From Wikitravel Shared

Hampi [1] in Karnataka state, India is the site of the once-magnificent capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. The ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

[edit] Understand

Hampi was the capital of Vijayanagar(14th century empire). The ruins of the empire is spread over the area of 26 sq kms. "A Forgotten Empire" (ISBN 1419101250) by Robert Sewell is an interesting book which describes the rise and fall of Vijayanagar empire. It seems at one point of time, diamonds were sold on the streets of this empire.

Hampi is well worth the visit. The area is simply stunning and you will be in awe of the millions of boulders surrounding the area. However, within this arid landscape lies a little oasis with lush palm, banana and mango trees nestled near the river. Hampi is a great place to spend a few days wandering around and discovering the rich, vibrant history while also having a bit of 'your' time.

[edit] Get in

[edit] By plane

The nearest airport is at Bellary. Air Deccan [2] flies daily from Bangalore and Goa to Bellary.

[edit] By train

The most convenient railway station is in Hospet.

[edit] By car

• Bangalore: 350 km, To Chitradurga on NH 4, take right to NH 13 towards Sholapur till Hospet, drive another 13 km to reach Hampi (direction towards Hampi is well marked)

• Hubli: 150 km, and Hospet: 13 km.

[edit] By bus

There are private bus companies operating from most places in Goa and from Gokarna which run an overnight service to Hampi. Unfortunately, there is no direct return so you take a local bus (or taxi) to Hospet and take it from there.

[edit] Get around

Motorcycle/Scooter/Moped - It is very hot! Dry dry heat. And the walk between some sites can be at least 5kms. Plus, the surrounding area is quite breathtaking to ride around and you can explore some parts that the rickshaws won't take you. Guides are willing to ride on the back with you as well. This is a more expensive option (not for the thrifty!) than the rickshaw but it gives you more freedom and you can cover more in one day without rushing it. Take a guide with you one day, then do it all again by yourself the next.

The ruins of Hampi are located within a 30 sq km area. While most of the famous places have motorable roads leading upto them, the real pleasure in exploring Hampi comes from on the bicycle or by walking around. Virtually every rock in Hampi has a story to say. This story is best heard if you give it time and walk around from rock to rock.

[edit] See

Hampi is a visual delight, especially due to its stark contrast from most other places. Rocks are all you see whichever direction you look at. Vegetation is visible in the wet months; but again it never dominates the landscape. It is an ideal spot for people who are interested in history and/or nature.

There are many sites of interest in and around Hampi. The must-visits are Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Bazaar, Monolith Bull, Lakshmi Narasimha temple, Hemakuta Hill temples, Big Shivlinga, Vithala Temple (the famous Stone Chariot is located here), Hazara Rama Temple, Royal Enclosures, Queen's Bath, Zanana Enclosure (which also houses the Lotus Mahal), Elephant Stables, Achyut Raya temple, Statue of Ugra Narsimha, Virupaksha Temple, Mahanavmi Dibba, the Stepped Bath and the Matanga Hill (from where one can see the most beautiful sun set ever).

Take a ride in the "Dongi" in the Tungabhadra river to see some beautiful rock forms caused by erosion over the years. There are also several "Shivalings" along the river which the boatman will guide you to.

The old capital called Anaigundi, across the river from Hampi also has many sites. The Monkey Temple and the Old Palace are definitely worth a visit.

To do justice to all the sites, one needs a minimum of 3 full days of sight seeing.

[edit] Do

A good amount of walking is a must, as the ruins are scattered over a huge area. Moped/bicycle hire is a good option to move arround.

Cross the river by one of those coracle ferry. The other side of the river (Anegondi) spots a number of pre Vijayanagara relics.

[edit] Buy

[edit] Eat

There are lots of places in Hampi Bazaar where you get satisfying and inexpensive food, though be prepared for a long wait at most places as the chefs are typically family members who prepares food to order. However, they are good at their jobs and can offer a wide range of different cuisines.

Restaurants:

• Venkateshwara
• Geetha
• Mango Tree - One of the nicest, most relaxed restaurant settings you will ever come across. Set along side the banks of the river, you can lounge comfortably on the steps underneath the huge mango tree sipping some of the best lassis you will come across in India. They do a fantastic thali at lunch time and have a broad range of food on the menu. Its the perfect place to hideaway from the afternoon heat and zone out to the beautiful view.

[edit] Drink

Hampi is a religious center so drinking is not allowed. Therefore, beer or other alcoholic drinks are generally not available at local restaurants. However, Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari in in the neighboring town of Kamalapur has a bar that serves beer and wine.

Although few hotels like Shanti, which is located across the river, do serve beer at Rs 80 for a Kingfisher Premium.

[edit] Sleep

There are several guest house in Hampi, though staying in Hospet or the nearby town of Kamalapur are also options.

[edit] Budget

[edit] Mid range

[edit] Get out

[edit] Respect

• Out of deference to the sacred nature of the site, it is recommended not to consume drugs and alcohol in the area.

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