is a great option if you don’t fancy a bike or scooter.

Quick trips are usually cheap and shouldn’t cost more than 50 rupees, but be sure to negotiate a price before getting in the vehicle.

For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.

If you are based in Goa there is a great Hampi 2-Day Sightseeing Tour from Goa available to book in advance.

The tour includes round-trip transfer from Goa in an air-conditioned car, plus accommodation in twin shared room including breakfast.

This option will allow you to explore the holy city by walking along the river, enjoying the local market, and spending a day visiting the various temple complexes in Hampi.

Best Time To Visit Hampi

During the winter season, from October to February, is probably the best time to visit Hampi.

The temperatures during this time are warm but not usually unbearably hot. Ideal for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The temples are generally free to visit. They are closed each day between 12.30pm and 2.00pm.

Also please be aware when visiting the temples that there are certain dress codes that you need to respect, like covering your shoulders and knees.

Remember, this is just a guide, so you may want to mix it up and add/subtract different attractions. However, Hampi is a hidden gem that most people miss off their India itinerary .

What To Pack

Photography Camera

Reusable Water Bottle

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Hampi Itinerary Day 1

Visit the temples.

The first thing you’ll want to do on your one day in Hampi itinerary is explore the temples.

Hampi is a very religious old temple town, overlooked by the famous Virupaksha Temple. The number one tourist attraction in town!

As well as Virupaksha Temple, there are many more in the area, including Vittala Temple. Well recognised around India for its iconic stone chariot!

Our favourite temple in Hampi though was the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple. It’s less of a temple and more of a statue.

However if you’re as big a fan of Ganesh as we are, then it’s an awesome sculpture and Hindu God to visit and snap some photos.

Either way visiting the temples is the perfect place to start when visiting Hampi in a day.

Rent Bicycles & Explore The Ancient Village

After visiting a temple or two, we recommend grabbing bicycles on your one day in Hampi itinerary.

All things to do in Hampi are within cycle distance, plus renting bikes will save you a lot of money on tuk tuks, and taking an easy ride around the ancient village of Hampi town is a great way to see it.

We spent a full day exploring Hampi and the surrouding areas on bicycle, and it was not only a great work out, but a great way to tour the town.

So if you’re up for a bit of exercise, then we definitely recommend exploring the town on pushbikes. We really enjoyed it and would say this is one of the best things to do in India .

Some of the top spots to visit by bicycle are Hampi Archeological Ruins, Hampi Bazaar Street and Matanga Hill.

If you really fancy a mission, you can head out to Sanapur Lake, a 5km one way trip where you’ll likely be the only ones there.

Take A Taxi Boat Across The River

In the evening, if you have time before dinner and you’re not too tired, we recommend hopping over the river for a quick sunset stroll.

The main town of Hampi and the northern section is separated by the Tungabhadra River.

If you search ‘Ferry Point’ on google maps you will find the river crossing, and can choose to either wade across to the other side in knee deep waters, or take a boat for 20 Rupees.

The boat ride literally takes 30 seconds, but allows access to a much quieter area of town.

Surrounded by rice fields in every direction, and with beautiful dirt roads to explore down, you can take in the views for hours.

There’s not a lot to do on the northern side. Although it’s definitely worth adding to your one day in Hampi itinerary to see the incredible rice terraces.

Shop The Market & Eat Local

Once the sun has gone down there’s only one thing to do on your one day in Hampi itinerary – walk the market streets!

If you’re looking to buy something a little different on your travels, then Hampi is your place.

Known for being the laid back land of hippies, the market that runs through the town centre is only small but can be walked 10 times over.

We spent ages searching for that ‘standout’ item that nobody else would have in their backpacks.

After the market, if you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy dinner in Hampi, then we can highly recommend Mango Tree.

Everyone we spoke to seemed to point us in the same direction, and the Mango Tree Restaurant didn’t disappoint.

It’s cheap, centrally located and tasted so fresh! Rated #1 on TripAdvisor for a reason it’s the perfect way to finish your one day in Hampi itinerary!

Where To Stay In Hampi

Heritage Resort Hampi

Featuring an outdoor swimming pool and a spa and wellness centre, Heritage Resort Hampi offers accommodation in Hampi.

Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Every room has a cable TV.

Enjoy a cup of coffee while looking out at the pool or garden.

The rooms have a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hair dryer.

There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. Free private parking is available on site.

You can play table tennis and billiards at the resort. Services like laundry and dry cleaning are provided.

Vijayshree Resort & Heritage Village

Placed in the popular district of Goa-Bangalore, Vijayshree Resort & Heritage Village welcomes guests with well appointed rooms and a spacious outdoor swimming pool.

The Nirvana Spa, located at the pool side offers Ayurveda & Hamam spa inspired treatments to help guests relax, refresh and rejuvenate.

Spread over lush greenies guests at Vijayshree can go swimming or enjoy a relaxing spa. The property also offers indoor games and meeting facilities.

A 24-hour front desk can assist with laundry services and room service. Airport shuttle services are also available at a surcharge.

Netra Guest House

Situated in Hampi, Netra Guest House features accommodation with free WiFi and a restaurant.

There is a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries.

A continental breakfast is available each morning at the bed and breakfast.

For more places to stay in Hampi, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com .

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use Booking.com to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile.

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

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Hampi in 2 Days – Itinerary

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This post is a Hampi Travel Guide that contains a detailed Hampi 2-day Itinerary.

Hampi, a temple town in Karnataka is a UNESCO world heritage site situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra river. Once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century, Hampi was known to be a wealthy, prosperous and monumental city. Not only was Hampi the world's second-largest medieval-era city after Beijing, it was also India's richest city at the time. The grandeur of the ancient city is still prevalent in the majestic temples and the striking ruins, perched across a craggy landscape surrounded by lush banana plantations. I had read about and seen countless pictures of Hampi. I kept planning a trip and it kept getting delayed due to some reason or another. My family has a tradition of taking a road trip every January. Guess which place I suggested for our trip!

As the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire are spread over an area of 26 sq. km in and around Hampi, there are 2 options to explore them. If you have limited time then you can cover the more popular/ mainstream sites in 1 day. Whereas, if you wish to soak in the royalty and enjoy the architecture, then a 2 day trip to Hampi is the better option. Keeping both scenarios in mind, I have written about a 2-day itinerary for Hampi. Furthermore, I will be mentioning the sites which can be skipped so that you can squeeze in the important sites in one day. In case you want to see more pictures of Hampi and other destinations, then visit my Instagram profile (@thespicyjourney) .

Table of Contents

How to Reach Hampi

Nearest train station is Hospet junction which is 13 km from Hampi. Hospet is connected to Bangalore, Chennai, Goa, Hyderabed, Hubli, Mysore, Kolkata, Vijayawada, Tirupati, Ajmer, Jodhpur and Kolhapur.

Hampi is well-connected by regular buses to and from Bangalore, Goa, Karwar and Hubli.

A road trip to Hampi from Goa or from other cities makes for a viable option.

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How Many Days to Spend in Hampi?

In all honesty, Hampi is a place to visit on a weekend which is why I've created a blog post for the perfect Hampi itinerary for 2 days. However, if you don't have much time or are just passing by Hampi then you can even cover all the places to visit in Hampi in 1 day itself. On the other hand, if you're backpacking and wish to chill out for a while, then you can end up staying here for much longer, probably around 5-10 days even. So the choice is all yours - you can cover everything in two days or according to your schedule - there are no rules here.

HAMPI ITINERARY - DAY 1

1. Virupaksha Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Virupaksha or Pampapathi temple is the main center of pilgrimage in Hampi. Having been around since the 7th century, the temple started out as a little shrine which was later developed into a vast complex under the Vijayanagara rule. The temple consists of a shrine, a hall with innumerable pillars, three antechambers, courtyards, gateways and a few smaller shrines. The temple has three towers. The nine-tiered eastern tower rises 50 meters and dates back to the first half of the 15th century. Moreover, this tower has been built such that an inverted shadow of the tower falls on the western wall of the temple through a small hole. Ancient India was well-aware of the concept of the pinhole camera! While the northern gopuram has five storeys, the inner eastern gopuram is three storeys high. The temple attracts huge crowds in the month of December for the marriage festivities of Virupaksha and Pampa.

2. Hampi Bazaar

Once a thriving marketplace during the Vijayanagara rule, Hampi Bazaar was a well-planned market area. Located in from of the Virupaksha temple, the bazaar stretches for over 1 kilometer. While in the ancient times, merchants from foreign lands used to sell precious stones, jewelry, silk clothes, today the market still lives on, although it isn't as alluring. The current market has shopkeepers selling handmade jewelry, wall art, embroidered shawls, bags, stone figurines and the likes. Unfortunately, the market was closed down recently so anybody visiting Hampi henceforth can only look at the pavilions and imagine what the market used to look like.

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3. Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum, located 350m from Sri Virupaksha Temple, houses sculptures and antiques from different periods. The museum is in 4 sections.

The first section contains two scaled models of the Hampi topography along with monuments and temples located on it. This gives visitors an idea of the relative locations of the sites. the models also display the hills and rivers in Hampi.

The second section contains a large collection of sculptures and idols collected from the Hampi ruins. Most of these artifacts belong to Shiva worship and Veerabhadra cult.

The third section of the museum contains a collection of arms, coinage, tools, metal objects and other artifacts that were popular during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. A noteworthy exhibit in this section are documents made of brass and bundled together as a book using a ring.

In the fourth section you will find several antiquities that date back to the pre-historic and proto-historic eras. These objects are the oldest of all exhibits in the museum.

4. Vijaya Vittala Temple

No Hampi itinerary is complete without a visit to this structure! The most popular and the grandest of all structures in Hampi, the Vittala Temple is dedicated to Vittala, an aspect of Lord Vishnu. The sprawling campus features iconic structures such as the main temple, a stone chariot, pillared pavilions, halls and gateway towers. The temple, built in the Dravidian style of architecture, exemplifies the immense creativity and architectural magnificence possessed by the sculptors and artisans of the Vijayanagara empire.

The front of the temple houses a memorable intricately sculpted stone chariot. The chariot is a shrine dedicated to the eagle God, Garuda . Another interesting structure is the  maha mandapam , which has the most fascinating and famous part of the temple—the musical pillars. Carved out of a single rock, each of the massive pillars emits a different musical tone. The British, curious to discover the secrets of the musical pillars, cut two of them open. However, they were unable to find any device inside the pillars. The two pillars along with the others are still present for visitors to admire.

An extravagant architectural masterpiece, the Vijaya Vittala temple is the most visited and the most photographed site in Hampi. This place just cannot be missed. It's one of the most spectacular sight in Central and Southern India .

5. Saasivekalu Ganesha Temple

A huge statue of Lord Ganesha, carved out of a single rock is the main attraction of the Saasivekalu Ganesha Temple. The enormous statue rises to a height of 8 feet. This idol is seated in a large open mandapa (hall) surrounded by an open pavilion. If you observe carefully, you will find inscriptions on the pillars made by traders from Andhra Pradesh. These inscriptions are as old as 1200 AD and say that this status was build in memory of King Narasimha the Second of the Vijayanagara Empire. This temple is situated just 700 m away from Virupaksha Temple.

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6. Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex

The Hamekuta Hill Temple Complex is without a doubt, my favorite spot in Hampi. The cluster of ancient temples, archways and pavilions is situated just 200 m from the Saasivekalu Ganesha Temple. Some of these temples dates back to 9 th to 14 th  century and thus belonging to the era before the Vijayanagara Empire was founded. This hill is one of the best places to watch the sun go down. Besides, this hill is much easier to climb than the nearby Matanga hill.

Legend has it that Lord Shiva did penance before marrying a local girl, Pampa. Shiva was impressed by her dedication for him and thus consented to marry her. On this day it rained gold on this hill. Hema in Sanskrit language means gold. The name of the hill thus connects with this legend. Hence a number of temples in this area are dedicated to Lord Shiva, the major one being the Virupaksha Temple at the north of this hill.

Get here at least an hour and half before sunset. The place will be empty for you to click photographs. As sunset gets closer, the place will be swarming with tourists.

HAMPI ITINERARY - DAY 2

1. Queens’ Bath

Start your second day at Hampi with a visit to Queens' Bath. The ornate structure, spread across 30 sq. m has a large sunken open-sky bath in the center. The rectangular bath is surrounded by a big verandah , extended balconies and carved domes. The balconies are decorated with tiny windows and supported by lotus bud tipped brackets. The ancient unassuming building is an epitome of the luxurious life of the royal families.

The bath, although it's named as Queens' bath, was used by both Kings and Queens. In fact, it served as a royal pleasure house. From here, you can move on to the Royal Enclosure and the Zenana Enclosure.

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2. Dasara Dibba

Also known as the Mahanavami Dibba, the Dasara Dibba is an itricately carved stone platform located 650 m from the Queen's Bath. It was build by the King Krishnadevaraya after his conquest over the kingdom of Udayagiri, present day Orissa. The platform is about 12 m in height and played a prominent role during the Navaratri celebrations. The King used to sit atop this platform and watch the celebrations in the form of march pasts, sword fighting wrestling and royal processions. This is the first stop inside the Royal Enclosure.

3. Stepped Tank

Stepped Tank of Hampi or Pushkarni is located just 190 m from Dasara Dibba. A pushkarni is a sacred water tank that is usually attached to a temple. This tank is located inside the Royal Enclosure and is said to be used by the royals during religious ceremonies such as rituals, cleansing and during rites of concretion. The ornate tank is constructed out of finely finished blocks of black stones and displays architectural beauty. The mason marks on the individual blocks of stones mark the direction of flow of water. This tank is a sight to behold and cannot be missed when in Hampi !

4. Hazara Rama Temple

Beyond the stepped tanks, 700 m away lies the resplendent Hazara Rama Temple. The small yet elaborately carved temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. It was once the private temple of the kings and the royal family of Vijayanagara. The relationship between the temple and the royal family is depicted in the reliefs covering the outer surface of the compound walls. They portray pictures of elephants, horses with attendants, military contingents and dancing ladies.

The most stirring feature of the temple is that the walls of the temple carry the entire story of Ramayana carved on stone.

5. Lotus Mahal

The Lotus Mahal, at a distance of 500 m from the Hazara Rama Temple is located inside the Zenana Enclosure. This enclosure was the residential area of the queens. Only lady guards and maids were allowed inside this area. The Lotus Mahal is named such due to the top view of the structure, which resembles a lotus flower. The picturesque palace is a two-storeyed building which is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture. The palace is surrounded by trees and a grassy area, making it a scenic site.

Must Read: A Complete Guide to Kodaikanal

6. Elephant Stables

A stone's throw away from Lotus Mahal lies the Elephant Stable. This impressive long building with a row of domed chambers was used to ‘park’ the royal elephants of the grand Vijayanagara Empire. The whole building looks symmetric with respect to a central hall. The tower of the central hall resembles that of a temple shrine. However, the domes to either side of the central dome are alternately of Islamic and Buddhist style.  All the chambers have high ceilings and have a small opening at the rear from where the mahouts could enter and exit. There is a central hook embedded in the ceiling of the central dome which was most likely used to hook the elephants. Also noteworthy is a hidden staircase which is used to reach to roof of the building. The guards' barracks are located next to the elephant stables.

7. Malyavantha Raghunatha Temple

https://www.instagram.com/p/BesVSVchDXV/

Approximately 4 km from Zenana Enclosure and 4.5 km from Vijaya Vittala temple lies the Malyavantha Raghunatha Temple. According to mythology, Rama and Lakshmana were looking for a shelter during the monsoon season. Rama aimed an arrow in the Malyavanta hill direction. Hence, Rama and Lakshmana stayed here till the monsoon rains are over, before they marched to Lanka along with the army of vanaras . The temple complex is typical of any temple in Hampi. Further along the temple, an archway leads towards a cliff of boulders from where you get a panoramic view of Hampi's open fields. This spot is perfect for taking pictures and idly enjoying the sunset.

1 Day Hampi Itinerary

If you have just 1 day in Hampi, visit only the following Hampi attractions:

• Virupaksha Temple
• Vijaya Vittala Temple
• Queens' Bath
• Dasara Dibba
• Stepped Tank
• Hazara Rama Temple
• Lotus Mahal
• Elephant Stables
• Saasivekalu Ganesha Temple
• Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex

If you have some time to spare, visit the Malyavantha Raghunatha Temple. All of these are doable in one day if you start your day early.

Restaurants in Hampi - Where to Eat

Hampi has some of the finest restaurants and cafes serving scrumptious food. My favourite one is Mango Tree , shown in the picture above. The restaurant is quite popular among the foreign crowd and there's never a time when the place is empty. They serve individual meals, which I think is great. Other popular restaurants in Hampi are Gowthami Guest House , German Bakery , Laughing Buddha and Ganesh Chillout . You'll find a good mixture of Israeli, South Indian and continental cuisine in most places.

Must Read: Top Places to Visit in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry

Where to Stay in Hampi - Hotels in Hampi

Being a popular destination, there's no shortage of hotels in Hampi. Most people choose to stay in Hospete, a tiny city on the outskirts of Hampi.

Find Hotels in Hampi onBooking.com

Did You Enjoy Reading this Hampi Itinerary?

If you liked reading this Hampi itinerary for 2 days and the additional Hampi 1 day itinerary that I’ve put together based just for you then follow me on my social media handles Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter to receive quick updates and be the first one to know when I release a new blog post!

31 Comments

Been there some years back, but surely a place I would look to visit again. Did you do the throw the coin in the water-body thingy? you ought to have visited the sloth bear sanctuary too. They look cute as teddy bears. Just a bit outside Hampi.

This place is amazing, I want to go back to India right now! Indian temples are so beautiful and I love the stories and legends behind them, like that of the Malyavantha Raghunatha temple.

I’m a massive fan of the Indian mythology too! Do come back to India soon to explore some temples 🙂

I’ve never heard of Hampi but I love your photos of it. Two days seems like the perfect amount of time to spend there. I have always like statues of Ganesha, so I think that would be the sight I’d most want to see.

Thank you Stella. Yes, 2 days was just about right for Hampi 🙂

What an amazing blog! I was in Hampi just a few months ago.. i could literally relive my memories through your blog! Loved it.. ?

Thanks Kanika. Happy to refresh your memory !!

Oh man, my list of places to see in India only gets longer. Hampi looks incredible with all the temples to explore. And that stepped tank is something to marvel at.

Haha India has a never-ending list of monuments, temples, forts and what not. The stepped tank is indeed a marvel and a unique identifier of India.

Loving your dress. These are beautiful architectures. Makes me want to visit India more.

Thank you !! Do try to visit India as soon as you can 🙂

I was in Hampi last November and it was my second time! I can definitely not get enough of that place. One thing is true indeed -you need atleast a week to see it well!

Oh yes!! I wouldn’t mind spending a week there!

Your article reminded me about my journey to hampi few years ago. And I spent there exactly two days. I wish I know your blog back then that would be very helpful information.

I’m glad you liked my blog 🙂 I hope I can inspire more people to refer to my guides and take trips !!

Oh, Hampi! It is such a wonderful place. I had been there last October and it was an amazing trip. I went on a nostalgic trip reading your post. But yes, you need a lot more time to explore and understand Hampi. Loved the post!

Thank you Amrita!! I’m glad you were able to refresh your memory through my blog 🙂

Hampi is on my India’s must-visit places to explore given credit to its history. I have known a little bit about the Vijaya Vittala Temple, but the rocks of the pillars emits music, that must be something to experience. I would love to see the Queen’s bath, its grandeur is imminent.

The musical pillars were out of a fairy tale! It’s forbidden to play music on the pillars now but some guides do it anyways. I’m guilty of listening to it but it was a great experience!!

This looks like such a cool place! I want to visit Hampi and this looks like a really detailed guide. Thanks for sharing!

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Hellow my name is Martinpeado. Wery good post! Thx 🙂

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Hey! I’ve always wanted to visit Hampi. I have visited North India but not the South yet! I’m looking to go back next year and have found this itinerary really helpful! Thankyou so much! Hampi looks a beautiful place. Was it peaceful? Out of curious did you not get temple fatigue seeing that many in one day?

Love Alex xxx

Hey Alex! South India is beautiful and I’m glad you’ll be making your way here soon. I, personally, did not get temple fatigue in Hampi because each of them is quite unique. If you notice all the points of interests mentioned in my post, each location has it’s own backstory, which was quite intriguing. That being said, Hampi is turning into a hippie paradise and you can easily stay here a few days to relax.

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Can you suggest good hotels around Hampi with good food and hygiene taken care off

For mythology lovers, there’s more in Hampi. There is Anjaneya Parvat, believed to be birth place of Lord Hanuman, the monkey god of epic, Ramayan fame, atop a hill with 575 steps. It also gives a 360° panaromic view of the area. Also there is Kishkindha, the abode of Bali & Sugreev as also the cave in which Bali fought a demon. One can also visit Pampa Sarovar, one of the 5 sacred sarovar of hindus, besides which is the place where Sabri fed Ram & Laxman with plumbs and guided them to seek help of Bali to search Sita, called Savari Ashram.

Hi, Your blog served as a reference for me to visit hampi over the weekend on a solo trip. Created a list of places from your blog and visited all of them. Thanks for writing 🙂

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Hampi Tour by Tuk-Tuk (Auto Rickshaw)

Trip Overview

A Hampi Sightseeing Tour by Tuk-Tuk (autorickshaw) is probably the best and most efficient way of exploring Hampi. History is alive and kicking in Hampi, and you're going to see it all with an expert auto-rickshaw drive to keep you appraised of the history behind each monument you visit.

Hampi Tour by Tuk-Tuk Highlights

• Explore Hampi, the city of ruins, by a Tuk Tuk  
• Witness the set of UNESCO World Heritage monuments

For any specific queries, click on the  'Chat'   button or  WhatsApp  Click here

Detailed Trip Overview

Hampi used to be the imperial capital of the Vijayanagar Empire, and while the structures are many centuries old, they still remain stunning. Travel comfortably in the autorickshaw and see ancient temples and historic ruins in Hampi. We visit monuments such as Virupaksha Temple, the Monolithic Bull, Elephant Stables, the Stone Chariot at Vijaya Vithala Temple, and Lotus Temple. Marvel at the architecture of the Queen's bath used by royal ladies of those times. At Hazara Rama Temple, see the amazing stone carvings depicting stories from the epic Ramayana. Other amazing locations in Hampi town include the Underground Shiva Temple and the Ugra Narasimha Statue. On this day tour, we also visit the wonderful Hampi Bazaar and Sasivekalu Ganesh, known for their great architecture and remarkable female statues.

On this amazing sightseeing package, just get in a Tuk Tuk for a wonderful experience, and the treasures of Hampi can't wait to meet you!

Hampi Tour by Tuk-Tuk Itinerary:

• The driver will pick up the guests from Hampi, as mentioned while booking.
• The driver will transfer the guests to the hotel if the pick-up is from the Hampi bus stand. The guests can drop off their luggage and check in, after which we start our Hampi tour.
• We start our tour of attractions in and around Hampi and visit the most popular places in Hampi.
• We can stop at a nearby local restaurant for lunch near Hampi bazaar (at your own expense)
• We will continue visiting the rest of the monuments and finally drop you back at the hotel.

Places covered in this tour:

• Virupaksha Temple:  This is part of a group of monuments designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Hampi Bazaar:  It was a local market where people used to sell heaps of jewels and gold.
• Kadalekalu Ganesha  is one of the largest and most monolithic statues of Lord Ganesha that exist in the southern part of India
• Sasivekalu Ganesha:  This monolithic statue carved out of a huge boulder measures about 2.4 meters 
• Krishna Temple:  The Krishna temple is known for its exquisite carvings and elegant architectural designs.
• Krishna Bazaar  is a relatively newly excavated site in Hampi, and this Bazaar is associated with the Krishna temple
• Monolithic Ugra Narasimha Statue:  The specialty of the sculpture is that it is the largest monolith statue in Hampi.
• Badavi Linga:  This is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a monolithic statue.
• Underground Shiva Temple  is one of the popular temples that are visited by tourists on the Hampi Trail.
• Mint Area:  These are the temples situated in the much-popular Royal enclosure, which falls on the way to Kamalapuram from Hampi.
• A viewpoint of Noble Men's Quarters:  This is where the aristocrats of Vijayanagar lived. The ruins of the foundations spread out over a valley at the foot of small, rocky hills.
• Zanana Enclosure:  The Zenana Enclosure was a fortified and secluded area reserved for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire.
• Lotus Mahal, also known as Chitrangani Mahal and Kamal Mahal, falls under the secular or nonreligious categories of structures in Hampi.
• Elephant Stables:  The Elephant Stable in Hampi is an impressive structure that was used to provide shelter for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire.
• Watch Tower:  This is the largest and most detailed of all the watchtowers among the Hampi ruins.
• Hazara Rama Temple:  This temple, located near Lord Rama, is an important shrine in Hampi.
• Royal Enclosure:  This fortified area had been the seat of power for the fallen empire.
• Mahanavami Dibba:  This is the tallest structure in this area and hence the first thing you would notice as you entered the royal enclosure
• Underground Secret Chamber:  This sub-terrain chamber has probably used the treasury of a secret discussion room located inside the citadel area.
• Stepped Tanks:  Pushkarini are the sacred water tanks that are attached to the temples, and these were considered sacred during ancient times.
• Queen's Bath:  The Queen’s bath in Hampi is a colossal bath that exemplifies the architectural excellence prevalent during the days of the Vijayanagara Empire

*Note: Many attractions are next to each other or in the same complex, so while the tour covers a lot of places, it is still not rushed.

Basic Details

• Pick-up from Hampi Hotel/Bus-stand 
• All transfers & sightseeing in Tuk-Tuk (auto rickshaw)
• Expert auto-rickshaw driver with local knowledge
• Private tour for your group only (upto 3 people in one auto/TukTuk)
• Entrance tickets
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

Why book with TRODLY

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• No Convinience or Booking fees.
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Important Information

• Tour can be started from your hotel in Hampi, bus stand. Please enter pick-up location while booking.
• Pick-up can be arranged at an extra cost for Hospet 

Cancellation Policy

• Full refund if cancelled before* 3 days
• No refund after that

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

With so many places mentioned on itinerary, does the tour become very hectic.

No not at all. In Hampi many attractions and monuments are actually with a common complex and quire near to each other. So we spend less time commuting and more time at the monuments.

6 travellers found this helpful

Does the guide speak other languages.

They can speak English, Kannada, Hindi and some Telugu.

5 travellers found this helpful

Reviews ( 4 ), operator code #337, ganapathirao np.

26 Dec 2023

Thanks for providing good service. Mr.Kiran who picked up in his Auto and extended full support in visiting various places in Hampi til dropping. We are very much thankful to Mr.Kiran.

Stephen rowe

23 Feb 2023

The driver arrived at our hotel punctually as booked and also arranged a very experienced local guide to ensure we had an excellent tour. The guide was an extra payment but absolutely worthwhile. 10 out of 10 !!!

Siva rama praveen krovvidi

09 Jan 2023

Great Tour by TUK TUK, very informative & enjoyable

12 Mar 2019

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Meet-up Information/Reporting Point

• Pick-up from Hampi hotel or guest house
• Pick-up can also be arranged from Hospet bus stand at an extra cost
• The driver will pick you up directly from your hotel or specified pick up point. Please enter the full pick up address at the checkout page.

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Historical Hampi – a complete travel guide

Architecture , Karnataka

Last Updated on: Nov 2, 2017  

Hampi was in our bucket list for long. The place has everything that could possibly pull us towards itself – the story of a lost kingdom, architectural marvels from our past that we could boast of and a rugged yet alluring landscape. Hampi being a UNESCO World Heritage site was an added attraction (my love for these old, dull, decaying structures is now well known to my readers). So Hampi had to be in our trip when we visited Karnataka this year.

Table of Contents

Where is the historical city Hampi?

Hampi, the historical and mythological city is located in Karnataka. From Bengaluru, the distance of Hampi is about 365 km and from Hyderabad, it is 380 km. So you can easily access the place from both Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Hospet is the nearest town. Thus Hampi can serve as a great weekend destination from Bangalore and Hyderabad.

What is the History of Hampi?

Hampi is full of stories – stories from the historical past as well as the mythological anecdotes. Infact, the history of the place gradually mingles with the folklore and then subtly blends with mythology.

Hampi is also known as the Pampa Kshetra and Kiskinda Kshetra. These magical stories of Hampi are inexorably linked with the Hindu mythology.

Pampa was the daughter of Lord Brahma. She was a fierce devotee of Lord Shiva. The Lord pleased with her devotion wanted to grant her a boon. She wanted him as her husband. Lord Shiva had to give in to Pampa’s demand, but before marrying her, the Lord did penance at the Hemakuta Hills (He was already married to Parvati). And then it rained gold on the hill. “Hema” is the Sanskrit term for gold and hence the hill came to be known as Hemakuta Hills.

Hampi is also known as Kiskinda Kshetra. It is said that the Vanara kingdom of Kiskinda of the Ramayana was actually here. The Kiskinda episode of the Hindu epic Ramayana was based here at Hampi. Infact, it is believed that Anjaneya Hills was the birthplace of Hanuman, the faithful devotee of Lord Rama.

Those were the mythological stories around Hampi. The history starts with the popular folklore that two local chieftains Hakka and Bukka were on a hunting expedition when they viewed an unusual sight. A hound was chasing a hare which was normal. But suddenly, the hare became all-powerful and started chasing the hound. Hakka and Bukka reported this strange incident to their guru (master) Vidyaranya. The Guru could foresee the place to be special and asked his disciples to shift their local capital to that very place. Thus one of the richest and most beautiful kingdoms were born. This was during 1323 when the two brothers laid the foundation of the Sangama dynasty, the first rulers of Vijaynagar, the City of Victory. From 1323 to 1565 for almost 200 years, four dynasties ruled over Hampi and made the Vijaynagar empire one of the richest and famous empires. Hampi was also one of the biggest trading centres of those times and the markets of Hampi were always abuzz with traders and merchants not only from India but also from other parts of the world. No wonder that we see so many market areas in Hampi!

Hampi had reached its pinnacle during the reign of Krishna Deva Raya of Tuluva dynasty who ruled between 1509 to 1529. Hampi at that time reached great heights under the progressive and international trading practices. Also, the art and architecture flourished with beautiful and magnificent temples being made around the city.

But the golden era of Hampi did not last long. The empire was brutally attacked by the Deccan Sultans during 1565 and Hampi fell under their attack. The Deccan Sultans looted and ransacked the city for almost six months leaving only mass destruction everywhere. The temples were damaged and the markets were robbed; ultimately nothing left of the great empire. The empire was ruled by different kings after the massive attack, but it could never regain its lost glory. Gradually, the city lost its strategic importance and gradually lost into oblivion. The city became a ghost city.

The story about the boulders of Hampi:

The boulders in Hampi has the composition of granite. They belong to what is known as Eastern Dharwar Craton. A craton is a piece of the Earth’s crust that has existed as a solid, without being modified by plate tectonics, since they were formed. These boulders are highly metamorphosed.

However, Hindu mythology has a more dramatic and colourful answer to the boulders of Hampi. The place was believed to be Kiskinda and there was a battle for power between the two monkey brothers Bali and Sugreeva. In the fierce battle between the two brothers, the army threw boulders at each other and thus these boulders were piled up all around Hampi. Well, almost everything in India has a mythological essence linked to it.

What is Hampi famous for?

Hampi is a wonderland. The place is like an open museum – you just have to explore the place at your own pace and discover its charm. And be ready to get surprised even at nondescript places; because even in ruins, Hampi is charismatic. So we have collated a list of places that should not be missed while you are at Hampi.

• The Virupaksha Temple

One of the most prominent structures of Hampi is the Virupaksha Temple located on the southern banks of the Tungabhadra River. Standing tall near the market area, it is not easy to miss the temple.  It is an important place of worship for all the Shiva worshippers. The temple is a grand structure sprawling over a large area with many smaller shrines, pillared halls and gateways. The temple also has an interesting engineering marvel – working of one of the first pinhole cameras can be seen here.

• The Vijaya Vittala Temple

The Vijaya Vittala Temple is the most extravagant architectural wonder of Hampi. The temple is spread across a large complex where there are numerous halls, pavilions and gateways. Outside the main temple complex, there are other ruins also. Seems like an entire town had been set up there. In fact, it is the remains of the ancient town of Vittalapura. Vittala, another form of Lord Vishu was worshipped in the temple. The most extraordinary feature of this temple is the stone chariot.

• Hampi Bazar

Near the present day market of Hampi, also stands the old Hampi Bazar. The bazaar is also known as the Virupaksha Bazar and is located in front of the temple.  The sides of the street are lined by old pavilions that used to the yesteryear markets.

• The Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

The Lakshmi Narasimha statue is the largest statue in Hampi. Narasimha is sitting on the coil of Seshnag, a giant seven-headed snake. The statue presents a menacing look of Lord Vishnu in his Narasimha avatar (incarnation). The original statue had Goddess Lakshmi sitting on the lap of the God. But the statue was damaged heavily during the fall of the Vijaynagar empire.

• Krishna Temple

The Krishna Temple was built by the King Krishnadevaraya in 1513 AD to commemorate his victory over the kingdom of Udaygiri or Utkala (in the present day Odisha). The main idol inside the temple was the figure of Balakrishna (Lord Krishna as an infant). This idol is now displayed in the state museum at Chennai. There is a huge slab inside the temple that tells the story of the conquest of Utkala.

• Hemakuta Hills

The hill is just near the Virupaksha Temple. The hill provides a gorgeous sight of the Virupaksha Temple and the other ruins of the Vijaynagar empire. The hill itself has a large number of ruins of temples, archways and pavilions. This is one of the places to view the splendid sunsets at Hampi.

• Sasivekalu Ganesha

The temple is situated very near to the Hemakuta hills and a little south of the Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple. This is a giant statue of Lord Ganesha.

• Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple

This temple is situated on the north-eastern slope of the Hemakuta Hills. Here a giant statue of Lord Ganesha is present that is carved out of a single stone.The belly of this statue resembles a Bengal gram (Kadalekalu, in local language) and hence the name.

• Matanga Hills

The Matanga Hill is just at the centre of Hampi and you can get a bird’s eye view of the entire place from here. while at Hampi, do not forget to view the spectacular sunset from the Matanga Hills. We missed the sunset at Hampi this time because it was raining heavily on both the evenings of our stay!

• Hazara Rama Temple

The Hazara Rama Temple was built in the early part of the 15 th century by Devaraya II, the emperor of Vijaynagar. This small but beautiful temple is located in the centre of the royal area. The temple once served as the private temple of the royal household of the Vijaynagar empire. The “Hazara Rama” literally means “a thousand Rama” and the temple carries the story of Ramayana carved on stone. The relics found in this temple is one of the most extensive ones found in India.

• The Anjaneya Hill and Temple

The Anjaneya Hill is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. The hill is located on the other side of River Tungabhadra on the Anegondi Area. There is a temple on the hilltop dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

• Pampa Sarovar

The Pampa Sarovar is one of the sacred ponds among the Hindus and is located near the Anjaneya Hills. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Pampa Devi beside the pond.

• Durga Temple

The Durga temple is also located on the Anegondi side on a small hillock. The temple is located at the base of a fort. Hence it is also believed that its name is derived from the word “Durg”, meaning fort. We moved further from the temple towards the gate of the fort.  There were a number of tombs belonging to the Vijayanagar dynasty. We trekked a further up and came to the edge of a rock. The place was simply out of the world. The whole of Hampi was in front of us – we got a panoramic view of the whole place. Didn’t I tell you that Hampi would surprise you at the strangest of places? We never thought that the place would be so beautiful.

Other places of interest at Hampi are the Queen’s Bath, Mahanavami Dibba, Zenana enclosure, Courtesan’s Street, Royal enclosure, Sugreeva’s cave and Bhima’s Gateway.

How to Reach Hampi?

The nearest railhead to Hampi is Hospet. Hospet is well connected to Bangalore by buses and train. From Hospet, you can take an auto to Hampi. We took an overnight bus from Bangalore to Hospet. From Hospet we took an auto to Hampi. The auto took Rs.150 from us. There are local buses from Hospet to Hampi that you can get from the Hospet bus stand.

The nearest airport to Hampi is the Bengaluru airport.

Places to stay & eat:

Hampi has a lot of accommodation options for various ranges. You can stay near the market area near the Virupaksha Temple where you will find a lot of options according to your choice. We stayed at the Rocky Guest House.

You can also opt to stay on the other side of the Tungabhadra River. There are a number of homestays in this area. This area has a Goa like feel to it. The foreigners mostly stay in this part.

Hampi has a number of restaurants for eating out. Most of the guest houses have restaurants on their top floor where you can eat.

If you want cheaper eating options, the best places are the roadside shops. We had great South Indian fares at the roadside at a very cheap rate.

What is the best time to Visit Hampi?

Hampi can be visited all round the year. but given that you have to roam around a lot around Hampi, the winter season are the preferable time. Also, the Hampi Festival is held during the month of November.

What is the best way to travel around Hampi?

Hampi is a place that should be explored and discovered by yourself.  At Hampi, you will get bicycles at rent at very cheap rate. You will get bicycles without gear at Rs.100/- per day and with gear at Rs.150/- per day.

You can also get moped for rent at Rs.200/- per day. You will not get scooty and bikes for rent at the temple side of Hampi.

At the Anegundi site, you will get scooty and bikes for rent at Rs.250-400/- per day depending upon your vehicle.

The rate of the vehicles may also vary with seasons.

There are also autorickshaws that you can take to see the various places in Hampi.

Why should you visit Hampi?

If heritage and history is your thing, if you get intrigued by the stories of the past, then Hampi is a place that you must visit. Each stone in Hampi tells a story, be it stories about the Vijaynagar kingdom or the mythological stories that are so good to listen.

If you like the architecture of the past, visit Hampi. The Virupaksha Temple and the Vittala Temple are the finest examples of architectures. You will simply get awed by the intricate designs and craftsmanship of these structures.

If you like adventure, then you must visit Hampi. You will get wonderful opportunity to do bouldering. The coracle ride at the Tungabhadra river is also a beauty.

If you love nature, visit Hampi. A small temple town beside the Tungabhadra river dotted with numerous boulders seems a playground for nature’s architecture.

Simply visit Hampi. Unless you visit the place, you will definitely not know why you should visit Hampi.

Some important tips:

• Ideally, it would take around 3 days to visit Hampi. But you can see most of the important places in two days. We did a two days trip to Hampi and covered almost all the places. Unfortunately, we had to miss the Matunga Hills as it was raining heavily in the evening on both the days.
• Most of the places are opened from sunrise to sunset.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes as you have to roam around a lot in Hampi. That is why shoes are very important.
• Reserve one day for the Anegondi side of Hampi. Believe me, this also a wonderful place. The views from the Anjaneya Hills and the top of the Durga Temple is simply breathtaking.
• While at Hampi, do not forget to take a coracle ride at the Tungabhadra River. This is going to be an experience of a lifetime.
• Do not forget to meet Lakhsmi, the elephant of the Virupaksha temple. Lakshmi goes for a bath every morning at the Tungabhadra River. try not to miss the scene.
• You can cross the Tungabhadra River near the Virupaksha temple to go towards the other side. There are motor boats that take Rs.25/- per head. And if you want, you can also get a coracle to cross the river to the other side.

Did you like the post? Please share your views by commenting below. We would love to hear from you. Also, contact us if you need any help in planning your trip to Hampi.

Reproduction of the content, including the photographs without prior consent/permission of the writer and photographer, is not encouraged at all and a violation of the same will attract legal action. If you need anything, Contact Us .

Hey! we’re Agni & Amrita.

We have been travelling together since the last 15 years and writing independent and personal travel content since 2014. Travel is one of the best teachers and through this blog, we aim to share our experiences and travel tips. We encourage you to travel more and see the world through your eyes and not through filtered templates.

Find more about us.

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39 Comments

Wow.. Love reading about Hampi and the stories behind it… Hampi does look like an open museum with all the temples and incredible structures. Would love to see the panoramic view as well. It sounds magical!

Hampi is amazing. The history and natural beauty make it a great visit from Goa, Hyderabad and other places in South India. Thanks for sharing this article.

I visited Hampi in 2015 from Mumbai. It was just awesome. Thanks for posting. The world needs to know about this place.

Great. I hope you enjoyed

amazing photographs . I had visited this place 11 years back with family . Te area is radically changed over the years. Please inform me on my email whether you had used any kindly of photographic filter .

Thank you Arun. 11 years is a long time! 🙂 We had not used any filters for the photograph. The sky in itself was dramatic that day with clouds and everything!

Great travelogue, guys! Loved reading it!

Thank you Priyanka!

Very well described.. i recently visited this awesome place and it give very rich experience of backpacking travel..

Thank you so much! Glad that you liked it.

iam planning a trip to hampi this november. while searching about hampi i came to see ur post. it covered all the aspects of hampi a traveller wants to know with super narrations and awesome fotos. stay blessed

Thank you so much!

as i plan bangalore, Mysore Ooty, how do I connect Hampi?

You will get overnight buses from Bangalore to Hampi. Check the KSRTC website for online booking.

Thank You “AA”, the experience you share help a lot, I always love historical places, and found Hampi one of the best, as of its statue and other, I am sure to visit in nest year and going to share with you My experience, thank you again.

Thank you so much. Hope you enjoy Hampi and do let us know how your trip went.

Beautifully written 🙂

Wonderful read. Thanks for sharing your experiences. I would be going there in a couple of days time and this was really helpful.

thank you for such beautiful write up and mentioning each information in detail. it will be helpful for travel lovers around the world.

Thank you so much. Glad that you liked it.

I love nature especially I like adventure places. Therefore, mostly I travel towards different places. In this way, I spend my most time near to nature.

Just read your blog and You covered a great deal of points there. Impressive! Just visited Hampi and posted my video vlog of the place. I’d be glad if you check it out!

Thanks Sam. Your video is equally great!

Thanks for the share of the post and content

How many days does it take to cover Hampi ? How about Badami ?

Would end Feb be a good time to visit Hampi/badami ?

2-3 days are good enough for Hampi. We had spent 2 days there. Badami also requires one full day. February is definitely a good time.

Fantastic Travel Guide. I appreciate your blog site..keep going with it.

Wow! What a great and awesome blog.I am truly grateful for you providing us more information.

Hi thanks for the info. Would u know any professional guide who would explain in more details.

Thank you Abhimanyu! We do not know of any professional guides at Hampi, but I am sure you will find them there.

Thanks for this Information

Will covering all these spots in Hampi & around be physically strenuous?

Covering all the spots in a single day will be a bit strenuous. You can hire a scooty or bike to move around. Or you can also take an auto to move from one place to another.

Interesting Blog. I am planning to go with all senior citizen. Are there climbing up on hills or is it simply walking. Do we get rental cars?

Hello Rashmi, thanks for stopping by our blog. Most of the attractions can be done by simply walking. There are a few points where you have to climb. It is advisable to hire an auto rickshaw or e-rickshaw for going from one point to another. Have a wonderful trip.

Well written!!!

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3 Day Hampi Itinerary

The scale and spread of the sites in Hampi demands you to plan for many days to explore Hampi. The following gives an idea on how to plan your Hampi exploration strategy.

Signpost by the Karnataka Tourism Department in Hampi

The auto-rickshaw & car options are faster, but leaves out the thrill of you 'exploring' the sites.

A very popular strategy is to hire a bicycle or moped (if you have less energy/time!) to cover the distances and do it on foot.

See: Itinerary and Bicycle and Moped Rentals . By the way, if you are looking for a one day whirlwind tour of Hampi, see the 1 Day Hampi Itinerary

For the sake of explanation here, we've divided the area into 5 clusters, each needs about 4 hours to explore. Also 5 tentative routes are suggested. The clusters and the routes are marked on the Itinerary map. Depending on your situation, you may need to customize your plan, than say follow it verbatim as detailed here....

Route 1: Covers the Sacred Center surrounding the Virupaksha Temple vicinity. Start from the Sasivekalu Ganesha pavilion on the slops of the Hemakuta Hill facing the main road. This is on the south end of the hill.

Climb up further (it's a gentle slope) to explore the Hemakuta Hill Shrines in a south to north direction. (there are many temples and gateways to see here). Exit the Hemakuta Hill through a massive, incomplete tower on the northern slops. You'll reach the main entrance tower of Virupaksha Temple.

After Virupaksha Temple visit take the Hampi Bazaar and come towards the Hampi Bus stand area. Head further south on the main road. The Kadalekalu Ganesha and Sasivekalu Ganesha shrines appears on your left, by the slops of the Hemakuta Hill.

Now you are back to the point where begin this walk. You may pick up your bicycle/moped parked before venturing on to Hemakuta Hill, and head for the Krishna Temple and the Krishna Bazaar located southward. After this head further south till you spot the signboard for the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple and the adjacent Badavilinga shrine. Take a detour by walk (bikes/mopeds not allowed). Back to the main road. Head further south. The road makes a bend around the Chandikesvara Temple and the living Uddana Veerabhadra Temple. You'll also spot a tall monolithic lamp-post by the corer of the Chandikeshava Temple and a sati stone (memorial of wife who burned herself in the pyre of her dead husband) beneath it. So this is the culmination of your sacred center lap.

You can now head for the cluster 3, that is the Royal Center cluster. This itinerary starts at Sisters Stones, which is about 500 meters/0.3 mile south.

You may even do the Route 1 in reverse direction, that is start from Chandikeshava Temple and end at the Hampi Bazaar/Virupaksha Temple locality.In this case you can proceed for the Route 2 or Route 5

This is a 3 km/2 miles walk, rather trek, from the Hampi Bazaar area to the vicinity of the Vittala Temple. You'll essentially covering the Riverside Ruins and large deal of monuments, boulder formations and of course the river Tungabadra's gorge. No motor-able trails. At the best you can carry your bicycle, if you are prepared to carry it about half the route which is boulder strewn trails.

After Hampi Bazaar exploration head to the far end of the street where you'll find the Monolithic Bull pavilion.

Right next to it is a flight of steps to a small hilltop where you'll find a tiny Hanuman shrine with a beautiful image of Hanuman in the boulder inside the shrine. As you descend, you'll be in the vicinity of Achyuta Raya’s Temple.

After the Achyuta Rayas Temple visit take the wide street in front of it with ruined pavilions on either sides. This is the Courtesans Street. Midway on this ancient street you'll find a restored temple pond called Pushkarani.

Towards the end of the street on your right is the Rangatha Temple with a large image of Lord Vishnu in reclining posture with his consorts sitting by his feet. Nearby is the Varaha Temple with a incomplete gateway where you'll find the Vijayanagara Emblem engraved on it's gateway.

Take left after you exit the Courtesan’s Street. You'll find a few living temples and shrines here. Visit the Kodandarama Temple facing the river, Yantrodhara Anjaneya Temple a little up and behind Kodandarama Temple and of course the Chakratirtha where the river make a sprawling expanse before plunge through a narrow gorge. You'll also find people offering coracle crossing or short coracle tour (recommended) around this area.

Trace the riverbank eastward from here, you'll discover some interesting carvings and shrines, like a 1008 and 108 siva linga carved on a sheet of rock, a beautiful image of Parvati, avatars of Vishnu etc. No marked trails. You need to scramble over the massive heaps of boulders to explore the Riverside Ruins area. Leave the bicycle back somewhere near the Kodandarama Temple or Varaha Temple to be picked up after you've explored this boulder strewn stretch of your itinerary.

You'll see the pyramid shaped tower of the Narasimha Temple up on the gentle slops overlooking the river. Nearby is the Sugreevas Cave with ocher and white stripes painted on the boulder. From the vantage points of Narasimha Temple you can also get a fine wiew of the rest of the trail ahead, including the remains of an Ancient Bridge across the river. The trail now passes through a two storied gateway and ends in the vicinity of Vittala Temple. Before that you'll find a tall archway like structure popularly called the Kings Balance made of slender boulder pillars. At the base of the King's Balance you can find the image of Krishnadevraya, the most well known kings of the empire. Other attractions around the Vittala Temple are the Inscribed Vishnu Temple and the Purandradasa Mantapa by the riverside.

Like mentioned in case of Route 1 , you may do Route 2 also in the reverse direction, that is start from the Vittala Temple and end at Hampi Bazaar. Reserve some 3-4 hours for this route.

This is a 3 km/2 miles or so trail where you'll explore the core of Hampi's citadel. This area is called the Royal Center as most of the imperial complexes of the erstwhile capital is located. You can take bicycle/moped to most of the monuments in this trail. Some level of walk is indeed needed.

Start from the Hampi main road at the Sister Stones , locally called Akka Tangi Gudda .

This is a natural archway formed by two giant boulders one leaning on the other. It's partly collapsed recently due to a fissure one one of the boulders.

A little south, leave the main road and take the dirt track. You'll see signposts for Royal Enclosure at the junction.

The next stop is the Underground Siva Temple a temple complex located beneath the ground level.

A little ahead you'll pass Noblemens Quarters which is sprawling residence complexes , only the foundations remain. The nobles of the Vijayanagara court lived here.

Further ahead enter the walled complex called the Dannayaka Enclosure where you'll find a maze of walls and basement of erstwhile palaces. Not everything is marked with signposts.

At the corner of this enclosure is a massive watchtower called Mohammadan Watch Tower with dome roof, a fine example of Vijayanagara military architecture.

Deep inside this area explore the Band Tower, The Mosque , the Mint area , Palace of Vira Harihara , Palace of Krishnadevaraya , a number of ponds, a platform to alight from elephant etc.

Exit this enclosure and continue on the mud track that will join another trail near the Hazara Rama Temple , which is one of the main attractions in this area.

Facing Hazara Rama Temple is an ancient street curiously called Pan Supari Bazaar (beetle-nut market) with a number of pavilions and other ruined structures.

Near to Hazara Rama Temple is the entry to the Royal Enclosure , the citadel. Right next to the entry point look for the Large Stone Trough used to hold water for the horses of the nobles attending the court.

There numerous attractions inside the Royal Enclosure like the geometrically thrilling stepped tank , the underground chamber which served as the war room for secret discussions , massive aquatic complexes, the king's audience hall and the tallest structure the Mahanavami Dibba from which the king watched the military parade .

Come out of Royal enclosure, you'll find two massive Stone Doors kept near a tree.

Heading north will take you to another enclosed area called Zenena Enclosure (the harem) and behind it the Elephant Stable and the Ranga Temple all must visit attractions. You may plan to visit Zenena Enclosure on the same day you've visit the Vittala Temple as the tickets are valid for the same if used on the same day. (So these two monuments are included in Route 4 itinerary )

From the Stone Doors if you head south, the mud track finally joins the Hampi main road. At the junction is the Queens Bath used as pleasure pavilion by the royal households.

After Queen's Bath take the main road and head towards Kamalapura direction. You'll find a signboard for the Chandrashekara Temple and the Octogonal Bath . From Chandrashekara Temple a trail goes towards the Saraswathi Temple (Saraswathi Temple 2) on a small hiltop. Further ahead on this trail is the Octogonal Bath and a number of palace complexes . Only the basement of the palaces remain, the Octogonal Bath is worth visiting.

If you scramble through the cowherds trails in this otherwise featureless plains , you can reach the Srinagarada Hebbagailu which was a massive gateway to the citadel on the Pan Supari Bazaar mentioned earlier.

The route starts with Zenena Enclosure in Royal Center and ends with Vittala Temple complex. By far this is the longest route (about 10km/6miles).

The reason for clubbing these two monuments in one itinerary is to save some ticket cost (Rs 10 for Indians and nationals of SAARC and BIMSTEC countries ; others pay $5) . The ticket is valid for both Zenena Enclosure and Vittala Temple , if used on the same day. Otherwise , you can club Zenena Enclosure with Route 3 and Vittala Temple with Route 2 , and manage the rest of attractions in Route 4 and separate short detours.

Anyways let's start with Zenena Enclosure are where the ticket counter is located. After Zenena, visit the Elephant Stable (a must visit) and the guard's quarters nearby. Behind this (a roundabout path) is the Ranga Temple with a massive image of Hanuman.

Get back to the main road and head to the Kamalapura town square. You'll find the Archeological Museum here. A large replica of the Hampi's site is a valuable attraction here also with display of many Vijayanagara artifacts. They also sells a very compact Guide Book on Hampi.

A scoop! If you are keen on a hidden gem of Hampi, head to the Pattabhirama Temple from the museum , its further half km from the museum on the same road. Go along the fringes of the village, after about half km, appears a left diversion. On this diversion you'll see a canal and a bridge shortly. Pattabhirama Temple's entry is just a few meters from here.

Back to Kamalapura main road. Head towards Kampili on the main road. In 1km you'll spot Ganigitti Temple on your right by the side of the main road. A little off from this point is the Bhimas Gateway with some beautiful mythical themes carved on the wall.

Back to the main road, another 1km towards Kampili, appears a Y fork. The left goes to Vittala Temple. Otherwise continue straight on the main road for Malyavanta Hill a recommended place to visit. About half km from the Y fork you'll see the archway to the hilltop Malayavanta Raghunatha Temple which is a living temple. There are many things to see here esp. the carvings on the boulder, temple architecture in which massive boulders in its natural position is merged into the rest of the temple complex. A cave shrine under a boulder and so on. The view of the valley from here is fabulous. The plus is , you can take your moped/car all the way to the hilltop, through it is a stiff climb.

Back to the Y fork to Vittala Temple. You'll pass numerous monument structures, some unnamed and a few major ones before reaching the Vittala Temple. Ahmed Khan’s Mosque and Tomb appears on your left and you'll pass through Talarigatta Gate. After Gejjala Mantapa take left for Vittala Temple or continue straight for the coracle ferry point.

A wide pavilion lined street called Vittala Bazaar leads to Vittala Temple. Somewhere midway on the Vittala Bazaar are Kudure Gombe Mantapa and temple pond called Pushkarani which was the venue for the boat festival. You'll need over an hour at least to visit Vittala Temple complex.

So this is the end point for Route 4. Further you may take the Route 2 to Hampi Bazaar area. Or take the coracle ferry (mentioned just above) which is your gateway point to Anegundi area exploration. This is explained as Route 5.

Hampi's attractions grouped for easy sightseeing planning.

You may want to see the One Day Hampi Itinerary and the Three Day Hampi Itinerary .

Sacred Center Map, Hampi

The Sacred Center part of Hampi. Most of the temples and other religiously significant sites are located in this locality, hence the name.

Royal Center Map

Map of Hampi showing attractions in Royal Center Map like the Royal Enclosure,Lotus Mahal, Zenena Enclosure, Hazararama Temple, Queen's Bath, Basement of Palaces etc.

Open sites of Hampi. bicycles are fun and smart way to explore the ruins. Seen are the Saraswathi Temple (Saraswathi Temple 2) on a small hiltop. Further ahead on this trail is the Octogonal Bath and a number of palace complexes.

bicycles are fun and smart way to explore the ruins

Hampi Itinerary Map

Sacred Center Map

Hotels, Lodges and Guesthouses in Hampi

How to pick a suitable area for accommodation in Hampi ?

Photography

Hampi is photogenic. Bring your camera along and you won’t regret the trouble. The green wet planes, the small steep boulder hills, the extravaganza of stone architecture, the life around it all are rich in content for photography.

At the first sight, you may mistake Hampi for an unsafe place. The relative calm and the abandoned look underline your doubt.

Bicycle and Moped Rentals

Rent a bicycle or moped or scooter at Hampi. This is one of the best means to explore Hampi ruins scattered over 26sq.km.

Areas of Hampi

Hampi's attractions are clustered across many zones and villages. Typically a few miles apart, all of them are connected by road and at places by the local ferries.

Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort

Hampi’s boulders wilderness resort, leo wooden resort, hampi monument timings, 1 day hampi itinerary, luxury hotels in hampi, hampi on a shoestring, hampi guest houses, hampi in a nutshell, facilities in hampi.

Let's Travel!

We haven't been everywhere, but its on our list

Guide for first time visitors to Hampi

The austere, grandiose site of Hampi was the last capital of the last great Hindu Kingdom of Vijayanagar. Its fabulously rich princes built Dravidian temples and palaces which won the admiration of travellers between the  14th and 16th centuries. Conquered by the Deccan Muslim confederacy in 1565, the city was pillaged over a period  of six months before being abandoned.

This is how Unesco describes Hampi on its website https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/241/ . Hampi, which is spread over an area of more than 10.5 lakh acres of land is in Karnataka; 370 km from Bangalore and around 400 kms from Hyderabad. It is one of the most impressive temple ruins we have visited.

Best time to visit Hampi:

October to February are the best months to visit Hampi. March to June is scorching hot and July to September is the rainy season. While the weather is pleasant during rains; the rocks can be very slippery and difficult to walk. We went in November and it was still extremely hot during the day.

How to go to Hampi:

By Air: Nearest airport to Hampi is in Vidyanagar (Bellary). Jindal Vijayanagar airport is 38 kms from Hampi and is a small airport with flights to Bangalore and Hyderabad. You can take a cab from the airport to go to Hampi. By Train: Hospet railway station (also called Hosapete Junction) is 13 kms from Hampi. It is well connected from Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mysore, Tirupati etc. There are regular buses from the railway station to Hampi. Or you can take an auto outside the station to go to your hotel. We paid the auto Rs.200 from station to Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari. If you plan to take a cab, book one in advance through your hotel because cabs are not readily available outside the station.

By Bus: There are regular buses from Hyderabad, Mysore, Bengaluru, Bellary to go to Hampi. Most of these buses go to Hampi market area.

Getting around Hampi:

The sites in Hampi are roughly distributed in 4 clusters. You need to walk from one site to another inside any cluster and it takes around 3-4 hours to explore each cluster if you do it diligently. There is a lot of walking involved at every place (at least 3-4 kms per cluster). It is good to have your own vehicle to go around Hampi because autos are super-expensive. Most of the auto-drivers claim to be guides themselves and charge guide rates along with their jacked up auto fares. Unless you are fine walking 6-7 km everyday (and taking the local buses or shared auto to do commuting); have your own vehicle or hire an auto/cab.

If you are entering Hampi from Kamalapur side, you will see many guides at the junction trying to stop vehicles and explaining that a guide is must to explore all the monuments in Hampi. They charge anywhere between Rs.1000 – Rs.3000 depending on the number of hours and your bargaining skills. If you feel you need a guide, feel free to hire one. But there is lot of information available at most of the monuments that give insight to the history of the place. Also, there are tons of information online for every site you are interested in. Most of the auto drivers will lure you into getting auto telling you that cars cannot go to places where autos can. But we saw cars at every place where autos were getting into. So there is no advantage in taking an auto if you have your own vehicle.

You can also rent bicycle or scooty when in Hampi. However, there are only 10 rental scootys available in the entire Hampi and they get booked in advance (sometimes 2-3 days in advance and definitely a day in advance). Bicycles are available in plenty but the weather could be gruelling for cycling. Both bicycles and scooty rentals are available near the main Virupaksha temple.

Where to stay in Hampi:

If you are looking for a comfortable and luxury stay, you can stay at Hospet or Anegundi and make a trip everyday. Accommodations inside Hampi are basic. Also, non-vegetarian food and liquor are not allowed inside the temple town Hampi; though you get eggs. We stayed at KTDC Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari which was in Kamalapur; right outside the temple town. The hotel is quite decent. There are no triple rooms or provision for extra beds in the room for families. They serve non-vegetarian too; though I won’t rate the food good!

If you are on budget or would like to get the most authentic experience, stay in the Hampi Bazaar area; close to the Tungabhadra river. There are many guest houses there; Mango tree being one of the famous ones. You can also stay on the other side of Tungabhadra river in Virupapur Gadde.

Food in Hampi:

As mentioned earlier, non-veg is not allowed inside Hampi. Eggs are available though. Also, liquor is banned in this religious town. You can find good food if you are not particular about these 2 things 🙂

Mango tree near Virupaksha temple is the best restaurant in Hampi. We had number of meals there and everything we ordered was always good. Also, we found many repeat customers during out visits; which only strengthens my belief that they are the best! We also tried a few other restaurants like Tibetan Kitchen; but found them unimpressive. There are few idly / dosa shops around the bazaar area; which serve good basic South Indian food.

Some facts about Hampi:

• It was the capital of Vijayanagara empire in the 14th century.
• Hampi was the 2nd richest city in Asia after Beijing; with various grand temples, farms & rich markets.
• Ruins of Hampi are spread in an area of 42 sq.km and has more than 1600 surviving remains.
• Almost all of the monuments were built between 1336 and 1570 CE during the Vijayanagara rule.
• Hampi was also called Pampa-kshetra, derived from Pampa which is also another name for Goddess Parvati. Hemakuta hills located in Hampi is where Parvati persued Shiva to marry her.
• It also finds a place in Ramayana as Kishkindha; where Ram and Lakshman meet Hanuman, Sugriva and their army when searching for Sita. There is a Sugriva cave also in the hills on Hampi.
• Tenalirama, the renowned scholar, poet and a favourite of King Krishnadeva Raya of Vijaynagar; also lived in Hampi. There is a pavilion dedicated to Tenalirama and is situated near the Royal Centre.

Itinerary for Hampi trip:

Ideally you need 3-5 days to explore the various places in and around Hampi. 2 days would be rushed but you can cover most of the major sites. The duration of your trip can be decided based on how much historical facts inspire you and how enthusiastic you are about looking at ruins. It is not uncommon to see some backpacker relaxing under one of the ruins reading a book 🙂

Hampi has total of 83 monuments divided in 4 clusters and you can budget minimum of 3-4 hours for every cluster. There is a 5th cluster which is on the other side of Tungabhadra river. You can go to the other side of the river on a row boat, coracle (the bowl shaped boat) or by road.

The 4 major clusters are shown on this map. You will find this map at all major locations at Hampi:

You can see the list of all monuments in this photo:

I have also marked these clusters on Google Maps:

Cluster 2 – near Monolithic Bull, Hampi (note that Vitthala temple is marked incorrect near the bull temple on Google Maps)

On the map, you can see the Hampi road. This is the bus route for buses going towards Hampi bazaar. Buses stop at all major sites close to the road (except at the Vijaya Vittala temple which is on the other side) . You can get down and one end of the cluster; cover the sites in that cluster and then take the bus on the other side. 

You can go to Vijaya Vittala temple by taking buses towards Kamalapuram. There are electric vans from the Vijaya Vitthala parking area to go to the temple. The walk from parking to the temple is around 1.2 kms and you can walk further towards King’s balance and Sugriva cave.

Note that all clusters are connected and you can always cover more than one cluster at one time. Even the Vittala temple cluster can be reached from the backside of monolithic bull if you walk along the Tungabhadra river.

Most of the monuments do not have any entrance fee. The only place you need to pay entrance is at Lotus Mahal / Archaeological museum and Vitthala Temple. There is a fee of Rs.40 for Indians and SAARC citizens / Rs.600 for foreigners that need to be paid to see these places.  The ticket lasts for 1 day and you can visit all these places with the same ticket.

The site  http://hampi.in/ has detailed route maps if you would like to cover Hampi at a leisurely pace.

10 Tips for trip to Hampi:

• Carry enough cash because there are no ATMs in the city.
• Carry cap/ umbrellas/ adequate sun protection any time of the year. Its extremely hot during the day.
• Keep bottles and food inside a bag. There are monkeys at most of the sites.
• Carry enough water. Though there are stalls available at most of the major sites; you may not find anything once inside and exploring the clusters.
• Start your day early. All sites open at 6 am. The temples are closed between 12:30 pm and 2 pm for lunch (though most of them are ruins and not used for worship now)
• Avoid the peak season if you can (true for all tourist locations I guess 🙂 )!
• Feed Lakhsmi; the resident elephant at Virupaksha temple. You can also see her bathe in the Tungabhadra river everyday at 7:30 am. And at around 8 pm when the temple closes; you can see Lakhsmi walking back from the temple towards the Monolithic bull.
• Bus service starts at 8 am and the last bus from Hampi bazaar leaves at 8 pm. However, if you are staying at Kamalapura; do not rely on the 8 pm bus. It takes a different route from Hampi bazaar to go to Hospet and you may have to go back by shared or private auto. 
• Watch the sunset from the Hemakuta hilltop. 
• If you plan to do boat ride across Tungabhadra, do it before sunset. The boats do not ply later in the day; though coracles may be available. 

Some of the important monuments in Hampi:

There are so many monuments at Hampi that listing all would be impossible. We have hundreds of photos in our 3 day trip. Listing a few of the not-to-be-missed Hampi treasures:

Virupaksha Temple

Hemakuta Hills 

Lakshmi Narasimha 

Badavilinga (Monolithic Linga) –  I don’t have any good pic of this 🙁

Monolithic Bull

Vijaya Vitthala Temple

Stone Chariot at Vijaya Vitthala Temple

Sugriva’s Cave

Underground Siva Temple

Noblemen’s Quarters

Lotus Mahal

Mahanavami Dibba

Stepped Tank or Pushkarini

Octogonal Bath

I really loved the information you have provided.

detailed information madam. thanks for sharing.

Thank You so Much Priyanka for Detailed Information. Really helpful for first time visitors like me.

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Hampi Travel Guide

• July 19, 2021

If you are looking for advice on how to reach Hampi. If you are looking for information on Things to do in Hampi, Hampi Hotels, Hampi Sightseeing, Travel Tips. Or if you are looking for information that will help you plan your Hampi trip then this article is for you!

How to REACH HAMPI

By Plane : The nearest airport is at Vidyanagar (45 Kms), which operates daily flight from Bangalore and Hyderabad. Check Trujet website for more details. We also have airports at Hubli (143 km – 5 Hours), Bangalore (360 Kms – 7 Hours) and Goa (360 Kms – 8 Hours) 

By train:  The nearest railway station is Hospet Junction ( IR station code: HPT ), 13km away. Overnight trains run several times a week from Bangalore, Hyderabad and Goa. From Hospet train station it is very easy to hop on a local bus which goes between the railway station and the main bus station and onward to Hampi (same bus). If you don’t want to wait then you can also get an Auto Rickshaw to take you to Hampi (INR 300 – 350). Your booked hotel would be happy to arrange a pickup for you, please check with them.  If you book with us then we will arrange the same. 

By bus:  Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation operates daily buses to Hospet from Bangalore, Goa, Mysore and Gokarna. Book your tickets in advance if you want a coach or an air-conditioned service. There are private bus companies operating buses on these routes too, in addition there are buses from Pune & Mumbai. From the bus station or drop point you can arrange a tuk-tuk or a car for transfer to your hotel.  

By Road:  You can hire a cab from one of these cities or drive down yourself.  If you are booking tours/accommodation with us, we would be happy to arrange a pickup from any of these cities as well.  Please contact us for assistance or more information.

• Bangalore: 350 km / 7 Hours
• Hubli: 150 km /4.5 Hours
• Hyderabad: 360 km / 8 Hours
• Pune: 560 km / 11 Hours

You can browse our blog section for more information like various ways available to a traveller to reach Hampi from Goa or Bangalore .  

Bangalore to Hampi – Everything You Need to Know

Mumbai to hampi – everything you need to know, where to stay in hampi.

Hampi is a UNESCO world heritage site, as a result of which commercial activity within the core zone is heavily regulated. Which is why most licenced accommodation options are outside the core zone. Before you book your stay, it is important to know where your hotel is located and how far it is from Hampi’s main attractions. 

In this article we have listed the different areas within Hampi and accommodation available here.  For our recommendations on places to stay you can refer to the below article.

10 Top Hampi Hotels for Every Kind of Traveller

Janata Plot : Is as small shanty town next to the Virupaksha temple in the heart of Hampi village. This is the last surviving commercial area within Hampi village, most others have been demolished or moved to a different part by the government authorities.  Here you will find budget accommodation in form of guest houses. Rooms here are simple and comfortable. If you are a budget traveller who will be spending most of your time out exploring then this could be a good option. The location is a big plus because you are close to the center of Heritage sites in Hampi. No alcohol or Non Vegetarian food is served in this area due to its proximity with Virupaksha Temple. The area is under litigation so their status keeps changing, so check with the property owner before you book.

Virupapura  Gaddi / Hampi Island / Hippie Island : This is an Island on Tungabhadra river, and is connected to Hampi by a ferry boat (or 30 Km route by road). It is partly agricultural, partly forest land and it comes under the protected core zone of Hampi. This area has the highest density of guesthouses near Hampi, set amongst paddy fields and along the river. If you are a budget traveller and would like to spend some time relaxing amongst beautiful surroundings then this is a good option. This is also a good option if your looking to go boulder climbing.

Kadirampur / Prakash Nagar / New Hampi :  Some of the displaced residents from Hampi Bazaar have been allotted government land in nearby villages. Here they have started to build guesthouses and restaurants. Some have started calling this place “New Hampi”.  This area is a 15 minute autoride from Hampi. Another convenient location for budget travellers. 

Kamalapura / Malapanagudi : Just beyond the core zone of Hampi are villages of Kamalapura & Malapanagudi. You can find a variety of properties here. Standard category properties like KSTDC’s Mayura and Clarks Inn Hotel. Premium category properties like  Heritage Resort Hampi and Jungle Lodge’s Wilderness Resort. Luxury world class property like Evolve Back Resorts. All of these are within 5 to 8 Kms from Hampi.

Anegundi : This is a heritage village located on the northern bank of Tungabhadra. It is connected to Hampi via a ferry across the river at Talwar Ghatta boat point (Close to Vittala Temple) or alternatively it is 22 Kms by road to hampi.  If you want to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Hampi through its people, then this is a good option for you. You live amongst people in guesthouses or homestays, away from the mad tourist traffic but fully immersed in life of an idyllic Indian village.  The Kishkinda Trust (TKT) operates few properties here.

Hospet : This is the main town located 15 kms from Hampi. There are several properties catering to all kinds of budgets. This is where most visitors to Hampi choose to stay for its affordability and options. You can choose amongst Royal Orchid Hotel, Mallige Hotel, Krishna Palace, Priyadarshini Pride and many others

THINGS TO DO IN HAMPI

Most visitors are drawn to Hampi due to its historic importance as the erstwhile capital of Vijayanagara. But there is so much more to see and experience in & around Hampi that you’d need 3 to 4 days at minimum. We have listed various things to do in Hampi here.

For a more detailed look into different things to do in Hampi and corresponding tours offered by us, please read this article . 

Explore the Heritage sights of Hampi

Coracle boat ride over tungabhadra river, ride mopeds & explore the countryside, catch a stunning sunrise or sunset, enjoy a home cooked meal with local hosts, buy local handicrafts & interact with the artisans, discover the ramayana connection, try your hand at bouldering, visit prehistoric caves and megalithic tombs, go on a birding tour, day trip to badami, aihole & patadakkal, visit india's only sanctuary dedicated to sloth bears, getting around in hampi.

The sites in Hampi are spread over 42 square kilometers, use of local transportation therefore becomes a must. If you opt for a private tour or package then the operator will provide local transportation and pickup/drop services included in it.  Here are the different options to consider for local transportation. 

Hired Car : This is the most convenient option for travellers to Hampi. Specially if your accommodation is in Hospet or one of the distant villages. It also allows you to cover sites that are away like the Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Anjanadri Hills, Megalithic Tomb Sites etc. Hampi also gets warm during mid-day, having a comfortable air-conditioned car to get to in between places might be something you want to consider.

Hired Auto Rickshaws : The most popular way of getting around different sites in Hampi is the humble Auto Rickshaw or the tuk-tuk as some people call it. You can even book one for the entire day. You can find auto rickshaws at the stand near Hampi Bazaar anytime of the day. 

Bicycle  Rental : This is a great way of exploring the monuments in Hampi as long as you have the energy & time on your side.  There are plenty of vendors in the Hampi Bazaar area that will rent cycles on hourly basis. Only single speed cycles are available as of today. Please inspect the condition of the bike before renting it. 

Mopeds / Motorcycles Rentals: Currently entry of rental mopeds or bikes are strictly regulated within the protected areas of Hampi. Only rental vehicles with appropriate registration papers are permitted. You will know if the rental vehicle is legitimate by looking at its registration plate, which should be in black colour with number displayed in yellow colour. If it is any other colour then do not rent it, as you will be denied entry.  Mopeds can also be rented at Hampi Island to explore the countryside. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT HAMPI

September to March:  The season in Hampi starts in September and peaks in December/January and ends by March. This is the time when the weather is the best in Hampi and allows you to spend more time outdoors. It can get really crowded towards December end and January. So make sure to plan your travel ahead of time. 

April & May:  The weather is unforgiving in the summer months of April and May. Most businesses that depend on tourist inflow shut down for these months in Hampi. Many guest houses, resorts and hotels run special promotion and drop prices as much as 30 – 50% during this time.

June to August:  The temperatures drop during these months, but since it is still considered off season, the prices are low. The entire landscape transforms with the monsoon and there is lush greenery. This is a good time to visit Hampi if you are looking for a budget trip.

Things to remember

• Bring a good pair of walking shoes – There will be a lot of walking involved to cover different heritage sites at Hampi which is spread over a large area. A comfortable pair of shoes will make it easier for you. 
• Carry a Shawl or Scarf – It can be used to cover your head when the sun is beating down on you, some places do not have shade.  When entering temples or villages you can use it to cover midriff, shoulders or chest area. 
• Carry water bottles, sunglasses, sun protection lotion, hat/cap while you go out to participate in a tour or sightseeing.
• Carry Identity Card – If you are an Indian national then carry a government authorised ID card. For foreign nationals please carry your Passport, Visa and Insurance documents. 

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Ultimate Hampi Itinerary: 3 Days in Hampi

Last Updated on December 5, 2023

This Hampi itinerary covers what to do and see on a 2, or 3 day visit of this beautiful region of Karnataka.

Hampi is a small town that sits on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Although it covers just 25 square kilometers, Hampi is filled with history and culture, and is known for its group of beautiful Unesco World Heritage monuments. 

My partner and I spent a week exploring Hampi and the surrounding area. This 3 day Hampi itinerary covers all the highlights of the area. If you only have 2 days in Hampi, simply cut day 3 from the below Hampi itinerary.  

Disclosure: This article includes affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I earn a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and keep Pina Travels reader-supported. Thank you!

A Bit of Hampi’s History 

Intro to your hampi itinerary, how to get to hampi by train., how to get to hampi by bus. , where to stay in hampi town: , where to stay on hippie island: , how to get around hampi, virupaksha temple, hampi bazaar, krishna temple, lakshmi narasimha temple, walk the riverside trek path (kampa bhupa’s path), vittala temple & the stone chariot, watch the sunset from hemakuta hill , archaeological museum, elephant stables, lotus mahal, royal palace, queen’s bath, watch the sunset from mantaga hill, climb anjaneya hill , sanapur lake and reservoir, take out cash before arriving in hampi., book in advance during the high season. , respect local culture and customs in hampi. , final thoughts on hampi.

Hampi has a fascinating history because it was once the capital of the ancient Hindu kingdom, the Vijayanagara Empire . 

The empire emerged in the middle of the 13th century, and lasted more than 200 years. During this time, Vijayanagara rulers decorated Hampi with ornate temples, palaces, markets, streets and monuments. But the Vijayanagara Empire didn’t last.  

In 1565, Hampi’s history took a brutal turn. The Vijayanagara capital was attacked by an alliance of Deccan Sultanates who ruled five late medieval Indian kingdoms. 

The battle, now known as the Battle of Talikota, was lost by the Vijayanagara Empire, and as a result Hampi was ongoingly looted and pillaged for six months. This led to the slow decline and eventual collapse of the state of Vijayanagara.

Hampi did continue to function as a city, but it no longer had strategic importance, and so the city lost relevance. It wasn’t until 1800 that the ruins in Hampi were rediscovered and surveyed by an engineer and antiquarian named Colonel Colin Mackenzie, an employee of the English East India Company.

Despite the pillaging following the Battle of Talikota, many of Hampi’s temples, gateways, and monuments still stand, and have been deemed a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Hampi’s plentiful ancient temples basically make Hampi an open air museum that tells the story of Hampi’s history. 

But Hampi is also an important pilgrimage site, drawing Hindus and Jains from around India. Pilgrims come because Hampi is believed to be the place known as ‘Kishkindha’ (stated in Ramayana), where Lord Hanuman was born.

This is just a bit of the fascinating history of Hampi – but it’s a good starting point to inform the way you see and understand various places in Hampi, and this history explains exactly why there are so many notable places to see in Hampi.  

Before diving into the detailed 3 day Hampi itinerary, let’s cover some basic Hampi FAQs. 

Is Hampi worth visiting?

It’s worth visiting Hampi because the town and surrounding area is filled with history and culture, and is known for its group of beautiful Unesco World Heritage monuments. The landscape surrounding Hampi is equally beautiful to see, because it’s dotted with rolling hills, granite rocks, and boulders. 

When is the best time to visit Hampi, Karnataka?

The best time to visit Hampi is during the months of October to March. During this time the climate is moderate and cool, which makes it more comfortable for exploring Hampi’s temples and outdoor sites. 

Hampi becomes very hot during India’s summer months, from late March to May. During these months, the town is much quieter. Just be sure to book accommodation that has AC if you visit during the hot season. 

How many days do you need in Hampi?

To really get to know Hampi, stay at least 3 days. This is enough time to see Hampi’s highlights like Virupaksha temple, the Hampi Bazaar, and Sanapur Lake. If you have more than 3 days, you can use that extra time to see Hampi and the surrounding area in more detail. 

How To Get To Hampi, Karnataka 

Most of India is well connected by the Indian railway system, so for those without a car, traveling to Hampi by train makes the most sense. 

Hospet Railway Station is the nearest station from Hampi, about 12 km away. This station is directly connected to major cities of Karnataka including neighboring state Goa. 

Major cities which are directly connected to Hospet Station are Bangalore, Bijapur, Kolkata, Goa, Hyderabad, and more. If you are traveling from northern India then your best option is to reach Bangalore first, and connect to Hospet from there. 

If you prefer to get to Hampi by bus, there is a bus terminal at Hospet Town where you can grab buses that directly connect to Bangalore, Hyderabad, Goa and Hubli. 

Whether you arrive in Hospet by train or by bus, you will need to then connect from Hospet to Hampi. You can take either a bus or a rickshaw from the station to Hampi. The trip takes about 30 minutes. 

Where To Stay In Hampi 

You can choose one of 2 areas to stay in for your Hampi itinerary, Hampi town, or Hippie Island: 

Staying in Hampi town is the most convenient for exploring Hampi and the surrounding area. Staying in town means you’re close to restaurants, as well as all the main sites to see. There are plenty of hotels to choose from ranging from budget hotels (no AC) to higher end hotels with more amenities. 

We stayed at Thilak Home Stay . This hotel is right in the centre of town. It’s got hot water, comfy beds, good wifi, and it’s very clean. The staff and owner are all incredibly friendly and welcoming, and they’ll help you organize activities as well as onward travel.

Hampi’s Hippie Island

Virapapur Gadde or Hampi Island, also known as Hippie Island in Hampi, is directly across from Hampi on the opposite side of the Tungabhadra River. The river separates the historical part of Hampi from Hippie Island, which is another area that you can stay in for your Hampi itinerary. This area tends to be popular with backpackers.

Although Hampi’s Hippie Island is on the other side of the river, it’s easily accessible. We were in Hampi during the dry season, which meant that we could hop from rock to rock to get from one side of the river to the other. 

It’s a bit tenuous to do, especially with our big packs, but luckily the local kids are happy to give you a hand if you need it.

The rest of the year, the river is flowing, and so you’ll need to use the coracle crossing to reach the other side. This ride in a traditional round boat takes less than 5 minutes and costs just a few rupees. The boats run from about 9AM to 5PM daily. If you miss the boats, be prepared for a 1 hour rickshaw drive to reach the other side of the river. 

Hampi’s Hippie Island is a backpacker haven. That side has several hostels and guest houses. You can also opt to stay in a private mud hut! There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can chill out all day long, and unlike in Hampi Town, it’s possible to have beer on Hippie Island. 

Shanti Guest House is the most popular place to stay on the island. It’s a quiet, relaxing property that had double rooms with balconies and bathrooms. Plus, you’ll find hammocks around the property that you can make use of.

The village of Hampi is easy to explore on foot, but many of the sites you’ll want to visit are outside of the town. For at least one day of your Hampi itinerary, you’ll need to hire transport or rent a motorbike. 

Renting a motorbike is easily arranged by your accommodation in Hampi town. If you aren’t comfortable self-driving, you can hire an auto-rickshaw driver to take you around for the day. This can also be arranged by your hotel. 

Hampi Itinerary: Day 1 in Hampi

On your first day in Hampi, you’ll explore on foot. You can walk to all of these famous sites, which include temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, natural sites, and a gorgeous spot to watch the sunset from. 

All of the sites you’ll visit are open typically between 9:00am and 5:00pm, so be sure to plan your day around those hours. 

Here’s what to see on day 1 of your Hampi itinerary:

Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to the Hindu Lord Shiva. It is believed to be one of the oldest temples in India, in fact, it’s believed that Virupaksha Temple has been functioning uninterrupted since the 7th century AD. 

You can go to watch  the daily temple rituals and ceremonies in the mornings and evenings – Virupaksha Temple opens at sunrise and closes at sundown.

The Hampi Bazaar used to be a thriving market during the days of the Vijayanagara Empire. Today, it’s still a market, but one geared more toward tourists. 

This daily market sells all sorts of locally made goods. It’s fun to wander through the Hampi Bazaar to browse gifts, textiles, figurines, and jewelry. 

Krishna Temple was constructed by the Krishnadevaraya in 1513 to honor Lord Krishna. The temple ground is decorated with several stunning pillars that feature Yali – a mythical creature (part lion, part horse, part elephant) that is often depicted in temples in South India.

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple houses the stone idol of Lord Narasimha, one of the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu. The temple was constructed in 1528 AD during the reign of King Krishnadevaraya. 

The temple originally had an idol of Goddess Lakshmi who was seated on Lord Narasimha’s lap, but during the raids of 1565, Lakshmi’s idol was vandalized and removed.

Riverside Trek Path or Kampa Bhupa’s Path is a 2 kilometer walking route that starts at the Hampi Bazaar, and ends near the famous Vittala Temple. It’s a great walk to include in your Hampi itinerary, because it takes you along the river for beautiful views.  

On this historic trek you’ll encounter fascinating rocky terrain, hidden caves, and riverside ruins. You might also get the chance to see some swimming monkeys!

The trek takes about 45 minutes depending on your pace, and it isn’t too strenuous. Some travelers even opt to cycle it because the terrain is flat, smooth rock. Kampa Bhupa’s Path is not always clear, sometimes the path might be hard to follow among the heaps of boulders, but it can be traced out. 

Just remember that the trail runs almost parallel to the bank of the Tungabhadra River. To find Hampi’s Riverside Trek Path, head to the east end of the Hampi Bazaar and look for the path on the shore of the Tungabhadra River. 

Vittala Temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Vittala, who is a form of Lord Vishnu. This temple is known as one of the most ornate of the Vijayanagara temples. 

At the entrance of the temple you’ll see a chariot made of stone. It’s one of the 3 most famous stone chariots in India – The other two are in Konark (Odisha) and Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu). The Stone Chariot at Vittala temple is a shrine dedicated to Garuda, the official vehicle of Lord Vishnu. Since you’ve been on foot, and just walked Kampa Bhupa’s Path to reach Vittala temple, you can consider taking a tuk tuk back to Hampi town for dinner and the sunset. Especially on a hot day, this day 1 itinerary can be a lot of walking!

The landscape surrounding Hampi, speckled with temples and rocky hills, is a surreal view. And so of course, watching the sunset in Hampi from a viewpoint is one of the best things to do while there.

Hemakuta Hill is on the outskirts of Hampi and is easy to climb thanks to its gentle, smooth rock slopes. From Hampi Town and Hippie Island, Hemakuta Hill is within walking distance, making it the perfect spot to watch the sun go down if you’re feeling like having a relaxed evening. 

Hemakuta Hill is sprinkled with temples, archways and pavilions. The whole of the hill was fortified with tall wide stonewalls, the ruined remains of which can still be seen. 

Head to Hemakuta Hill an hour or so before sunset so you can explore the ruins, before finding a spot to watch the sun go down. There are plenty of comfy spots where you can sit to watch the magic of a Hampi sunset.

Hampi Itinerary: Day 2 in Hampi

On day 2 of your Hampi itinerary, you’ll be venturing further outside of Hampi town to see some famous archaeological sites from the Vijayanagara Empire. 

All of these sites are clustered around one area. So, you can take a rickshaw to the first stop and walk from there, grabbing a rickshaw back to town once you’ve visited all the sites. Or, you can hire a rickshaw driver for the day to take you from site to site.  

Another option is to rent a motorbike to self-drive to all the sites, which is what we did. Our hotel arranged our rental for us.

Here’s what to see on day 2 of your Hampi itinerary:

The Archaeological Museum at Kamalapura is a small, but fantastic museum. It’s dedicated to preserving the relics and artifacts of the Vijayanagara Empire.

The museum itself is a little bit outside of Hampi, located within the ruins of the old city of Vijayanagara.

The Elephant Stables are exactly what you think they are! These ancient stables are where the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire would have been housed.

The Lotus Mahal was a part of an area where royal families of Vijayanagara Empire lived. It’s a beautiful, ornate building that was designed to be a spot for royal ladies to mingle and hang out together. 

This is another one of Hampi’s historic sites. Here, you’ll explore the  remnants of the royal complex where the king of the Vijayanagara empire lived.

In its prime, these palace grounds housed up to 45 buildings. This would have included durbar halls, underground chambers, and temples. While exploring the grounds, be sure to check out the Stepped Tank, and the Stone Doors. 

Not too far from the Royal Palace is the Queen’s bath. This historic site is where you’ll see the ruins of an ornate, historic bathing chamber. The indoor chambers and outdoor pool would have been used by the King, and his wives. 

The last stop on day 2 of your Hampi itinerary is Mantaga Hill! This is another spot known for serving up the best views of a sunset in Hampi because it’s apparently one of the highest points in the area. 

There are a couple paths that lead to the top of the Mantaga Hill. After about 30 minutes of climbing, you’ll reach the top and find the Veerabhadra Temple.

Climb a couple steps more to the roof of the temple for the best views. Keep in mind it’s a 25 minute walk or 5 minute drive from Hampi Town to reach the bottom of Mantaga Hill – so be sure to set out well before the sun starts to go down.

Hampi Itinerary: Day 3 in Hampi

For the 3rd day of your Hampi itinerary, you’re heading to the opposite side of the Tungabhadra River to climb Anjaneya Hill, and relax at Sanapur Lake. 

You can reach both these spots either by motorbike or hiring a rickshaw. It takes about 30 – 45 minutes from Hampi. Alternatively, you can cross the Tungabhadra River by short ferry ride, and then take a rickshaw from Virupapura Gadde (Hippie Island) on the other side to your two stops. 

Anjaneya Hill Top is a religious site near Hampi, thought to be the birthplace of monkey-god Hanuman. 

Anjaneya Hill is exactly that – a very steep hill. It doesn’t slope gently like other hills in Hampi, it actually shoots straight up. 

To reach the top you’ll climb 575 stone steps. It’s a tough climb up, so bring lots of water! On your way up you’ll notice lots of monkeys, which makes sense since Anjaneya is the birthplace of the monkey god, Hanuman. 

Once you’ve conquered Anjaneya’s 575 steps, you’ll reach the temple at the top, which has a huge adjoining courtyard from where you can see river Tungabhadra stretching out into the distance. 

The door of Anjaneya’s temple is usually closed (have to keep the cheeky monkeys out!), but everyone is welcome. If you enter the temple, be respectful of Hindu practices: Remove your shoes, cover up, and put your camera away. 

Sanapur Lake is a quiet and serene lake that is worth visiting if you have time during your Hampi itinerary. It’s on the opposite side of the Tungabhadra River from Hampi. 

The lake is actually a man made reservoir, but this doesn’t detract from how beautiful it is. After a couple days of exploring Hampi’s ruins, it’s the perfect spot to chill out for the day, enjoy the sun, watch the fishermen in their coracles, and go for a swim. 

There are also some spots around the lake where you can cliff jump! To find the cliff jumping spot, drive around the lake until you spot other swimming backpackers, or ask some locals – they will know where it is. It isn’t advised to assume where the safe jumping spot is. 

Tips For Your Hampi Itinerary 

Make sure you carry enough cash with you for your Hampi itinerary, because there are no ATM’s in both Virupapur Gadde (Hippie Island) and Hampi. The closest ATMS are in Hospet, which is about 30kms away.

If you plan your Hampi itinerary for a weekend, or during the high season (October – February), make sure you book a room in advance. Hampi is a popular destination for both local residents of India and foreigners, so at times, the town is very busy. 

It’s important to be a responsible tourist throughout your Hampi itinerary! Hampi is a holy site of temples, and so it has deep religious significance for Hindus. 

As a visitor, it’s important to be aware of local religious customs and follow them. For example, dress modestly, and show respect when visiting temples and other holy sites. 

We had a fantastic time in Hampi, in fact, it ended up being one of our favourite spots in India. 

Some of my favourite memories from our time there are riding around on a motorbike, driving along the Tungabhadra River, waving to fishermen in their coracles. 

We spent 2 nights in the village of Sanapur, where we became friends with the homestay owner’s dog, named Puppy. Whenever my partner and I left to go exploring, Puppy followed us, our temporary sidekick.

On one particular day, we went to Hampi’s Sanapur Lake to watch the fishermen. They had laid out their fish to dry in the sun. Well, Puppy went bounding down to the men and rolled around in the fish. Lucas and I laughed in unison with the fishermen. 

That is, until Puppy came back to us smelling like fish. We returned to the homestay and then had a second round of laughs as our homestay host tied Puppy up so that he and his wife could scrub and hose him down. 

The extreme heat became too much in our budget hotel room (no AC!), so one evening we ditched our room, climbed to the roof of the hotel, and slept there instead. The next morning we woke up at the crack of dawn to see other Hampi residents had opted to sleep on their rooftops too! 

And then there was the evening that my partner and I were pulled out of the street by a local man, just in the nick of time. Moments later, a small stampede of cows came galloping down the narrow street. To this day, we’ll never know why the cows were running. 

We loved every minute of our Hampi itinerary, and can’t recommend it enough. This town of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Karnataka definitely belongs on your bucket list!

Do you want to read more about India? I’ve got you covered:

• An Overnight Desert Safari in Jaisalmer, India

A Chronicle of Culture Shock in India

• Your Guide to Traveling India For the First Time

Be sure to pin this post for later!

Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism , where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here .

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16 thoughts on “ultimate hampi itinerary: 3 days in hampi”.

India is on my bucket list. Those temples look amazing!

I did not know that place existed! If traveling to India for 2 weeks, would you put it as a must see? I know India is large and 2 weeks is not enough to cover, but as part of your first time, would you?

I’ve never heard of this place but it looks cool!

Wow, I’ve never read much about Hampi before and it looks like an awesome place to visit in India. The temples look incredible. Renting a motorbike to ride around and see each one would be at the top of my to do list!

Hampi definitely looks like one of the most interesting places in India, I’d love to visit one day

What a great town! Those temples look stunning! What a beautiful place, thanks for the great guide!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

Super cool guide to Hampi! Honestly had never even heard of this place but it sounds really interesting. We are always looking for low budget places to travel to that still feel safe and that there is plenty to explore. This feels like one of those places! p.s Can’t believe you spent a night sleeping on the roof! What a memory haha.

Beautiful! I love the architecture! The Virupaksha Temple looks like it would be so interesting to visit. I had never heard about this place before, but I may just have to add it to my bucket list!

Yet another blog post that makes me want to visit India! Those temples look stunning, and riding one of the traditional boats must be a really fun experience! Beautiful photos.

Those temples are crazy beautiful! I loved the pup that adopted you while you were there – I would’ve had to take him with me 😉

I didn’t really know about Hampi until this post but it looks amazing. Your photos are beautiful. Sounds like some unique memories too.

I’ve been to India so many times but I’ve never heard of Hampi! It looks so beautiful and now I definitely need to add it to the list! 😂 🤣

A great read and I love all your pics!! Inspired !

Something new to add to the list. So much history to this place and I love that you found a great homestay

What a beautiful and historical place HAMPI, Architecture of Temples is so beautiful. Thanks for sharing the historical places in your travel blog. ( https://worldineyes.com )

Hey Jerry – I’m actually not sure why. The river looked red the entire time we were last in Hampi. I think that it may have looked that way because the water levels were very low. But I can’t say for certain.

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Bangalore To Hampi Road Trip

August 9, 2016

Driving from Bangalore to Hampi on a Weekend? In this post, we have shared everything you want to know when planning your Bangalore to Hampi road trip…

History has to live with what was here…

Oh hello, HAMPI!!, yes we are talking about you, and you are magical!!!

Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagar empire during the 14th to 16th century AD, ruled by four dynasties from 1336 AD to 1565 AD.

It was during the regime of King Krishnadeva Raya (1509-1529 AD) of the Tuluva Dynasty the empire was at its peak. The kingdom was rich in wealth, wisdom, and literature. It was the center of civilization. People were happy and content with life — music and dance were part of their lifestyle. From horse trading to women trading, the Vijayanagar empire had it all. After his death, his successors and rulers fought among themselves and that gave an opportunity to the Deccan Muslim confederacy to besiege the capital.

People were massacred, everything was destroyed, and treasure was looted from palaces and temples. Hampi was turned into ruins in 1565.

Today, everything is in a crumbling state and the boulder-strewn landscape looks straight out of a history book. The ruins scream about the unread pages of history which are now buried in dust and left behind mysterious and untold stories.

Hampi —  a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986 and many efforts have been taken to restore the lost glory of the place.

If you follow us on Twitter and Instagram you might already know that we went on a road trip from Bangalore to Hampi . Since this was our first visit to Hampi, we did not want to stretch ourselves and visit everything it has to offer. Well, we are planning to be back in Hampi again this November.

Bangalore to Hampi Road Trip Itinerary 

Day 1 – Checked in at Hyatt Place & Explore Vidyanagar township

Day 2 – Visited all the attractions mentioned below in Hampi

Day 3 – Visited a few places in the morning and drove back to Bangalore

–  Bangalore To Hampi: Road Trip  –

We intended to start by 4:00 AM but by the time we were up and ready it was around  8:30 AM, so we had to face some traffic on the way. But nonetheless, the drive was awesome and we were at Hampi by 2:30 PM. The route we took was via NH4 and Kudligi . Barring a stretch of 70 KMs, the rest of the route was amazing and was also pretty scenic towards the end of the journey.

On the way to Hampi – A small scenic lake where we stopped for some photo ops.

– Stay during our Bangalore to Hampi road trip –

We stayed at Hyatt Place Hampi . ( You can check Booking.com for other hotels as well ).

This trip was completely planned by Sam and no doubt he wanted a relaxing trip than a hectic one. Since we were supposed to go to Kashmir and our plan was canceled at the last minute due to the JNU row, we ended up at Hampi. A long weekend and last-minute bookings meant most of the hotels were sold out or were extremely pricey.

Hyatt Place Hampi is not exactly at Hampi but is at a distance of 27 km from Hampi . If you have your own vehicle then we would recommend you to stay here. Cabs can also be booked from the hotel. Another perk of staying at Hyatt Place is that you can also explore the Vidyanagar township on a bike and visit the famous 3D Museum that houses tons of photographs of Hampi.

The satellite/topographical image of the Hampi region

The numerous photographs on display.

A small souvenir shop.

If all of these do not interest you, then you should plan to stay at Hampi or Hospet . Most of the websites suggest staying at Hospet as there are not many luxurious stays at Hampi. But if you are on a backpacker budget there are numerous quirky hotels/ hostels at Hampi.

Check the map below for hotels in and around Hampi.

Check out the hotels in:

– Hampi Road Trip – Places to Visit –

Hampi is vast, and to explore each and every corner you need ample time to soak in the beauty and explore at your own pace. But due to the crunch of time, we were very clear about the places we wanted to visit.

So, we ditched the sample itinerary and started exploring on our own with the help of the map we picked from the hotel reception desk.  

If you are a history buff, the charm and mystery of this place will entice you.

 Below are all the places we were able to squeeze in a day during our visit to Hampi .

Chandrasekhar Temple

We reached Hampi in just 30 minutes by car from the hotel. As we pulled our car in through the gates, all we could see was a barren landscape strewn with huge boulders and a few temples popped out from the landscape at a distance.

Our first stop was the Chandrasekhar Temple which was off the tourist trail and we were the only souls around. At first glance, the temple looked similar to the temple in Lepakshi . The only difference was that these temples do not have any idols in them. The inner sanctum of the temple was lit by a sunbeam peeping through the opening on the ceiling of the temple.

Each and every pillar of the temple is adorned with intricate carvings and the architecture is sure to impress anyone and we were no different.

Octagonal Bath

This happened to be our second stop of the day and just 500 meters away from the Chandrasekhara Temple. The structure looks dilapidated from a distance but once you enter the structure you can immediately recognize the shape of an octagon.  One can visualize what a beauty this place would have been back then.

Saraswathi Temple 2

The Saraswathi temple is located in the same complex where the Octagonal Bath and Chandrasekhar Temple are located. The temple is perched on top of a small hill. Like the Chandrasekhar Temple, the pillars of this temple are also laden with intricate carvings.

Queens’ Bath :

Queen’s Bath is another impressive structure . The architecture of the Queen’s bath is a mix of Hindu and Islamic styles. The center of the structure is 8 feet deep and was used as a swimming pool by the Royal Family. Access to the first floor is restricted to visitors as it is literally falling apart. Canals and drainage have been designed intelligently for fresh water to flow in and the used water to flow out of the structure.

Vittala Temple :

The temple with dazzling architecture . Nothing can obscure the sheer beauty of the temple.

As one delves deeper into the temple one discovers the mysterious musical pillars, temple walls littered with symbols, endless corridors, the famous stone chariot, and a huge courtyard. Each and every corner qualifies for interesting tales.

As our guide regales the fascinating stories of each and every nuance of the temple. We stand gasping in disbelief. We try to listen to the various musical notes coming out from the pillars.

Archaeologists did try to investigate to find out the origin of the music but alas they could not fathom the mystery. The pillars are rock solid and are not hollow from the inside but the different musical notes it produces on tapping are strange and mysterious.

 Hampi where music comes out from stone pillars 

The musical pillars of the temple.

The famous Stone Chariot of Hampi

Purandradasa Mantapa

At a short distance from the temple — towards the river is the Purandradasa Manatapa . It is a small structure that was used by sages to meditate and is considered to be holy. From here, you can see the famous stone bridge and Hanuman temple perched on top of Anjeyanadri Hill — the birthplace of Hanuman.

View from the Manatapa

 Hampi is definitely a work of art

River Side Ruins

Ruins. Ruins & More Ruins … Sad but true. All these beautiful structures are in bits and pieces now. It makes you both sad — seeing the condition now and proud — thinking about such architectural brilliance used to exist.

As you walk past the ruins, you can’t stop thinking about the fascinating lifestyle that the people led back then.

Anjaneya Hill & Temple

Anjaneya hill — famous as Kiskinda – the birthplace of Hanuman is just across the Tungabhadra river. A small whitewashed temple perched on the top of the hill and could be reached by the zigzag trail that leads to the temple.

PS: We are planning to explore more in Nov.

Stone Bridge

You can still find the remains of the abandoned stone bridge over the Tungabhadra river. The bridge was used to connect Anegundi to Vijaynagar.

Royal Center

One of the most popular attractions of Hampi and can’t be missed at any cost. The royal center was placed where most of the trading and celebrations used to happen.

An 80 square feet high platform is a tiered structure embossed with different symbols like horses, Chinese men, elephants, swords, etc.

There is also an underground secret chamber that was used by King to conduct secretive discussions.

The recently discovered stepped tank is also quite popular for photo ops. The tank was built from blocks of black schist stones. It is considered sacred and was usually used for religious activities by the royals.

Watch Tower

Watchtowers were used by guards to keep an eye on the intruding enemy.

Lotus Mahal  

Also known as Chitanrangi Mahal. It is a two-storey building built of mortar. This was mainly used by queens to relax.

An interesting fact about this architecture is that it had a cooling system in place. The water from a nearby well was pumped in and sprinkled all around the place to keep it cooler from the sweltering heat.

Elephant Stable

Royal elephants were also treated well. They had their own beautiful place to rest. There are total of eleven stables interconnected.

The building is built of stone and mortar and has beautifully carved arches.

Underground Shiva Temple

Not visited by many, the underground Shiva temple is one of a kind. The tottering, gutted structure used to be a beautiful temple and was built below the ground level.  The temple was frequented only by the Royal household.

Entry is free and the temple closes at 5 pm.

Noblemen’s Quarters

The ramshackle structure on your way to the underground Shiva Temple to Ugra Narasimha is the Noblemen’s quarters.

Sister’s Rock

The natural creation of two huge boulders leaning towards each other. Legend has it that there were two sisters who were turned to these rocks when they made some derogatory remark about Hampi. The sister rocks can be found near Pataleshwara temple.

Ugra Narasimha

Close to Bdavi Linga is one of the biggest idols in Hampi. Its height is 22 ft and was carved by a Brahmin during Krishnadevaraya’s regime.

The majestic statue has been vandalized and disfigured by the invaders.

Badavi Linga

One of the must-visit places in Hampi. This huge Linga is one of the biggest of all Lingas in Hampi made up of black stone and nearly 12ft in height. The inner sanctum has no ceiling.

Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple

This 15ft tall statue carved out of a single boulder is one of the largest sculptures in Hampi and is quite a popular tourist attraction.

Matunga Hill & Veerabhadra Temple 

It is considered to be one of the best places to watch the sunset . Make sure to reach here by sunset and marvel at the sky bursting into riots of colors.

The view from the top is breathtaking.

Virupaksha Temple

Virukapla temple which was our last but one stop at Hampi. It is one of the oldest temples of Hampi and has been renovated umpteen times. The temple has a huge complex and various idols of different gods and goddesses are dotted inside the complex.

Hampi Bazaar

Our last stop of the day was Hampi Bazaar which was loaded with trinkets, eateries, and street-side stalls selling an array of souvenirs.

After gulping from the side stall, we headed straight to the hotel where a delectable dinner buffet was waiting for us.  

We loved our time exploring and promised to be back soon to explore more places around Hampi.

A post shared by Swati & Sam | Travel Bloggers (@thetalesofatraveler) on May 4, 2016 at 2:10am PDT

To be honest, we were stuck in awe admiring the architectural marvel and taking in the mysterious and interesting tales.

  Getting Around

You can reach almost all the places by car.

You can hire bikes (Cycles) and mopeds at a price of INR 100/ per day and INR 300-400/ per day.

You can also hire a tuk-tuk to cover the trails.

Where To Stay in Hampi? – Luxury Hotel / Budget Stay 

Click here for a list of hotels in Hampi.

Where To Eat

Kahanavali’s

Mango Restaurant

Handy Tips for Bangalore to Hampi Road Trip

Grab a map and plan your itinerary well, as most of the places close by 5/6 pm

Hampi official site also suggests 1 – Day and 3 -days itineraries.

 Vittala Temple is huge and buggy services are provided from the parking place.

There are no proper shops and restaurants as you cover the trail. You might find a few coconut seller or ice cream vendors at a few significant places. Pack something to snack around.

Don’t miss the amazing sunsets at Matunga Hill.

 Bus No. 301 starts from the Hampi bus stand which is right in front of the famous Virupaksha temple.

Hire a government-authorized guide to know more about every nuance of the temple.

NOTE If you do find our article useful in planning your trip, don’t forget to send a note/picture of your trip to us ( Email:  [email protected]) for our Testimonial section.

We would highly recommend having more days on hand to soak in all the beauty and splendor HAMPI has to offer.

Related Post:

Interesting Tales of Hampi

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August 9, 2016 at 8:40 am

In my personal experience, to get the best feel of Hampi stay in Hampi Bazar area. There are quite a few homestays and lodges available in the area, with few eateries nearby.

August 11, 2016 at 2:59 pm

Thank you, maybe we would try your suggestion the next time we visit Hampi. Cheers. 🙂 🙂

August 12, 2016 at 7:02 am

I went there recently and stayed in one of the homestays, spent 3 days roaming around on a bicycle. The charm of the place was alluring to me, and it was a perfect retreat from city life.

August 9, 2016 at 5:59 pm

Amazing photos!

Thank you so much Mani. 🙂 🙂

August 10, 2016 at 5:51 am

Rightly said. Hampi is a dream made of stones! It is just sad how such ancient places are destroyed and lot to time. Vijaynagar must have been crazy prosperous in its time! Loved the account 🙂

August 11, 2016 at 3:00 pm

Thank you so much Vaisakhi, glad you loved it. 🙂 🙂

August 10, 2016 at 8:12 pm

For any traveler Hampi is a must visit.. your post has rekindled my visit to Hampi but there is so much more it seems that you covered so now I need to plan my next visit… 🙂

August 11, 2016 at 3:01 pm

You should definitely plan for a visit and we are sure your pictures would be stunning. 🙂 🙂

August 11, 2016 at 8:56 am

I would love to visit this place once for sure. You have detailed each & every thing so well that for a second I thought I was there only.

Thanks Dipika, glad you liked it. 🙂

August 16, 2016 at 5:09 pm

Excellent post . How was your stay at Hyatt Place?

August 17, 2016 at 3:24 am

Stay was good but breakfast was a bit lacklustre 🙁

August 24, 2016 at 2:49 am

Your pictures are gorgeous! I’ve been to India once before, for several weeks, and thought it would be the only time I would go. Turns out I was wrong, and I’ll be going again in January. But, I keep seeing wonderful places I want to visit, like Hampi, which makes me think a third visit will be in order 🙂

August 29, 2016 at 3:02 pm

India is full of secret gems Karlie. World in itself, you can say — starting from culture, architecture, beaches to mountains — it has just everything. If you are a history buff, do visit hampi on your next trip. You won’t regret 🙂 😉

August 26, 2016 at 3:50 pm

That’s an awesome write up guys..very detailed..kudos..will be really helpful for my visit to Hampi..

August 29, 2016 at 2:57 pm

We have tried to put all the details so that it helps others, glad you liked the post 🙂

August 29, 2016 at 3:08 pm

Thanks a bunch Madhu, hopefully it serves the purpose 🙂

October 7, 2016 at 7:48 am

HI, Planning a trip to Hampi tomorrow. Came across your site and writing. Well detailed indeed. Pictures are awesome. You could include little more details about the blore- hampi routemap, breaking places etc. Can all the locations mentioned by you be covered in one day or two days?.

November 25, 2016 at 5:07 pm

This blog is very informative.

February 28, 2017 at 1:53 pm

I love your photos! And the ruins! I can only imagine what they must have looked like at one point in time – such beautiful and unique architecture. And the Hyatt Hampi looks like a great place to stay!

February 28, 2017 at 7:34 pm

I didn’t go to Hampi while traveling in India but everyone I met who had been said it was one of the most inspiring places they visited! How interesting that Hampi was originally a place of pleasure and joy before it was overtaken and destroyed. You’re very lucky to live in a country with so many beautiful ancient sites!

February 28, 2017 at 8:33 pm

That is amazing! Hampi looks like a dream and since I love visiting ancient ruins, I think this is the kind of place I’d spend hours in. The history of this place gave me goosebumps along with the beautiful photos you have. The musical pillar I think is a testament that people from the past are actually much better than us. I think someone should definitely make it a goal to figure out how music is being produced by those pillars. Lol.

February 28, 2017 at 10:47 pm

I really wanted to make this trip when I was in Bangalore last May but we unfortunately got held up and ended up having to miss out 🙁 It’s a real shame, especially now seeing your post as it looks like somewhere I’d love! All the incredible architecture and history – I really must make the trip next time I’m in the area!

March 1, 2017 at 2:11 am

Very detailed post on all the ins and outs of visiting this cool spot. So much to photograph

March 1, 2017 at 3:06 am

Your photos of Hampi are simply stunning. I didn’t know about Hampi or the history. It’s so sad to think that it was in ruins from the 15th century. You are so right that the buildings themselves are now their own art work, still living. The underground temple is high on my list of places to see.

March 1, 2017 at 8:34 am

Wow, Hampi is huge! The Virupaksha Temple you photographed at sunset is amazing, I must visit Hampi. I think staying at the Hyatt works as it’s a good quality hotel and 27 km is not far away.

March 1, 2017 at 11:04 am

As a self-proclaimed history buff, this really does look right up my alley. Certainly, it is incredible how well the temples have been maintained and a vast majority of the carving details seems to be in place. Beyond the site itself however, Hampi looks a stunningly beautiful setting and that sunset photo you’ve captured really is great. A very readible and extremely thorough write-up.

March 2, 2017 at 10:32 am

I’m just back from Hampi and my posts on Hampi are coming up! Yes, even I took a road trip from Bangalore to Hampi and its one heck of a journey in both positive and negative sense! If travelling spring or rainy season (when its not raining) it could be so so beautiful with greenery on either sides. But on a sunny day it can really punishing!!! Though Google Maps says its just 6 hrs to take easily 7.5 hrs incl stopping for food, so its really long!!!

March 2, 2017 at 10:15 pm

The ruins in Hampi seem like you could spend so much time exploring the history. I also love that sunset photo you took while you were there. The musical pillar also sounds incredibly interesting–now I just really want to know how it makes music. hopefully someone will solve the mystery!

March 3, 2017 at 5:09 am

This post refreshed some old memories. I cycled through Hampi in 2011 which feels like a different era now. Apart from the ruins, even the rock formations are unique in Hampi. This also reminds me that I have been ignoring the south of late. Need to make it right.

March 3, 2017 at 3:17 pm

This looks like such an amazing trip! There are so many details to the ruins, they are stunning. I can see how one would want to spend more time there, there is so much to explore.

March 4, 2017 at 1:44 am

Hampi is just magical. And my favorite always. I can keep going again and again and finding things that I missed the last time around. Loved your pictures of it.

March 6, 2017 at 12:36 pm

Thanks a lot Ami. Hampi is magical 🙂

March 6, 2017 at 1:48 am

A road trip to Hampi has always been on my radar. The routes are said to be beautiful.Moreover, The ruins of Hampi and the temples are treasures waiting to be discovered. Thanks for sharing about the amazing 3D museum. You must have had a pretty good weekend.

March 6, 2017 at 11:12 am

This brought a lot of nostalgia. As I had visited Hampi couple of years back. The place is simply amazing. Although I couldn’t explore the length and breadth of it since I had a small baby and even in december it was quiet hot there. I want to go again and cover everything else, will use your post as my guide.

March 6, 2017 at 12:35 pm

It is a lovely place and I can re-visit n number of times without a second thought 🙂

March 6, 2017 at 12:39 pm

I was planning to visit Hampi last month and it didn’t seem to work out. Looking at these pictures, now is making me jealous 😀 Hopefully, I will visit Hampi soon. Thanks for the detailed itinerary 🙂

June 14, 2017 at 6:09 pm

This seems like a spectacular road trip! Thanks for the inspiration!

September 25, 2017 at 6:51 am

Hi.. Did you guys go back again in Nov.?? whats the latest experience of that? the above has been well captured though. thanks.

September 25, 2017 at 10:31 am

Hey, we are planning to visit hampi in november. Is it feasible to visit with 1.5 Yrs old kid ?

September 25, 2017 at 9:39 pm

Yes… Hampi is a beautiful place you’re surely gonna love it 🙂 But it’s huge so don’t try to squeeze in a lot with a kid in tow… Relax and take it slow 🙂 Have fun!!!

December 20, 2017 at 10:21 am

Amazing blog!

Do you need to pass any ghat/valley section while driving from bangalore to hampi?

December 21, 2017 at 5:16 pm

Not at all 🙂

December 24, 2017 at 7:02 pm

I am travelling there in January and made booking at same hotel Hyatt Place.

Thank you! 🙂

December 26, 2017 at 1:28 am

Hope you enjoy Hampi. Also, do send us a picture of yours from the trip.

January 17, 2018 at 5:42 am

Good Information!

September 22, 2018 at 5:13 pm

This is a beautiful article. Sad that I didn’t come across it before my trip but found it while searching for an alternative route from Hampi to Bangalore as the route through which we came , the last 70kns was extremely bad. Didn’t find it, but loved the story

August 1, 2019 at 4:33 pm

Awesome information and beautifully captured photos. May I know the camera and the lens rig that you use? Thanks

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Things to Do in Hampi & A Complete Travel Guide

Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Look no further than Hampi – a hidden gem in the heart of Karnataka, India. Our Things To Do in Hampi – A Travel Guide will explore its breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture; this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dream destination for history buffs and wanderlust seekers alike.

But before you embark on your journey to this enchanting wonderland, we’ve covered everything you need to know! From must-visit attractions to top things to do and insider tips, get ready to dive into the ultimate guide for planning your trip to Hampi. Let’s make memories that will last a lifetime!

Table of Contents

Introduction: Brief overview of Hampi

Hampi, located in the southern state of Karnataka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most captivating destinations in India. It is a small village once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire , which ruled South India for over two centuries from the 14th to 16th century AD .

The ruins of this ancient city are spread across an area of about 26 square kilometres . They are surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it a picturesque destination. Despite being in ruins, Hampi continues attracting tourists worldwide due to its rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels.

A Mix of Culture, Nature & History

One of the main reasons why Hampi is a must-visit destination is because it offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty . The temples and monuments here testify to the grandeur and opulence of the Vijayanagara Empire. The intricate carvings on these structures depict scenes from Hindu mythology and showcase outstanding craftsmanship.

Apart from its historical significance, Hampi also has a spiritual aura that can be felt throughout the village. With over 500 temples scattered around its landscape, Hampi is considered one of the holiest places for Hindus. The Virupaksha temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the oldest functioning temples in India and attracts thousands of devotees every year.

In addition to its cultural importance, Hampi also offers breathtaking views with its boulder-strewn hillsides , lush green paddy fields, and glistening Tungabhadra river flowing through it. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with activities like trekking , rock climbing, and coracle rides available.

In conclusion, Hampi is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience India’s rich history and culture, along with its natural beauty. The village has something to offer everyone and promises an unforgettable trip filled with ancient wonders and enchanting experiences.

Getting There: Different modes of transportation to Hampi

Hampi is a popular tourist destination located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is known for its rich history and ancient ruins, making it a must-visit place for history buffs and adventure seekers. However, planning your transportation mode is essential before embarking on your trip to Hampi. This section will discuss the various modes of transportation available to reach Hampi and their pros and cons.

The nearest airport to Hampi is the Hubli Airport, approximately 160 km from the town. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to Hampi from there. The airport has good connectivity with major cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi.

• Fastest mode of transportation.
• Flights are available from major cities in India.
• Comfortable journey.
• Expensive compared to other modes of transportation.
• Limited flights may result in higher airfare during peak season.

2. By Train:

The closest railway station to Hampi is Hospet Junction Railway Station (HPT), which is around 13 km away from the town. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from there to Hampi.

• Affordable option.
• Trains are available from major cities in India.
• Scenic train journey through rural landscapes.
• Limited trains may require advance booking during peak season.
• Longer travel time compared to flights.

Hampi has good connectivity with major cities in Karnataka, like Bengaluru, Mysore, and Hospet. You can take a bus from these cities to reach Hampi. The town also has local buses that connect different parts of the town.

• Cheapest mode of transportation.
• Good connectivity with nearby cities.
• Local buses provide an authentic experience of the town.
• Long travel time.
• Buses may only be comfortable for a short distance.

4. By Car/Taxi:

You can also opt for a private car or taxi to reach Hampi from nearby cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, or Goa. You can either hire a self-drive car or book a chauffeured taxi service.

• Flexible timings and routes.
• Allows you to explore nearby places at your own pace.
• Expensive option if travelling alone.
• Traffic may result in longer travel time during peak season.

In conclusion, your transportation mode depends on your budget, comfort level, and travel preferences. It is recommended to plan your trip in advance and book tickets accordingly to avoid any last-minute hassles. No matter which mode of transportation you choose, a trip to Hampi will surely be an enriching and memorable experience.

Best Time to Visit

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, India, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history and stunning architecture. This ancient city was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and is now home to numerous ruins, temples, and other historical sites that attract visitors from around the world.

If you are planning a trip to Hampi, it is crucial to choose the right time of year to visit. The weather, festivals, and tourist crowds can significantly impact your overall experience. To help you plan your trip effectively, here are the ideal months to visit Hampi based on these factors.

The best time to visit Hamp i is during the winter season , which lasts from October to February . During this time, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F – to 86°F) . The cool breeze makes it perfect for exploring the outdoors and visiting various historical sites without feeling too hot or uncomfortable.

Summer in Hampi starts in March and lasts till June , with scorching temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F). It can be scorching and humid during this time, making it difficult for tourists to explore outdoor attractions. Monsoon season begins in July and ends in September, bringing heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans.

Tourist Crowds

Hampi receives a high influx of tourists during the winter season from October to February . If you want to avoid large crowds, planning your trip during the shoulder season is best, from March to June or September to October. There are fewer tourists during this time, and you can explore the attractions at your own pace without feeling rushed or crowded.

In conclusion, the ideal time to visit Hampi would be from October to February when the weather is pleasant , and plenty of festivals and events are happening. However, to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season (March – June & September to October)  . Plan your trip accordingly and have a memorable experience exploring this ancient city.

Where to Stay in Hampi

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in India, offers diverse accommodation options for various budgets and travel preferences. These accommodations include:

• Budget-friendly hostels:  Ideal for budget travellers, hostels provide shared dormitory-style accommodations with basic amenities and a chance to connect with fellow travellers.
• Guesthouses:  Family-run guesthouses offer more privacy than hostels and often provide simple rooms with attached bathrooms. Some may offer home-cooked meals.
• Heritage hotels:  For a unique experience, heritage hotels provide a glimpse into the city’s history while offering modern comforts. Many also organize cultural activities and guided tours.
• Resorts:  Luxury resorts, located away from the main tourist areas offer top-notch facilities, serene surroundings, and various activities like yoga, spa treatments, and outdoor adventures.
• Boutique hotels:  Combining heritage charm with modern amenities, boutique hotels offer personalized services and attention to detail, often in or near the main tourist areas.
• Camping:  For adventure seekers, camping is an option. Campsites offer basic tents; some provide luxury tented accommodations with attached bathrooms.

It’s advisable to book well in advance during the peak season (October-March) due to the town’s popularity. Hampi caters to travellers with various budgets and preferences, ensuring there’s a suitable place to stay for everyone.

Must-See Places in Hampi

Hampi is a mesmerizing destination with a rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to countless ancient temples, monuments, and ruins that will leave you in awe. If you plan a trip to Hampi, add these must-see places to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

• Hampi Bazaar – Stroll through this bustling market street, which was once the commercial hub of Hampi during its prime days. You can find everything from handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, and traditional food here.
• Lotus Mahal – Also known as Chitragani Mahal or Kamal Mahal, this striking palace was used by the royal women of the Vijayanagara Empire during their recreational activities. The architecture of this palace resembles a lotus flower, hence the name.
• Matanga Hill – This is the highest point in Hampi and offers stunning views of the surrounding ruins and monuments. Many trekkers go here to catch a glimpse of the sunrise or sunset.
• Queen’s Bath – This is a large, well-preserved bathing complex built for the royal women of the Vijayanagara Empire. It consists of a central pool surrounded by arched corridors and balconies.
• Zenana Enclosure – This was the secluded area where the royal women lived in Hampi. The Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, and other structures can be found within this enclosure.
• Purandaradasa Mantapa – This memorial hall is dedicated to the famous poet Purandaradasa, a devotee of Lord Krishna. It houses a statue of him and his compositions carved on the walls.

Temples of Hampi

• Virupaksha Temple – This magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the oldest functioning temples in India. The intricate carvings and sculptures on the temple walls will leave you amazed. Take advantage of the famous chariot festival held here every year.
• Hemakuta Hill Temples – For breathtaking views of Hampi’s landscape, head up to Hemakuta Hill. You’ll also find many ancient temples and shrines scattered across the hill, including the famous Virupaksha Temple.
• Vittala Temple Complex – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars that produce different sounds when struck. The complex also houses beautiful mandapas (halls), shrines, and other structures.
• Achyutaraya Temple – Located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The annual Purandaradasa Festival is celebrated here with great pomp and show.

Hampi is a treasure trove of historical and architectural wonders. Each place has a unique story and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history or architecture. Remember to carry your camera to capture the beauty of these magnificent structures.

Top 9 Things to Do in Hampi

• Visit the Temples:  Explore the awe-inspiring ancient temples in Hampi, such as Virupaksha Temple, Vitthala Temple, and more, which offer a glimpse into the rich history and architecture of the region.
• Watch Sunsets:  The surreal landscapes of Hampi make for stunning sunset views. Enjoy the magical sight of the sun setting behind the boulders and temples.
• Shopping at Hampi Bazaar:  Hampi Bazaar is a vibrant marketplace where you can shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, jewellery, and traditional clothing. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
• Indulge in Local Cuisine:  Savor local Karnataka cuisine at the numerous cafes and restaurants. Try dishes like bisi bele bath, jolada rotti, and the delicious masala dosa.
• Bouldering:  Hampi is a mecca for bouldering enthusiasts. The unique rock formations provide a challenging and picturesque backdrop for climbers of all levels.
• Cliff Jumping:  If adventurous, indulge in cliff jumping by the Tungabhadra River. Leap into the clear waters and experience an adrenaline rush.
• Cycling in and Around Hampi:  Rent a bicycle and explore the charming villages and stunning landscapes around Hampi. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
• Explore the Hippie Side in Anegundi Village:  Anegundi, just across the river, offers a more relaxed and bohemian vibe. Discover the laid-back cafes, art scenes, and vibrant community.
• Take a Coracle Ride:  Experience a traditional coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River. These circular boats offer a unique and serene way to enjoy the region’s scenic beauty.

Hampi, with its cultural richness and natural beauty, offers diverse activities that cater to all interests, from history and spirituality to adventure and relaxation.

An Ideal 5-Day Itinerary for Hampi

1: Arrival and Exploration

• Arrive in Hampi and check in.
• Visit the Virupaksha Temple.
• Explore Hemakuta Hill.
• Enjoy a riverside sunset.

2: Temple Tour

• Explore the Vithala Temple complex.
• Visit Royal Enclosure.
• Explore the underground Shiva temple and the Lotus Mahal.
• Sunset at Hemakuta Hill.

3: Adventure and Nature

• Go bouldering among the unique rock formations.
• Explore Sanapur Lake or Anegundi Village.
• Evening in Anegundi for a taste of the bohemian side.

4: Riverside Activities

• Enjoy a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River.
• Explore Anjanadri Hill and the Monkey Temple.
• Return to Hampi.

5: Relaxation and Departure

• Cycle around Hampi and explore the remaining sites.
• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
• Check out and bid farewell to Hampi.

In conclusion, Hampi is a truly magical destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Proper planning and preparation allow you to maximise your trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From exploring ancient ruins to trying local delicacies and indulging in adventurous activities, there’s something for everyone in Hampi. Therefore, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey filled with rich experiences and lasting memories with our travel guide .

While Hampi is a remarkable destination, two days can provide a taste of its beauty and history. During this time, you can explore the main temples, like Virupaksha and Vithala, and enjoy bouldering and local cuisine. However, to delve deeper into its richness, consider extending your stay to 3-4 days for a more comprehensive experience.

Absolutely, Hampi is a must-visit destination. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with awe-inspiring temples, surreal landscapes, and vibrant culture. Hampi has something to offer, whether you’re a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, or someone seeking serenity. Ensure you check for the latest travel advisories and conditions before visiting.

Hampi’s uniqueness lies in its rich historical heritage, captivating architecture, and dramatic landscape of massive boulders set against a cultural backdrop. The Virupaksha Temple, the Vithala Temple complex, and the enchanting bouldering opportunities are some of its highlights. The town’s laid-back ambience and bohemian vibes in nearby Anegundi make it unique.

Ideally, to experience the essence of Hampi, you should spend at least 3-4 days. This will allow you to explore the numerous temples, enjoy activities like bouldering, and immerse yourself in the local culture. However, you can glimpse the main attractions in 2 days if you’re on a tight schedule. Still, a longer stay is recommended for a more enriching experience.

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Places To Visit In Hampi

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1. Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

1 km from city center 1 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Also known as the Pampapathi temple, it is the most famous temple in Hampi and dates back to the 7th century. It is said that this temple has had a continuous run since then, making it one of the oldest functioning temples in India.

2. Vithala Temple

1 km from city center 2 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

The most impressive structure in Hampi, the Vithala Temple dates back to the 16th century and is a truly splendid example of rich architecture.

3. Lotus Palace

2 km from city center 3 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Close to the Zenana Enclosure, is a monument that stands out in its design and style from most of the structures of Hampi. Another complex, for royal women, this one gets its name from the lotus-like dome

4. Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple

4 km from city center 4 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Atop the Anjenaya Hill, this temple is dedicated to Hanumana. 570 steps must be climbed by devotees to visit this temple. The view from atop the hillock beside this temple is a feast for the eyes.

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5. Hampi Bazaar

0 km from city center 5 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

This bazaar is facing the Virupaksha temple and hence is also known as the Virupaksha Bazaar.

6. Hippie Island

1 km from city center 6 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Virapapur Gadde or Hippie Island is a small island situated across the Tungabhadra river. It takes 5 minutes to travel to the island via coracle or boat. The island is an epitome of scenic beauty and is known for laidback ambient and lodges.

7. Coracle Ride

7 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

When in Hampi, you absolutely have to get hold of a coracle and ride in one. It is one of the few places in the country where you can get such an experience and we guarantee that it is going to be a lot of fun. You can rent a coracle at really economic rates and cross the rates in the ferry that looks exactly like the one in olden days. Coracle rides can be arranged for Rs. 50 or around that price and this is one of the most definitive experiences amongst things to do in Hampi. Coracle rides can be arranged at Tungabhadra River boating area, Sanapur Lake, or at Sanapur waterfalls.

8. Queen's Bath

2 km from city center 8 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

A part of the Royal Enclosure, this aquatic enclosure was the Royal bath during the times of the Vijayanagra Empire. It was built in such a way that no outsiders could enter the bath, and has lost much to ruins at the date.

9. Matanga Hill

0 km from city center 9 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

This hill is described as the location of the hermiatge of the Saint Matanga during the Ramayana, hence is appropriately named.

10. Elephant Stables

1 km from city center 10 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

The Elephant Stables served as an enclosure for royal elephants back in the day of the Vijayanagra Empire.

11. Monolith Bull

1 km from city center 11 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

The ride of Lord Shiva, the bull is represented here as a sculpture placed on a high platform. It is partially ruined, but is a major attraction owing to its huge size.

12. Big Shivlinga

1 km from city center 12 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Carved out of a single boulder, this Shivlinga stands at a height 3m amidst water. It is a major attraction in Hampi.

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13. Zenana Enclosure

1 km from city center 13 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

The Zenana Enclosure was primarily the Women's Quarters. A part of the Royal Enclosure, this was a place especially for the Royal women i.e. the Queen and her friends and companions.

14. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

1 km from city center 14 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

This temple features the biggest effigy in Hampi, of Narasimha sitting on SeshaNaag i.e. the seven headed snake acting as a shelter to him. The idol of Goddess Lakshmi is placed along with that of Narasimha.

15. Daroji Bear Sanctuary

17 km from city center 15 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Established in 1994, this sanctuary was converted from a thorny forest to a lush green area which is now inhabited by Sloth Bears.

16. Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex

1 km from city center 16 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

The Hemakunta Hill houses a temple complex, many of them dedicated to Lord Shiva. These are all protected by a fort, providing a secluded atmosphere.

17. Old Palace

58 km from city center 17 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

The Old Palace, surrounded by a fort, and is in ruins as of today. It is located in Anegondi, for which kingdom this palace served as the center.

18. Mahanavami Dibba

2 km from city center 18 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

This structure served as a focal point from where the Vijayanagara kings ruled their Kingdom. Various aspects of courtly life are depicted on this huge structure, including a gem studded throne.

19. Achyutraya Temple

0 km from city center 19 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

This temple is also known as the Tiruvengalanatha Temple, after the main deity, a form of Lord Shiva.

20. Hazara Rama Temple

2 km from city center 20 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

At the middle of the Royal Centre, this was a place of worship for the royals. The walls and pillars are beautifully adorned with fascinating carvings, including the outside walls of the compound. This temple is smaller in size compared to the others in Hampi.

21. Archaeological Museum

3 km from city center 21 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

A government museum in the area houses a number of artifacts, remains, and other exhibits found during excavation.

22. Rock Climbing

1 km from city center 22 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Hampi is always full of rock climbers who are climbing up the boulders with their crash pads around. The landscape is ideal for rock climbing and bouldering since there are granite craigs and boulders all around. Bolting is limited, so carry a crash pad along.

23. Anegundi Village

3 km from city center 23 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Located on the banks of River Tungabhadra, Anegundi village is famous for the Aramane Palace Ruins, the Kamal Mahal, the Huchappayana Matha Temple, the Ranganatha temple and the Nava Brindavan. The village is older than Hampi and is considered a World Heritage Site. The rich culture and the beautiful architecture of the important monuments make it a major attraction for tourists.

24. Kadalekalu Ganesh

1 km from city center 24 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Kadalekalu Ganesh is an important religious attraction in Hampi. The temple has traditional stone architecture and is located on Hemakuta Hill and has a huge 15 feet monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha which is a believed to be one of the largest in the world. The reason why the attraction is called Kadalekalu is because the belly of the deity is chiselled to look like Kadalekalu (Bengal gram).

25. King's Balance

1 km from city center 25 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Situated close to the Vittala Temple, King's Balance is an ancient 15th-century weighing scaled which was used to weigh the king with the royal jewels every year on special occasions. The jewels were then donated to the temple priests. The structure has intricately carved pillars. It is made of granite and the pillars support a stone beam that has hoops which were used to suspend the balance. Interestingly, the king was made to eat rich and fatty food and encouraged to not move too much so that the few extra kilos would reflect on the scale and ensure that more jewels could be donated to the priests.

26. Riverside Ruins

1 km from city center 26 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

The Riverside Ruins are a splendid cluster of Shivalings carved on a flat rocky surface, in addition to several shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu and other Hindu deities, some of which are partially submerged. These ruins are in a row of 108 lingas and a sqaurish 1008 lingas and can be spotted all across the gorge.

27. Sasivekalu Ganesh

1 km from city center 27 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Sasivekalu Ganesh has a gigantic monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha. The statue is over 8 feet tall and was created in the memory of a Vijayanagara King - King Narasimha II. It is often associated with the legend of Ganesha when he tied a snake around his belly when his stomach was about to burst after he had consumed a lot of food. The snake can be clearly seen around Lord Ganesha's belly.

28. Hampi Utsav

28 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Hampi Utsav, Hampi festival also known as the Vijaya Utsav is one of the largest celebrations of the ancient Vijayanagar empire now Hampi. The festivities take place every year at the Virupaksha Temple, commemorating the culture, traditions of the bygone era. With the beautifully carved ruins of Hampi serving as the backdrop, the rich culture of this region is shown through folk song and dance performances. The Janapada Kalavahini, a concert of folk songs, and the light and sound shows are unique attractions which you can't afford to miss.

29. Shopping in Hampi

0 km from city center 29 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

The stone carvings by local artists are a good piece of memorabilia to take back from Hampi.

30. Cliff Jumping

30 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Apart from wandering through several ruins, Cliff Diving is one of the prime activities and things to do in Hampi. Especially popular among adventure buffs, the activity is enough to give you a divine adrenaline rush. You will find signs warning you of crocodiles in the Tungabhadra river below but there are little to no reports of crocodiles ever found at the diving sites. Sanapur Lake and Hampi Lake are also very popular sites for cliff diving in Hampi.

31. Bike Riding

31 out of 31 Places To Visit in Hampi

Riding a bike across town is a whole new way to experience the local life, green fields and local culture. This is one of the most popular activities and things to do in Hampi, among tourists. Other than being a fun activity, it allows you to explore the town on your own. You can relax by the meadows or try delicious food at the local markets. Be sure to capture all these memorable moments in your camera. Bicycles can be rented from many places in Hampi and bike tours of the World Heritage Site are very commonly conducted.

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Hampi Places To Visit In 3 Days List Complete Itinerary

Know the details about the Hampi Places To Visit In 3 Days List Complete Itinerary, Hampi Places To Visit In 3 Days Best Option List Details

Table of Contents

Explore Hampi in 3 Days: A Complete Itinerary

Introduction.

Hampi, located in Karnataka, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient temples, captivating ruins, and scenic landscapes. This three-day itinerary will help you explore Hampi thoroughly, covering all major attractions with detailed plans, timings, locations, and essential tips.

Day 1: Temples and Historical Wonders

1. virupaksha temple.

• Story : Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple dates back to the 7th century.
• Timings : 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location : Near Hampi Bazaar
• About : Start your trip here. The temple complex is filled with beautiful courtyards and intricate carvings.

2. Hemakuta Hill Temples

• Story : A collection of ancient temples offering panoramic views.
• Timings : Open all day
• Location : Next to Virupaksha Temple
• About : Great spot for photography and a serene walk among the ruins.

3. Hampi Bazaar

• Story : Once a bustling market area, now a street filled with ruins.
• Location : Adjacent to Virupaksha Temple
• About : Explore the ancient shops and buy local handicrafts.

4. Matanga Hill

• Story : Offers the best sunrise and sunset views.
• About : A moderate trek that offers breathtaking views. Perfect for family photos.

5. Lunch Break

• Location : Local eateries around Hampi Bazaar
• About : Enjoy traditional Kannada dishes like Idli, Dosa, and Vada.

6. Vittala Temple Complex

• Story : Known for its stunning architecture and the iconic stone chariot.
• Timings : 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Location : 2 km from Hampi Bazaar
• About : The musical pillars are a hit with kids and adults alike.

7. King’s Balance

• Story : An ancient balance used by the kings to weigh themselves against gold and precious stones.
• Location : Near Vittala Temple
• About : A unique experience reflecting the opulence of the Vijayanagara Empire.

8. Dinner and Relaxation

• Location : Hippie Island
• About : End your day with a relaxed dinner at one of the vibrant cafes.

Day 2: Royal Enclosures and Scenic Spots

1. sunrise at anjaneya hill.

• Story : Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this hill offers stunning sunrise views.
• Timings : 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Location : Anjaneya Hill
• About : Climb 575 steps to the top. Kids will enjoy the adventure.

2. Royal Enclosure

• Story : The seat of the Vijayanagara Empire’s power.
• About : Explore the audience hall, step-well, and various other ruins reflecting royal grandeur.

3. Queen’s Bath

• Story : A royal bathing complex with an elaborate structure.
• Location : Royal Enclosure
• About : Featuring arched corridors and a central pool, showcasing the luxury of the past.

4. Lunch Break

• Location : Local eateries around the Royal Enclosure
• About : Relish traditional Kannada cuisine.

5. Lotus Mahal

• Story : A palace with Indo-Islamic architecture within the Zenana Enclosure.
• Timings : 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• About : The lotus-shaped dome is the highlight, reflecting the architectural brilliance.

6. Hazara Rama Temple

• Story : Known for its intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
• Location : Near Royal Enclosure
• About : A must-visit for history and mythology enthusiasts.

7. Dinner and Coracle Ride

• Location : Near the Tungabhadra River
• About : End your trip with a serene coracle ride and a riverside dinner.

Day 3: Offbeat Attractions and Leisure

1. daroji bear sanctuary.

• Story : Home to the Indian Sloth Bear.
• Location : 15 km from Hampi
• About : Ideal for a morning safari and wildlife spotting.

2. Anegundi

• Story : An ancient village older than Hampi itself.
• Location : Across the Tungabhadra River
• About : Explore the charming village and its historical sites.

3. Sanapur Lake

• Story : A calm and scenic lake ideal for picnics.
• Location : Near Hippie Island
• About : Enjoy a peaceful picnic and boating activities.
• Location : Cafes in Hippie Island
• About : Refresh yourself with local delicacies.

5. Tungabhadra Dam

• Story : A multipurpose dam built across the Tungabhadra River.
• About : Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the garden and park areas.

6. Dinner and Farewell

• Location : Cafes in Hampi or Hospet
• About : Celebrate the end of your trip with a hearty meal.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Best Time to Visit : October to February, when the weather is pleasant.
• Transportation : Rent bicycles or mopeds for easy movement between sites.
• Dress Code : Wear modest clothing, especially in temple areas.
• Local Cuisine : Savor local Kannada dishes; most are kid-friendly.
• Accommodation : Various options available, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.

Q: Is Hampi suitable for a family trip? A: Yes, Hampi offers a mix of historical sites, scenic spots, and fun activities suitable for all ages.

Q: Are guides available? A: Yes, local guides are available for hire at major attractions.

Q: What are the entry fees? A: Entry fees vary; some sites charge around INR 30-50, while others like Vittala Temple Complex may charge about INR 500 for foreigners.

Q: Is photography allowed? A: Generally, yes, but some temples may have restrictions on flash photography.

Q: Is there any significant festival in Hampi? A: The Hampi Utsav showcases cultural performances and traditional crafts.

Hampi is an ideal destination for a comprehensive exploration of India’s rich heritage, culture, and natural beauty. This three-day itinerary ensures you cover the essential attractions as well as offbeat spots, making your visit memorable and enriching for every family member.

Hampi Vitthal Mandir History Importance Architecture Facts

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Hampi Travel Guide: Places to see in Hampi

Hampi is an ancient village in the northern Karnataka, India. During its prime, Hampi was one of the richest and largest cities in the world during its prime as the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. The ruins of Hampi houses temple, ponds, ancient markets etc. for which Hampi has been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its group of monuments.

Hampi was also ranked second on the list of must-see places in 2019 by NewYork times. Also, Hampi was ranked as one of Asia’s top emerging travel destinations for 2019. In this Hampi Travel Guide, we will talk about different places to see in Hampi and how can we see places of interest in Hampi in one day.

Page Contents

How to reach Hampi from Bangalore? Distance, Bus, and train

Bangalore to Hampi distance is 350 Kms . The best way to travel to Hampi from Bangalore will be by train . Because in India, trains are cheaper, faster and more comfortable.

However, there is no direct train to Hampi so you will have to take a train to Hospet which is the nearest town to Hampi and from there, you can go to Hampi by minibus or taxi or by booking an auto or Tuktuk. More information is given below:

Bangalore to Hampi Train:

There is no direct train from Bangalore to Hampi because there is no railway station in Hampi. So to reach Hampi by train, you can get down at Hospet railway station which is the nearest railway station. Below is the train information from Bangalore to Hospet for Hampi. Note: The last train in this list show train from Goa Hospet.

Hampi to Bangalore Trains

Once you reach Hospet, you can take the local bus service or hire an auto to reach Hampi from Hospet which is 13 Kms.

Bangalore to Hampi By road:

Road condition from bangalore to hampi:.

Traveling to Hampi from Bangalore follows the route: Bangalore to Tumakuru, Tumkur to Chitradurga, Chitradurga to Hosapete/ Hospet and Hospet to Hampi.

First stretch: Bangalore to Chitradurga (200 Kms)

There is a three-lane highway (NH4) from Bangalore to Chitradurga via Tumkur. You can comfortably drive at around 120 kph on this road. There are also Dhabas and roadside hotels with bathroom at regular intervals along this stretch. Driving from Bangalore to Chitradurga should take around 3 hours including traffic.

Second stretch: Chitradurga to Hampi (150 Kms)

There is just a double road, that too in not so good condition, from Chitradurga to Hampi. This 150 Km of stretch takes around 3 hours to reach Hampi. Do not expect Dhaba or restaurant facilities along this road as this road passes through mostly the barren lands. You will encounter a lot of trucks on the way so be careful.

Bangalore to Hampi bus:

Bangalore to Hampi by bus will be a tiring journey. However, you can book tickets for Hampi at either KSRTC website or at redbus. KSRTC is Karnataka State official bus service. However, it runs only one bus daily from Bangalore to Hampi. Here is the KSRTC bus information to Hampi from Bangalore:

Staying options in Hampi

There are multiple staying options in Hampi. Either you can stay on the Hampi side of the river or across the river on the other side called Virupapura. I would term the staying options in Hampi as either very good or either very bad. Be careful while choosing the stay there. They might be ill-maintained and will be dirty. So, double check before checking in.

Besides, there are some good resorts also on the other side of the river which are really good. I usually prefer google map to find out hotels. Here is the link for hotels around Hampi . Wikitravel also has some information on where to sleep in Hampi, here is the link .

Getting fresh in Hampi:

If you are there in Hampi for just one day, At the Hampi main bus stand, there is a toilet (Sulabh Shauchalaya), there you can get fresh in the morning and travel all day.

And if you want to take a bath then you can go to the Tungabhadra river and take a bath there. There is another public toilet near the Tungabhadra ghats there you can also get fresh in the morning.

How to visit Hampi in one day?

Hiring a guide:.

Near Virupaksha temple, there is a tourist office. You can hire a guide from there. Forget not to bargain and also fix the number of places the guide will show you.

In one day, you can do ample sightseeing around Hampi to different ruins and locations around Hampi which still have the heritage sites. But, if you love photography and if you are a big fan of ancient history, then Hampi is the place where you can spend at least three days to know more about this place.

On foot / Bicycle / Tuktuk /Car

There are three ways in which you can visit Hampi in one day. Either on foot (not recommended), on a bicycle (terrain is too uneven and the weather is not so favorable either). The bicycle will cost you around 200 per day. But it might be exhausting for you as the weather in Hampi is not so perfect for bicycling.

By Auto-rickshaw , you can cover most of the places but that would be expensive as well. Since most of the ruined sites are situated far apart in miles and if you have the target of covering everything in a single day then either Auto or car will be the most suitable choice. An Auto-rickshaw will cost you around INR 1000 for the entire day.

By Car also, you can travel around Hampi. A car is the most comfortable with AC. There are two links that I found on the internet for the car rentals.

• https://www.hampitrip.com/CarRentals.aspx
• http://www.kushitravels.com/hospet-car-rental.php

These car rentals operate from Hospet to Hampi and also Hampi sightseeing entire day.

Before we talk more about the places to see in Hampi, let’s have a glance at the brief history of Hampi which will help us in understanding this ancient beautiful city better.

Best Time to Visit

Given that you have to walk alot, the best time to visit Hampi is from November to February when the weather is cool and dry. And if you enjoy dance, drama and fireworks then visiting during November for the 3 day local festival which is also known as Vijaya Utsav is a must. 

The largest religious festival in Hampi known as Virupaksha Car Festival , the yearly marriage ritual of the gods is held in March or April according to the local calender. 

Ideally to travel around Hampi, you may need 3 days. You can start visiting all the places from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm. Anyone visiting must keep in mind that meat and alcohol are not allowed in Hampi as this is a religious destination. Also, there are not ATMs in Hampi so please try to have cash in hand when you visit Hampi.

Vijaya Utsav

The Vijaya Utsav, also called the Hampi Utsav is a 3 day festival which is held in the first week of November. This is the most important festival in this region as this festival is being celebrated from Vijayanagar reign. This festival is reminds us of this city’s cultural, religious and it’s beautiful hisotry. Many events such as dance, drama, lights, wrestling, rural sports and the Heritage walk . The Heritage walk is a small trekking where you visit all important heritage sites of Hampi.

Virupaksha Car Festival

Virupaksha Car Festival is one of the most colourful festival that you will enjoy. This festival is held in Virupaksha Temple which is a 7th century temple. The most important highlight is temple wood chariot which is pulled from the Virupaksha Temple along the main street of Hampi. This festival symbolizes marriage ritual of Lord Shiva and Parvathi.

Nearby Attractions

If you are in Hampi than you must visit Bellary Fort, which is located East of Hampi. Also, heritage sites like Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal are places you would not like to miss once you are in Hampi. They have some great history that everyone must understand and enjoy.

Hampi History:

History of Hampi Karnataka dates back to the first settlement in 1st CE. Rock scriptures found in the different parts of India suggest that Hampi was a part of the Ashokan Kingdom during 3rd CE. Also, Excavation from the different sites in Hampi dates back to 2nd CE.

During medieval times, Hampi was chosen as one of the best areas for being the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire from 1343 to 1565. Hampi had a strategic location. Bounded by the Tungabhadra river on one side and hills on other three sides, Hampi was one of the safest places to be declared as the capital of the Vijayanagar empire from the attacks of the Deccan looters. It was destroyed in a similar fashion as the destruction of Nalanda University by another looter.

The Hampi history was first discovered by Colonel Colin Mackenzie in 1800. Hampi seemed a historically and architecturally rich site. Hills around Hampi have large stones and boulders which were used to make temples, markets, pillars, ponds, stables, walls, houses etc.

You can still find the stone sculptures showing Arab, Roman, Chinese traders on the temple’s stones. There used to be a market of Gold and diamonds in Hampi to which Deccan Muslim rulers were always eyeing for. That’s why Hampi was attacked time and again by the Muslim rulers.

Nandi or Monolithic bull in Hampi

At the end of the main Hampi bazaar street, there is a big monolithic bull statue of Nandi. This monolithic bull is situated at a little height from the bazaar street of Hampi. From here, you get to see the busy streets of Hampi and also, it lies in front of the Virupaksha temple. Did you know that there is a hill named after Nandi near Bangalore called Nandi Hills

Sri Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

Opposite to the Nandi statue, on the other side of the Hampi main bazaar street, lies the Virupaksha temple. It’s a magnificent temple with a glorious Gopuram at the entrance. Erected in the 7th AD, this temple is the oldest functioning temple in India.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is also dedicated to goddess Pampa who is related to the river Tungabhadra. There are also music pillars across the temple and there is also an illusion of shadows of the temple-tomb inside the temple. There is also an elephant inside the temple complex.

KadaleKalu Ganesha, Hampi

Kadalekalu Ganesha is another monolithic beauty in Hampi. This statue, as obvious from the name itself, is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This monolithic statue of Ganesha is around 5 meter in height. It is a very beautiful statue situated inside the temple. This statue was made by traders who used to come to Hampi for trading.

Sasivekalu Ganesha, Hampi

Sasivekalu Ganesha is another monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha in Hampi situated nearer to KadaleKalu Ganesha. Like KadaleKalu Ganesha, Sasivekalu Ganesha was also made by traders from Chandragiri in 1506 AD. However, this statue is in open and this is about 8-9 feet high.

Sunset Point, Hampi

Sunset point is around five minutes of walk from the Sasivekalu Ganesha. The sunset point offers a really nice view of the rubbles and ruins of Hampi along with the temples and rocks. You can also sit there and relax for a while. Sunset point is also a perfect location for panoramic photography. You can also see nearby villages and paddy fields from this point.

Sri Krishna Temple, Hampi

Sri Krishna temple was built by the king (Krishna Devaraya) in 1513 AD to celebrate the conquest of the Eastern Kingdom of Udayagiri in Orrisa state. This temple has a large open corridor with high walls containing the sanctum for the main deity and as well as there are many sub-shrines.

One of the pillars in the interior hall is noteworthy as all the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu are carved on it including the Kalki Avatar from the Kaliyug. The west face of the tower contains stucco figures of warriors with shields, spirited horses and elephants. This temple is located just in front of the Krishna bazaar.

Krishna bazaar, Hampi

Krishna Bazaar is located just opposite to the Sri Krishna temple. There is also a Pushkarni at the end of the bazaar. Pushkarni means a pond. There are around thousands of pillars in the Krishna Bazaar. Krishna bazaar is one of most favorite places to see in Hampi.

Different visiting sites at Hampi also reminded me of Mahabalipuram in some way due to ruins, sculptures and old temples.

Sri Ugra Narasimha, Hampi

Sri Ugra Narasimha is a statue dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of his Avatars. This is the largest statue in Hampi. It is around 20 feet tall. The Ugra Narasimha statue also has fangs of the King cobra around him. This statue is little different from most of the statues dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Underground Shiva temple, Hampi

The underground Shiva temple is situated at a level below the normal ground level. You can see this temple from the top and you can also walk inside the temple. But forget not to carry a torch and you should also be careful while going inside the temple as there are bats and there is darkness inside the temple.

Hazara Rama temple, Hampi

Hazara means thousand and Rama refers to Lord Ram. Not so famous but this temple depicts the entire story of Ramayana on its walls. You can experience the finesse of the sculptures depicting the Ramayana story on its walls.

Sabha Mantap/ Dassara Dibba/ Maharamnavami Dibba, Hampi

Sabha Mantap is also known as Dassara Dibba or the Maharamnavami Dibba. Sabha Mantap was a raised platform where the king would sit and watch a celebration. Sabha Mantap is an east facing platform rises to a height of 12 m and is built in three diminishing tiers.

The first tier and the one above measures 40 and 24 square m respectively and is built of well-dressed massive granite blocks. The Mahanavami Dibba was the hub of religious ceremonies like Durga Puja, Navarathiri, Diwali that were celebrated by the Vijayanagar Kings.

The Mahanavami platform is popularly known as the throne platform or house of victory and was built in three phases. In the first phase, the platform was definitely imposing and majestic.

It was built of well-dressed granite blocks and decorated with a variety of courtly scenes, festive moods, hunting scenes and rows of animals and birds, carved in relief around the platform, representing the life and times of the people of Vijayanagara.

In the second phase, a chamber was provided on the eastern side with a flight of steps in the north and south, leading from the chamber to the roof of the platform.

The platform was decorated with panels depicting elephants, geese, dancers, musicians, medallions and miniature shrines carved in relief. The third phase of the platform was encased with beautifully carved schist blocks.

Pushkarani & Royal Enclosure, Hampi

Sabha Mantap was a part of the Royal enclosure and so was the Pushkarani. Pushkarani was a kind of swimming pool for the king. It was based on ancient techniques. It is another beautiful pond to see in Hampi.

Queens Bath, Hampi

Queen’s bath is a place where queen used to take bath. Queen’s bath is famous for its beautiful carvings on the wall. it is a large, square structure with a plain exterior and an ornate interior. It has a bath, 15 m square, and 1.8 m deep, surrounded by decorated corridors and projecting balconies.

Some remnants of elaborate stucco work and variegated designs are visible on the ceilings of each bay. It is located near the Royal Enclosure. It was used by the women of noble families and occasionally by the King himself.

Zenana’s enclosure, Hampi

The Zenana Enclosure was a fortified and secluded area reserved for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Zenana Enclosure is located in the area approaching the Royal Enclosure and near the Ranga Temple.

The enclosure is a sprawling compound that had tall walls surrounding it on all sides and watch-towers to keep guard against any trespassers. It was constructed during the days of the Vijayanagara Empire. The highlight of the Zenana Enclosure is the Lotus Mahal or Kamal Mahal, one of the most remarkable structures in Hampi.

Lotus Mahal, Hampi

Lotus Mahal is so beautiful. It is also known as Kamal Mahal or Chitrangini Mahal. This building is symmetrical in nature. It was a kind of Natural AC system.

Elephant Stable, Hampi

The Elephant Stable in Hampi is an impressive structure that was used to provide shelter for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. The elephant stable is located in the area that lies just outside the Zenana Enclosure.

It is one of the very few structures that have not suffered extensive damage during the Mughal attack on Hampi that led to the downfall of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1565 A.D. The ancient stable is a major attraction among the tourists even today. There is a total of eleven stables. Each of the eleven Chambers is used during the Dussehra festival.

Shiva temple

This Shiva temple situated beside the river is a magnificent place to see. It has a lot of pillars and this place is like a labyrinth, the appealing Siva Temple is surrounded with water and the structure acts as both a natural air conditioner and water storage tank. The air surrounding this place is very cool and relaxing and one might just end up contemplating nature with a smile on their faces.

Sri Vitthala/ Vijaya Vitthala temple

Vijaya Vitthala temple is one of most beautiful sculptures and temples to see in Hampi. It has a lot of history behind it. On the stone carvings and sculptures, you can see the sculptures of Iranian, Chinese, and European traders on temple walls.

There are also sounding pillars. Some guides told me that using the sandalwood sticks, musicians used to play the sound stone pillars and the sound could be heard almost more than a mile from this temple.

It is home to one of the only three stone chariots in India. However, wheels of the chariot have been jammed now. There is also a Nritya Mahal (a separate building for dance and other recreational activities) is also interesting for the use of acoustics to generate different melodies from the stone pillars – this goes to show how advanced the civilization was!

Besides, you can also see Jaya & Vijaya statues, two guards of the Lord Vishnu temples. You can also see water conservation technique in the temple complex. Also, there are different stone sculptures telling different stories of Krishna and many-in-one animal sculptures inside the temple complex and on its walls.

Kings balance, Hampi

Kings balance is also known as Tula Bhara or Tula Purushadana, The king used to weigh himself with Gold, Gems, Silver and precious stones and distributed to the priests.

Achutaraya temple, Hampi

Achutaraya temple is situated at the foothills of the Mathanga hills. Just in front of this temple, there is a street which used to be a market in the ancient times known as Achutaraya bazaar. Most of this temple’s parts are under renovation.

Mathanga hill, Hampi

From Mathanga hill, you can see the entire town of Hampi. You can also trek to the top of the hill. At the top of the Mathanga hill, there is another temple named VeeraBhadra temple. Trekking to this perfect hill takes about an hour but it is all worth the effort.

On top of this hill, one can get an aerial view of the entire Vijayanagara Kingdom. Best time to climb is during Sunset. When the sun sets, you can see the color of the rocks changing their colors accordingly.

Some of the places in Karnataka where you can explore such more historical sites are Badami Caves and Pattadakal .

Did you like it? Please Rate it below:

21 replies to “hampi travel guide: places to see in hampi”.

Thank you for this detailed article! Helped me get a lay of the land! Quite detailed and helpful!

Such a great blog it is! You have written well informative with various beautiful lines. Very interesting. Thanks.

Thank you for information, much useful. But just want to highlight your line “… muslim looters…” you are wrongly generalizing whole community 🙁

I have removed the word Muslim from the blog

That’s what happened. Why change history?

Noce information bro 🙂

Thank you so much for providing such info. Supper info about Humpi

Thanks Charan!

Thanks .. Help us to plan well

Amar, Its really helpful and awesome description that you had given here. Keep up the good work. The guy in black T-Shirt (BABBAL MAHARAJ) in 2nd pic had just woke up I guess.

Hahahaha… haan bhaiya….Babbal maharaj hain 😛

Hello Guys, Please check out my video about how I travelled to Hampi and what are the expenses occured during my journey in Feb18. It was

4N/3D Trip costing me only Rs.4268!!!

Do check out! https://youtu.be/0KsXDM1fCu8

thank u for information.. i am planning to visit hampi..this is good information

Hi, The article was pretty informative. thanks !

The article was pretty informative. thanks ! Kudos to you !

If I want to camp in hampi were will be the best place to do so

As a visitor from the US, your article is very helpful. Thanks for collecting the train schedules etc. Some comments about safety, haggling with the local drivers will be helpful. For westerns, we may prefer a Car Service or for some, a Travel company – any comments about this will be helpful. Keep in mind, your article may have great impact on travel for many around the world. Great work! Safe travels.

Most of the car operate from Hospet. You can book through them. They have many packages https://www.hampitrip.com/CarRentals.aspx

Thank you for such beautiful description of the places …will be very much useful

useful info

Thanks Kumar

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How to Reach Hampi by Train, Flight, Bus or Car?

• October 24, 2023

Nestled amidst the rugged terrain of Karnataka, India, lies the ancient city of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a treasure trove of historical wonders. Steeped in rich heritage and adorned with stunning ruins, Hampi has become a bucket-list destination for travellers from around the world. Particularly, as it is one of the best places to visit near Bangalore , many people from Bangalore visit Hampi frequently. To ensure you embark on a hassle-free journey, this blog post provides you with a comprehensive guide on how to reach Hampi by train, flight, bus, or car, so you can immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this captivating city.

How to Reach Hampi by Different Transportation Modes?

If you are particular about learning how to reach Hampi by train, the information given below will help you:

How to Reach Hampi by Train?

Reaching Hampi by train is a convenient and popular option, with several well-connected railway stations near the city.

Hospet Junction:

The nearest railway station to Hampi is Hospet Junction, situated at a distance of approximately 13 kilometres. Trains from major cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, Goa, and Mumbai connect to Hospet Junction regularly. Upon arrival, you can easily hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local bus to reach Hampi.

Hubli Junction:

Another option is to reach Hubli Junction, which is approximately 160 kilometres away from Hampi. Hubli is well-connected to major cities in India, and you can find regular trains from cities like Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, and Delhi. From Hubli, you can opt for a taxi or a bus to complete the remaining journey to Hampi. If you cannot find direct trains from your home city to Hospet, you can book trains to Hubli.

As you know, you can book train tickets on the official website of IRCTC or via IRCTC App from any place to either Hubli or Hospet. From there, you can reach Humpi by bus or by hiring a taxi. Upon arrival, you can stay in one of the best hotels in Hampi .

Now, you know how to reach Hampi by train. What if you wish to travel by flight?

How to Reach Hampi By Flight?

Although Hampi does not have its own airport, you can still access the city by flying to nearby airports and then taking a road journey.

Hubli Airport:

Located around 160 kilometres away, Hubli Airport is the closest air gateway to Hampi. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to Hubli from cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Hyderabad. After landing, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to cover the remaining distance to Hampi.

Belgaum Airport:

Approximately 270 kilometres from Hampi, Belgaum Airport is another option. Domestic flights from cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi are available to Belgaum. Once you arrive, you can proceed to Hampi by taxi or bus.

Irrespective of the city of your origin, you can book flights to one of the cities mentioned above. From there you can hire a tax to reach Hampi. Taking a flight from your hometown will help you land in Hampi quickly. So, you can engage in the best things to do in Hampi with ease. Now, after knowing how to reach Hampi by flight, here is the information on how to reach Hampi by Bus:

How to Reach Hampi by Bus?

Thankfully, Hampi is well-connected by road, making bus travel a convenient and budget-friendly option. State-run and private buses operate from various cities and towns to Hampi regularly.

Here are some common routes you can consider:

Bangalore to Hampi:

Buses from Bangalore to Hampi are readily available, with a travel distance of approximately 340 kilometres. The journey usually takes around 7 to 9 hours, depending on the type of bus and the route.

Goa to Hampi:

If you are coming from the coastal state of Goa, there are direct buses to Hampi, covering a distance of about 330 kilometres. The journey may take around 8 to 10 hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions.

Hyderabad to Hampi:

From Hyderabad, you can find buses to Hampi, with a travel distance of around 370 kilometres. The journey usually takes around 8 to 10 hours.

From other cities, you can book private buses online from dependable travel agencies. Otherwise, you can check whether state-run buses operate from your city to Hampi. Now, you know how to reach Hampi by bus. What if you wish to travel by car to reach Hampi? Here is the answer:

How to Reach Hampi By Car?

Travelling to Hampi by car offers the flexibility to explore at your own pace and enjoy scenic drives through the picturesque landscapes of Karnataka. When you come to Hampi by car, you can also explore places to visit near Hampi .

Take the NH48 route from Bangalore to reach Hampi, covering approximately 340 kilometres. The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

Drive via NH44 and NH50 for around 370 kilometres to reach Hampi from Hyderabad. The journey may take around 7 to 8 hours.

Cover a distance of about 330 kilometres by taking NH748 and NH67. The journey usually takes around 7 to 8 hours.

Mumbai to Hampi:

Although a longer drive, you can take NH48 and NH52 for around 650 kilometres to reach Hampi from Mumbai. The journey may take approximately 11 to 12 hours.

Also, travelling by car will help you get flexibility when you are spending your days on Hampi during your 5-day Hampi itinerary . Here are some travel tips to help you regardless of the mode of transportation you choose:

Travel Tips

• Consider booking your train or flight tickets in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
• If travelling during peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to book your accommodation in Hampi beforehand.
• Carry sufficient cash with you, as ATM facilities may be limited in some areas near Hampi.
• Dress modestly while visiting temples and religious sites.
• Ensure you have a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and architectural marvels of Hampi.
• Stay hydrated and carry essential items like sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore the ruins on foot.

Conclusion:

Reaching Hampi is a delightful journey that takes you through the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Karnataka. You now know how to reach Hampi by train, flight, bus, or car. Each mode of transportation offers a unique experience. Hampi’s rich historical heritage and mesmerizing landscapes await your exploration, promising an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come. So, plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to embark on an enchanting journey to the ancient city of Hampi.

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Discover The Ultimate Summer Vacation Spots In Hampi

Best places to visit summer in hampi.

Hampi is a beautiful place situated in the southern part of India, Karnataka and it has a lot of people from around the world visiting there. Its rich history, lush environment and vibrant culture makes it worth visiting by many especially during summer. In this article we are going to discuss some of the best places that you can visit in Hampi during summer.

1.Virupaksha Temple:

One of India's oldest living temples, the Virupaksha temple is an epitome of the architectural excellence of Vijayanagara Empire. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and not only for worship; covering with intricate designs and huge gopurams makes this temple one among the wonders in Architecture. Visiting this temple during summertime helps you witness different rituals and festivals celebrated with more pomp and enthusiasm.

2.Hampi Bazaar:

Next to Virupaksha Temple lies Hampi Bazaar which is a busy market where one can expose himself/herself to local culture through shopping of traditional crafts, souvenirs or colorful clothes. The intoxicating smell of local cuisine and lively atmosphere make it necessary for one to visit Hampi Bazaar particularly during summer nights when temperature is not very high.

3.Matanga Hill:

You cannot miss trekking up Matanga Hill for a bird's eye view over Hampi landscape. Though challenging, such trekking provides breathtaking views over ancient ruins casting golden color on them due to rising or setting sun as well as Tungabhadra River flowing between them below. Due to this, it is better to hike during early morning or late evening thus making the trek more enjoyable in summer.

4.Vijaya Vittala Temple:

Another fascinating example of architecture in Hampi is Vijaya Vittala temple famous for its musical pillars and stone chariot. Visitors get dazzled by intricately carved sculptures and stunning architecture at these temple complexes. The beauty of the Vijaya Vittala Temple complex can be fully appreciated if visited on a quiet day in summer.

5.Tungabhadra River:

To escape from hot summer days, one can have a refreshing plunge into the clean waters of Tungabhadra River. While you may take a rest on its banks, go for boat riding or involve yourself in activities such as coracle rides and kayaking, there are enough opportunities for rejuvenation and relaxation that nature has provided through Tungabhadra River.

6.Anegundi:

Anegundi is a town located on the northern side of the river Tungabhadra which makes it very attractive to tourists. The presence of ancient temples, historical sites and beautiful surroundings covered with banana plantation and paddy fields adds value to Anegundi tourism. It's nice to walk along the village paths talking with villagers while enjoying rural life at its best.

7.Hemakuta Hill:

Hemakuta Hills known for their groupings of ancient temple complexes, rock-cut caves and breathtaking views of sunset provide magnificent scenes for photographers. As the sun sets down behind those hills Hemakuta Hills; when it fills up against towering boulders set against ruins they create silhouettes that are really stunning. When visited in summer you will be able to see a natural wonder exhibiting all its majesty.

8.Hampi Archaeological Museum:

To avoid the midday sun, visit the Hampi Archaeological Museum where a range of artifacts, sculptures and relics excavated from ancient ruins of Hampi are kept. Consequently look for yourself at amazing statues that present mythologies and learn about historical buildings' style.

Lastly, Hampi is appealing to tourists in search of eternal beauty, wonderful architecture and cultural legacies which makes it perfect for summer holidays. For all the people who appreciate architecture or are interested in history or maybe love nature or only wish to take some time away from busy towns, Hampi fits perfectly into that category. In this regard, prepare yourself to move towards discovery by setting foot on Indian soil as you create memories among stunning landscapes in Hampi.

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3 ways the CDK cyberattack is affecting car buyers

By Khristopher J. Brooks

Edited By Alain Sherter

June 25, 2024 / 5:52 PM EDT / CBS News

The ransomware attack on CDK Global is not only hampering car dealerships nationwide — it's also complicating life for car buyers.

Some 15,000 dealers rely on CDK's dealer management software to run their business, including handling various aspects of buying or leasing a vehicle, such as adding dealer incentives and generating a discount for trade-ins. But last week's cyberattacks are disrupting the sales process, experts told CBS MoneyWatch, while also throwing a wrench into what is a major financial decision for consumers. 

Here are three ways the CDK incident is impacting car buyers. 

Delays in buying a vehicle

Car dealerships use CDK's software to track what vehicles are on their lots, conduct credit checks, generate interest rates for auto loans and complete sales contracts, among other functions. But the attack on the platform has forced dealership staff to perform those tasks by hand, greatly slowing the process of buying or leasing a car, Jessica Caldwell, head of insights at Edmunds, told CBS MoneyWatch.

"If you're bringing a check to the dealership or cash, then you'll be OK," she said. "Otherwise, you have to bring your patience because it's a real headache."

One way car shoppers can expedite the buying process is to call ahead to a dealership and specify what vehicle you're looking for, enabling staffers to see if it's in stock, said Jennifer Newman, editor-in-chief of Cars.com. Shopping around for an auto loan, perhaps with a bank or credit union, can also speed things up. 

"Having a pre-approved loan on hand will allow you to keep the car deal moving forward should that be an issue for the dealership," she said. "However, keep in mind that often the best rate may come from an automaker, which is only available through the dealership."

Prepare to visit the DMV

Once someone makes a purchase at a dealership, the CDK system automatically registers the vehicle at the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Agents at the DMV then generate the official registration paperwork, including the new license plate. 

But that process is also taking longer following the hack, the experts said. With CDK platform down, Caldwell said she has heard that some dealers and customers have resorted to trooping down to their local DMW to register a new purchase in person. That means longer lines at the DMV, Caldwell said. 

To be sure, such hitches should be resolved quickly once the CDK software is fully functioning again. But that could take several more days — the company told dealerships on Tuesday that all dealers won't be back online before June 30 .

Longer waits for vehicle service

With CDK down, it's taking dealer repair shops longer to service vehicles, experts said. That's because dealerships use CDK's software both to schedule service appointments and to keep track of what car parts the shop has available to complete repairs. 

For now, some dealer service staff are using spreadsheets and other online tools to keep things moving, but that's a band-aid, Caldwell said. 

"If you're a major car dealership repair shop, you're doing many fixes per day," she said. "If you're having to record inventory in parts by hand, that's going to take away time you're spending serving customers." 

• Auto Industry

Khristopher J. Brooks is a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch. He previously worked as a reporter for the Omaha World-Herald, Newsday and the Florida Times-Union. His reporting primarily focuses on the U.S. housing market, the business of sports and bankruptcy.

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Freight train derails in Chicago suburb, triggering evacuations over suspected leak

A freight train derailed in a Chicago suburb on Thursday, briefly sparking evacuations of nearby homes and businesses.

The train derailed at 217th Street and Main in Matteson, NBC Chicago reported. A mandatory evacuation was underway amid a suspected leak from the derailed cars.

The evacuation affected people and businesses within a quarter-mile east, 1 mile west and 1 mile south of the site, according to the station. The evacuation in the area was lifted Thursday afternoon except for areas very close to the derailment site.

Canadian National Railway said in a statement that the derailment involved about 25 cars “carrying various substances.” There were no fires or reports of injuries, a spokesperson said.

Two cars containing residue liquified petroleum gas leaked a limited amount, the spokesperson said, adding that it has since been contained.

"The other railcars that derailed but did not leak any product include non-dangerous goods, Caustic Soda and railcars containing residue of LPG," the spokesperson said.

“There is no danger to public safety,” the spokesperson said in an emailed statement. “A precautionary evacuation was ordered but has since been lifted except for properties immediately adjacent to the site.”

The cause of the derailment is under investigation.

Matteson police said additional information will be released later Thursday.

Matteson is a village in Cook County, Illinois, about 30 miles south of downtown Chicago.

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

• Artificial Intelligence /
• Internet Culture

Perplexity’s grand theft AI

More like perfidy.

By Elizabeth Lopatto , a reporter who writes about tech, money, and human behavior. She joined The Verge in 2014 as science editor. Previously, she was a reporter at Bloomberg.

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In every hype cycle, certain patterns of deceit emerge. In the last crypto boom, it was “ponzinomics” and “rug pulls.” In self-driving cars, it was “just five years away!” In AI, it’s seeing just how much unethical shit you can get away with.

Perplexity is basically a rent-seeking middleman on high-quality sources

Perplexity, which is in ongoing talks to raise hundreds of millions of dollars , is trying to create a Google Search competitor. Perplexity isn’t trying to create a “search engine,” though — it wants to create an “answer engine.” The idea is that instead of combing through a bunch of results to answer your own question with a primary source, you’ll simply get an answer Perplexity has found for you. “Factfulness and accuracy is what we care about,” Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas told The Verge . 

That means that Perplexity is basically a rent-seeking middleman on high-quality sources. The value proposition on search, originally, was that by scraping the work done by journalists and others, Google’s results sent traffic to those sources. But by providing an answer, rather than pointing people to click through to a primary source, these so-called “answer engines” starve the primary source of ad revenue — keeping that revenue for themselves . Perplexity is among a group of vampires that include Arc Search and Google itself . 

But Perplexity has taken it a step further with its Pages product, which creates a summary “report” based on those primary sources. It’s not just quoting a sentence or two to directly answer a user’s question — it’s creating an entire aggregated article, and it’s accurate in the sense that it is actively plagiarizing the sources it uses .

Forbes discovered Perplexity was dodging the publication’s paywall in order to provide a summary of an investigation the publication did of former Google CEO Eric Schmidt’s drone company . Though Forbes has a metered paywall on some of its work, the premium work — like that investigation — is behind a hard paywall. Not only did Perplexity somehow dodge the paywall but it barely cited the original investigation and ganked the original art to use for its report. (For those keeping track at home, the art thing is copyright infringement.)

“Someone else did it” is a fine argument for a five-year-old

Aggregation is not a particularly new phenomenon — but the scale at which Perplexity can aggregate, along with the copyright violation of using the original art, is pretty, hmm, remarkable. In an attempt to calm everyone down, the company’s chief business officer went to Semafor to say Perplexity was developing revenue sharing plans with publications, and aw gee whiz, how come everyone was being so mean to a product still in development?

At this point, Wired jumped in , confirming a finding from Robb Knight : Perplexity’s scraping of Forbes’ work wasn’t an exception. In fact, Perplexity has been ignoring the robots.txt code that explicitly asks web crawlers not to scrape the page. Srinivas responded in Fast Company that actually , Perplexity wasn’t ignoring robots.txt; it was just using third-party scrapers that ignored it. Srinivas declined to name the third-party scraper and didn’t commit to asking that crawler to stop violating robots.txt.

“Someone else did it” is a fine argument for a five-year-old. And consider the response further. If Srinivas wanted to be ethical, he had some options here. Option one is to terminate the contract with the third-party scraper. Option two is to try to convince the scraper to honor robots.txt. Srinivas didn’t commit to either, and it seems to me, there’s a clear reason why. Even if Perplexity itself isn’t violating the code, it is reliant on someone else violating the code for its “answer engine” to work.

To add insult to injury, Perplexity plagiarized Wired ’s article about it — even though Wired explicitly blocks Perplexity in its text file. The bulk of Wired ’s article about the plagiarism is about legal remedies, but I’m interested in what’s going on here with robots.txt. It’s a good-faith agreement that has held up for decades now, and it’s falling apart thanks to unscrupulous AI companies — that’s right, Perplexity isn’t the only one — hoovering up just about anything that’s available in order to train their bullshit models. And remember how Srinivas said he was committed to “factfulness?” I’m not sure that’s true, either: Perplexity is now surfacing AI-generated results and actual misinformation , Forbes reports.

To my ear, Srinivas was bragging about how charming and clever his lie was

We’ve seen a lot of AI giants engage in questionably legal and arguably unethical practices in order to get the data they want. In order to prove the value of Perplexity to investors, Srinivas built a tool to scrape Twitter by pretending to be an academic researcher using API access for research. “I would call my [fake academic] projects just like Brin Rank and all these kinds of things,” Srinivas told Lex Fridman on the latter’s podcast . I assume “Brin Rank” is a reference to Google co-founder Sergey Brin; to my ear, Srinivas was bragging about how charming and clever his lie was.

I’m not the one who’s telling you the foundation of Perplexity is lying to dodge established principles that hold up the web. Its CEO is. That’s clarifying about the actual value proposition of “answer engines.” Perplexity cannot generate actual information on its own and relies instead on third parties whose policies it abuses. The “answer engine” was developed by people who feel free to lie whenever it is more convenient, and that preference is necessary for how Perplexity works.

So that’s Perplexity’s real innovation here: shattering the foundations of trust that built the internet. The question is if any of its users or investors care.

Correction June 27th: Removes erroneous reference to Axios — the interview in question was with Semafor.

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Don't forget Tiananmen, Taiwan singer tells prestigious music awards

Taiwanese singer and activist Panai called on Saturday at one of the most prestigious entertainment events in the Chinese-speaking world for people not to forget China's bloody 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy protesters at Tiananmen Square.