HAMPI - AN UNESCO HERITAGE SITE

Why Hampi is considered as an heritage site. Well this is the answer.

A journey to discover the soul of Hampi. How beautiful these sights of Hampi are! At the same time, they also make us reflect on Hampi itself."

We can divide Hampi into two parts—South Hampi and North Hampi. Without a doubt, we can say that Hampi is a true center of ancient architecture. It was King Krishnadevaraya who elevated the Vijayanagara Empire to such great heights and brought it recognition across the world." Hampi is known as Kishkindha in Ramayana age.

BEST TIME TO VISIT : OCTOBER TO FEBRUARY

NOTE : Hampi Utsav (Hampi Festival) is usually celebrated in November with cultural programs, music, and dance.

The most places you should visit when you are in Hampi.

1. VIRUPAKSHA TEMPLE.

The Virupaksha or Pampapati temple is the most sacred living temple of Hampi. Expanded by King Krishnadevaraya in 1510 AD on the occasion of his coronation. The main gopura/tower is the iconic landmark of Hampi. Known for its ceiling paintings and carvings from the Vijayanagara period.50 Mtr high gopuram was built in 1442.

2. VITHALA TEMPLE

This is one of the most important temples found at Hampi. The core of the temple was in existence from the times of Devaraya 2nd (1422 -46 AD), However later king Krishnadevaraya (1509 -1529 AD) has made subsatantial additions to it . Temple was dedicated to Vishnu. You can witness stone chariot and Musical pillars here.

3.HAZARA RAMA TEMPLE

The name Hazaara means courtyard or thousand and this prefix is given to Ramchandran temple since the location of the temple happens to be a part of complex and also has numerous depiction of relief sculptures of Rama in the Ramayana narrative panel found on wall of the temple.

4.UNDERGROUND SIVA TEMPLE

Built several meters below the ground level, giving it the name Underground Temple.Rare example of a subterranean temple in India.The constant water logging in the sanctum has kept the Shivalinga partially submerged, which adds to its spiritual aura.Surrounded by serene fields and less crowded than other monuments, giving it a peaceful, mystical feel.

5.LOTUS MAHAL & ELEPHANT STABLE

The Lotus Mahal (also called Kamal Mahal or Chitrangini Mahal) is one of the most beautiful and unique structures in Hampi, Karnataka.Believed to have been a royal recreation pavilion or a place for the queen and royal women to relax.Found inside the Zenana Enclosure (the women’s quarters) of Hampi.Symbolizes the cultural fusion under the Vijayanagara rulers.

ELEPHANT STABLE :

Purpose: Built to house the royal elephants used in processions, ceremonies, and warfare. A long rectangular building with 11 large chambers, each with tall arched doorways.Strong Islamic style influence, visible in the arches and domes, blended with local Vijayanagara features.

6.ZANANA ENCLSOURE :

The term Zenana comes from Persian, meaning “women’s quarters.” Also Zanana means women in Urdu. The residential quarters for women (Zanana) of royalty.Combines Hindu and Islamic styles, with elegant arches, domes, and detailed carvings.

7. GUARD HOUSE

From the name itself we can understood that Served as security posts for guards and soldiers who protected palaces, temples, and royal enclosures.

8.QUEENS BATH

Believed to be the royal bathing chamber for the queen and royal women .Inside is a sunken bath (about 6 ft deep, 15 m × 15 m in size).Surrounded by an ornate, pillared corridor with arched windows, balconies, and lotus-shaped decorations. Strong Indo-Islamic influence – Hindu-style pillars and Islamic-style arches and domes.

9.KINGS BALANCE

A large stone balance made of two tall granite pillars with a horizontal beam on top.Resembles a massive weighing scale.Used during a ritual where the king would be weighed against gold, silver, precious stones, or grains.The weighed material was then distributed to priests, poor people, or temples as charity. Symbolized the king’s humility, piety, and generosity.

10. MAHANAVAMI DIBBA

Used as a ceremonial platform during the Mahanavami festival (now called Dasara or Dussehra).

The king and royal family sat atop the platform to view:

*Military paradeS

*Gymnastic shows

*Wrestling matches

*Dance and music performances

*Processions of elephants, horses, and decorated chariots.

11.UGRA NARASIMHA

The statue is about 6.7 meters (22 ft) tall, carved from a single boulder.Built in 1528 CE during the reign of Krishnadevaraya, one of the most famous Vijayanagara rulers.Originally, the statue included Goddess Lakshmi (Vishnu’s consort) seated on Narasimha’s lap.After the fall of Vijayanagara (1565 CE), the statue was damaged — Lakshmi’s figure was destroyed, leaving Narasimha in his fierce, solitary form.

12.ANJANADRI HILLS

Believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman (Anjaneya).The hill is named after Anjana Devi, Hanuman’s mother.Local tradition identifies this site as Kishkindha, the monkey kingdom mentioned in the Ramayana.About 575 steps carved into the granite hill lead to the top.Anjanadri Hills are among the best spots in Hampi for breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.

13. PATTABHIRAMA TEMPLE

Known for its peaceful atmosphere, as it is less crowded compared to Virupaksha or Vitthala temples.The temple complex has open courtyards ideal for festivals and rituals in its time.Offers a glimpse into the religious devotion and architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara kings.Contains a large pillared mandapa (hall) with intricately carved granite pillars, a characteristic of Vijayanagara architecture.

ZOSTEL STAY:

I stayed in Zostel for 1000/- per day. They provide good foods also payment is extra for the food. Zostel stay is at Gangavathi which is about 20km away from Hampi. But the ambience are all super here. surely you will enjoy it.