3. A peek into the history of Hampi !
Can you believe that Hampi was considered the flourishing and biggest city in the world in the 15th Century?. The reign of Krishnadevaraya was considered as the Golden age. After the invasion by Muslim rulers, Hampi remained in ruins, can you believe it?
The losses incurred were unimaginable.To me it sounded kind of unbelievable that it never got rebuilt in all those hundreds of years. It is estimated that there are over 2,500 temples and monuments scattered in the historical city of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Stay at Leisure @ Hampi
Though Hampi is one of top visited destinations in the world.Mass tourism has not found its way to Hampi and a good thing about this is that there are no groups of hotels that have set foot in the heritage city.
Luxury Stay
If you are a luxury traveler and looking for 5 star Hampi accommodation then your best bet is making your visit memorable with staying in Palace stay in Hampi. A unit of Welcom group of Hotels.
Note - A Palace converted into a Hotel.
Budget Accommodation
Set amidst cool environs on the banks of Tungabhadra river.You can opt for.
1.Whiskers Den ; Hampi
5. Backpacking is a popular activity.
Reasons may be many for gaining popularity among backpackers, traveling to Hampi is a best thing to do in India. The tourism business is flourishing and now that I have been I can understand why. Hampi tourism has everything: nature, history, sightseeing, adventure, wellness, mythology, tours, spirituality, birding & wildlife, cheap accommodation, luxury accommodation, transport, great food and something incredible for a leisure traveller. This is one of those sleepy places where you can escape the hustle and bustle of India.
No traffic snarls,honking, no street vendors that annoy you, no taxis who bother you. When you travel to Hampi you fall in love and leaving this place is going to be hard.
In this Hampi travel blog I will give you all the important tips and information you need to know with things to do, accommodation options, places to visit, where to go and some handy Hampi travel tips.
Traveling in South India is very different compared to visiting North India. Be it weather, options to explore, and people make a difference. ! No fixed itineraries. Truly it is so much more relaxed. Check out my Trip to Holy kailash Manasarovar
6. Don't step on thresholds. Beware !. Mind your foot
When entering a temple don't step on the vast doorways, always step over it. It is considered an entrance, be it a house of any structure.It is believed Goddess Lakshmi resides here. Daily puja rituals are done to seek blessings.You can see them decorated with turmeric and Vermillion marks. Never even think about sitting on a threshold !.It is considred as In auspicious ! Respect local customs & traditions. 7. Walk Clockwise only After the darshan of deity. Their is a ritual in hindu religion to go around the shrine and main deity around the Sancturm.It is known as Pradakshina patha refers to the consecrated, typically covered, circular pathway surrounding the Garbhagriha It is used for clockwise circumambulation a ritual act of devotion, meditation, and reverence where the deity or sacred object is kept to the worshipper's right. It also symbolize that God is the center of our lives and to absorb positive energy.This practice, literally meaning "to the right," signifies moving forward while keeping the divine on our right side. It represents surrender, respect, and a, mindful, meditative journey toward one’s inner self, often considered to wash away acculated sins.
8. Main Bazaar of Hampi. Where Even today visitors can see stone structures to the right hand side of the main gate of Virupaksha temple. Back in the days the street leading away from the Virupaksha Temple towards Mantanga Hill was a thriving market place.The Vijaynagar period was considered as the Golden era. It is said that there are valuable pearls, gems were sold on the streets. On both sides there are the remains of a pavilion and until recently locals made this place their homes and converted the place again into a little market place. When Hampi officially got declared a UNESCO World Heritage site the shops have been evacuated and shifted to other premises.
9. Mind your footwear !
It is standard practice in many religions and cultures—particularly Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and Sikhism — to remove footwear before entering a place of worship.or place of sanctity.
This custom is rooted in reasons of hygiene, spiritual purity, and respect
Note - You leave footwear at the stand outside temple.Dont forget to lend small denominations Rs 2/- for services of caretaker.
10. Hats off your head. Wearing a hat or suncap during trip is common.The region is known for scorching heat during summer - From March to May months.There is no need to take off your hat, but when entering the temple complex, but when you enter the sacred place within a temple always take off your hat as a mark of respect.
11. Dress code and abide by it !
In Hindu temples certain customs and traditions are followed and devotees, visitors have to respect and abide by it.
Officially there is no dress code here, however wearing a pleasant attire, either of the genders would be pleasing.So please cover your shoulders and knees out of respect, this counts for men and women! Just bring a cloth to wrap around your waist so it covers your knees.
Note -
Men : Trousers / Shirts / T shirts / Kurta and Pyjama / Dhoti
Women : Churidhar / Saree / Trousers / T shirts
11. No Photos Allowed means Strictly NO !
12. Free entry to places of worship
At heritage sites, entry fee is collected to monuments and temples as per Archeological Survey of India if any charges are fixed.Hampi temples are free but sometimes you need to pay a fee for cameras / phones.
Collect a voucher or acknowledgement if you pay any.
13.Temple closing time.Be aware of it
Normally as per rituals, opening and closing time is fixed by the managing committee.Devotees are not allowed during closing time.This is the time when priests have their lunch breaks and the temples will be closed.
Note :
Every temple in Hampi has its opening and closing time.Check guide before you visit and plan accordingly.
14.Know your periods. Women.
Not much to tell abou it.Just for your interest.This is against the rules of the religion.
15.Seek permission before clicking a photo
As a passionate Photographer, everything interests you.Be it landscape,birds, animals. flora and fauna. Pictorial of human interest.But when it comes to photographing people.You don't like to be photographed secretly either so don't do that to passersby or visitors.It may make them uncomfortable. Kindly ask if it is ok to take a photo. Seek permission to capture and ask ok? . You will hardly get a no, but I think it is respectful and good manners to ask first.
Show them the picture,so that they will be delighted. Don't forget to thank them.
16.Virupaksha Temple The Virupaksha Temple in Hampi is special for its Dravidian architecture, the unique inverted shadow of its main tower, its role as a living temple (still worshipped), intricate carvings, and festivals like the annual Pampa Devi marriage celebration. Key features include its towering gopuram, Ranga Mantapa with Yali pillars, and the presence of a temple elephant that blesses visitors.
Architectural Wonders
Inverted Shadow: A fascinating optical illusion of pin hole camera occurs where the main tower's shadow appears upside-down on a wall inside the temple.
Bhuvaneshwari Temple - The temple houses shrine of Goddess Bhuvaneshwari.Bhuvaneshwari Devi is revered as state goddess of Karnataka ("Kannada Maate"), symbolizing the Kannada language, culture, and unity.
Three-Headed Nandi - The complex houses a unique three-headed statue of Shiva's sacred bull, Nandi, a rare sight in India.
.
17.Hampi Bazaar
Popularly known as Virupaksha pete beedi Bazaar, this street is located in the main entrance of the Virupaksha temple .The stretch extends from main door of temple upto the foothill of the Matanga Hill . Both sides of the street are lined with a series of old pavilions, some of them are two stories. Once a place bustling with activities, these structures were once part of a thriving market and residence of the nobles.
Towards the west end (towards Virupaksha temple) the pavilions are now encroached and made into shops, restaurants and appears like the street narrower. Poor villagers have made the eastern section into their homes. It's interesting that the houses of the rich merchants and nobles of the empire are now being occupied by one of the poorest.
18.Durga Temple
A huge water storage tank known as kalyani lies adjacent to Virupaksha temple and Durga shrine.The shrine and surroudings look pleasant during sunrise and sunset with reflections in tank.
19.Achyutaraya Temple
Achyutaraya Temple is located between Gandhamadana Hill and Matanga Hill, a few hundred metres from Hampi Bazaar. It’s one of the last grand monuments built by the Vijayanagara rulers Originally, the temple was named Tiruvengalanatha Temple, as the main deity is Lord Tiruvengalanatha. But later, it came to be colloquially known as Achyutaraya Temple, referring to the ruling king.
Achyutaraya Temple is among the last magnificent temples built in the Vijayanagara style of architecture. As a consequence of widespread attacks on Hampi, the temple fell into ruins as the empire came to an end. There is no Idol in the Sanctum. Negligence and lack of care also destroyed its sculptural beauty.
Note -
Buggy vehicle service is available to reach the temple.Rs 30 payable per person.
No Entry charges to visit the monument.
20.Monolithic Bull
The astounding Monolithic Bull. At an astonishing height of 8 feet, this tall black sculpture known as Yeduru Basavanna or Nandi - It is the celestial vehicle lord Shiva.It draws visitors from far and wide to witness its grandeur and uncover its captivating stories. Carved out of one single boulder, this massive work symbolizes power, energy, and strength, holding significance in Hindu mythology.
It is an iconic landmark among the Hampi Heritage Monuments
21. No Photography Please !
The temple, its complex and Sancturm are considered auspicious and in the meanwhile because of security reasons.At the entrance normally you see a signage which says ' STRICTLY NO PHOTOS & VIDEOS '. When entering the Gods sanctum not only take off your hat as a mark of respect to almighty but also turn off your cameras and put your phone away.
Taking photos inside the sanctum is an offence and authorities can take legal action.
22. Ugra Narasimha Temple
This is the largest statue in Hampi. About 35 ft in height. Narasimha is sitting on the coil of a giant seven-headed snake called Sesha. The head of the snake acts as the hood above his head. The god sits in a cross-legged Yoga position with a belt supporting the knees.
Sometimes this is referred as Ugra Narasimha (i.e. Narasimha in its ferocious form). The protruding eyes and the facial expression are the basis for this name.
Narasimha (means half-man half-lion in local languages) is one of the ten incarnations (Avatara) of Lord Vishnu.
The original statue contained the image of goddess Lakshmi, consort of the god, sitting on his lap. But this statue was damaged seriously during the raid leading to the fall of Vijayanagara. Even the damaged portion of such a large statue of Lakshmi carved on his lap is missing. Probably it may be laying around in tiny pieces. But the goddess’s hand is visible resting on his back in an embracing posture. If you get a chance to go inside this enclosure, it is possible to see the hand of the goddess. Even the nails & the rings on her fingers are so perfectly executed.
Lion face of Lakshmi Narasimha also sometimes called Ugranarasimha ( the ferocious Narasimha)
Somehow this single statue alone can demonstrate at the same time how creative and destructive the human mind can be.”
Note - No entry fee as it's in the open temple complex.
23.Badavi Linga
Badavi linga Temple is the pride of Hampi. It is the largest monolithic Linga present in the town and is a protected monument. The monolithic Shiva Linga is 3 m in height. The sanctum has no ceiling and the Linga is constantly immersed in a water bed since a canal from the river passes through the temple. Water oozes out constantly from the foot level and always three feet deep. So the Lingam is half drowned in water and half above the water level.
The beautiful Linga is made of black stone. The Shiva Linga has a large pedestal that is circular in shape. It is called the ‘yone pitha’ of the Shiva Linga. This circular pedestal draws into an outlet, also known as ‘pranala’. The pedestal of the Shiva Linga stands on a bed of water. This is due to the fact that the shrine always remains filled with water as a self-emerged water channel flows through it constantly throughout the year.
The name Badavilinga is a combination of two words – Badava and Linga. In the local language, Badva means poor and Linga represents Shiva. Legend has it that the Shiva Linga placed inside the temple was commissioned by a poverty-stricken peasant woman.
Hence the temple came to be known as Badavilinga Temple.
24.Vijaya Vittala Temple
25.Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple
Sasivekalu Ganapati is one of the iconic monuments in Hampi, Karnataka. This monolithic giant monolithic statue of Shree Ganesha is situated on the southern slope of the rocky Hemakuta Hill.
The sculpture depicts Shree Ganesha in a seated position, with one of his tusks broken and his trunk turned toward a bowl of sweets, which is a common representation. It is sheltered under a pillared pavilion. The inscription says that the structure was built by a trader from Chandragiri (Andhra Pradesh) in 1506 AD as a mark of respect to Shree Ganesha.
The monument is a fine example of the Vijayanagara style of architecture and attracts many visitors due to its historical and religious significance. It is close to other major attractions in Hampi, such as the Kadalekalu Ganesha and the Virupaksha Temple.
26.Hemakuta Hill
A short walk uphill will bring you to the Hemakuta Hill. It serves as a vantage point. Temples from where you have an amazing view over Hampi. There are several ruins and temples up here on top of the hill with a popular sport to watch the sunset. It also gives an amazing view of the gopuram of Virupaksha Temple and the river.
View over the Virupaksha Temple from the Hemakuta Hill.
27.Anegundi
28.Malyavanta Raghunatha Temple
The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, and it's believed to be where Rama and Lakshmana took shelter during their search for Sita. It was built in the 16th century by Raja Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire. Perched atop the Malyavanta Hill, the temple offers a serene escape from the busy tourist trail.
This temple is one of the ideal places to watch the mesmerizing scene of the sun setting amidst the huge boulders or monuments can be observed.
29. Anjanadri Hill
Popularly referred to as Monkey temple.It is Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, Anjanadri Hills rises above the sacred landscape of Hampi, a region that flourished under the Vijayanagara Empire from 1336 to 1565. Climbing the steps to the summit reveals temples, wind-swept boulders, and timeless devotion At sunrise and sunset, the hill feels like a bridge between epic history, mythology, and the living spirit of Karnataka.
30. Accept Offerings
At Hindu temples, food is prepared as Naivedyam to deity.After puja same is distributed as Maha Prasadham in small quantities or as a lunch as an offering. Few places are charged and certain places are free.It has to be consumed respectfully and devotion
When visiting the temples of Hampi you might be offered some snacks like bananas. These are offerings and considered an honor. Eat it or pass it on, don't waste, or discard it !
31.If you are a bird watcher visit Ankasamudra for birding
Ankasamudra Bird Sanctuary, located in Hagaribommanahalli, Karnataka about 45 kms from Hampi. This site, now recognized as a Ramsar wetland of international importance, holds significant ecological value for both resident and migratory avifauna.
Acacia stand half-drowned in the lake, their thorny branches outstretched like the spiny arms of time. For birds, though, these were cradles: natural architecture providing safety from predators, support for nests, and a place to rest between flights.
It is home to around 240+ bird species of birds. If one closely observe you can find sight - Pheasant-tailed jacana.Black headed Ibis, Oriental Pratincole, Painted Storks,Spot-billed Pelicans, Openbill Storks, Grey herons,Blue-tailed bee-eaters, Black-winged stilts, and more. Little ringed plovers, Kentish plovers, Tawny larks, and Red-wattled lapwings,Lesser Whistling duck,Grey headed swamphen,Little cormorant,Black winged kite, Greater Flamingos, Garganey.
One of the highlights is the silhoutte formations during the low light.Admire the western skies during mesmerising sunset !
Note - For birding guides, stay and arrangements contact -+91 9740360365
32. A luxury Palace stay in Hampi
Resembling Anglo Saxon Structure, the palace was built in the year 1940 in the reign of Shrimant Sarkar Maharaja Yeshwanthrao Hindurao Ghorpade and stands as a testimony to the rise of a kingdom. The Palace was later renovated as per Hotel Standards and was established as a WelcomHeritage Palace stay . The Palace is built over a sprawling area of about 22 acres, the Palace has 2 floors of about 20,000 sq.ft. each. It is situated in a picturesque valley in Sandur, very close to the Hampi World Heritage Site.
For bookings please click
33. Trekking in Sandur
34. Vithala Temple
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and home to the fascinating musical pillars and the incomparable stone chariot, the Vittala Temple complex is a major attraction in the city. Admire the Dravidian style of architecture and the lavish figurines dotting the temple.
The three famous stone chariots are found in India, renowned for their intricate, monolithic, or temple-integrated design, they are located at Hampi (Karnataka), Konark (Odisha), and Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu).
30. Bala Hanuman Hill
Bala Anjaneya Betta, or Hanuman Hill, is a prominent pilgrimage site located in Karnataka, India. Renowned for its striking landscapes, the hill is famous for the massive statue of Lord Hanuman that attracts visitors and devotees alike. The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding natural beauty, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. Many visitors also trek up the hill as part of their spiritual journey, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the lush greenery around.
It is a significant location for those seeking spiritual solace and picturesque scenery.
31. Cliff Jumping & Coracle ride at Sanapur lake
Quiet flows river tungabhadra, the best way to explore the hidden temples along the river bed and experience the thrill of adventure is a boat ride.Coracle ride in Hampi is a must-do. Coracles are round boats made of bamboo and plastic. They have been traditionally used to ferry people and livestock across rivers in many parts of Asia. And Hampi is one of the few places in India where you can ride one.
These traditional boats offer a magical way to explore the town while floating on the serene waters surrounding it. They can accommodate 5- 8 people at a time. The ride is a unique way to explore this UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE ; HAMPI.
Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or someone who loves to lose themselves in nature, a coracle ride can be a highlight of your trip. A coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River in Hampi is an absolute favourite among tourists and locals.
Where to do the Coracle Ride in Hampi?
You’ll find several spots for a coracle ride in Hampi. Here are the most prominent ones:
Chakratirtha , Hippie Island Ferry Point, Sanapur lake and Waterfalls and Anegundi
During the ride,don't forget to wear lifejackets and at some designated points you can jump from a cliff and try some adventure.
32.Rent a scooter
The best way to move around Hampi, Anegundi, Sanapur is by a bike. You can hire at a local dealer hourly or day basis.You need to pay a deposit a nominal amount as advance and produce a copy of your Passport, Driving licence for verification. Fill the tank to brim and move on at your pace.
Local folk are helpful and will guide to visit places of interest.Dont forget to wear a helmet while driving.As safety is first !
33. Hire a guide
34. Pampa Sarovar
35.Hampi Festival
36.Dolomites
37.Bouldering at Hampi
Rocks and boulders spread around Hampi,Sanapur area ideal for climbers and those interested in bouldering.Be it beginners or experience climbers hampi has in its bosom to offer everyone.The island, North and South side of river, Setuwe plateau and Junglee Plateau are popular trails to explore and give a try.
Note - A Sincere request, dont deface rocks by drilling holes.Leave as they are !
38. A Santuary for Otters 
The Tungabhadra river is home to a rich and breeding population of smooth coated otters which is the largest otter species in Asia.It is said to the only one of its kind in the country. A stretch of about 34 km downstream of Tungavhadra has been declated as ' Otter Conservation reserve ' from madlapura in Koppal taluk to Bridge near kampli.
The apex predator of the Tungabhadra river systems, two species of otters are found here: Smooth-coated Otter and Small-clawed Otter. While the Smooth-coated Otter is the largest otter species in Asia, the Small-clawed Otter is the smallest in the world, and is mostly nocturnal.
40.A day at bear sanctuary
42.Sunset at Narihalla
43.Visit Kumaraswamy Temple
The Kumaraswamy temple is located within the Swamimalai forest range of the Krauncha Giri (hill), around 10 kms from the town of Sandur in the Bellary district. The temple complex encompasses separate shrines dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Kumaraswamy.It is said that Parvati temple was built by the Badami Chalukyas during the 7th to 8th century AD.
The Kumaraswamy temple is said to be built by the Rashtrakutas during the 8th-10th century AD.
The temple was discovered later in the 15th century by the local rulers called the Ghorpades, from the dense forests of Swamimalai hill. Today it's a protected monument under ASI.
46.Batching ritual of elephant
47.Tunga Bhadra dam
48. Flamboyance of Flamingos !
49.Taste local food
The staple food of north Karnataka is, Rotti Oota that hits differently unlimited soft jowar rotis served with spicy Ennegai, flavourful Soppina Palya, Junka, chutney pudi, onion salad, steaming rice, sambar, rasam, ghee, kene mosaru, buttermilk and that irresistible Mirchi Bajji!
You can even ask for sweet dish shenga Obbattu - made from peanuts, it is served hot on request with chee to top it.
50.Taste local chats
Every region has its own special food item. GIRMIT AND MIRCHI is very very popular and eatable snacks for North Karnataka region.
GIRMIT will be made out of Churmuri, with gram flour, onion and peanut oil mixture , the masala in liquid form to make it soft / wet to eat.
MIRCHI will be prepared using a green chilly and gram flour, specially for spicy taste and also it makes a good combination with GIRMIT.
Whenever you visit Hospet dont miss to taste GIRMIT-MIRCHI.
51.Cycling in Hampi
52. Beware of Monkeys
53. Hazara Rama temple
54.Uddana Veera Bhadra temple
55. Koti linga
56. Chopper ride
57.Hot balloon ride
Get a chance to discover the ancient splendour of Hampi from the sky. Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an extraordinary landscape of boulder strewn hills, ancient temples, and the ruins of a bygone era. As you float gracefully, a birds eye view above this historic region, you’ll be captivated by the unique blend of natural beauty and architectural marvels that define Hampi.
Hot air balloon rides provide an unparalleled vantage point to appreciate the stunning vistas of Hampi’s rugged terrain, lush greenery, and the majestic Tungabhadra River.
The flight path changes daily, as it is determined by the wind direction and speed, ensuring each journey is a distinctive adventure and meanwhile unique .
Flying season: September to April.
For more details and prior bookings call / whatsapp +91 9740360365
58.Camping in Hampi
59. Yoga and Meditation
60. Chilling at Cafes
After 5 days I still felt so many things left to explore. The tuk tuk experience air conditioned and simple luxuries one can afford. This was a candid shot of me when I was ready to move to Hampi, the incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site! I sincerely had a fabulous time in this laid-back tourist destination in India. I surely will be back!
With more offbeat places to explore.
If this guide was helpful to you please post a comment or share it in a Facebook Group. If you need any assistance for booking or planning a trip to Hampi. Let me know.Buzz me @ 9740360365 / leave a message on whatsapp
For you a small thing to do, but to me it would mean a lot. Thank you very much in advance.
Vishwanath Radhakrishna 
