Located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Hampi is a historical city in the Bellary district of Karnataka. A dynamic and dramatic place, Hampi is dotted by several temples, ruins of palaces, remains of aquatic structures, ancient market streets, royal pavilions and bastions.

          The rich cultural heritage of the place and it's stories of prosperity armed with its spectacular landscape make Hampi a truly deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site.

         Hampi is a land rich in stories. The history of the place gradually mingles with the folklore and then subtly blends with mythology. As per historical evidence, Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire that was established by Saint Vidyaranya in 1336 AD with the help of two of his disciples, Hakka Raya and Bukka Raya. From 1323 to 1565 for almost 200 years,four dynasties ruled over the place and made the Vijayanagara Empire one of the richest and most famous empires of that time. However, the empire was brutally attacked by the Deccan Sultans in 1565. They looted and ransacked the city for almost six months leaving only mass destruction everywhere. The glorious city gradually lost its strategic importance and became a ghost city.

       Mythological story, Hampi is known as the Kiskindha Kshetra which is linked to the Ramayana. If you visit Hampi you can find boulders of various sizes scattered everywhere. 

It is believed that in the fierce battle between Sugreeva and Bali, the army threw boulders at each other and thus these boulders were piled up all around Hampi.

          Hampi can be visited all-round the year. However October to February is considered to be the best time to visit as the weather is pleasant and great for exploring the city. You can also visit the place during monsoon, but you have to be careful walking on the boulders as they become quite slippery.

        If you want to know more about the rich culture of Kannadigas, you must visit Hampi during Vijaya Utsav which is held during the first week of November, for 3 days. This festival is also known as Hampi Utsav and is the grandest of all the festivals celebrated in this region.

         Hampi is well connected to different places of the country via road, rail and air. Hubli Airport is the closest domestic aerodrome to Hampi. It is approximately 166 km away from the main city. Bangalore Airport is the nearest international airport. The nearest railhead to Hampi is Hospet which is about 13 km away. From Hospet , you can take an auto to Hampi. Hampi in well connected with major cities and towns of Karnataka by bus service. 

         The real pleasure of exploring Hampi lies in bicycling or walking around. You will get bicycles on rent at a very cheap rate. You can also get a moped on rent . However, you will not get scooty and bikes for rent at the temple side of Hampi. 

          Hampi is a visual delight especially due to its start contrast from most other places. There are many sites of interest in around Hampi. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi has a number of temples and monuments whose architectural excellence will fascinate you.

These ruins will give you a sneak peek into life from more than 600 years ago during the glorious days of the Vijayanagara Empire. Some of the famous temples around Hampi are Vijaya Vittala temple, Virupaksha temple, Lakshmi Narasimha temple, Krishna temple and many more. As per epicenter of Hampi's attractions, Vijaya Vittala temple is the most extravagant architectural wonder of Hampi. Vittala, another form of Lord Vishnu was worshipped in the temple. Virupaksha temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most prominent structures of Hampi. One of the most striking features of this temple is the usage of mathematical concepts to build and decorate it. It is clear that all the temples in Hampi have some unique features or story to tell you about. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.

        Anjaneya hill is located on the other side of the Tungabhadra River in the Anegondi area. The serene and picturesque ambience over the hilltop offers mesmerizing views of sunrise and sunset, making it one of the perfect places to see in Hampi.

       While at Hampi, do not forget to take a coracle ride at the Tungabhadra River.

This is going to be an experience of a lifetime. Since the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire, coracle boating has been widely used here along the swirling waters of Tungabhadra. At Hampi, there are three places for coracle crossing. The first one is at the ghat near the Virupaksha temple. The second is in front of the Kodandarama temple and the third and most popular one is near the Vittala temple.

      At Virupaksha temple, you must meet Lakshmi, the elephant. If you offer prasad to her, she thanks you by keeping her trunk on your head.

Lakshmi goes for a bath every morning at the Tungabhadra River. Try not to miss the scene.