Happy Hampi- Solo among the ruins

Ancient Vijayanagar, now known as the village of Hampi was the capital of the greatest and one of the most famed Hindu Kingdom of Vijaynagar.

It is located in the northern part of the state of Karnataka in South India.

Hampi is situated on the southern bank of the river Tungabhadra.

This land was on my mind for a long time and finally I made up my mind to take the plunge and experience this another world and now I couldn't stop thanking myself for making this effort. This was not my first solo trip but the best of all. Though I made this trip a bit late in the month of February(fag end of the season)

Recommended time to visit- November to January. Do not visit in summers as it is very hot out there.

How I reached Hampi from Pune- Took a semi-sleeper bus in the night and reached Hospet in the morning. From Hospet, one can take a local bus to Hampi for a 16-17 km journey.

How I explored Hampi- Hired a bicycle, which I think is the ultimate way to explore (however, it is not easy). Although scooties and autos are also available.

Reached Hampi at 10 in the morning.

Checked into a Homestay in Hampi Bazar area. (Plenty of options are available). Got freshen up, had breakfast, hired a bicycle and got lost in the ruined land.

Ruins explored in the day-
1. Elephants stable
2. Lotus Mahal
3. Queen's bath
4. Vittala Temple
5. Virupaksha Temple
6. Sunset at Raghunatha Temple

Retired for the day at 1930 and had dinner at the famous  Mango Tree Restaurant.

On day 2, it was time to explore the other side of Tungabhadra.

Had breakfast, hired a bicycle and left for the unknown.

The water in the river was quite less so just crossed the river with the bicycle in my hand. Although a boat was also on duty to take one to the other side.

Ruins explored-
1. The surreal, calm and stunning beauty of this another world on a bicycle. It's an experience of a lifetime. Cycled around 50 kms on day 2.
2. Sanapur Lake - I missed cliff jumping as water level was low as I was exploring in the fag end of the season.
3. Local food at White Elephant restaurant.
4. Hanuman Temple, also known as Monkey Temple.
5. Search of an ATM lead to quality talks with the localites.

Savoured a local delicacy in the evening at Hampi Bazar

Trekked up the Matanga Hill in the morning. The trek is not a cakewalk. At some points it can be a challenge.

A temple is located at the top of the hill. Sat there for around 2 hours lost in the environs. Had a chat with the pandit. Foreign tourists were coming and going, though not frequently, but no other Indian tourist/traveller was there.

Afterwards, roamed in the local Bazar and left Hampi the same way I came but with unforgettable picture of a different world in my soul.

I thank myself for this effort.