Hampi is well known for being the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. It used to be a prosperous city along the Tungabhadra river at the border of present day states of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Today, it is a popular tourist spot for Indians and foreigners alike as it caters to the imagination of all travellers. It is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites in India. Hampi continues to keep it's glory in the modern world and below are some of my top must see spots.
Virupaksha Temple
One of the oldest's Lord Shiva temples in the country, Virupaksha temple is a functional place of worship even today. The temple complex houses a public hall connected to the community kitchen, water tank, stone market , lamp pillar, a monolithic Nandi shrine and several other monuments. The 50 m gopuram of the temple is a sight not to miss. One can easily spend a couple of hours walking around the temple complex and admiring it's beauty.
Krishna Temple, Narasimha and linga
Approximately, 1 km south of the Virupaksha temple is the Lakshmi Narasimha temple. The temple houses the ten avatars of Vishnu. In front of the temple is a long bazaar with stone shop ruins. Adjacent to the temple, are the largest monolithic Shiv Linga and Narashima. The Goddess Lakshmi idol is longer seated on Lord Narashima's lap.
Lotus Mahal and elephant stables
The Lotus Mahal is part of the magnificent palace grounds where royal families of the Vijayanagar Empire used to live. The courtyard is massive and worth a stroll.
Do not miss to walk around in Hampi. It has managed to maintain the surreal nature around untouched. The sunrise and sunset views from the Anjaneya and Mantaga hills should be on your list.
Vittala Temple and the stone chariot
The Vittala Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Lord Vishnu is situated near the banks of Tungabhadra river. The main temple and the several shrines are in the courtyard surrounded by pillars. The courtyard has the stone chariot dedicated to Lord Garuda, probably the most photographed spot in Hampi and one of the three stone chariots in India. One can walk along the river side , Kampa Bhupa path on the way out of the Vittala Temple.
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