Top 6 reasons that make Hampi a must-visit destination

 

The temple town of Hampi is a traditional extravaganza like none other. While there are plenty of things to do in Hampi, the real reason people visit is to soak up the ancient splendour of the place. Below we offer a few important places to visit in Hampi. These are by no means the only ones, so feel free to research more to add to your list. When in doubt, Club Mahindra resorts in Hampi have the best recommendations; with local guide contacts to boot.

The best time to visit Hampi is October to February, which is the winter season. The climate will be ideal for exploring all the major Hampi tourism hotspots. If you are wondering how to reach Hampi from outside the region, a good app or map will guide you. When in doubt, stop and ask for directions. It is easy to lose your way otherwise.

We’ll be covering three reasons to visit Hampi in detail, and three in brief.

1. Virupaksha Temple

Aka Prasanna Virupaksha Temple, this exquisite and ancient place of worship can be found on Hampi’s Tungabhadra Riverbank. Its origins go back to the 7^th century. Between its history and architecture (spend time to appreciate the many stone inscriptions here), there’s little wonder how this place became a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is an ode to one of Vishnu’s many avatars, namely Lord Virupaksha. You will certainly also find other Hindu deities being worshipped within these sacred halls. The temple held supreme import for the Vijayanagara Empire. ‘Gopurams’, or towers, lead to inner sanctums throughout the temple. From ornate stone craftsmanship to sculptures of mythological goddesses and gods, you’ll find this and more in this South Indian marvel. You can scratch off several historical things to do in Hampi within just this one temple.

2. Hippie Island

Most ancient ruins are found south of Tungabhadra. Across the river to the north is a place called Virapapur Gadde. Aka Hippie Island, a visit to this tourist favourite is one of the best things to do in Hampi. You can get to it via boat or ‘coracle’ (a type of boat; has its own regional history). Lodges, sandy shores, and scenic beauty await you here. Cafes and shacks operate during select months, so check that out before planning your visit. They’re often open at the tail end of October through the middle of March. Alcoholic beverages are certainly available. You’ll find some amazing restaurants in Hampi here. Foreigners and Indians alike, tourists and backpackers as well, all come to Hippie Island. There are strong threads of Western and Indian flavours here.

3. Queen’s Bath

When it comes to things to do in Hampi, a visit to this outstanding historical location should certainly be one of them. Essentially an aquatic enclosure, this royal bath traces its roots back to the grand Vijayanagara Empire. It is over 500 years old! Visitors get to see it today but back then it was a sealed-off area meant only for the Queen. From intricate balconies to an air of grace and charm, a visit here is time well spent. There are no ceilings, so watching the wide-open sky inspires poetic reminiscences of times past. You can still see signs of when the empire came under attack by Mughal raiders. A modern lawn is maintained here, ideal for picnics and gatherings.

4. Coracle Rides

These boats are as much a part of Hampi’s history as the mighty ruins that still stand here to this day. Take a ride on a coracle and add it to your list of Hampi experiences. You can rent one at Sanapur Lake, the Tungabhadra River boating area, or Sanapur waterfalls.

5. Big Shivalinga

Carved out of one giant boulder, this ancient work of black-stone craftsmanship is a must-see. It holds powerful Hindu spiritual value and is the largest of its kind in Hampi. Nearby stands the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple. The architecture immediately surrounding the Shivalinga is captivating, especially the way its creators ensured that it captures light and channels water.

6. Daroji Bear Sanctuary

Over 100 Indian Sloth Bears call this place home. The sanctuary remains a protected zone. It was founded in 1994. Leopards, wild boars, and jackals also reside here. The place spreads over 80 sq. km and is a testament to wildlife conservation in South India.