VISIT SACRED VIRUPAKSHA TEMPLE IN HAMPI:-
Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest functioning temples in India and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is the main center of pilgrimage in Hampi. Given the religious importance,the temple gets really crowded during the day with thousands of pilgrims from all over India. I would recommend you to reach the temple around 7-8 AM.During that time,you can also witness the morning aarti and the elephant named “Lakshmi” walking towards the river for its daily bath.
There is no entry fee in Virupaksha Temple and it is adjacent to Hampi Bazaar.
CLIMB MATANGA HILL FOR A MESMERISING SUNRISE:-
Climb the spectacular Matanga hill at 5:00 am to see the first light of the day illuminating the beautiful city of Hampi.It is an experience in itself. Imagine the aerial view of the vast boulders strewn among the paddy fMatangbanana plantations and
coconut groves,the view is surreal.Something you probably won’t find anywhere else in the world.
GOOD TO KNOW:-
There is no entry fee to Matanga Hills and the initial steps to the hill are at a walking distance from Virupaksha Temple.The climb is easy and can take around 45 to 60 minutes depending on your speed.Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and shoes (flip-flops,skirt/jeans will not be a good idea as you will have to jump on stones). Some Carry water and a torch as there will be no source of light in the morning.
If you find it difficult to wake up at 5:00 am,the sunset from Matanga Hills is equally mesmerizing.
VITTHAL TEMPLE IS THE CENTER EMBRACE THE DETAILS OF GRAND VITTHALA TEMPLE IN HAMPI:-
of the ruined city with a huge temple complex. It is dedicated to Lord Vitthal (another form of Lord Vishnu) and is known for its marvelous architecture, famous stone chariots and mysterious musical pillars.
The best way to reach Vitthal Temple would be the trek along the Tungabhadra River.The path has many temples,carves artifacts,stone and ruins of ancient structures and leads along the river. It will be a quiet walk of about 2 km.
TAKE A CORACLE RIDE IN TUNGABHADRA RIVER AND VISIT THE HIPPIE ISLAND SIDE OF HAMPI :-
Another thing to do in Hampi is to ride an antelope past the Virupaksha temple. Hippie Island in Hampi is known for its relaxing
And chilled out the vibes.It is not as crowded as the Heritage Side and has several cafes to just chill out. My recommendation would be to rent
Take a moped/bike and walk around the surrounding villages (Anegudi Village) or jump off the boulders on Sanapur Lake.
UNDERSZTAND THE ARCHITECTURE SIDE OF HAMPI:-
Lakshmi Narashima is the biggest idol in Hampi and is also known as Ugra (terrible form) Narasimha.The Badavi Linga is the largest linga statue in Hampi and is always submerged in water as a water channel is created for it to flow through.Badavi Linga and Lakshmi Narasimha are located in the same complex and are at walking distance from Hemakuta Hill.There is no entry fee in both these monuments.
DON’T MISS KRISHNA TEMPLE IN HAMPI:-
The Krishna Temple in Hampi is known for its exquisite carvings (especially the mythological lions) and elegant architectural designs. The grandeur of the temple reflects the prosperity of the Vijayanagara Empire. The temple has no entry fee and is 200 meters away from the Lakshmi Narasimha statue.
VISIT LOTUS MAHAL,QUEEN’S BATH AN AND STEPWELL IN HAMPI:-
These monuments are an example of complex ancient Vijayanagara architecture.The Queen’s Bath was used exclusively for the bathing of the royal family.There was a sacred water tank attached to the Pushkarni temples. There is an entry fee for Rani’s Bath and Lotus Mahal (Vitta Mandir ticket for Rani’s Bath and Lotus Mahal can be used if you visit all three places on the same day). There is no entry fee in Step Well (also known as Pushkarni).These places are about 3 km from Hemakuta hills.
EXPLORE THE LOCAL MARKETS OF HAMPI:-
Hampi Bazaar,near Virupaksha Temple,is the village market full of hippie clothes, jewellery,bags and lovely terrace cafes.
In ancient times it is said that gems, pearls, gold and precious metals were sold in these streets.I am sure you will enjoy every nook and corner of the vibrant Hampi Bazaar. Another amazing thing to do in Hampi would be to wander the small alleys to explore the market.
ENJOY THE LOCAL FOOD IN HAMPI :-
I was roaming around Hampi Bazaar in search of the best pitstop for breakfast, until I saw an old man topping crunchy dosa with banana,coconut and honey! The Indian version of the pancake looked so tempting that I couldn’t resist.Many families in Hampi have started their own food stalls for breakfast and dinner.They serve puri with different types of dosa, potato curry,tea,coffee etc.Trying these local street delicacies is a must do in Hampi. Also,it is not going to cost more than INR 100 for a whole meal.
