tourist map of hampi

Map of Hampi — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Hampi, India for travelers! Check out Hampi’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Hampi? See our Hampi Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Hampi. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Hampi map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Hampi by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 16 attractions in Hampi

Virupaksha temple, hampi, shree vijaya vitthala temple.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Matanga Hill

Hazara raama temple, hemakuta hill temple, elephant stables, lotus mahal, shri achyutaraaya swamy temple, zanana enclosure, shri lakshmi narasimha temple, stepped tank, saasivekaalu ganesha, mahaanavami dibba - hampi, kadalekalu ganesha, sanapur lake, queen's bathhouse, top 10 restaurants in hampi, ravi’s rose restaurant, suresh restaurant, funky monkey restaurant, old chill out ganesh restaurant, gopi guesthouse and roof restaurant, hampi roof restaurant, gopi island, trishul restaurant, shiva cafe & megha guest house, sunrise restaurant and guest house, transportation in hampi, nearby airports, jindal vijaynagar airport, highways and major roads.

• NH-67: This is a national highway that connects Bangalore to Hampi. It runs for a distance of around 332 km.
• SH-49: This is a state highway that connects Hospete to Hampi. It runs for a distance of around 12 km.
• SH-131: This is a state highway that connects Hampi to Bellary. It runs for a distance of around 74 km.
• SH-57: This is a state highway that connects Hospete to Gadag. It runs for a distance of around 103 km.
• SH-19: This is a state highway that connects Hospete to Anantapur. It runs for a distance of around 165 km.
• SH-131A: This is a state highway that connects Hampi to Tungabhadra Dam. It runs for a distance of around 27 km.
• Hampi - Badami Road: This road connects Hampi to the historic town of Badami. It runs for a distance of around 132 km.
• Hampi - Bijapur Road: This road connects Hampi to Bijapur. It runs for a distance of around 200 km.
• Hospet - Kampli Road: This road connects Hospet to Kampli. It runs for a distance of around 10 km.
• Hospet - Kotturu Road: This road connects Hospet to Kotturu. It runs for a distance of around 32 km.

Attractions

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 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 day-by-day itineraries in Hampi?

Get inspired for your trip to Hampi with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Hampi Itinerary
• 2-Day Hampi Itinerary
• 3-Day Hampi Itinerary
• 4-Day Hampi 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

Culturally Immersive & Responsible Travel

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Visit the Old Ruins of Hampi (Updated for 2024)

About this blog: This Hampi Travel Guide presents you with evocative pictures and travel tales from the ruins of ancient Hampi, Karnataka, a state from south of India. This article also aims to help you in planning to explore the ruins of Hampi during 3 days trip to Hampi. You may tweak the plan a bit and adjust it to a 3 days/ long weekend itinerary for Hampi. Hampi is a UNESCO world heritage site for immense historical value and a weekend destination from Bangalore, Hyderabad and Goa . Often referred to as India’s answer to ruined historic city of Pompeii, Hampi evokes intriguing memories of the days of kings and queens and kingdoms and invasions and battlefields. It is one of the safest destinations of solo women travelers in India.

This is the only Hampi travel guide you need to plan your trip to Hampi, choose a safe and nice stay and explore the old ruins of Vijayanagar Empire.

Traveling to Hampi: Destination at a glance!

Quick travel tips to keep in mind for this Hampi travel guide .

• Hampi is a UNESCO world heritage site in Karnataka, India. Please be respectful while exploring Hampi’s historic ruins.
• Multiple ruins of ancient Hindu temples and royal complex dating back to the Vijayanagara empire of 1500 CE.
• Hampi is a great weekend destination from Bangalore, Goa and Hyderabad .
• Easily accessible by domestic flight and train and bus. Road trips to Hampi from Bangalore is rewarding as well.
• Hampi is a safe destination for solo female travelers. I solo traveled to Hampi in July and had absolutely no issue.
• Cost of traveling in Hampi (moderate/budget): Hampi is suitable for backpacking to mid-budget travels. Hampi is not very expensive.
• Offbeat tourist attractions in Hampi: nature trails, bear sanctuary, hippie vibes at the hippie island of Hampi, birding at the backwaters of Tungabhadra, Tungabhadra river, ideal for school excursion.

Pin this post on Hampi travel for later!

The Rise of Hampi as a Tourist Destination

…from the Numbness of History

Hampi has been featured on the New York time’s list of best destinations around the world in the recent past. Ever since, millions have swarmed into the bouldered vast pastures of the ruined wilderness that Hampi is! Located at Central Karnataka in the southern part of India, Hampi is a world UNESCO heritage site. It safeguards the ruins of the medieval Vijayanagara empire..

However, my introduction to Hampi dates back to the 90s while reading Sunil Ganguly’s Bijaynagarer Heere (The Diamond of Vijayanagara), from Kakababu, a fantasy series for children written in Bengali. I knew of the ancient temple that plays the sound of flute if you know how to tune into its flanking pillars, or whatever remains of them. The never ending secret tunnels, the lure of hidden chests filled with gold and gems, the melancholy of an empire’s heydays: Hampi, the capital city of the erstwhile Vijayanagara has buried innumerable secrets by the banks of river Tungabhadra.

Archaeological survey of India has been operational in the fields of Hampi, still excavating historical anecdotes from an era bygone. Recently, there was a news of unearthing a few KGs worth of gold and precious stones.

Physically, I visited Hampi a year before NYT ranked it as the second best place to visit in the world or something like that!

My trip to Hampi revolved around unearthing and visualizing stories from the as I had experienced in the books on Hampi on balmy afternoons in Kolkata as a child. Sharadindu Banerjee’s Tungabhadrar Teere (by the banks of Tungabhadra) is another astounding piece of literary fiction set in the era. Syam Benegal’s directorial venture, “Bharat ek Khoj” based on Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s Discovery of India played back in my mind as I stepped in the cradle of nature that hides Hampi from the world outside

While Hampi featured prominently in international backpacking bucket list post the NYT feature, the destination has always remained an enigma among the locals. Often hailed as the last bastion of contemporary Hindu India, Hampi’s riches and glory were insurmountable at a time when the dominos in the north of India fell at regular intervals to invaders from the northwest. Hampi scaled even greater heights in international politics. Her wealth and prosperity is known to have evoked awe and reverence among the western traders. Many compared Hampi to be a greater city than contemporary Rome. You do not have to trust my words. See the remnant of the massive monuments of Hampi and your eyes will tear up in the thought of looting!.

Hampi’s history is not as linear as two religiously empowered political parties fighting amongst each other and uprooting the defeated. Although seeing the ruins and systematic destruction of Hindu idols, for example the Lakshmi Narasimha Statue with two of his hands cut off as a part of the message, you may be tempted to overcome with rage. 

The fall of Hampi in many ways bore semblance to the final conquest of the Indian peninsula, translating to the whole of India. The south of India, with 5000 KM long coastline, enriched with wealth beyond measure sits as the crown jewel of Golden Bird, India is famously known for. Conquering the Vijayanagara dynasty of Hampi stood paramount for the political interest in those days.

Ironically anarchy prevailed and no other salient ruler could ever scale upto what Vijayanagar was.

Also read: Offbeat day trips from Leh when you are spending 5 days in Leh!

Conquests had been the order of the yesteryear’s politics. Incessant bloodbath to conquer Vijayanagara that lasted for 6 months had turned Tungabhadra river into florid red. Kings and queens fell. So did the deity inside old sanctums.

There is only one thing we say to death: Not today.

The emptiness of Vijayanagara is haunting. It is difficult to contain grief and pain as you walk on the now cobblestoned red earth, dotted with Gulmohors. In summer, the red blooms of Krishnachura caress the scorched Earth, as if mother nature still tries her best to comfort a sunken child. Gentle breeze maneuvers through sunflower fields. Tungabhadra flows fiercely at the bend of the giant boulders. Ethereal sunsets take place everyday. 

Nature agrees with Hampi, not the humans. Not any longer. 

Long before tourism boards promoted Hampi as a budding destination, people tried to rebuild the habitat but all efforts went into vain. Nature reclaimed Hampi and moved the birds, snakes and sloth bears in the capital of erstwhile Vijayanagar empire. Vijayanagara empire lives in our heart and mind. Hence, non-erasable.

Hampi, the Heart of Historic Vijayanagara Empire

When you play the game of thrones, you win or you die. There is no middle ground. 

Pardon me for consecutive references to Game of Thrones but anyone who has been an avid follower of the series will see a similar set of events unfolding in the context of Vijayanagar empire. In fact, every empire that ever stood to the gnaw of time, rose to fame and glory and kissed dirt subsequently has followed the same set of rules. 

That is how the Game is played. 

I got my closure on whys and hows for Hampi from Game of Thrones. That’s uncanny but I could have never written such a detailed travel guide without watching it!

Hampi as a place has been long standing even before the Vijayanagara empire came to be. There are references on Hampi in Indian epic of Ramayana, as Pampa-kshetra, Kishkindha-kshetra or Bhaskara-kshetra. Ashoka’s rock edifice retrieved from Bellary district of Karnataka points at Hampi’s existence too.

Vijayanagara empire came to be with rulers Harihara 1 and Bukka 1. The latter stretched the empire to the borders of Goa. Ancient inscriptions state that there was an established trade route between Goa and Vijayanagara. The Portuguese, Italians and the Moorish traders made entry to the Vijayanagara court through that waterborne pathway.  The Coracle boats are believed to be brought by the Arab traders.

Hampi grew steadfast amid turmoil in the northern frontier. By 1500 CE, historians ascribe Hampi-Vijayanagara to be the world’s second-largest medieval-era city, next to only Beijing. Hampi’s riches and landscaped metropolitan plan were described by the tradersmen from Persia and Portugal. However growing enmity with neighbouring Deccan Sultanates and continuous battles eventually plagued the city and contributed to the eventual fall of Vijayanagar Empire.

On the eventful nights of the fall of Vijayanagara, the city was pillaged, looted, burnt and the spell of destruction lives to tell the tale till date. I am writing this with a heavy heart and choked throat.  Since millenia, we have known wars to be futile but will there ever come a time, we will truly learn?

Today, Hampi is known as a UNESCO world heritage site. 

Hampi today stands as a prominent tourist destination with historical importance. Virupaksha temple, the only remaining temple of Vijayanagara empire, remains a pilgrimage spot. The fact Hampi was a part of the eminent Indian philosopher Adi Shankaracharya’s Yatra from south to north of the country made it an important pilgrimage stop.

Local schools conduct excursions in the archaeological zone. My trip to Hampi was basically a game of tailing a group of young school children who would not leave me be! I resisted, tried to change the routes and be comfortably numb in my mind, desperately seeking tranquility to immerse in the ancient ruins of Hampi. The next moment, two of these kids in indigo shorts and white shirts appear from thin air and smile! In an hour or so, I gave up.

Looking back, I feel grateful. I was not ready to see that massive scale of destruction that mad-danced in Hampi from the pages of history. We are the people who grew up in the legacy of world wars and holocaust and multiple media renditions of the same. I wish we would have known a bit of our own history as well. Say for example, the opium war of Asia?

Looking at Hampi ruins, I was reminded of the horrors of bombing Buddha statues of Bamiyan , Afghanistan .

Also read: Things to do in Dalat, Vietnam

How to reach Hampi?

By Flight: Bellary is the only domestic airport close to Hampi, located at a distance of 60 km. You may also fly into Hubli (143 KM) or JSW Vidyanagar  Airport  in Toranagallu (40 km) based on flight availability.

By train: In case you fan-girl the mighty Indian railway, trust Hospet Junction to bring you 13 km close to the ancient group of monuments in Hampi. The night train Hampi express from Bangalore makes it an easy trip. From Hospet, the rest of the country is well connected with Hampi.

Roadtrip to Hampi: Hampi is almost equidistant from Goa, Hyderabad and Bangalore, requiring a road trip journey of 6/7 hours at a stretch.

Compared to Badami, Aihole or the Pattadakal temples, road to Hampi is a treat to drive in. Roadtrip to Hampi from the three major citiesof South India remains a delightful experience.

How to plan a trip from Bangalore to Hampi?

From Bangalore, Hampi is located at a distance of 350 KM and can be reached through NH4 highway. You must not forget to stop at the Chitradurga fort en route.

There are multiple night buses that leaves Bangalore and reaches Hospet the day next. Bangalore night buses to Hampi leaves from Madiwala, Silk Board, Majestic and makes stop once in the night for washroom and food break. Carry tissue and other hygienic needs.

I took one such night bus, reached Hospet the next morning at 6 am, paid 200 rs to an Auto and reached the hotel I was staying in. I stayed at Hampi Heritage Resort and I would advice you more on the best neighborhood to stay in Hampi n the following section.

You can take the night train to Hampi from Bangalore station. Hampi Express. It reaches Hospet the next morning and is a delightful journey.

How to explore the Ancient Ruins of Hampi

Aka things to do in Hampi in 3 to 4 days. A rough guide to plan your short Hampi itinerary.

First thing first, to discover the archaeological ruins of Hampi, you need to get your hands on an illustrated map pointing at the areas open to tourists. ASI (Archaeological survey of India) is continuing excavation in Hampi at various sites and unearthing facts from the past. 

Every hostel/hotel/guest house in Hampi (or nearby areas of Anegundi and Hospet) provide the root map of hampi.

The archaeological ruins of Hampi are spread over an area of 26 sq km. There are over thousands of temple ruins and cultural anecdotes. 

You can walk that 26 sq km area of Hampi over a span of three days. There are stops to rest. Autos ply a short distance. A government bus runs frequently till Hampi Bazar from Hospet. A few coracles on the water. Using them, you may check out Hampi’s many magnificent Dravidian temple ruins, dilapidated pillars, grandiose royal+  forts, stables, the river bank at Tungabhadra, local life that endured centuries of trauma. 

If you are in a hurry, you can squeeze in all these in 2 days, or just explore the ruins on the banks of Tungabhadra river.

If you are keen, you can spend even a whole month in Hampi to read all the wall panels on temples, explore newer and lesser known avenues, and witness mesmerizing sunsets over sprawling fields of paddy. A guide said scholars come and live in Hampi for three months at a stretch.

Essential things to know before you plan your Hampi itinerary

• How to start exploring the ruins of Hampi

Roughly speaking, there are three clusters of ruins in Hampi.

1. Sacred Ruins (temple complexes)

2. Metropolitan ruins (the urban ruins where the king and his subjects resided) and

3. Riverside ruins.

You need at least 3 to 4 hours to explore each of the ruin clusters. Carry water bottle, umbrella, sun screen (enough sun shield basically), a nice walking shoe and camera. Photo opportunities are endless!

You will ideally reach the urban ruin first in case you are traveling from Hospet (I did). If you are taking a bus to Hampi Bazar (from Hospet again), you shall reach the Sacred ruins first.

• How to plan a three days trip in Hampi?

For your three days stay in Hampi, allocate each day for each of the ruins I mentioned above and end the day with one great sunset show. There are beautiful sunset viewpoints in Hampi. I shall note them down below. If you have completed sightseeing in two days, allocate one day to explore the Daroji bear Sanctuary (famous for appearing in India’s jungle hero series on discovery). You may also indulge in rock climbing sessions. 

• If you have only one day in Hampi…

Start the day early. Start with the urban ruins of Hampi and continue to the sacred ruins by the banks of Tungabhadra river. End the day with a sunset view from the Hemkuntha hill. Probably you will not be able to cross the river with a one day itinerary in Hampi however it is still worth it if you are hard pressed for time. It is a rushed and quick Hampi itinerary indeed.

• Do you need a guide to see the ruins of Hampi?

The day I reached Hampi, I met an auto driver. He took me around the ruins of Hampi and doubled as a guide very kindly. The Hampi ruins have detailed illustrations by ASI and that does the job of explaining well if you have patience to read. Unlike Fatehpur Sikri, Hampi did not have a guide center from where I could hire a local guide. It is a pity because I would not recommend solo female travelers to hire a guide without any authority. Not just in India, anywhere in the world. I suggest look up in the groups of Trip advisor forum and collect a guide’s number from the travelers in recent times.

The Must Visit Temples and Ruins at the group of Monuments, Hampi

Following table will give you a rough idea for what are the ruins you need to look for while exploring the ruins of Hampi. This is no way an exhaustive list. But these are the prominent spots. Once you are near any of the temples, you are close to a spot full of vibrancy. I will delve deep into each temple site in the next section.

Once you are inside the archaeological site in Hampi, you are almost inside an open museum. Look around and you can marvel at everything! I promise.

Best things to do when Traveling in Hampi

Important places to visit in Hampi

1. vijaya vittala temple: the stone chariot of hampi.

One of the largest temple complexes in Hampi, Vijaya Vittala houses the iconic temple where pillars play music. A guard stands, with red blood eyes, and now prevents people from trying it out themselves. Be a sweet maidan and ask him to play for you when no one is around and he might just… who knows?

Vittala temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. A lot of ravages have stripped down the temple’s shikaras and gopurams. However, the stone chariot stands tall. It even makes a feature in the new Indian currency note! Find out. 

To avoid tourists, plan you trip early on the day to Vittala Temple complex. 

At Vittala temple, an electric vehicle run by the local women will bring you to the main temple complex from the gate for a mere INR 10 payment. It was very heartening to see the local community of women taking part in tourism in Hampi.

2. Virupaksha Temple: Living Shiva Temple of Hampi

The most prominent temple from Hampi, Virupaksha temple is “living” and did not fall prey to the destruction spell. I am not entirely sure why. But I am more than glad that its Shikhara rises to the sky. 

Truth be told, Virupaksha is the heartland of Hampi. Locals, devotees, pilgrims, priests and everyone visits this temple. I have later visited the Living Chola temples in Tamilnadu and had been equally awestruck by those temple, again dedicated to Shiva. 

Daily Puja takes place in the temple. Remove your shoes. The temple has a step well attached to it.

3. Hazara Rama Temple: Epitaph of Ramayana

A rather small temple but Hazara rama is a beautiful place of worship which is believed to be a part of exclusive access to the royal family. The temple wall is inscribed with various stories from Ramayana. The school children from execution were actually reading off various Kaands from the wall. A lot like what they did with hieroglyphics in ancient Egypt . Next to it is the Dussera dibba, believed to be King’s seat from where he would be entertained.

4. The Lakshmi-Narasimha Temple: One of its kind

The first time I saw a Narasimha statue, though I grew up hearing stories of “Daitya Kule Prahlad”, was at Hampi. Looking at his hands cut off, I felt a pang in my heart. 

The Nara Simha, loosely translating Human-lion, God is another Avatar of Vishnu. He sits atop coiled Seshnag, with Lakhkhi on his Lap. 

Also read: Humans of Hampi!

5. The elephant stable and Lotus Temple of Hampi

Somehow the elephants stable did not have to suffer much from the massive destruction that otherwise reduced Hampi to rubble by the end of Vijayanagara empire.

Each elephant quarter is huge, bigger than a standard flat size of Kolkata (bad joke, sorry humans), and does not house elephants any longer. They look very pretty in front of the sprawling  green field. 

Close to the elephant stable, you have Lotus Temple, an instance of Indo-Islamic architecture. The Gombuj and curves atop the roof do bring back memories of the north. “The north remembers.”

Also look out for Jenana mahal, a queen’s bath, a step-well (Pushkarini) in the surrounding area. These ruins are in much better position compared to the temples.

6. Badavi Linga : The Big Shiva Linga

Inside a small and dark sanctum a huge Shiva Linga (the largest I had seen in Hampi) is housed close to the Narasimha temple. Ir is maintained by an elderly priest, always in a white dress. His picture is often posted on Instagram, hugging the Shivalinga.

7. Krishna temple commemorating Vijayanagar’s Win over Utkala

Opposite to the Krishna Market, stand the beautiful Krisha temple which originally housed the Balakrishna statue, now on display at the Chennai state museum.

8. Sasivekalu Ganesh, Hemkuta Hills

I overheard a guide stating, this Ganesha statue took birth from a mustard seed and is still growing. He sits atop the mother Parvati, but has overgrown her with time. A snake is wrapped around his belly to reduce his growth! This story brought a smile in my face. Gods in Hinduism are very much a part of our daily family! I an an atheist but I feel these emotions in my heart! Also check out the Kadalekalu Ganesha Ganesha nearby. Hemkuta hill temple complex has a fantastic share of small yet beautiful ancient temples dating back to Vijayanagar empire.

9. Anjaneya Hill and Hanuman temple on top of it (believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman)

10. The Underground temple of Prasanna Virupaksha. I saw a huge lizard here!

11. Check out the Hampi museum by Archaeological Survey of India. This is particularly interesting for those conducting a research on ancient Hampi.

The Temple elephant of Hampi

At the Virupaksha Temple of Hampi, lives an old elephant named Krishna. Usual practice demands you go close to the elephant, it touches your head with the trunk, which is considered as a blessing and you feel overjoyed. I didn’t do it. In fact, I did not see the elephant also. Temple elephants in India is a long standing practice of animal cruelty. Do not go by the evocative pictures of Krishna playing with the water of Tungabhadra. It has been broken as a baby elephant.

Also read: Rameswaram, the beautiful temple town at India’s southern most tip!

The Most Beautiful Sunset Spots in Hampi

Hampi is a photographer’s delight. The gigantic boulder reflects sun rays in abundance especially during the golden hour. If you can climb a bit higher, you will often be awarded with a prized view of the water, the banks of Tungabhadra river, life on Earth and the orange ball of fire on the way down (or up, depending on time).

For a gorgeous sunset picture in Hampi, you will ideally want the Shikhara of Virupaksha temple in front and the sun going down at the background.

• Matanga Hill: the highest point of Hampi: Named after the sage from Ramayana, Matanga Hill is located close to the Achyutaraya temple at Nimbapura, near Hampi Bazaar. It is an easy climb of 30 minutes. Can be bicycled. Matanga Hill looks stunning during sunrise as well. 
• Anjanadri Hill: Believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman, the monkey god of Hindu religion, the hill derives its name from his mother, Anjana devi. Anjanadri hill  is located at Anegundi, so you have to cross the river and start a bit early from the sacred ruins site. 
• Hemakuta Hill: Remember the hill with ethereal lights, a forlorn tree and a small temple? That is Hemakuta hill for you! It is the easiest climb among all the sunset points mentioned above, yet gives you beautiful vistas to watch the sun go down. Hemakuta hill has brilliant photo opportunities for a Hampi sunset lovers.
• The Sanapur lake, on the Hippie island of Hampi. However, here you will find no ruins to reflect the glorious golden hour on your photo, hence not my favourite.

Word of caution: In case you are venturing out late in the evening, alone or at the wee hours of the day, be cognizant of the fact leopard attack is a possibility here. Try to stick to a group lest you become a palatable dinner to the wild cat!

Other places to click great photographs in Hampi!

• Riverside waterborne culture of Hampi
• The coracle rides, specially during golden hour and you are somewhere at a height camturing this!

Hampi Bazar

• The paddy fields (specially the sunflower field)
• The shepherd with his cows by the boulders. You will find this imagery multiple times in Hampi.

Also read: The ancient doors of Zanzibar!

The Hippie Island in Hampi

The “other” side of the river is loosely referred to as Hippie island in Hampi. During monsoon, this piece of land often gets submerged in water. 

The real name of Hippie island is Virupapura Gadde. It is a rather cheap place to stay, eat good and varied food items, explore the ruins on the other side and.. Ahem… smoke weed (?). I have only heard rumors of the latter part. 

Hampi island or Hippie island is painfully beautiful. Lush green rolling fields filled with seasonal crops kissing the horizon. You climb atop a hill and experience one of the most magical sunsets in life. Life easily gets attuned to the slow, peaceful and laid back vibes of the Hippie island.  

Hippie island is dotted with relics from the past. Each of them referring to various “Kaand” of ramayana. All of them invariably point towards the realm of the Vijayanagara era. The Durga temple, The anjaneya temple atop the hill, Pampa sarovar lake adjacent to the Laxmi temple. Plenty to explore in this part of Hampi as well. Local frequent here compared to tourists.  

Compared to guest houses close to Hampi Bazar, Hippie island is far cheaper. Time is a luxury which is found in abundance at this place. ATMs are a rare sight. Cottages with thatched roofs double as guest houses. Cicadas claim the land at night. 

Sanapur lake is only 4 KM away from Hampi island, an easy bike ride. 

Also read: Bonedi barir Durgapuja in Kolkata! the century old houses of Kolkata and how they celebrate Durgapuja.

Also read: How to spend a long weekend in Goa?

Offbeat Things to do in Hampi

Rock climbing in hampi.

With steep profound boulders all around, it is a no-brainer that Hampi will be a favorite spot among the rock climbers. While the local boys easily climb atop these gigantic rocks raising heads aiming for the sky, we would recommend you the tourist signing up for a rock climbing session. There are plenty of schools at the Anegundi site. Your home-stay is likely to be able to arrange for one. You can rent gears as well. 

Where did the boulders come from in hampi? A part of the Eastern Dharwar Craton, the Hampi boulders are now decaying remains of once large monolithic mountains. However Hindu mythology associates them with a dramatic battle between Bali and Sugriv, the monkey kings. Another reference to Ramayana. 

Explore the ancient Rock Paintings in Hampi

Ask your guide to show you the caves decked up with ancient rock paintings. Locals believe these paintings go back to the age of Ramayana. I am not a historian so “I doubt everything” nonetheless it is worth noting the guide’s enthusiasm. It is as if he is unraveling magic! This is off the regular touristy tracks and difficult to find by your own.

Daroji Bear Sanctuary

Once upon a time when humans had abandoned Hampi for good and nature prevailed at large, regular residents of the rocks and caves were wild boars, leopards and sloth bears. With tourists now revisiting parts of Hampi and business sprawling, man-animal conflict was on the rise. Government further assigned a specific area for wild animals. Daroji Bear Sanctuary is one small national park that houses close to 100 sloth bears in it, safe from human habitat and tourist places. The bear sanctuary is open from 2 pm to 5 pm. Sloth bears often come out and lick jaggery off the boulders. You need to pay INR 500 for the entry fee. Go with a camera or binocular for better view. 

Explore the Sanapur lake

If you love being close to the water, visit Sanapur lake side. It is close to the famous Hippie island in Hampi. There is a place for cliff jumping at the Sanapur lake. They might scare you saying there are crocodiles in the lake but I heard this is to scare off the drunkards only.

Ankasamudra bird sanctuary

Located 40 km off the ruins of Hampi, Ankasamudra is an upcoming birding destination in the state of Karnataka. During monsoons, trees are submerged in water and it makes for an ethereal sunset spot. You need to drive to this place and we recommend you have your own car.

Wander off to a nearby village

At the risk of repeating myself, I have never seen people anywhere else in India as amiable as those in Hampi. I wandered off the paved route in more numbers than ever. Stopped by the sunflower fields. Stopped by the paddy fields. Could never get enough of the children frolicking around the gigantic boulders. I often forgot the route map provided and the trail leading to the temple ruins.

The abundance of life makes up for the eerie emptiness at Hampi monuments. Those remain the most prized moments from my trip to Hampi. 

Proceed further and explore more beyond Hampi

Close to Hampi, there lives a few more astounding ancient monuments. You can explore them if you have a couple of days more to explore. I have not done this yet but this remains high up my bucket list:

• Badami: Cave temples from fifth century
• Pattadakal: UNESCO world heritage temple
• Bijapur: Famous for the Gol Gombuj
• There is also a winery by KRSMA estate close to Hampi.
• Lepakshi: cluster of ancient Hindu temples
• Belgaum: famous for the sweet named Kunda in Karnataka

Visit Tungabhadra Dam and adjacent garden

Tungabhadra dam is also known as Pampa Sagar. It has an adjoining garden and sunset is beautiful here. Visit during monsoon to see the dam in full prowess. I loved this since I am a fan-girl of rivers around the world !

Also read: Offbeat yet fun things to do in Goa!

Public Transport in Hampi

You can not compare Hampi’s public transport system with that of a large metro city, say Bangalore or even Udupi. Yet, if you plan ahead, you will be able to explore Hampi without renting a car. 

Rent a Bike in Hampi

If you love the freedom of having a car yet do not want to shell out as much money, I suggest rent a bike. Renting a bike in hampi is similar to that of renting a bike in Goa to explore her beaches . It is as cheap as INR 300 a day and petrol is on your own. If you are two people exploring Hampi, this is a very sweet deal for a day. 

Cycling in Hampi

Check with your guest house and you may be able to rent a bicycle. Hampi roads are nicely paved and perfect for cycling however Sun scorches bright at times and that is stressful. Carry water and sun guard accordingly.

Hire an Auto Rickshaw

This is the easiest way to go around in Hampi. Oftentimes, the auto drivers know what tourists want and they deliver exactly that and even more. I paid INR 600 for an auto ride back in 2017 for 6 hours. I think prices will increase now but a good bargain might just land you a good deal. For shorter distance, an Autoride must not charge more than INR 70 to 100.

The Bus for Hampi Site-seeing

There is a government bus that runs from Hospet to Hampi every 15 minutes from morning 8 am. The last bus leaves Hampi Bazar at 6 pm. It costs a mere INR 15 bucks and drops you at the Hampi ruins you need to visit. Go to the conductor and pay your fare before taking a seat. That is how they operate in Karnataka.

Boat to cross the other side of Tungabhadra River

The round boats, coracles, mostly cater to tourists. For a cheaper transfer to the other bank of Tungabhadra river, trust a water taxi. Ferries are close to Hampi Bazar. A one way ferry transfer is not more than INR 50. The last ferry leaves at 5:30 pm. After which, you need to pay a pricey fare to an auto to cross the bridge and visit the other bank.

Also read: Bonedi Barir Durgapuja in Kolkata!

A foodie’s Guide to Hampi

Guide to the best cafes and restaurants in Hampi

In Hampi, like the rest of south India, you will be served with piping hot Dosa and crispy fried vada and delectable steamed idli almost at every corner. Add to that a spread of tropical fruit. Green coconuts. Grilled corn served with a side of fiery hot green chutkey. And peanuts. These are the regular street foods in Hampi. I find them filling, hygienic since they are mostly cooked in front of me, and surprisingly affordable. 

For a good dine in experience, I recommend the following restaurants. 

At the sacred ruins side of the river

• Tamarind Tree
• The Mango Tree 
• Funky Monkey 
• Sagar Hotel
• Tibetan Kitchen

At the Anegundi side of the river

• The Laughing Buddha
• The Goan Corner 
• Ujwal Sunrise Cafe
• Sasi restaurant (with great view of the river)

A few must try dishes in Hampi: Mirchi Bhaji (fried chillies), Filter Kaapi (the iconic local coffee of Karnataka), Appe, banana flower curry (local delicacy in Hampi). 

Over the time, Hampi has developed an eclectic gourmet culture. A lot of the credit goes to inbound traffic coming all the way from Goa. You will be now finding restaurants catering Tibetan cuisine, Israeli cuisine, even Pizza at certain places. 

The area surrounding Archeological ruins of hampi is a no meat and no alcohol zone. For meat, fish and alcohol you need to visit Anegundi or Hospet. Anegundi is closer and serves fresh catch from the river. 

In lieu of branded alcohol, please do not drink local moonshine unless you know what you are getting into. 

Please note many of the restaurants, especially those close to the Hippie village remain closed during monsoon, thanks to overflowing Tungabhadra. Plan your trip accordingly. 

Best time to visit Hampi

Hampi is sweaty hot and Humid for all the year around.

It is best to visit Hampi during the dry season, post monsoon. From October end to February is the perfect time to explore the old ruins of Hampi and even go for bouldering. 

However, I visited Hampi during July/August. I was lucky that it did not rain even though the sky was overcast. Many restaurants, guests houses are closed during peak monsoon. So do call them up before visiting. Muddy roads and uneven murky trails could be a challenge too. Rock climbing in Hampi is a distant possibility during monsoon.

Where to stay in Hampi

The place you choose to stay in can make or break your experience in Hampi. Check out Booking (.) com to find preferred stay in Hampi at good value prices.

Heritage Resort Hampi, somewhere midway between Hampi Bazar and Hospet

I chose to stay at the Heritage Resort Hampi . (Check out here ). I will list out the pros and cons. 

Beautiful stay at a villa with a pool and decent but pricey in-house restaurant. Highly recommend this place if you are traveling with family and have a mid budget estimate. A short walk from the main road and easy to use public transport as well. Upscale stay near Hampi.

Far off from the sunset spots. 

You are better off to stay at Hampi heritage resort with a car. Though I did not have a car and I could easily access public transport of Hampi.

Absolutely nothing to do here at night.

Similar Luxury and Upscale properties near Hampi

• Evolve Black
• Hyatt Place
• Hampis Boulder Resort

Hampi Bazaar, in short, is the nerve center of today’s Hampi. Many small guest houses are located close to Hampi market. Some of them have amazing views over the river. Hampi does not have any hostel per say but these guest houses have similar facilities and prices.

Pros of staying close to Hampi Bazar:

You are close to the market place hence you get to see a lot of people. Very close to the archaeological ruins. Walk-able distance. Great for morning photo-shoot.

Cons of staying close to Hampi Bazar:

People. A lot of them. I would just leave it to that!

Best guest houses to stay close to Hampi Bazar:

• Gopi guest house
• Archana River View
• Padma Guest House
• Chilloutbamboo Guste house (super cheap)
• Gopi Plantation stay 

Hampi island

Hampi island is idyllic and laid back as I had described before. Staying here automatically translates to staying close to nature. 

Less people. Peaceful. Really cheap options. Away from local tourists. Nature reigns. 

Nothing much to do at night. Limited option to go out after sundown. You have to cross the river to reach Hampi island. Crossing river makes you time bound since the last ferry leaves at 5:30 pm. After that, you need to take a long turn and detour to reach the bridge. That said, Hampi island also has some of the best subset spots in Hampi.

• Happy Treat Hostel & Cafe in Hampi
• Drunken Monkey
• Tutti Hampi Chattai Cottages (My favorite from the list)
• Gowri Guest House
• Hotel Gowri

If you love living close to a city and can not let go of the urban pleasures of life, Hospet is your choice. It is also great value for money. Every morning, a bus eaves Hospet for Hampi. The journey is for 30 minutes. It is a good idea to make Hospet your base and travel to and fro to Hampi. You will always get a return bus from Hampi Bazar to Hospet. You can easily rent a bike as well. Hospet has many hotels and restaurants close t the bus station.

Camping in Hampi is allowed at designated camping stations only. You can not and should not camp anywhere in Hampi since the group of monuments is a protected area and often frequented by wildlife at night.

Things to know before Planning a Visit to Hampi

Timing for visiting the temples and ruins.

Most of the temples in Hampi are open from sunrise to sunset, from 6 in the morning till 6 at night, roughly. None lives in the archaeological zone and you will be asked to leave premises after sundown by the security guards. Leave. The rocks and old lakes are deserted at night by humans but not by the sloth bears or the leopards. I know I am repeating these words but this is very important.

In the afternoon, there is a recess time from 1 pm to 2:30 pm. Avoid entering the temples at this time and get done with your lunch break (or experience nature’s bounty around Hampi).

What is the entry fee for Hampi temples?

To enter the temples of Hampi, you are not required to pay anything. Maybe a slight charge if you are carrying a camera. However, a few temple complexes do charge a minimal fee (less than a USD) per person. This ranges from INR 30 to INR 50 and often comes with an electric car plying you for a few KM distance. I think it is worth it.

Follow a respectable dress-code for Hampi

There is no set dress code in Hampi however I strongly recommend to dress up modestly. 

These are ruins but these are temples and heavily revered amongst the locals. A few of the temples are worshipped till date. You need to cover from shoulder to knees and enter the sanctum. 

In rural India, modest clothing can help you cross the bridge easily and foster true friendship which leaps the curious first impression. “Extra” skin show can bring a lot of unnecessary attention and that at least makes me feel uncomfortable. 

Besides, the Sun is horrid in Hampi. You need to cover up to save your skin a few unwanted blisters and rashes ( I do). 

I always carry a scarf during my travels. A scarf has many utilities from cleaning my camera lens to wiping sweat to saving my modesty which outrages deep seated patriarchy. Everywhere. EVERYWHERE around the globe! 

There was no rule for barring entry to followers of different religions. I had seen this practice of entry allowed for Hindu only in the temples of Bhaktapur in Nepal , another UNESCO site on the ancient silk route and Madurai temple in Tamilnadu.

Potable water in Hampi

You can fill up drinking water at various spots. One place I know is close to Virupaksha temple. They charge you INR 2 for a liter of water bottle. This saves a whole lot of single use plastic bottles.

Festivals of Hampi

The might and splendor of the ancient Vijayanagara empire is remembered through Hampi Utsav or Vijaya Utsav. The festival takes place every year in winter and date and time are announced on the Karnataka tourism website. Do not miss out Janapada Kalavahini, celebration of folk dance and other artistic performances. 

Mobile Network is bleak

Internet /wifi /smooth mobile network is still a luxury in Hampi. Specially applicable if you choose to stay at the riverside cottages and small guest houses. Please adjust accordingly.

No Meat and No alcohol Zone

Hampi archaeological site is a meat free and alcohol free zone. You may get some egg though for a meal.

Women on period/ carrying leather products inside a temple

Many people frown if you are a woman and on your period and entering temples. Sometimes, it is explicitly mentioned. Carrying a leather bag is not permissible also since most of the leather is derived from cow skin. And cows are holy in this part of the world.

Prasad/ food offerings from the temple

Many of Hampi’s 2000 odd temple runs are “living”. Worship does take place here every day. In case you are visiting one and offered an “offering”, a morsel of food, accept that with gratitude. It is an easy way to show respect and assimilate with the locals. It can be a sweetmeat or a banana. Do NOT throw this. 

Photo Etiquette

Asking for permission will take you a long way!

While locals in Hampi are the cordial lot, know your limit. Photographing women taking a bath by the riverside is not culturally acceptable in India. Before you click a picture of a man performing a Puja, ask for permission if you can click him. More often than not, it is awkward for the uninitiated to face a camera lens in between regular errands. This holds exceptionally true as you venture in the local habitat of Hampi, off regular tourist trail. 

Things to be aware of to be safe in Hampi: 

Do not take a guide if you think he is being unnecessarily pushy. 

Do not venture into the road at night since leopard sighting is a regular thing here. Snakes too.  

You have probably seen a few movies already which were based in Hampi. Rowdy Rathore (Bollywood), The Myth (Jackie Chan starter from Hollywood) are some of the prominent movies in the list. 

An Approximate Budget for your Hampi trip

Set aside INR 300 for food and INR 500 for lodging. Another INR 200 for using pubic transport and miscellaneous. This is the bare minimum you need to spend in Hampi on a daily basis.

Hampi is not an expensive area even though nowadays it is overrun with tourists (I mean pre lockdown). The backpackers’ huts or guest houses are mostly budget friendly and of great value for money. Think less than INR 1000 per night.

If you hire an auto rickshaw for local commute, and they are found aplenty, you are expected to pay not more than 600 rs a day. For shorter commute, the price is even lesser. If you are lucky enough to catch the government bus that goes from Hospet to Hampi Bazar every day, multiple times during sunny hours, you will pay not more than INR 20. That deal is the sweetest!

The Coracle rides being a touristy thing will charge you more than the regular boats that locals use to cross Tungabhadra river. Look for the local ferries.

Bargain hard when in Hampi. Locals are helpful, honest and friendly. Those associated with tourism business will try to charge a higher price but once you settle on a good price, you will remember their hospitality for long.

If you are willing to eat food from street-side vendors, you will be surprised at the price. Its affordable and decently hygeinic. For eating at the established restaurants, prepare to shell out 300 to 500 INR per meal per person. In case your (local) driver is taking you to a dining place, chances are his meal will be complimentary from the restaurant.

FAQs about planning a trip to Hampi

1. is hampi a safe place for travel.

I traveled in Hampi as a solo female traveler. I dropped off the bus midway to shoot sunset by a forlorn water-body. On the way back, I found no bus or auto to get back to my destination. An auto plying locals stopped midway and gave me a lift. He did not even charge me money. When I asked why so, he said, “Why are you walking alone?” I assume people are concern for solo travelers, specially female, being solo at forlorn places and goes out of the way to help you.

Just do not venture alone at extreme off the route and you will have a great time in Hampi. Women I met in Hampi were always extra loving and extra caring, specially when they see a “madam” walking alone with a camera. Forever grateful to those smiling faces who invited me to share a plate with them at the picnic spots. Women in rural India are incredible and more. There lies the soul of my big old beautiful country. Period.

2. What is the language spoken at Hampi?

Locals speak Kannada. They are Kannadiga. They also understand English (mostly who are associated with tourism) and Hindi too.

3. Does Hampi have a beach?

Hampi does not have a beach. The hippie island in Hampi is just the other bank of Tungabhadra river which has lesser ruins, excluded from the archaeological zone and is dotted with a number of affordable guest houses.

4. Can we cover Hampi in 2 days?

It is best if you allot at least three days to Hampi to see all of the tourist attractions it has on offer. If time is short, you may also explore Hampi in a quick 2 days visit. f you are rushed, we recommend taking a guide!

5. Where else I can go from Hampi?

From Hampi, you may go on and explore the old old ruins and temples of Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal temples (another astounding UNESCO world heritage site in India).

6. What should I wear in Hampi?

Unless you are entering the temple sanctums, you are good with normal shirt and pant or any short of western wears. However, keep in mind this is rural India and excessive skin show is frowned upon. My number one tip for traveling safe in India would be to try and blend in with the locals as much as you can! Please remove your footwear before entering a temple complex . Even when it is ruined. Please do this. I can not emphasis enough on this. This is like coming to my house and not removing shoe.

7. What is the best time to visit Hampi?

Hampi is hot and humid all the year around however in Indian winters, humidity level is tolerable. I would suggest plan a visit to Hampi from November to February.

8. Is it okay to smoke weed in Hampi?

I have heard the hippie island is (in)famous for weed and smoking in many backpackers’ group. However, I do not smoke myself and this is a criminal offence in India according to IPC. So, do your math!

I hope this Hampi travel guide serves the purpose and helps you plan a solo trip (or with family) to this astounding place of historical importance. You can also check out the following places in Karnataka.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the  disclosure  post. If you have liked the article, you may support it by buying using these links without any extra cost to you.

Let’s stay connected on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Twitter ! You may also consider joining my mailing list. I send travel and photography related emails only once a month!

25 Responses

What an interesting place. So many things to see and experience. Thanks for sharing this special part of the country with us.

Oh your photos are so lovely. I have not heard of this place, I would love to visit. We want to get back to this region and spend more time…hopefully soon we will all be able to travel again. Great piece. I’ll save it for future reference.

Please give option to share in what’s app

Hi Selvi. Thank you. I will add that tight now 🙂

What a detailed description of the place. Loved it. One can plan out the travel easily with your tips. I loved the in and around places of Hampi. I always felt that it has only architectures. I need to put this on my bucket list.

Wow!! so many great things and amazing pictures.Thanks for sharing this.

Hi Madhurima,

This is such a great post. I really love reading about India. It is such an amazing country and I also love Indian people. They are so kind, nice and humble people. I was in India this year for two months. I was mostly traveling in South India and I didn’t visit Hampi. I got to learn about it too late. I met foreigners who stayed there for over a week because they loved it so much. After I’d heard so many good things about Hampi, I wanted to go there and explore it. But because of the coronavirus, I had to leave India.

I will definitely remember your guide about Hampi when I’m in India next time.

All the best, Diana

This post is so amazing & so thorough! I feel like I’ve been to Hampi now… but it looks so amazing that I do hope to visit in person one day. Pinned & saving this post for later for India travel inspo.

What an epic post, an excellent guide. I was really happy for the trip down memory lane. I visited Hampi around 13 years ago (probably before it was on the NYT’s list!) and absolutely loved it. The temples, river, sunset…such a special place.

Great post with loads of useful info and beautiful pictures. Thanks for sharing

Never been to India but it is so high on my bucketlist. Want to go there next year, Hampi looks amazing!

What a thorough post! I hope to make it to Hampi! Pinned this post for future reference 🙂

What a wonderfully thorough guide! And such beautiful photos, I pinned it for later 🙂 Thanks!

This was such an interesting read and comprehensive guide. I’m going to save it to come back to and read again there is so much detail! Thank you for sharing, I now want to visit all the ruins at Hampi. Your photos are so beautiful.

Beautiful photos! India has been firmly on my bucket list for a long time. I hope to make it out there soon!

Wow – looks absolutely breath-taking! Just look at those details.

Wow! What a detailed guide! I’ve not travelled to India, so I’ve not done much research. Hampi sounds incredible though. And you’re pictures of the ruins and surroundings are spectacular!

I had never heard of Hampi before reading this post – it looks fantastic! Hampi is now on my India must visit list!

Wow! Thank you for all the thorough information. Great tip about how to respectfully dress there. Thank you for gathering all this info in one place.

What a great in depth guide! Love the photo of the girls with the flowers in their hair! Thanks for sharing!

Wow! This is seriously comprehensive! Thank you for all of the information. I love it when I stumble on your posts. So much great inspiration.

Oh wow I’ve been to South India so many times but never heard of these ruins! They look amazing and I just might detour to Karnataka the next time I’m headed there!

• Pingback: Essential Travel Tips for the First time Visitor to India by a Local! - Unusual Traveler

This is absolutely gorgeous. Dying to go now that we can travel again

Definitely adding to my list for when I (finally!!) travel to India 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

THE ULTIMATE HAMPI ITINERARY & TRAVEL GUIDE

Posted on Last updated: July 4, 2023

Categories INDIA

If you are planning a trip to Hampi and seek the perfect Hampi Itinerary & Guide, you have come to the right place.  In this article, we will share all the information you need to have a truly awesome time.  From all the best things to do in Hampi, where to stay, where to eat, and all of our top tips.

Hampi is without a doubt one of the most compelling places we’ve visited.  Not only in India but throughout our travels.  In contrast to the relentless fast pace of other Indian cities, Hampi is incredibly laidback.  It is, therefore, a nice addition to your India itinerary if you need to catch your breath. This being said, there is an abundance of things to do in Hampi, that guarantees even the most intrepid traveller an awesome time.

We arrived in Hampi early in the morning after a bumpy bus ride from Goa.  A blood-red sun was rising from the cryptic shadows of what turned out to be the ancient ruins of fallen Hampi.  Immediately we felt as if we were in a scene from Indiana Jones. The towering piles of boulders and prehistoric landscapes screamed adventure.  It was clear from the get-go that Hampi was going to be a special place.

… And a special place it turned out to be.

You see, Hampi is a significant place in India for a number of reasons.  Not only is the city said to be the birthplace of Hanuman, the Hindu monkey god, it also served as capital to one of the most powerful empires in Indian history.  We explain how it came to be the fallen kingdom it is today a little later on;  However, the combination of religious and cultural history appears to have earned Hampi undeniable spiritual energy.

I know what you’re thinking.  Does that mean that Hampi is bursting with hippie backpackers all lounging around smoking weed?  Partly yes.  It has in recent years become somewhat of a backpacker enclave; however, there is a specific area that this crowd stick to (more on this later)!

Need more Inspiration to visit Hampi? Check out our Hampi Photo Gallery to inspire your travels.

Anyhow, we have a lot to cover in this article. So let’s get to explaining why Hampi is one of our favourite places in all of India.

   The Perfect Hampi Itinerary & Travel Guide

*Before You Travel to Hampi , have you got your travel insurance sorted?  Cover yourself for the unexpected, read  why you really need travel insurance , or  get a quote from World Nomads .

*Have you got your travel Visa sorted? Check if  you need one here  and retrieve a quote. It’s simple, fast and reliable.

*Don’t leave home without any  backpacker essentials  with our free printable packing list.

How Long to Spend on a Hampi Itinerary

Many choose to spend 3-4 days in Hampi. And while it is certainly possible to cover most of the highlights during that time, we recommend spending a little longer.

The perfect Hampi itinerary consists of 3-4 days of exploring and 2-3 days of relaxation.  It’s not often you get to experience somewhere as laidback as Hampi when backpacking India.  Take advantage of the serenity while you can.

All things considered, 1 week would be an ideal amount of time to stay in Hampi.

Hampi Itinerary Highlights

For those who don’t have time to read through the entire itinerary, here are some of the highlights you can enjoy during your Hampi Itinerary.

• Explore the Fascinating Hampi Ruins
• Watch the sunrise on Matanga Hill
• Take a day trip to the other side of the river, Hippie Island
• Go for a dip in the local waterfall in Hampi
• Experience world-class bouldering

Top Things to do in Hampi

From exploring ancient ruins, taking part in bouldering, and visiting the secret waterfall – there is a ton of cool things to do in Hampi.  Let’s look at some of our favourites!

1.  Explore the Ruins

The city of Hampi is a labyrinth of ancient ruins, and exploring Tomb Raider style was our favourite thing to do during our visit.   The remains of sacred temples, shrines and monuments stand proudly among unexplainable rock formations, creating a landscape that is almost other-worldly.  For this reason, the ruins of Hampi are becoming an Instagram hot spot.  (Don’t forget to follow us on  Instagram here! )

Adorned with intricate carvings of Hindu gods & demons the forsaken ruins are a product of exquisite artistry.   And it is quite remarkable to see how the remains have  been spared from the unforgiving forces of nature.  

Although exploring the ruins is one of the essential things to do in Hampi, it can also be an overwhelming task.   There are approximately 1600 surviving ruins spread across an area of 16 square miles. The first question we asked upon arrival was ‘which are the most important to see’?  

You can be sure that the local rickshaw drivers will make it sound a lot more complicated than it actually is.  This is so they can charge you a premium for a guided tour.   For  this reason, we have put together a separate article detailing what the most important ruins to visit, where you can find them, and how you can get there.  

Related Read – Top 10 must-see Hampi Ruins  & Top 15 Instagram Spots of India

2.  Watch the Sunrise on Mathanga Hill

Watching the sunrise & fall over the mystical landscapes was one of our favourite things to do in Hampi.    We always envisioned Indian sunsets to be like a perfect ball of fire, transforming the sky into a cloak of red & orange flame.  In Hampi, we were never disappointed.

Matanga Hill is formed from a mound of towering boulders.  Being one of the highest points in Hampi, it is a popular lookout for sunrise and sunset.   The base of Mathanga Hill is just a 10-minute walk from Hampi Bazaar, but d on’t make the same mistake we did and attempt to climb the boulders!

There is a  carefully engineered stairway leads you to the peak in around 20-minutes.   From the peak, expect to find awe-inspiring panoramic views over the lost kingdom of Hampi.

*Tip – Mathanga Hill is a popular spot for camping in Hampi.

Must read: Matanga Hill – The best sunset spot in Hampi!

MATHANGA HILL MAP LOCATION

3. Experience World-Class Bouldering

What was once an activity for experienced climbers, can now be enjoyed by all visitors seeking adventurous things to do in Hampi.  Bouldering is a form of rock climbing, and with the Hampi landscapes littered in boulders, it’s the perfect place to do it.  It seems to be popular on the far side of the river, where a number of tour operators advertise the activity.

If you are experienced or perhaps on a budget, it could be tempting to attempt this activity without a tour guide.  We would strongly advise against this.  The guides have all the necessary knowledge & equipment to help keep you safe.   S hould you choose not to take this advice, at least be sure to follow these safety guidelines for bouldering in Hampi .

DON’T FORGET TRAVEL INSURANCE!

You will want to check your travel insurance policy to ensure you are covered for adventurous activities such as bouldering.  World Nomads is great if you want to make any changes to your policy during your travels and offer add ons for such activities.  Complete the form below to retrieve a quick quote.

4. Go For a Dip in the Waterfall

To cool down after a long day exploring, ask one of the locals to point you in the direction of the waterfall.   Although it isn’t much of a waterfall, the journey to get there is quite the adventure. We felt like Lara Croft rock climbing, trekking through banana plantations, and crossing wild rapids!

When you get the near the waterfall, expect to be approached by a guide.  Although it is possible to find the way yourself; we recommend you go with them as they will know the safest route.   They don’t ask for much in terms of a tip, and it’s nice to give something back.   

Once you get there, you can expect to find a nice spot for swimming as well as some pretty bold cliff jumps.

See full blog post:   Chasing a Secret Waterfall in Hampi

5. Visit the Virupaksha Temple

The exquisite Virupaksha Temple towers over Hampi Bazaar, dominating the town with its captivating beauty.   The original structure is said to date back as far as the 7th century and was dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism.  

Virupaksha remains the only place of worship still in use by the residents of mainland Hampi and attracts huge crowds of visitors every day.  An essential addition to any Hampi Itinerary.

VIRUPAKSHA TEMPLE MAP LOCATION

6. Watch Lakshmi the Elephant Take a Bath

OK, we know this one is a controversial subject and we are by no means advocates for the use of wild animals to entertain. Nor do we believe in holding them in captivity.     However, Lakshmi, the temple elephant plays a big part in the cities tradition and is one of the top Hampi attractions.

Lakshmi is the Temple Elephant of Virupaksha.  Each day around 8 am, you can watch her taking a morning bath in the river.   Lakshmi is quite the local celebrity and bathes in the river among the locals.

It was quite amusing to watch them having to swerve the ginormous poos she was depositing!

7.  Camp Under the Stars

Although we didn’t have the necessary equipment to camp ourselves on this occasion, we learnt that camping is very popular in Hampi. Thanks to little light pollution in the area, you can expect a pretty epic view of the stars on a clear evening.

There are a number of spots in the city where it is possible to camp, such as the peak of Mathanga Hill or down by the river;   however, some areas are privately owned so be sure to check with the locals before you pitch up.

8. Explore Hampi Bazaar by Bicycle

There are a fair number of attractions and ruins dotted around the area of Hampi Bazaar, and renting a bicycle for the day is a fun way to explore them all.   You can rent bicycles all over town for 150 rupees per day.

9. Try a Bhang Lassi

If you are going to experiment with bhang in India, there is no better place for it than Hampi.  There is something about the prehistoric landscapes combined with an air of mystical energy, that makes for a beautiful and spiritual experience.

Bhang Lassis are often easy to find in Hampi.  Just look for ‘special Lassi’ on the menu, or don’t be afraid to ask around. If it’s your first time, you should read these 15 tips for experimenting with Bhang in India .

10.  Explore The Other Side (aka Hippie Island) by Scooter

If you plan to spend most of your time on mainland Hampi, a day trip to the far side of the river known as Hippie Island, is an essential addition to your Hampi Itinerary.  Here you can enjoy world-class bouldering, visit the birthplace of Hanuman the monkey god, or simply soak in the tranquil vibes.

One of the best things to do in Hampi is to disconnect from the world and immerse yourself in the beautiful nature.   It’s not often you can escape the madness in India, so embrace this chance while you have it.

See Full Blog Post:   Hippie Island, Hampi – A Reliable Guide

Hampi Itinerary – Where to Eat

For a small town, we were pleasantly surprised to find a number of nice restaurants in Hampi.  Our favourite of them all, however, is Mango Tree .  The appetisers are especially delicious, as well as the Indian Thali and Israeli meals.   And as a finale,  you would be doing yourself an injustice not to try the delectable banoffee pie!  

How to Get to Hampi

By Air:  The closest airport to Hampi is Hubli Airport situated 144km away.

By Train:  The closest railway station to Hampi is Hospet Junction situated 10km away.    Hospet is connected via train from across the region, however, booking trains in India can be tricky.    It is advised to book at least 3 days in advance and even then you aren’t always guaranteed a ticket.

For this reason, we always used the bus network in India. You can book trains up to 6 months in advance using  12go Asia .

By Bus:   Hampi is accessible by bus from a number of destinations across India.     Although, most will drop you in Hospet, located 10km away.  From Hospet you can take a local bus or pay for a rickshaw to take you to Hampi.

To check routes, timetables and ticket prices we recommend using  Redbus .    In our experience, they are extremely reliable.    They are one of the few companies who will accept payment with an International card, and they are contactable by phone should you have any issues with your journey.

Hampi Itinerary – Where to Stay

Budget Private  –  Rashmitha Guesthouse  – Conveniently located in Hampi Bazaar, Rashmitha Guesthouse is a great budget option in Hampi.  While the rooms are basic, they come with all the necessary facilities for a comfortable stay.

Mid-Range  –  Heritage Resort Hampi  – Boasting a swimming pool, spa, and wellness area, this place is amazing value for money.  Perfect for that extra bit of comfort in Hampi.

Luxury  –  Evolve Back Hampi  – We don’t often talk about luxury hotels on this blog, but this place looks phenomenal.  If you have the budget, you won’t regret splurging on a night at this palace hotel.

For more places to stay in Hampi, you can check the  latest prices here .

Alcohol, Drugs & Parties in Hampi

One of the reasons that Hampi remains a favourite among the backpacker crowd, is the illicit world of alcohol and drugs that exists here.    Although it remains a taboo in the holy city, alcohol, weed & other psychedelics are readily available on this side of the river .  

Alcohol is sold under the radar in many of the bars.  And if you’re looking to participate in something stronger, you only have to discreetly ask around to find it.  If you’re lucky, your stay might even coincide with a secret party under the stars!

*Warning  – LSA seeds are a cheap & popular psychedelic available in Hampi.    When taken in a large enough quantity they can produce similar effects to magic mushrooms & LSD; however, avoid taking with alcohol as they can make you violently ill – So I heard from a friend anyway!  

Hampi Itinerary – Top Tips

Alcohol in hampi.

Buying alcohol in Hampi can be very expensive, however just 3kms out-of-town is a bar where you can buy anything from local beer to imported vodka at a reasonable price.    Just ask any rickshaw driver and they will take you there & back for around 200 IDR.

It’s worth noting that there are no ATMs in Hampi. The closest is located 3km away in the town of Kamalapuram.  Although, you will sometimes find it out of service or out of cash.

It’s worth carrying enough cash to see you through in Hampi.  Which isn’t much, as everything is pretty cheap here.

Alternatively, you can withdraw money at one of the moneychangers in Hampi;  however, be prepared to pay a 3% fee.

Wherever you go in India, it is important that you dress appropriately.  It is recommended that female travellers respect the local tradition of covering shoulders and legs from the knee upwards.  Not only is it respectful, but it will help to avoid unwanted attention.

The dress code for men is a little more relaxed; however, it is recommended to avoid revealing vests or tank top.

Be Aware of Scams

In all touristy areas there are   travel scams you should be aware of  so consequently, you can avoid them.    There are also known to be skilled pick pockets operating in Hampi so be sure to keep your valuables secured at all time.    We use either a small padlock or compartmental bag to keep our valuables safe when out exploring.

We recommend educating yourself on  Travel Safety in India  to help you avoid any sticky situations.

Best Time to Visit Hampi

The  best time to visit Hampi is from October to February  when the weather is dry and not too hot.   We visited Hampi in October, and while there was some rain , most of the time it was clear and pleasant for sightseeing.  Although midday until around 3 pm could get quite hot, it was just about bearable for us pale-skinned folk.    It’s best to avoid Hampi during the months of Summer or Monsoon.

A Brief History of Hampi

Hampi is considered a sacred city since it is said to be the birthplace of Hanuman, the Hindu monkey-god.  And up until the 1500s, Hampi was rich and prosperous, serving as the capital of the almighty Hindu Vijayanagara Empire.  However, in 1565 the capital was abruptly bought to its knees, when the city was ambushed by a coalition of Muslim Kings, conquering the empire and leaving Hampi to perish.

Despite this basic understanding of how Hampi came to be the lost kingdom that it is today, there is an air of untold history that consumes the city.  The unexplainable rock formations and skilfully carved ruins are sure to leave you with an abundance of unanswered questions.  But it is these mysteries that give Hampi the charm that we fell hopelessly in love with.

Hampi Itinerary – What to Pack

Unsure of what you might need to pack for your adventures in Hampi? Don’t worry, we have got you covered.  Check out our  backpacker  essentials,  for a   packing list of  items that we carry with us on every adventure .

Here are some items that we recommend taking to make your visit to the lakes & waterfalls more comfortable:

• Comfortable shoes for the hike down
• Water shoes to wear in the water –  We Recommend :  2 in 1 Water/Hiking Shoes .
• Waterproof Bag to protect valuables –  We Recommend: Waterproof Dry Bag-10L/20L/30L
• Bathing suit & towel for the obvious –  We Recommend: Microfiber Travel Towel

Travel Responsibly

As travellers, it should always be a top priority to travel responsibly.  We already leave a substantial carbon footprint just by flying to our travel destinations, so that’s even more reason to make a positive impact when we get there.

There are many  small steps you can take to  becoming a responsible traveller,  and we highly encourage you to educate yourself before travelling to Hampi.  Here are some things you can do to minimise your footprint:

1. Do not leave any rubbish on the ground:  You will see a lot of rubbish on the ground in India, but that doesn’t make it ok to add to it.  Bin your trash!

2. Limit your single-use plastic consumption:   This is tough in India as we wouldn’t recommend drinking tap water even if it has been treated/sterilised.  However, you can say no to straws and plastic bags. Take a  reusable bag  with you everywhere.

3. Respect the local culture:  Be courteous of the local culture and act in such a way that leaves a good impression.  Learn a little of the local language (hello and thank you is the minimum), greet the locals in a polite manner, and respect dress codes & traditions. We recommend carrying a  Sarong  with you to cover up where needed

More on India

Are you planning a trip to India?  Check out our other articles to help plan your trip.

• One month in India – Ultimate itinerary & guide
• The Best Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 Days or More
• 18 AMAZING PLACES TO VISIT IN UDAIPUR IN 2 DAYS
• TOP 5 BEACHES IN SOUTH GOA, INDIA
• 17 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN THE SOUTH OF MUMBAI
• TOP 15 INSTAGRAM SPOTS OF INDIA

Did you enjoy our Ultimate Hampi Itinerary & Travel Guide ?

Well, that concludes  Ultimate Hampi Itinerary & Travel Guide .   We hope you enjoy your time in this magical country. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, through our contact us page. Don’t forget to follow us on  Instagram here  where we share further travel advice & inspiration.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission,  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free travel tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

MORE ON  ASIA

TIPS, TRICKS AND ADVICE FOR PLANNING A TRIP TO THAILAND

HOW TO SPEND 3 WEEKS IN CAMBODIA – ITINERARY & GUIDE

TOP 15 INSTAGRAM SPOTS OF VIETNAM – ULTIMATE GUIDE

ANNAPURNA BASE CAMP PHOTO DIARY – NEPAL INSPO

The Best 10 Day Bali Itinerary

PIN IT FOR LATER

Sharing is caring ♥

Evolveback hampi

Monday 24th of July 2023

Your explanation and itinerary of Hampi is excellent

Our Taste For Life

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Thank you for the compliment!

Thursday 9th of July 2020

Nice pictures and good detailing. I also went to Hampi and it is a memorable and an awesome trip.

Wednesday 29th of July 2020

Thank you, we are glad you enjoyed it and enjoyed your time in Hampi!

Diyush Mahapatra

Saturday 3rd of August 2019

This was pretty awesome. Impressive narration. Quite helpful, Thank you

Monday 19th of August 2019

Hello Diyush, we're so pleased you enjoyed the guide, thank you for taking the time to leave this lovely comment

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

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.

Related Articles

More related articles.

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• Places to Visit in Hampi

25 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Hampi

• Hampi Overview
• Top 25 Places to Visit in Hampi
• 11 Best Hampi Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Hampi
• Best Time to Visit Hampi
• How to Reach Hampi
• Driving Directions to Hampi
• within 1 km
• within 5 km
• within 10 km
• within 20 km
• within 30 km
• within 40 km
• within 50 km

Vittala Temple / Vijaya Vittala Temple

#1 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 9 km (or 2.3 km by walk) from Hampi Bus Stand and 5.5 km from Kamalapura Bus Stand, Vittala Temple is an ancient monument located on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River in Hampi. It is one of the largest and the most famous structures to visit as part of Hampi tour packages . The Vijaya Vittala or Vittala Temple is the most famous and popular tourist places to visit in Hampi . This temple is famous for its Stone Chariot and Musical Pillars. It was built around the 15th century AD during the reign of King Devaraya II (1422 - 1446 AD). Several portions of the temple were expanded and enhanced during the reign of Krishnadevaraya (1509 - 1529 AD). This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Vittala. The temple is well-known for its exceptional architecture and unmatched craftsmanship. This predominant monument of Hampi is a major .....

...read more

Virupaksha Temple

#2 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 400 m from Hampi Bus Stand, Sri Virupaksha temple is a Hindu temple located at the western end of Hampi Bazaar in Hampi. It is the most famous and important temples in Hampi, and among the must include places in Hampi Packages . Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned as one of the most sacred pilgrimage in Karnataka . Virupaksha is an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and among all the surrounding ruins, this temple is intact and is still in use. This temple is also called the Pampapathi temple and is one of the most places to visit in Hampi . Situated on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River, it is a part of the Group of Monuments at Hampi, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. According to history, this temple has been functioning uninterruptedly ever since .....

Sri Krishna Temple / Bala Krishna Temple

#3 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 500 m from Hampi Bus Stand, Sri Krishna temple is situated on the Hampi main road. Krishna temple is one of the important places to visit in Hampi , and among the Group of Monuments which is currently listed as a part of the World Heritage Monuments by UNESCO. The temple is situated close to the Virupaksha Temple . According to the history, Bala Krishna Temple was built by Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1513 AD. He built this temple to commemorate his victory over Prataparudra Gajapati, the ruler of the eastern kingdom of Udayagiri (now Orissa) which is mentioned in the inscriptions on the slab. The main idol installed in the temple was the figure of Bala Krishna and now it is preserved in the State Museum at Chennai. This temple was built in Panchayathana style with two enclosures. Built-in the center of .....

Mahanavami Dibba / Dasara Dibba

#4 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Mahanavami Dibba or The House of Victory is a beautiful stone platform situated inside the Royal Enclosure in Hampi. It is also known as Dasara Dibba and is one of the most impressive structures to be visited during your Hampi Trip . Mahanavami Dibba was built by King Krishnadevaraya in 1513 AD after his conquest over the kingdom of Udayagiri, present-day Orissa. The grand platform was used as a stage by the kings to watch the army march past, the war games, and the royal procession that were held during the Mahanavami festival, also known as the Dasara festival, hence the name Mahanavami Dibba. It is one of the most fascinating Hampi tourist places . Dasara Dibba represents the typical Vijayanagara style of architecture. The stone platform is about 12 m in height. The huge structure is a square platform with .....

Hazara Rama Temple

#5 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Hazara Rama Temple is a beautiful temple located at the center of Royal Enclosure. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. Hazara Rama Temple was built in the early part of the 15th century by Devaraya II. The term Hazara Rama literally means a thousand Rama and refers to the large number of Ramayana panels depicted on the walls. This temple is believed to be the private temple of the kings and the royal family of Vijayanagara.. It was originally built as a simple structure within a rectangular complex. It consisted of only a sanctum, a pillared hall and an ardha-mandapa. Later the temple structure was renovated to add an open porch and beautiful pillars. The pillared hall has unique black stone pillars which are raised on a stone platform at the center of the hall. The interior of the temple has richly ornately columns. An empty pedestal with three holes signifies that the temple once had idols of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita. Hazara .....

Pattabhirama Temple

#6 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 1.2 km from Kamalapura Bus Stand and 5 km from Hampi, Pattabhirama Temple is situated near ASI museum in Kamalapura. Along with the Virupaksha and Vittala temples, the Pattabhirama temple represents the creative temple-building ventures of the Vijayanagara rulers. Though it contains two inscriptions of King Achyuta Raya, the temple is believed to have been constructed well ahead of his regime. Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is known for its intricate architecture. It was a prominent destination for devotees during the period of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Pattabhirama Temple is situated in the center of a huge rectangular enclosure. The east-facing sanctum has a three tier vimana with an antarala, maha-mandapa and ardha-mandapa. The large and square maha-mandapa is a finely built structure with tall and slender composite pillars of various types and is the best example of Vijayanagara style architecture. To the east of the ardha-mandapa is the usual .....

Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex

#7 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 600 m from Hampi Bus Stand, The Hemakuta group of temples is a cluster of ancient temples situated on the Hemakuta hill in Hampi adjacent to Virupaksha Temple . Hemakuta, literally meaning golden hillock is one of the most charming hillocks in Hampi. It is dotted by over fifty structures of different types including temples, mandapas, galleries, and gateways of various sizes. Hemakuta Hill offers an excellent view of Hampi Bazaar and Virupaksha temple. The Hemakuta hill has three entry points, one on the south-eastern side, one on the south, and the other on the eastern side of the hill which leads to the street near the Virupaksha temple. There are more than 35 temples on Hemakuta Hill. These temples are built in the pre-Vijayanagara and Vijayanagara periods (9th to 14th century AD). These are referred to as Jain Temples, but many of these temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Two of the .....

Ugra Narasimha / Lakshmi Narasimha Statue

#8 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 800 m from Hampi Bus Stand, Ugra Narasimha Temple is located south of Sri Krishna Temple in Hampi. The Lakshmi Narasimha statue is one of the most imposing sculptures found in Hampi . The specialty of the sculpture is that it is the largest monolith statue in Hampi with a height of 6.7 m. It was carved in 1528 AD during the rule of Krishnadevaraya. The protruding eyes and the facial expression are the basis for this name. This is considered to be among the most important monuments found in Hampi and is visited by a large number of people throughout the year. Lord Narasimha is sitting on the coil of a giant seven-headed Adisesha (guardian snake of Lord Vishnu) and the lions guard the sides of the idol. The heads of the snake act as the hood above his head. The Lord in this temple is in cross-legged yoga position with the belt supporting the knees. The original statue contained the image of goddess Lakshmi, consort .....

Hampi Bazaar

#9 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

Hampi Bazaar is located beside the Hampi Bus Stand and located in front of the Virupaksha temple. It is also known as Virupaksha Bazaar. About a kilometer long, the eastern side of the bazaar ends at the foothill of Matanga Hill. Hampi Bazaar is a unique attraction of Hampi. Both sides of the street have a series of very old pavilions, some single storied and others two storied. These buildings were once the part of a booming market and houses of the upper class merchants. The arcades are open structures with no doors. It was once a place where merchants used to sell precious stones, jewellery, silk clothes, etc. during Vijayanagara rule. It was also a market where cows and horses were traded. The Hampi Bazaar still functions as a market place, though it is no longer as attractive as it was. The western end of the street has been encroached by a number of shop owners and small restaurants. These shops that sell items like ethnic clothes, bags and pooja artifacts. A huge Nandi, .....

Lotus Mahal

#10 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 500 m from Hazara Rama Temple, 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, Lotus Mahal is situated within Zenana Enclosure, a secluded area reserved for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire. This is also known as Chitragani Mahal and Kamal Mahal. Lotus Mahal is the primary attraction of the Zenana Enclosure. Shaped like a lotus flower from the top, the archways of the structure resemble petals of a lotus and provide the whole structure the shape of a half-open lotus. The central dome is carved in the shape of a lotus bud. Lotus Mahal is built in Indo-Islamic style. The two storied structure is symmetrically laid out, with equal projections on four sides. The base of the structure resembles Hindu temple style while the upper superstructure is Islamic in architecture with pyramidal towers. The upper floor of the Mahal has balconies with arched windows. The arches of the ground floor are recessed and ornate. The walls are protected .....

#11 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 22 km from Dharwad, 57 km from Gadag, 76 km from Dandeli, 100 km from Belgaum, 102 km from Sirsi, 104 km from Badami, 147 km from Gokarna, 169 km from Karwar, 177 km from Panjim, 183 km from Shimoga, 205 km from Murudeshwar, 210 km from Ballari, 361 km from Mangalore, 406 km from Bangalore, 435 km from Mysore, and 527 km from Hyderabad, Hubli, officially known as Hubballi, is a city in the Indian state of Karnataka. It is one of the must include places in Karnataka tour packages , and among the best places to visit near Kolhapur . Hubli or Hubballi is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state of Karnataka, and the second-largest city in the state after Bangalore. Lying on the 'Golden Quadrilateral' this multi-faceted city is also known as the cultural, educational, and music capital of the state. The city boasts numerous monuments and monasteries, ..... Distance (From Hampi): 170 Kms Trip Duration (From Hampi - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy Temple

#12 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 2.5 km from Kamalapura Bus Stand and 6 km from Hampi, Sri Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy temple is located atop the Malyavanta Hill. This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy Temple was constructed by Krishnadevaraya of Vijayanagara Kingdom. According to mythology, Lord Ramachandra and his brother Lakshmana stayed here during the rainy season, in their search of Sita. This 16th century temple was built around a huge boulder in Dravidian architectural style. The east facing temple consists of a sanctum, porch, a large pillared pavilion and a large pillared hall with a large courtyard. There are two gopuras at the temple's entrance. The main shrine consists of Lord Rama, Lakshmana and Sita's idols with the idol of Lord Hanuman kneeling close to them, all carved out of a single boulder. A gap found on the floor is filled with water, which is said to be made by Lakshmana with his arrow. Right behind the temple is a cave temple dedicated to .....

Achyutharaya Temple

#13 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 1 km from Hampi Bus Stand & 500 m from Hampi Bazaar, Achyutharaya temple is located between the Gandhamadana hill and Matanga hill. It is one of the last grand creations of the Vijayanagara dynasty before the fall of the empire. This temple has been built during King Achyuta Deva Raya, by an officer Salakaraju Tirumaladeva. Achyuta Deva Raya was the younger brother of Krishna Deva Raya and succeeded him in 1529. The main deity of the temple is Lord Tiruvengalanatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple was originally named Tiruvengalanatha temple but gradually came to be known as Achyutaraya Temple The temple was built in Vijayanagara style architecture. This temple complex has two enclosures, each marked by an entrance tower. The main temple is situated within the second enclosure. The main temple consists of a garbhagriha, an antarala, sukanasi, a rangamandapa and an ornate Kalyana mandapa. The Kalyana mandapa of the temple is a spacious structure .....

Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple

#14 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 250 m from Hampi Bus Stand, The Kadalekalu Ganesha temple is situated on the slope of the Hemakuta Hill in Hampi . It is a remarkable monolithic statue and one of the most popular tourist sites in Hampi. Kadalekalu Ganesha is one of the largest statues of Lord Ganesha in Hampi. The giant Ganesha statue is 4.6 m (15 feet) tall and was carved out of a single boulder. The belly of this statue resembles a Bengal gram (Kadalekalu in Kannada) and hence the statue has been given the name of Kadalekalu Ganesha. The temple of Kadalekalu Ganesha is a beautiful stone structure. A sanctum is built around the statue. The pillared hall in front of this sanctum is decorated with tall and beautiful pillars. The sculptures on the pillars are depicted with mythological characters. The pillars are constructed in the typical Vijayanagara style of architecture. One of the pillars has a carving depicting naughty infant Krishna hiding .....

Royal Enclosure

#15 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, The Royal Enclosure in Hampi is a huge fortified area that was once the heart of the Vijayanagara Empire. This was the place where the royal family of the Vijayanagara Empire used to reside and the durbar used to be performed. Spread over an area of 59,000 square meters, it is believed to have once housed over 45 buildings, all used by the royal family. This center was separated from the main Hampi center by an irrigation canal. The sprawling area was protected by double walls. It had three entrances, two on the northern side and one on the western side. The Royal Enclosure contains the ruins of several palace bases, water tanks, temples, ornate platform and canals and many other structures. Unlike the temples, which were constructed with stone, many of the palaces were built out of wood. The most impressive structure in the Royal Enclosure is the Mahanavami .....

Stepped Tank

#16 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 100m from Mahanavami Dibba and 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand, The Stepped tank is located in Durbar Area in Royal enclosure of Hampi. This famous Stepped Tank was excavated by Archeological Survey of India during 1980-1983. This tank is very ornate and one of the most beautiful monuments of Hampi. The Stepped Tank is constructed using finely finished blocks of black stones. This Tank was probably used by the royals for religious purpose. The beautiful tank is about 22 square meters and about 7 meters deep. It has five distinct tiers, each fitted with steps set in a pleasing pattern. The marks on the tank and individual blocks indicate the direction of flow of water. The water to this tank was drawn through the intelligently designed stone channels which are well preserved till date. Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

King's Audience Hall / Durbar Hall

#17 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, The King's Audience hall, also known as Durbar Hall is located inside the Royal Enclosure at Hampi. It is a ruined structure whose remnants can be spotted on the western side of the Mahanavami Dibba or Dasara Dibba. The King's Audience Hall was built during the time of the Vijayanagara Empire. According to the famous historian Abdul Razzak, who visited Hampi during the reign of Devaraya II, the King's Audience Hall was one of the most magnificent buildings in Hampi during that time. It is believed that this is the place where the king addressed his administration and the public. The King's Audience Hall was a huge building built with huge blocks of stone and wood. The structure has a ruined stone stairway at the rear of the hall that suggests it might have been a two storied building. The super structure is not present right now. Vestiges of pillar sockets and bases show that it was originally a .....

King's Balance

#18 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 10 km from Hampi Bus Stand (or 1.5 km by walk) and 6 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, King's Balance is located southwest of Vittala Temple , at the end of the Kampa Bhupa's Path in Hampi. It is one of the best places to visit in Hampi. King's Balance is also called Tula Bhara or Tula Purushadana. It is regarded as one of the unique monuments of Hampi. It consists of two lofty carved granite pillars about 15 feet high supporting a stone beam about 12 feet in length. It has three hoops on the underside from which the balances or scales are hung. One of the pillars has a bas-relief depicting a king and two queens, possibly Krishna Deva Raya and his consorts. The structure appears like an archway. According to the legend, the balance was used by the king to weigh himself with gold, gems, silver, and precious stones and distributed to the temple priests on certain occasions like Solar .....

Queen's Bath

#19 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 1 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand and 3 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Queen's Bath is located close at the entrance of the Royal Enclosure in Hampi. The Queen's Bath is believed to be constructed by Achyuta Raya for the women of the royal family of Vijayanagara. Built in Indo-Islamic style, the Queen's Bath is an elaborate structure with a simple exterior and an ornate interior. It is a rectangular building and is surrounded by ornate balconies, each having a set of three windows. Each arched bay surrounding the bath is decorated with intricate carved stucco ornamentation on the ceilings and the vaults placed above the arched bays. The depth of the pool is 6 feet and has stone steps leading to the bottom of the tank. This 30 square meter structure is surrounded by a moat on all sides and a bridge like structure is made to reach the pool. Probably this was designed to prevent people from entering the area when the royals were bathing. The Queen's Bath is an empty .....

Zenana Enclosure

#20 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 500 m from Hazara Rama Temple, 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, The Zenana enclosure is located near the Royal Enclosure at Hampi. This was a fortified and secluded area reserved for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire. The structures of the Zenana Enclosure are designed in the Indo-Islamic style of architecture. Zenana Enclosure has several structures such as the Lotus Mahal, Basement of the Queen's Palace, Water Pavilion, Treasury Building and the Watch Towers. The major attraction inside the enclosure is the Lotus Mahal. Apart from this, there are remains of water pavilion with a decorated platform in the center and Elephant Stables. The Queen's Palace is located at the middle of this area. This is the largest palace base excavated in the Hampi ruins so far. The Royal Treasury Building is a rectangular structure that is located in the north-western corner of the enclosure. The enclosure is surrounded by a fortifying .....

Elephant Stables

#21 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 500 m from Hazara Rama Temple, 3.5 km from Hampi Bus Stand and 2 km from Kamalapur Bus Stand, Elephant Stable is an ancient monument located just outside the Zenana Enclosure in Hampi. The Elephant Stable is an impressive structure that was used to provide shelter for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is one of the very few structures not suffered the damage during Deccan Sultanate attack on Hampi and is a major attraction among the tourists. This is a beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture. There are 11 domed tall chambers. The whole building looks symmetric with respect to this central hall. The center chamber is specially decorated and big. The other 10 domes represent the Islamic style of architecture. Each of the domes was decorated with ornate plaster on the interior as well as the exterior. Metal hooks on the inside roof can be seen. The elephants were tied to these hooks from the center of the ceiling. At the rear of .....

Vira Harihara Palace

#22 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 3 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Vira Harihara Palace is an ancient structure located within the fortified area of the Royal Enclosure, south of Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi. Only the ground level of the structure can be seen today. The base of this palace, along with a number of other residential structures is located inside a compound. The area was also called the Mint, based on the mention in one of the chronicles by the travelers who visited this capital in the 15th century. It is believed that the palace belonged to Harihara Raya II, the third king of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Palace is said to have been constructed in the 14th century. After Harihara II, the palace was used by the subsequent kings of the Vijayanagara Empire. The entry to the building is through the eastern side of the wall. The original boundary walls protecting the palace still remain. The tiered foundations showcase the architectural skills of the Vijayanagar craftsmen. It is believed that .....

Matanga Hill

#23 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 1 km from Hampi Bus Stand, Matanga Hill is located at the eastern end of the Hampi Bazaar. It offers a breathtaking view of the ruined city and the beautiful landscape below. Matanga Hill is one of the major places to visit in Hampi. Being the highest point in Hampi; this is the best spot to get an aerial view of Hampi and its surroundings. There is a small temple on the top of Matanga Hill. On the way down there is a small cave marked where it is believed that Sugriva, ruler of Kishkinda, used to hide. According to mythology, Matanga Hill is one of the holy places described in the epic Ramayana as the base of Saint Matanga. It is also the place where Sugriva benefited from the magical protection of the sage Matanga who had placed a curse of death on Vali, if he dared enter the area of Matanga Hill. Being the highest peak in Hampi, the hill is a trekker's delight and offers pleasing views of the entire town below. There are many trekking paths that .....

Archeological Museum

#24 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 300 m from Kamalapur Bus Stand and 4 km from Hampi Bus Stand, The Archaeological Museum at Kamalapur is dedicated to the ruins of Hampi and surrounding places. The sculptures from various locations of the Hampi ruins were collected by British officers and housed earlier at elephant stables. The first museum of Archaeological Survey of India was established here in 1972. The antiquities were shifted to a modern building at Kamalapur. This museum exhibits elegant replicas of Krishnadevaraya and his queens greeting the visitors at the entrance. The Museum houses a large collection of sculptures and artifacts spread across four galleries. The first gallery of the museum contains two scaled models of Hampi along with all historical monuments. The larger model presents a complete topography of the region along with the monuments and temples located on it. It also displays the hills and rivers in Hampi. It provides an excellent idea about the various attractions .....

Mahadeva Temple - Itagi

#25 of 25 Places to Visit in Hampi

At a distance of 26 km from Koppal, 43 km from Gadag, 70 km from Hampi, and 79 km from Badami, Mahadeva Temple is an ancient temple situated at Itagi in the Koppal district of Karnataka. It is one of the popular heritage temples in Karnataka, and among the popular places to visit near Hampi as part of Hampi Tour Packages . Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Mahadeva Temple at Itagi was built in the year 1112 CE by Mahadeva, a commander (dandanayaka) in the army of the Western Chalukya King Vikramaditya VI. It was constructed on the general plan of the Amruteshwara Temple at Annigeri. The Mahadeva Temple has the same architectural components as Amruteshwara but there is a difference in their articulation. The well-executed sculptures, finely crafted carvings on walls, pillars, and the tower make it a good example of complete Western Chalukyan art which speaks volumes about the taste of the Chalukyan artisans. An inscription dated 1112 CE .....

Most Asked Questions on Hampi

The best time to visit Hampi is from October to March. This is also the time for exploring the archaeological ruins of Hampi. This is the busiest season in Hampi and often hotels run full and tourist places are crowded.

Hampi usually requires complete 2 days to visit the most important attractions. Hampi can be mixed with near by wonderful destination like Badami, Pattadakal, Aihole by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Hampi trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Hampi tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 7250 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 9000 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Hampi like Vittala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Sri Krishna Temple, Mahanavami Dibba, Hazara Rama Temple, Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex, Lotus Mahal and Hampi Bazaar. If you have time, you can dedicate a day to visit near by places like Badami, Pattadakal. Hampi is famous for archaeological ruins belonging to the erstwhile medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijaynagar.

Hampi is a must include place in many treveller's list as this world heritage site is famous worldwide for its incredible hitorical ruins, sprawling landscape of enormous boulders and fascinating rock formations. Once the flourishing kingdom of mighty Vijayanagara kingdom, it is housed as many as 2,000 spectacular monuments. It is also packed full of exciting things to do and see like coracle ride on Tungabhadra River and do some trekking to Matunga hill to witness mesmerizing sunrise and senset.

Top 5 Hampi Packages

Hampi blogs.

Hampi Related Packages

Hampi related pages.

Places to Visit in Popular Sites in India

• Coorg Tourist Places
• Ooty Tourist Places
• Munnar Tourist Places
• Shimla Tourist Places
• Mahabaleshwar Tourist Places
• Chikmagalur Tourist Places
• Wayanad Tourist Places
• Pondicherry Tourist Places
• Goa Tourist Places
• Andaman Tourist Places
• Hampi Tourist Places
• Ajanta Ellora Tourist Places
• Lonavala Tourist Places
• Nainital Tourist Places
• Agra Tourist Places
• Jaipur Tourist Places
• Kodaikanal Tourist Places
• Darjeeling Tourist Places
• Ratnagiri Tourist Places
• Murudeshwar Tourist Places
• Varanasi Tourist Places
• Ayodhya Tourist Places
• Madurai Tourist Places
• Rameswaram Tourist Places
• Shirdi Tourist Places
• Dwarka Tourist Places
• Somnath Tourist Places
• Yercaud Tourist Places
• Dandeli Tourist Places
• Thekkady Tourist Places
• Mussoorie Tourist Places
• Kerala Tourist Places
• Tamilnadu Tourist Places
• Karnataka Tourist Places
• Maharashtra Tourist Places
• Orissa Tourist Places
• Sikkim Tourist Places
• Kashmir Tourist Places

Near By Places

Similar Places

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & International Cards Accepted

Our WhatsApp Numbers

Kerala, Tamilnadu, AP & TG Tours

Karnataka Tours

Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat Tours

North India Tours

Rest of India

International Tours

Request Quote

Travellers #

Explore Tour Packages

Discover Affordable Tour Packages

Need Customized Tour? Request Quote

Login / sign-up.

Your Sign in was successful! Itinerary will be downloaded shortly.

Sign up with Trawell.in

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

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. There is 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 you 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 make this place worth a 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 a.m.–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 a.m.–11 a.m. 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.

Pin It For Later

This blog post on the ‘Hampi Travel Guide and Hampi Itinerary’ has affiliate links that enable us to earn a small commission when you make a purchase, with no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and activities we like and those that might interest you. If you like any suggested product, do buy from the given links.

1 thought on “A Complete Hampi Travel Guide 2021: Hampi Itinerary & Tips”

Nice blog about hampi, worth reading your blog. Nice information you have provided about hampi. If you want stay in this beautiful place, connect with us to book a luxurious stay at evolveback hampi

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Places To Visit In Hampi

Top hotel collections.

Backpacker hostels

Best Places

Must Visit Places in Hampi

Virupaksha Temple, Hampi

Vithala Temple

Lotus Palace

Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple

• Filter (31)
• Monument (5)
• Historical Site (5)
• Adventure Sport (2)

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.

Top Hotels In Hampi

₽ 665 onwards

₽ 554 onwards

₽ 688 onwards

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.

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Hampi

Temples in Hampi

Art & Culture

The 2 Faces of Hampi - History Meets Adventure

Sightseeing

Things to do in Hampi: Exploring the Site of Archaeological Ruins

History of Hampi - An Untold Saga

Places Near

Places to Visit near Hampi

Historical Places in Hampi That You Must Visit

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.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Hampi

What are the top activities in hampi, what are the top sightseeing places in hampi, what are the top restaurants in hampi, how can i commute within hampi, can you suggest an itinerary for hampi, browse hotel collections, by hotel type.

Best Resorts in Hampi

Best Homestays in Hampi for a Heritage Vacation

Best Hotels In Hampi for an Offbeat Vacation

Guest Houses In Hampi

Camping In Hampi

By Budget Category

Backpacker Hostels in Hampi

Lodges In Hampi

Budget Hotels In Hampi

By Star Category

3 Star Hotels In Hampi

With Specific Facilities

Resorts In Hampi With Swimming Pool

Pet-Friendly Hotels In Hampi

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

Compare upto 3 quotes for free

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

UNESCO Hampi Ruins: A Complete Guide to the Architectural Marvels of Karnataka.

Looking for the best guide to the UNESCO Hampi Ruins? Here we have a complete guide including ancient sites, activities, best sunset points and a recommended local travel guide. We have also added the best-recommended places to stay and eat.

On our travels, the UNESCO world heritage site, Hampi, was hands down one of the most spiritually enriching and breathtaking places we have ever seen. Journeying 9 hours inward on an overnight bus from Goa, you will wake up in a parallel universe.

INDIA ESSENTIALS

Check If You Need A VISA

Travel Insurance (SafteyWing)

HOTELS (Booking.com) / HOSTALS (Hostelworld)

Best Tours in India!

Transport / Transfers ( 12GO )

Cheapest Flights ( SKYSCANNER )

Table of Contents

Where is hampi .

Hampi is located in the southern part of India, in Karnataka. It is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Hampi is about 353 kilometres (220 miles) northeast of the city of Bengaluru (Bangalore), the capital of Karnataka. 

If you are planning a trip from Goa and onward travel around India, read our post for our spectacular 2-month India itinerary .

Hampi is renowned for its historical and archaeological significance. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the most powerful Hindu empires in Indian history. 

Why Visit Hampi, India?

Hampi, India, is a ancient village trapped in time, lost in central India. Hampi weaves together a tapestry of captivating history, architectural marvels, and picture-perfect landscapes.

The hills roll as far as the eye can see with gargantuan boulders, like something out of the flintstones. Palms lined the many rivers, and lush rice paddies thickly covered the area. 

Ancient temples were hidden and sprawled at every turn. The strangest site was nestled among all this, a hippy commune-like town. A perfect rest point for backpackers and travellers after a long journey into the heart of India. 

Arriving in Hampi

PRE WARNING~ When you get off the bus in Hampi, you will be SWARMED by people offering to drive you to their hostel, and there can be some scams. 

👉 Check Out The Best Reviewed Places To Stay In Hampi HERE !

We had pre-booked and spent the whole time with the most AMAZING guide Vinny. I can’t recommend him enough, so if you are visiting Hampi, make sure you pre-book him. He also has a homestay to stay at, which was everything we needed with beautiful local Indian hospitality.

LOCAL TOUR GUIDE RECOMMENDATION

This is our wonderful local friend Vinny! You can find him on Instagram @hampi_tour_with_vinny.

23 THINGS TO DO IN HAMPI

These activities offer a blend of historical, cultural, architectural, and natural experiences, making Hampi a fascinating destination.

Explore the Magnificent Ruins of Hampi’s ancient city via Tuk-Tuk.

Vinny whisked us off before sunrise one morning, and we spent the whole day driving the desert-like terrain temple hunting. Tours like this are perfect as you want to avoid walking around trying to find them alone.

They sprawled across miles, and it can reach up to 40 degrees in Hampi in April! Plus, you get to spend the day with an outstanding local like Vinny and hear all his stories of growing up on this sacred land.

Visit Virupaksha Temple

Virupaksha Temple is an iconic and revered temple in Hampi, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a testament to the architectural grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. With its towering gopuram (gateway tower), intricate carvings, and sacred courtyards. 

The temple attracts pilgrims and tourists who seek blessings. Witness vibrant festivals, and admire this ancient temple complex’s spiritual and artistic beauty.

Climb Matanga Hill for Panoramic Views of the Surrounding Landscapes.

Matanga Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a popular spot for sunrise and sunset viewpoints.

Its serene and rugged terrain, adorned with ancient temples and rocky outcrops, provides an ideal setting for nature lovers and trekkers to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquillity of Hampi.

Matanga Hill is one of the   important locations mentioned in the Hindu mythology, Ramayana. 

Trek to the Top of Anjaneya Hill to the Hanuman Temple (Monkey Temple)

Climbing Anjaneya Hill to visit the Hanuman Temple in Hampi is a spiritually uplifting experience. As you ascend the hill, surrounded by serene nature, the atmosphere becomes filled with devotion and tranquillity. 

River and Bouldering Tour Hike with Vinny

We are still not sure of the exact name of this tour, but it was… incredible. Starting out trekking through lush rice fields and jungle. Vinny then took us climbing up and through the sea of boulders in Hampi. We could stop and dive in rock pools formed by nearby rivers. It was the perfect day to spend cooling off in the scorching temperatures. 

Reaching the temple at the hilltop, you are greeted with a sense of reverence and awe as you witness the magnificent idol of Lord Hanuman. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, creating a serene and sacred space for reflection and connection with the divine

Take a Coracle Boat Ride on the Tungabhadra River.

Embark on a coracle boat ride on the tranquil waters of the Tungabhadra River in Hampi. It offers a serene and enchanting experience as you glide along the gentle currents, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and ancient temple ruins.

Visit the Royal Enclosure and See the Palace Complex

Exploring the Royal Enclosure in Hampi is like stepping into a bygone era as you wander through the remnants of majestic palaces, audience halls, and administrative structures.

Immersing yourself in the regal ambience and getting a glimpse of the grandeur that once defined the Vijayanagara Empire.

Explore the Underground Shiva temple, the Hazara Rama Temple.

Step into the living museum of Hampi. Marvel at the intricately carved bas-reliefs that narrate the epic stories of the Ramayana. Immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere of this ancient shrine, which served as a private temple for the Vijayanagara kings.

Witness the Sunset from the Hemakuta Hill Temples.

At sunset, the Hemakuta Hill temples in Hampi offer a truly magical experience. As the setting sun’s golden rays bathe the ancient structures, the intricate carvings and delicate sculptures come alive with a warm glow. 

The panoramic view from the hilltop provides a breathtaking backdrop, allowing visitors to witness a captivating sunset while surrounded by the sacred ambience and architectural beauty of these ancient temples.

Visit the Lotus Mahal. See Indo-Islamic Architecture

Indo-Islamic architecture, woven into the rich heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire, is an architectural masterpiece.

The elegant and symmetrical structure, adorned with intricate arches, domes, and ornate carvings, creates a sense of grandeur and serenity. Exploring the spacious halls and passages, you can imagine the palace’s past glory. Envision the royal gatherings and cultural celebrations that once took place within its walls. 

The tranquil atmosphere and the architectural beauty of Lotus Mahal make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and admirers of architectural marvels.

Take a Bicycle Tour around the Hampi Ruins.

Pedal through the ancient pathways and winding roads, you have the opportunity to explore the vast expanse of historical marvels at your own pace. 

The gentle breeze brushes against your face as you pass by majestic temples, palaces, and remnants of a once-thriving empire. 

The freedom and flexibility of a bicycle tour allow you to stop and marvel at the intricate carvings, capture stunning photographs, and soak in the rich heritage surrounding you.

 It’s an exhilarating journey that combines exploration, exercise and a deep connection with the enchanting history of Hampi.

Walk Along the Hampi Bazaar and Browse Local Handicrafts.

Exploring the bustling Hampi Bazaar is like stepping back as you navigate the vibrant market streets that have retained their charm from the glorious past. 

The lively atmosphere is filled with the aroma of local spices, the haggling of shopkeepers, and the colourful display of handicrafts and souvenirs. 

As you stroll along the bazaar, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with friendly vendors, and discover unique treasures that reflect the rich heritage of Hampi. 

The Hampi Bazaar offers a delightful experience that combines shopping, cultural immersion, and a nostalgic glimpse into the vibrant trade that once thrived in this historical town.

Visit the Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum in Hampi is a treasure trove of historical artefacts and ancient relics, providing visitors with a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and archaeological significance.

Enjoy a Coracle Ride to the Other Side of the River and Explore Anegundi village.

Anegundi village, located across the Tungabhadra River from Hampi, offers a charming escape from the bustling tourist sites. 

With its rustic charm, traditional houses, and narrow lanes, the village provides a glimpse into rural life in the region. 

It also offers opportunities to explore ancient temples, rock art, and local handicrafts. Immersing visitors in this historical village’s authentic and laid-back atmosphere.

Attend the Hampi Utsav: An Annual Festival

Hampi Utsav, a spirited cultural festival held annually in Hampi, brings the town to life with various colours, music, dance, and cultural performances. 

During the festival, the ancient ruins of Hampi serve as a majestic backdrop. At the same time, the streets are filled with enthusiastic crowds, local delicacies, and a festive atmosphere, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate and immerse oneself in the rich heritage and traditions of the region.

Marvel at the Grandeur of the Vijaya Vittala Temple and its famous Stone Chariot.

Vijaya Vittala Temple, located in Hampi, is a stunning architectural marvel that houses the famous Stone Chariot. A symbol of Indian craftsmanship and engineering excellence. 

The temple’s intricate carvings, majestic pillars, and awe-inspiring chariot create a mesmerizing atmosphere. Attracting visitors from far and wide to witness this iconic temple complex’s artistic splendour and historical significance.

Discover the ornate carvings and sculptures at the Krishna Temple.

Every inch of the temple is meticulously adorned with intricate details, showcasing the finest craftsmanship of the Vijayanagara era. 

The delicate carvings depict mythological tales, celestial beings, and religious motifs, bringing the stories of Krishna to life in a compelling and visually stunning manner. 

Each sculpture is a testament to the artistic prowess and devotion of the artisans who created them, making visiting the Krishna Temple a truly enchanting experience for art lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

Visit the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple, which houses the Monolithic Statue of Lord Ganesha.

Visiting the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple in Hampi is a captivating experience that unveils the majesty of a monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha . 

Standing tall and commanding attention, the intricately carved statue emanates divine power and grace. As you enter the temple, the devotees’ serene atmosphere and devotion create a spiritual ambience that fills your heart with reverence and awe. 

The Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple offers a unique opportunity to witness ancient craftsmen’s artistic brilliance and seek blessings from the beloved elephant-headed deity, leaving a lasting impression of devotion and inspiration.

Explore the Zenana Enclosure and see the Queen’s Bath and other structures.

Entering the Zenana Enclosure is like stepping into a world of mystery and royalty. Once reserved exclusively for the royal women, the enclosed area exudes an aura of secrecy and intrigue. 

Explore the architectural remnants, such as the Queen’s Bath and other structures. You can imagine the opulent lifestyle and secluded existence of the royal women who once inhabited this space. 

The Zenana Enclosure offers a glimpse into the secret lives of the past, inviting visitors to unravel the stories and marvel at the grandeur of this exclusive realm within the Vijayanagara Empire.

Visit the Hampi Elephant Stables

The Hampi Elephant stables are a unique structure that once housed Royal Elephants. They stand as a magnificent testament to the grandeur and royal history of the Vijayanagara Empire. As you enter this architectural marvel, you are transported back in time. Envisioning the regal elephants once housed within these grand structures. 

The symmetrical rows of domed chambers, with their arched openings, create a mesmerizing sight, reflecting the artistic finesse and engineering prowess of the bygone era. 

Exploring the Elephant Stables allows you to appreciate the deep bond between humans and elephants. It offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle and the importance of these majestic creatures in the Vijayanagara Empire .

Explore the Stepped Tank called the Pushkarani.

As you descend the stone steps leading to the tranquil water, you can’t help but marvel at the architectural precision and intricate carvings that adorn the tank. 

The symmetrical rows of steps, surrounding colonnades, and ornate sculptures create a sense of tranquillity and timelessness. 

Standing by the Pushkarani, you can imagine its spiritual significance in ancient times, as pilgrims would gather here for rituals and purification. The Pushkarani’s graceful beauty and historical importance make it a cherished spot for contemplation and reflection amidst the ancient ruins of Hampi.

Attend a Traditional Music and Dance Performance in Hampi.

Traditional music and dance performances in Hampi are a captivating celebration of the region’s rich cultural heritage. 

The rhythmic beats of traditional instruments like the mridangam, tabla, and flute create a melodic symphony that sets the stage for mesmerizing dance performances. 

Dancers adorned in vibrant costumes gracefully bring ancient tales and mythological stories to life through classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi . 

The dancers’ intricate footwork, expressive gestures, and emotive facial expressions. Combined with the soul-stirring music, create a magical atmosphere that transports spectators into a realm of beauty, devotion, and artistic excellence. 

Whether it’s a solo performance or a group ensemble, experiencing traditional music and dance in Hampi is an enchanting journey that immerses you in the region’s cultural traditions and artistic brilliance.

Go Rock Climbing on the Boulders Surrounding Hampi.

Rock climbing on the boulders surrounding Hampi is an exhilarating adventure that combines physical challenge with stunning natural beauty. 

As you ascend the massive granite boulders, your senses are heightened by the rugged terrain and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 

The unique rock formations provide a playground for climbers of all levels, offering a variety of routes and challenges to conquer. With each successful climb, a sense of accomplishment and awe at the sheer scale and beauty of the boulders washes over you. 

The experience of rock climbing in Hampi is not only a thrilling outdoor activity but also an opportunity to connect with nature, push your limits, and create lasting memories of conquering the ancient stone giants that have become an iconic symbol of this historical and adventurous destination.

Enjoy the serene atmosphere and relax Amid the natural beauty of Hampi’s surroundings.

Even if you wish to do only some of the above! Hampi is where just being and resting within its beauty is more than enough! 

Enjoying the serene atmosphere and relaxing amidst the natural beauty of Hampi’s surroundings is a rejuvenating experience for the mind, body, and soul. 

As you immerse yourself in the tranquil environment, surrounded by the lush greenery, ancient ruins, and the gentle flow of the Tungabhadra River, a sense of calmness washes over you. 

Whether you find a peaceful spot to meditate, practice yoga, or sit and appreciate the natural splendour. Hampi provides a sanctuary away from the noise and chaos of everyday life. 

The harmonious blend of history, nature, and spirituality creates a perfect setting to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with yourself, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.

Craving Soulful Community? Why Not Try One Of These Incredible Retreats In India, HERE !

When is the Best Time to Visit Hampi? 

The best time to visit Hampi in India is during the winter months, from October to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from around 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making it ideal for exploring the historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities. 

The winter months also see a lower amount of rainfall, ensuring clearer skies and better visibility. Additionally, this period coincides with various festivals and events in Hampi, such as the Hampi Utsav, adding a vibrant and cultural charm to your visit. 

However, it’s worth noting that Hampi can be visited throughout the year, and each season offers its own unique experiences and attractions.

Do Forigners Visit Hampi?

Yes, foreigners do visit Hampi. It is a popular tourist destination not only among domestic travellers but also among international tourists. The UNESCO World Heritage Site status and the rich historical and architectural significance of the ruins attract visitors worldwide. 

Hampi has stunning landscapes, ancient temples, intricate carvings, and unique blend of history. The beauty and culture make it an appealing destination for foreigners seeking to explore the cultural heritage of India.

The town of Hampi has accommodations, restaurants, and facilities catering to the needs of both domestic and international visitors.

Why is Hampi a UNESCO World Heritage Site? 

Hampi is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its outstanding universal value as a cultural and archaeological site. It represents the remains of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the most significant and prosperous Hindu kingdoms in Indian history. 

Hampi’s archaeological and architectural marvels, including temples, palaces, and other structures, bear witness to the empire’s grandeur and fusion of indigenous and Islamic architectural styles.

The site is renowned for its exceptional urban planning, intricate craftsmanship, and artistic excellence displayed in the numerous temples, monuments, and other structures. 

It provides insights into the socio-cultural, religious, and economic aspects of the Vijayanagara Empire. Its significance as a prominent centre of religion, trade, and art in South India.

Furthermore, Hampi’s landscape, characterized by boulder-strewn hills, riverine features, and agricultural fields, adds to its aesthetic appeal. It contributes to its outstanding value as a cultural and natural heritage site.

By granting UNESCO World Heritage status, Hampi’s significance and preservation are recognized globally, ensuring its safeguarding for future generations and promoting its cultural and historical importance to the world.

Conclusion on Why You Should Visit Hampi

Hampi, India, beckons travellers with its timeless allure, weaving together a tapestry of captivating history, architectural marvels, and breathtaking landscapes. 

Stepping into this UNESCO World Heritage Site is like entering a living museum. This is where the remnants of the Vijayanagara Empire whisper tales of grandeur and spirituality. 

From the intricate carvings of ancient temples to the imposing boulders that stand as sentinels. Hampi offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. 

The serene atmosphere, coupled with the warmth and hospitality of the locals, creates an enchanting ambience. That invites visitors to explore, contemplate, and connect deeply with the past. 

Whether you seek architectural wonders, spiritual retreats, outdoor adventures, or a glimpse into India’s rich heritage. Hampi is a destination that promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul, offering an extraordinary journey of discovery and wonder.

If you loved this blog, check out our other travel Itineraries. Such as our 6-week India guide, Varkala Itinerary or our Nepal Itinerary!

Similar Posts

The Greatest Secrets In The World – Where Are They & What Are They Hiding?

What are the Worlds Greatest Secrets? What are they hiding? Are they better of remaining hidden? Join us, as we embark on a quest to uncover some of the world’s best-kept secrets and mysteries. From BC to the Modern day. Welcome to a world of hidden mysteries and enigmatic places that have puzzled humanity for…

21 Powerful Spiritual Places in Arizona: Beautiful Indigenous Landscapes.

Ever wondered what the most Spiritual Places in Arizona are? Then you have arrived in the right place. Arizona, with its vast and breathtaking landscapes, is a natural wonder and a land deeply infused with spiritual energy.  From majestic red rock formations to serene desert oases, the state is home to several sacred places that…

11 Sacred Places in New Mexico: Famous Spiritually Significant Sites

What are the most Sacred Places in New Mexico? Join us as we step into a world where ancient whispers linger in the air, history and stories come alive, and nature and spirituality dance hand in hand.  In this blog post, we’ll discover the hidden treasures of New Mexico – a land rich with cultural…

Ley Lines Meaning: Unveiling the Mystery of Earths Energy Pathways

Ley Lines Meaning / Definition: Ley lines are invisible, hypothetical lines or alignments that are believed to connect significant and sacred sites, such as historical, religious, and archaeological landmarks and natural features. These lines have been theorised to carry a special energy or have spiritual significance. Alfred Watkins popularised the concept of ley lines, proposing…

Epic Thailand Itinerary 1 Month Travel Guide! Unique & Popular Destinations

Looking for the ultimate Thailand Itinerary for one month? We have you covered. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the pristine shores of Phuket, Thailand beckons with promises of unforgettable experiences and boundless adventures. Whether you’re craving the buzz of city life or the serenity of island living, this vibrant country has it all…

Discovering St Michael’s Ley Line: A Mystical and Sacred Journey

Welcome to an enchanting expedition along the St. Michael’s Ley Line, a hidden trail that weaves through time, connecting ancient wonders with a touch of magic. Ley lines are mysterious energetic lines that cross on our planet. One of them connects seven huge architectural structures across Europe dedicated to Arch Angel Michael, The reason this…

Destinations

Contact info.

• Sacred Footprints Enterprise House Wilmslow, Cheshire

Copyright© 2023 | Sacred FoodPrints | All Rights Reserved.

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. 

Related Articles

Goa to hampi – everything you need to know, history of holi celebrations in vijayanagara, leave a reply, duarte barbosa’s first person account of his vijayanagara visit.

• Visual Story

The Stone Chariot – Before & After

5 reasons you should be visiting hampi, story of hampi narrated by a yogi – sadhguru jaggi vasudev.

Sadhguru is an Indian yogi, mystic and author. Listen to him narrating the story of Vijayanagara in this 2 part video series.

Top 10 Things to do in Hampi

Mahanavami celebrations in vijayanagara, explore hampi tours.

• +91 9606156857
• [email protected]

Quick Links

Maps for Hampi

If you are not carrying a guide book or a Hampi site map, buy one when you reach the ruins site. You can get a simple map (covering the popular) sites for about Rs20. The map sellers do approach you as you land at the Hampi bus stand or aa you start doing the sightseeing. As the shops sell maps are located around the Hampi Bazaar area, buy one from here as the far areas are devoid of any such shops.

Archaeological Survey of India has displayed may large and detailed sitemaps near many monuments in Hampi. There are about half a dozen such maps in Hampi. A few useful maps for your convenience is listed here

India Map : This map gives you a basic idea about the location of India with respect to the neighbouring countries, Karnataka State, where Hampi is located. You can aslo see the location of Bangalore, which is the state capital of Karnataka.

A general Map of Hampi Ruins . You can get an overall idea about the width & breadth of the ruins in from this map. Some of the key landmarks in Hampi are marked here. For example the hills, the river and also the location of about 80 monuments are labeled in this map. Use this map before you see a more detailed specific area map of Hampi. Hampi Ruins Map

Hampi Ruins (map1): Map showing  Hampi Bazaar , Hemakuta Hill area , Virupaksha Temple & Virupapur Gadde.

Hampi Ruins (map4): Map showing Archeological Museum, Basement of Palaces, Bhima’s Gate, Bhojanasala, Chandrashekara Temple, Dannayaka Enclosure, Domed Gateway, Elephant Stables, Fortified Walls, Ganagitti Temple, Granaries, Hazara Rama Temple, Horse Stable, Jaina Temple, Lotus Mahal, Malyavanta Hill, Octagonal Bath, Octagonal Water Pavilion, Pattabhi Rama Temple, Pattanada Yellamma Temple, Queen's Bath, Ranga Temple, Rockcut Shrine, Royal Enclosure, Saraswathi Temple, Srinagarada Hebbagilu, Tenali Rama Pavilion, Zenana Enclosure

Hampi Map 5 Map showing Ahmed Khans Mosque & Tomb, Aqueducts and Canals, Archeological Museum, Band Tower, Basement of Palaces, Bhimas Gate, Bhojanasala, Chandrashekara Temple, Dannayaka Enclosure, Domed Gateway, Elephant Stables, Fortified Walls, Ganagitti Temple, Granaries, Guards' Quarters, Hazara Rama Temple, Horse Stable, Jaina Temple, Kings Audience Hall, Large Stone Trough,Lotus Mahal, Mahanavami Dibba, Malyavanta Hill, Mint Area, Mohammadan Watch Tower, Mosque, Noblemens Quarters, Octagonal Bath, Octagonal Water Pavilion, Palace of Krishna Devaraya, Palace of Vira Harihara, Pan Supari Bazaar, Parshwanatha Temple, Pattabhi Rama Temple, Pattanada Yellamma Temple, Public Bath, Queens Bath, Ranga Temple, Rockcut Shrine, Royal Enclosure, Saraswathi Temple2, Srinagarada Hebbagilu, Stepped Tank, Stone Door, Tenali Rama Pavilion, Treasury Building, Watch Towers, Water Pavilion, Water Tank, Zenana Enclosure

Hampi Map 6 : Map showing  Domed Gateway , Chinna Hundiam Temple, Malyantha Hill, Raghunatha Temple, Siva Shrine, Venkatapuram

Royal Center Map . A detailed map of the citadel area of Hampi. About 40 monuments & palatial remains are marked in this map. Royal Center Map The map shown the location of about 20 Temples , River & the hills.

Sacred Center Map The location of airports for Hampi. Most of them are located in Karnataka. The Hyderabad & Goa's airports too shown in the map. Airports Map for Hampi

Access map for Hampi . The relative locations of India,Karnataka State & Hampi are shown in this single map Access map for Hampi

Rail map of Karnataka . Major rail routed for Hampi is shown Rail map for Hampi Lodging locations in Hampi. A map of Hampi with the the lodging locations marked. Hampi Hotels

Hampi on India Map

Location of Hampi in Karnataka, India

Hampi Ruins Map. The attractions in Hampi are scattered around 25 Sq Km area. Each square block represents approximately 1 sq km (1km x 1km). This should give you an idea about how to plan for the exploration.

Explore hampi on foot as well as on bicycle/mopeds . Of course you can hire a cab too. See the itinerary plan that discusses a One Day Hampi tour as well as a more realistic , 3 Days Hampi tour plan . This is a busy map with most of the appractions shown in a single map. You can also see the detailed map of Sacred Center and Royal Center .

Map showing Hampi Bazaar , Hemakuta Hill area , Virupaksha Temple & Virupapur Gadde

Hampi Map 4

Map showing : Archeological Museum, Basement of Palaces, Bhima’s Gate, Bhojanasala, Chandrashekara Temple, Dannayaka Enclosure, Domed Gateway, Elephant Stables, Fortified Walls, Ganagitti Temple, Granaries, Hazara Rama Temple, Horse Stable, Jaina Temple, Lotus Mahal, Malyavanta Hill, Octagonal Bath, Octagonal Water Pavilion, Pattabhi Rama Temple, Pattanada Yellamma Temple, Queen's Bath, Ranga Temple, Rockcut Shrine, Royal Enclosure, Saraswathi Temple, Srinagarada Hebbagilu, Tenali Rama Pavilion, Zenana Enclosure

Hampi Map 6

Map showing Domed Gateway , Chinna Hundiam Temple, Malyantha Hill, Raghunatha Temple, Siva Shrine, Venkatapuram

Hampi Map 5

Map showing Ahmed Khans Mosque & Tomb, Aqueducts and Canals, Archeological Museum, Band Tower, Basement of Palaces, Bhimas Gate, Bhojanasala, Chandrashekara Temple, Dannayaka Enclosure, Domed Gateway, Elephant Stables, Fortified Walls, Ganagitti Temple, Granaries, Guards' Quarters, Hazara Rama Temple, Horse Stable, Jaina Temple, Kings Audience Hall, Large Stone Trough,Lotus Mahal, Mahanavami Dibba, Malyavanta Hill, Mint Area, Mohammadan Watch Tower, Mosque, Noblemens Quarters, Octagonal Bath, Octagonal Water Pavilion, Palace of Krishna Devaraya, Palace of Vira Harihara, Pan Supari Bazaar, Parshwanatha Temple, Pattabhi Rama Temple, Pattanada Yellamma Temple, Public Bath, Queens Bath, Ranga Temple, Rockcut Shrine, Royal Enclosure, Saraswathi Temple2, Srinagarada Hebbagilu, Stepped Tank, Stone Door, Tenali Rama Pavilion, Treasury Building, Watch Towers, Water Pavilion, Water Tank, Zenana Enclosure

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.

Location of Hampi on Karnataka map

Hampi is located in Karnataka State in southern India. Hospet is the nearest major town to Hampi. Mumbai to Hampi distance about 700km. Hampi is about 380km southwest of Hyderabad. Bangalore to Hampi is about 365km

Railways Map of Karnataka

Railways map of Karnataka showing connectivity to Hampi.

+919380756368

|  Chat now

Welcome to Hampi

Please Select Your trip days

One day tour, two days tour, three days tour.

• Trekking & Travel Events
• Travel Organizations
• Himalayan Treks
• Maharashtra Treks
• Karnataka Treks
• Travel Guides
• Weekend Getaways
• Trekking Tips & Advice

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.

Did you like this travel guide for Hampi? 

We have 100s more such guides on similar off-beat experiences & we send out such guides, offers, hidden gems, and trekking destinations weekly via email. Subscribe to our newsletter to get them directly into your inbox.

• travel guide
• Share via...

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Find Your Favorite Beach

Atlantic Coast

Beach Camping

Family-Friendly

Places to stay.

Campgrounds

Travel Ideas

Accessible Travel

Eco-Friendly Travel

African American Heritage Travel

More Travel Ideas

Popular links.

Florida Webcams

Toll Roads Info

Travel Guides

Tarpon springs.

Known as the “Sponge Capital of the World,” Tarpon Springs , 30 minutes north of Clearwater on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is a destination like no other. The waterfront community celebrates its deep Greek roots and sponge-diving heritage with food , festivals, and events , and its unique history is on display in its buildings, businesses, and famous sponge docks.

Take a stroll along Dodecanese Boulevard and walk past the sponge docks , which can also be seen live via webcam . Stop in for authentic Greek food, shop the local stores , and see the famous sponge boats. To further explore the Greektown Historic District, take the self-guided audio walking tour , which includes 10 stops beginning near the sponge docks .

In Tarpon Springs, outdoor recreation takes many forms. Bike or walk along the paved, 47-mile Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail and take a ferry ride three miles off the coast of Tarpon Springs to Anclote Key Preserve State Park , which is only accessible by boat.

For additional family-friendly adventures, check out nearby parks and attractions, including Clearwater Marine Aquarium , Caladesi Island , and Honeymoon Island .

Plan your trip at Explore Tarpon Springs and Visit St. Pete Clearwater .

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Visit the galleries, museums, and historic train depot.

• Arts, culture, and entertainment
• Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival
• Tarpon Springs Epiphany
• More events

Go for a sightseeing cruise, play on the beach, and visit kid-friendly attractions.

• Clearwater Marine Aquarium
• Spongeorama Cruise Lines
• Odyssey Cruises
• Tarpon Springs Splash Park
• Astro Skate Family Fun Center

Explore the river and lake.

• Anclote River
• Lake Tarpon

Relax at Fred Howard Park or Sunset Beach in Tarpon Springs or venture out to the nearby beaches of Clearwater and St. Petersburg.

• Sunset Beach
• Fred Howard Park
• St. Petersburg/Clearwater beaches

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Camp on Anclote Key, fish from the shore or charter a fishing boat, swim, look for shells, and spot birds.

• Parks and outdoor recreation
• Spring Bayou manatee webcam
• Tours and sightseeing
• Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail

ACCESSIBILITY

Accessible parks and attractions in Tarpon Springs include Fred Howard Park and Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail.

• Accessible travel
• Accessible parks

PET-FRIENDLY

Bring your four-legged family member along to pet-friendly parks, hotels, stores, and restaurants.

• Dog-friendly city parks
• Dog Lovers Tarpon

Though it’s known for authentic Greek cuisine, Tarpon Springs offers a variety of places to eat, breweries, and bars.

• Places to eat and drink

Browse antiques, art, jewelry, and gifts.

• Places to shop

PLACES TO STAY

Book a stay at a Tarpon Springs hotel, inn, or RV campground.

• Places to stay

Plan a Trip to Tarpon Springs

Greek food tour in tarpon springs, quick facts.

Greek culture and sponge docks.

Nearest Airport

• Tampa International Airport
• St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport

TARPON SPRINGS BUSINESS LISTINGS

Nearby cities, st. petersburg, related content, an inside look at tarpon springs history in florida.

• 5 minute read

By Jon Wilson For a time, sponges – retrieved from Gulf of Mexico depths by intrepid divers in full suits – outstripped citrus products...

Greektown Tarpon Springs Named to National Register as Historic Town

• 1 minute read

By Jodi Mailander Farrell Underneath those sponges, shell shacks and bakeries, Greek culture runs deep in Tarpon Springs, which claims the highest...

Ditch Your Car & Ride a Clearwater Beach Trolley

By Lauren Tjaden White sand that begs you to take off your shoes. The shallow, calm waters of the Gulf. Attractions like Clearwater Marine Aquarium....

Coolest Block in St. Pete: Central Ave

• 8 minute read

By Janet K. Keeler The 600 Block of Central Avenue is St. Petersburg’s coolest. It’s here that a slug of strong java at Brew D Licious...

STRATEGIC ALLIANCE PARTNERS

Saint Petersburg - Interactive map

Information about the map.

Check out the main monuments, museums, squares, churches and attractions in our map of St. Petersburg. Click on each icon to see what it is.

To help you find your way once you get to your destination, the map you print out will have numbers on the various icons that correspond to a list with the most interesting tourist attractions. This way, you’ll be able to see where each attraction is.

Icons on the St. Petersburg interactive map

The map is very easy to use:

• Check out information about the destination: click on the color indicators.
• Move across the map: shift your mouse across the map.
• Zoom in: double click on the left-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel upwards.
• Zoom out: double click on the right-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel downwards.

You may also be interested in

Where to eat

Vodka, caviar, borscht... the list of Russian delicacies goes on! Discover where, when and what to eat during your trip to Saint Petersburg.

General information

Learn everything you need to know for your trip to Saint Petersburg, from visa requirements and currency to language tips and which plugs to bring! We'll try and answer all of your most frequently asked questions.