Hampi
The most popular historical site in south India is Hampi which is the city of ruins, announced as UNESCO world heritage site. It was once a royal capital of great Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi is best noted for the holy temples, majestic Pavillons, wonderful palaces, gigantic forts and huge stables for palace elephants and horses. It is a popular hub of historical monuments where more than 500 historical buildings can be found and each holds a significant place in history. This verdant land is drained by River Tungabhadra. Humpi is a well preserved archeological site maintained by Archeological Survey of India. It is a sanctified place for Hindus known as Pampaskethra. There are many cultural carnivals are celebrated throughout here. Puppetry shows, fireworks, music and dance are inviting features of Hampi.
Places to visit
Old Palace
It is also known as Gagan Mahal and was built during Anegondi kingdom. This palace was surrounded by beautiful fort. It is an interesting site seeing for those who love history.
Vithala Temple
It is a mesmerizing monument of Hampi located on the banks of River Tungabhadra. The musical pillars are the highlighting feature here. Each of 56 pillars is producing a musical note when tapped. Mind blowing stone carved chariot with moving wheels is another prim attraction.
Hazara Rama Temple
It is belongs to 15th century. It was a temple dedicated to royal ceremonies. It is well known for fine sculptures which depict some events from great epic Ramayana and fragile carvings of Lord Vishnu, elephants, horses and dancing girls. It is a living evidence of erstwhile kingdom of architectural beauty and cultural heritage.
Lakshmi Narashimha Temple
It is the biggest temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu where stting posture of Lord Vishnu can be seen under holy snake Adi Shesha. It is the popular Hindus pilgrimage in Hampi.
Other Places
Monolith bull, Big Shiva Lingam, Virupaksha Temple, Elephant stables, Queen’s bath, Matanga hills and Monkey temple are other attractions in Hampi.
How to reach Hampi
By Air
Bellary airport is 60 km from Hampi is the nearest airport.
By Train
Hospet railhead is 13 km from Hampi is the nearest railhead.
By Road
Hampi is well connected to nearby cities of Karnataka by number of state and private buses.
Weather
In summer 27-40°C and in winter 20-26°C. It is best visited from October to March.