Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, is unlike anywhere else on Earth. Once the glorious capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, it’s now a mesmerising ruin, sprawling across an otherworldly landscape of giant boulders, lush banana plantations, and the serene Tungabhadra River. Two days here is enough to scratch the surface of its immense history and natural beauty. This guide will help you navigate this incredible open-air museum and uncover its timeless charm.

Getting to Hampi: Your Gateway to History

Reaching Hampi is an adventure in itself, with multiple convenient options depending on your starting point. The nearest railway station is Hospet Junction (HPT), approximately 13 km from Hampi. Many overnight trains connect Hospet to major cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Goa. From Hospet, you can easily find auto-rickshaws or local buses to Hampi. If you prefer to fly, the nearest airport is Jindal Vijayanagar Airport (VDY), about 35 km away, with connections to Bengaluru and Hyderabad. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Hospet/Hampi. For those driving, Hampi is well-connected by road, and overnight buses also run from major cities directly to Hospet.

Where to Stay: Comfort in a Historical Setting

While Hampi’s charm lies in its ancient ruins, after a busy day of exploration you would want to come back to an accommodation which is relaxing and comfortable. Hampi has few but very good hotels at various budget options (3-star and above options):

• Evolve Back Hampi: (Luxury) For an immersive experience, this resort is designed to replicate the architecture of the Vijayanagara Empire, offering an unparalleled stay with excellent amenities. It’s located a bit outside the main ruins area, offering a tranquil retreat.
• Hyatt Place Hampi: (4-star) Situated in Vidyanagar, about 30-40 minutes’ drive from Hampi, it offers contemporary rooms, excellent dining, and all the modern comforts of a business hotel, ideal for those who prefer brand consistency. This is where we stayed for two nights. Read all about our stay here.
• Heritage Resort Hampi: (4-star) Offers spacious cottages and modern facilities amidst lush greenery, providing a comfortable base with good service. Also located slightly away from the core ruins.
• Hampi Boulders Resort: (Mid-range to High-end) A unique property built amidst the boulders, offering rustic yet comfortable accommodations and a great natural setting.

If you prefer something more budget friendly, do check out Airbnb and online booking platforms for homestays which are inexpensive compared to hotels.

Day 1: Imperial Grandeur and Sacred Temples

Your first day in Hampi is dedicated to exploring the majestic Sacred Center and the grandeur of the Royal Enclosure. Start early to beat the heat and the crowds.

Virupaksha Temple: The Living Heritage

Begin your exploration at the iconic Virupaksha Temple, the only active temple in Hampi that predates the Vijayanagara Empire. Dedicated to Lord Virupaksha (a form of Shiva), its towering eleven story gopuram (entrance tower) is a striking landmark. After paying respects to the deity, explore its courtyards, watch the daily rituals, and don’t miss the famous elephant Lakshmi!

Hampi Bazaar & Monolith Nandi

Just opposite the Virupaksha Temple lies the ancient Hampi Bazaar, once a thriving market street. Walk along its remnants towards the eastern end where you’ll find a massive monolithic Nandi statue, facing the Virupaksha Temple. This area gives you a sense of the scale of life during the empire.

Hemakuta Hill: Sunrise Views & Jain Temples

For breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunrise, climb Hemakuta Hill, located just south of Virupaksha Temple. This hill is dotted with several pre-Vijayanagara temples and paves the way for some stunning photographs of the Virupaksha Temple complex and the surrounding landscape.

Krishna Temple & Narasimha Statue

Proceed to the Krishna Temple complex, which boasts intricate carvings and a large temple tank. Nearby, marvel at the colossal monolithic Ugra Narasimha statue, a giant depiction of the half-man, half-lion incarnation of Vishnu. Right next to it is the equally impressive Badavilinga, a large Shiva Lingam housed in a chamber that is perpetually immersed in water.

Underground Shiva Temple & Queen’s Bath

Head towards the Royal Enclosure. En route, visit the Underground Shiva Temple, which remains partially submerged in water, offering a cool respite. Continue to the Queen’s Bath, a large, ornate bathing complex with open-to-sky courtyards and balconies, showcasing the empire’s architectural finesse.

Royal Enclosure: A Glimpse into Royal Life

The Royal Enclosure was the heart of the Vijayanagara administration.

• Mahanavami Dibba: A massive, intricately carved ceremonial platform from which kings reviewed their armies and celebrated festivals. Climb to the top for views of the surrounding ruins.
• Stepped Tank: A perfectly symmetrical, multi-layered stepwell, demonstrating remarkable engineering precision for water management.
• Hazara Rama Temple: A compact but incredibly detailed temple known for its thousands of carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana, covering almost every available surface.
• Zenana Enclosure & Lotus Mahal: A walled compound that once housed the royal women. The highlight here is the Lotus Mahal, a beautiful, Indo-Islamic structure known for its unique lotus-like arched doorways and excellent ventilation, likely used as a recreational palace.
• Elephant Stables: A grand, arched building that once housed the royal elephants, showcasing impressive proportions and symmetrical design.

Day 2: Serenity, Boulders & Sunset Magic

Day two is for crossing the river and exploring the more tranquil side of Hampi.

Coracle Ride Across the Tungabhadra

Start your day with a scenic coracle (round-boat) ride across the Tungabhadra River near the Virupaksha Temple. This traditional round boat ride offers unique perspectives of the riverside ruins and is an experience in itself. During this 30 minute boat ride, you would come across ancient temples neatly hidden amidst boulders. This boat ride is not to be missed on your trip to Hampi.

Vitthala Temple: A Symphony in Stone

Make your way to the Vitthala Temple complex, arguably the most magnificent of all Hampi’s ruins. It’s renowned for its incredible carvings and architectural wonders. The main temple complex is around 10 minutes walk from the parking area. There are electric carts too for ferrying people back and forth.

• Musical Pillars: The main hall has 54 sets of pillars – they produce musical notes when tapped. The tourists are generally discouraged from tapping heavily to preserve them. Each pillar features a QR code; scan it to listen to the specific sound it produces when tapped.
• Stone Chariot: The iconic Stone Chariot, a stunning monolithic sculpture resembling a processional chariot, is the emblem of Hampi and a must-see. This is also featured on a 50 Rupee note. Don’t forget to click a picture of the Stone Chariot with the 50 Rupee note side-by-side.

King’s Balance & Sugriva’s Cave

Explore the surroundings of Vitthala Temple. The King’s Balance is where kings were weighed against gold or grains, which were then distributed to the poor. Nearby is Sugriva’s Cave, believed to be the spot where Sugriva, the monkey king, hid the jewels of Sita. The Tungabhadra River is just a short walk from The King’s Balance. Visit the banks of the river to take in Hampi’s amazing landscape.

Anjaneya Hill: Hanuman’s Birthplace & Sunset

Head towards the other side of the river to Anjaneya Hill. This requires a short drive and then climbing around 575 steps. It’s believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. The temple dedicated to Hanuman at the top offers spectacular panoramic views, especially mesmerizing during sunset, as the golden light washes over the boulder-strewn landscape. It’s the perfect way to conclude your Hampi adventure.

Offbeat Charms & Hidden Gems

Beyond the main attractions, Hampi offers quieter spots that reveal more of its soul:

• Sanapur Lake: A serene, clean lake perfect for a peaceful afternoon. You can rent a coracle for a relaxed ride, often with less tourist traffic than the main river crossing.
• Daroji Bear Sanctuary: If you have an extra few hours and are interested in wildlife, this sanctuary is home to a good population of sloth bears. Best visited in the late afternoon/early evening when the bears are fed.
• Anegundi Village: The “Monkey Kingdom” counterpart to Hampi, believed to be the oldest settlement in the region. It’s a charming village with a slower pace, offering insights into local life and ancient temples like the Pampa Sarovar.

Where to Eat: Flavors of Hampi

Hampi’s dining scene has evolved, offering a mix of local flavours and international comfort food, particularly around Hampi Bazaar.

• Mango Tree Restaurant: (Near Virupaksha Temple) A pure vegetarian restaurant famous for its delicious Indian and international cuisine, often with a lively atmosphere.
• Funky Monkey Restaurant: (Near Virupaksha Temple) A popular spot for backpackers, serving varied cuisines with a relaxed ambiance and river views.
• The Goan Corner: (Near Virupaksha Temple) Offers a taste of Goan and other cuisines in a laid-back setting.

Important Tips for Your Hampi Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and climbing.
• Stay hydrated: Hampi can get very hot, especially outside of winter months.
• Hire a guide: We strongly recommend to hire a professional guide For the Sacred Center and Royal Enclosure. A local guide can bring the ruins to life with stories and historical context.
• Respect the heritage: Hampi is a sacred site. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples.
• Best Time to Visit: October to March offers pleasant weather.

Hampi is more than just a collection of ruins; it’s an experience that transports you back in time, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of kings and commoners alike. Embrace its unique landscape, delve into its rich history, and let the magic of the Vijayanagara Empire captivate you.