Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Karnataka, India, that was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the largest and most prosperous kingdoms in Indian history. Hampi is a treasure trove of ancient temples, ruins, and monuments that showcase the rich culture, architecture, and history of this glorious civilization. Hampi is also a place of natural beauty, surrounded by hills, rivers, lakes, and forests that offer stunning views and opportunities for adventure. Hampi is a place where you can experience the magic of India's past and present, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Some of the Hampi packages are here :
Visit the Temples and Ruins of Hampi
One of the main attractions of Hampi is the temples and ruins that date back to the 14th to 16th centuries. These structures are spread over an area of 4,100 hectares (16 sq mi) and include forts, palaces, markets, shrines, halls, water tanks, and more. Some of the most famous temples and ruins in Hampi are:
- Virupaksha Temple: This is the oldest and most sacred temple in Hampi, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It has a 50-meter-high tower, a pillared hall, and a sanctum with a lingam. The temple is also famous for its inverted shadow of the tower that falls on the wall behind the sanctum.
- Vithala Temple: This is the most impressive temple in Hampi, known for its intricate carvings and musical pillars. The temple has a stone chariot in front of it, which is an iconic symbol of Hampi. The temple also has a hall with 56 pillars that produce musical sounds when tapped.
- Achyutraya Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Tiruvengalanatha, a form of Lord Vishnu. It has a modern architecture compared to other temples in Hampi. The temple has many carvings that depict mythological legends on its pillars, walls, and monolith blocks.
- Badavilinga or Big Shivlinga: This is a huge monolithic statue of Lord Shiva's lingam that stands at a height of 3 meters (10 feet). It is carved out of a single boulder and is surrounded by water. It is located near the Lakshmi Narasimha temple in Hampi.
There are many other temples and ruins in Hampi that are worth visiting, such as Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Krishna Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Queen's Bath, Zenana Enclosure, and more. explore these places by walking, cycling, or hiring a guide.
Enjoy Nature and Adventure in Hampi
Hampi is not only a place of historical and cultural significance but also a place of natural beauty and adventure. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of nature by taking a walk, cycling, or driving through the winding roads that offer panoramic views of the hills, valleys, rivers, and fields. You can also indulge in some adventure activities such as:
- Trekking: Hampi has many hills and boulders that offer challenging and rewarding treks for adventure seekers. Some of the best places to trek in Hampi are Matanga Hill (for sunrise/sunset views), Anjaneya Hill (for Hanuman temple), Hemakuta Hill (for temples), Malyavanta Hill (for Raghunatha temple), and Achyutraya Hill (for views).
- Coracle Ride: A coracle is a round-shaped boat made of bamboo and tarpaulin that can carry up to four people. You can take a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River and enjoy the views of the temples, ruins, and wildlife along the banks. You can also cross the river by a coracle to reach Hippie Island or Anegundi.
- Rock Climbing: Hampi is a paradise for rock climbers as it has many boulders of different shapes and sizes that offer various levels of difficulty. You can try rock climbing or bouldering on your own or with the help of an instructor. Some of the popular places for rock climbing in Hampi are Hemakuta Hill, Matanga Hill, Anjaneya Hill, Malyavanta Hill, and Achyutraya Hill.
- Zip-Lining: If you want to experience some adrenaline rush in Hampi, you can try zip-lining across the Tungabhadra River. zip-line from one bank to another and enjoy the views of the river and the landscape. also zip-line from a hill to another and feel the thrill of flying in the air.
There are also other activities that you can do in Hampi, such as rafting, kayaking, fishing, camping, cycling, and more. You can find many operators and agencies that offer these activities in Hampi.
Explore the Local Cuisine and Culture of Hampi
Hampi is not only a place of history and nature but also a place of culture and cuisine. You can experience the local cuisine and culture of Hampi by:
- Tasting the local food: Hampi has a variety of food options that cater to different tastes and preferences. You can find many restaurants, cafes, and street stalls that serve local, Indian, and international cuisines. Some of the local dishes that you should try in Hampi are akki roti (rice flour bread), kadubu (steamed dumplings), neer dosa (thin rice crepes), malnad chicken curry (chicken cooked with coconut and spices), holige (sweet stuffed flatbread), kodbale (deep-fried rings made with rice flour and spices), chakkuli (spiral-shaped crispy snacks made with rice flour and lentils), and halbai (a sweet made with rice, jaggery, and coconut).
- Visiting the local market: Hampi has a vibrant local market that sells a variety of items such as clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, books, jewellery, spices, fruits, vegetables, and more. You can visit the Hampi Bazaar near the Virupaksha Temple or the Kamalapura Market near the Archaeological Museum and shop for some unique and interesting things. You can also bargain with the vendors and get some good deals.
- Witnessing the local festivals and events: Hampi has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its festivals and events. You can witness some of these festivals and events that showcase the traditions and customs of the people. Some of the most famous festivals and events in Hampi are:
- Hampi Utsav: This is an annual festival that celebrates the glory and grandeur of Hampi. It is held in November or December and lasts for three days. The festival features cultural programs, musical concerts, dance performances, puppet shows, fireworks, processions, and more.
- Purandara Dasa Aradhana: This is a musical festival that pays tribute to Purandara Dasa, a 16th-century saint and composer who lived in Hampi. It is held in January or February and lasts for two days. The festival features devotional songs, classical music, lectures, and exhibitions.
- Virupaksha Car Festival: This is a religious festival that honors Lord Virupaksha, the presiding deity of Hampi. It is held in March or April and lasts for a day. The festival features a chariot procession of the idol of Lord Virupaksha from the temple to a nearby village and back.
Hampi is a place where you can experience the magic of India's past and present in a unique way. It is a place where you can explore the wonders of history, nature, culture, and cuisine in one destination. It is a place where you can create memories that will last a lifetime.
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Hampi today and get ready to experience the magic of Hampi with us!
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