You can call Hampi, the capital of Vijayanagara empire, a magic, miracle or the wonder world. The ancient village in karnataka, at the southern bank of River Thungabhadra is truly fascinating.
When I reached Hampi, the first thing which came in my mind is the Tamil Movie, Ayirathil Oruvan as it resembles it's location. All you can see in Hampi is a lot of ruins, numerous ruined temples and complexes of the Vijayanagara Empire.
I should say Hampi is so special. Might be because of the ruins, the landscape or the encompassing divinity!
Hampi is an open museum spread across 26 square kilometers. You can explore it either by walk, renting a bicycle or even a rickshaw. 3 days is more than enough to explore this UNESCO world heritage site.
The beautiful view of Thungabhadra river is a treat to the eyes. The river itself make us feel divine as we could see few sculptures, shiva lingas in the river.
The magnificent Virupaksha temple is situated near the river. You will get the panoramic view of Hampi if you climb up the Hemakuta Hill which has a number of hill temples in it or from the Mathanga Hills.
Inside the vittala temple complex, You will find the beautiful store chariot, which was built by King Krishnadevaraya during the 16th century.
Here are some places you should not miss visiting in Hampi:
Virupaksha Temple
Hemakuta Hill Temple
Vijaya Vittala Temple
Hampi Archeological Ruins
Thousand Shiva Lingas
Hampi Bazaar
Monkey Temple
Matanga Hills
Hampi has another must visit side, It is the hippie island, a small village called Virupapura Gadde which is the hippies paradise, best for rock climbing and bouldering. You can reach there by crossing the river by boat, the easier way or hire a rickshaw or a taxi, but it is more costlier as it is a 40 km drive.
How to reach?
You can reach Hampi by bus or train or own vehicle. The nearest railway station is at Hospet, which is 13 km away from Hampi. You can also take a bus from Bangalore and it takes almost 7 hours from Bangalore to Hospet. You can take a rickshaw from Hospet to Hampi.
I booked a KSRTC bus (Karnataka State Transportation) from Bangalore to Hampi. You will get Non ac/ac buses to Hospet.
Here is the link: https://www.ksrtc.in
Where to stay?
You can easily find a Backpacker's hostel in your budget in Hampi. Also there are guest houses, home stays and cottages of Price Rs. 600 to above. If you are a backpacker, don't think twice to go and stay at the huts at the hippie island. The ambiance will make you feel great, also pocket friendly.
Best Food Points at Hampi
Mango Tree near Virupaksha (Vegetarian & Vegan)
Chillout Bamboo Restaurant, Hampi Bazaar
Laughing Buddha, Virupapur Gaddi, (Vegetarian & Vegan)
Gauthami Restaurant
So grab your backpack and start your journey and come back with the alluring memories of ravishing Hampi:)
