Hampi, Karnataka , India

So aesthetic are the stones of Hampi, that once you set foot in its premise, the aura engulfs you and brings out the photographer and art lover in you. Hampi is a village in northern Karnataka , then capital of the Vijayanagara Empire , now a UNESCO protected world heritage site.

After about a month of planning and putting off the plans, my husband and I decided to visit Hampi while we were staying in Bangalore. Since my husband loves long drives we decided to drive to Hampi. We took the NH7 from Bangalore to Lakshmisagara a place after Chitradurga and from there drove on NH13 till Hospet. To reach Hampi from Hospet you need to take the Kampili Road.


 It is a pleasure to drive through NH4, however NH13 roads weren't in the best of their condition, the large number of trucks on the road adding to the misery, but the picturesque view on the road sides made up for it. Along the road to Hampi, you would find windmills (before Chitradurga) and sunflower fields (after Chitradurga), which will temp you to stop for photographs :) 


We stayed at hotel Malligi in Hospet, you could also book accommodation at Hampi. As you reach Hospet, you will be able to see the Tungabadra river by the side of the road. We traveled in September, just after the monsoons. Tungabadra was swollen and raging. We visited the Tungabadra dam on our way to the hotel. The dam was filled with water and the currents in the river splashed water all around showing the power of the mighty river making it a wonderful sight.

After visiting the dam we head to the hotel and had an early dinner at the hotel, planning to start our journey to Hampi early morning the next day. 

On entering Hampi, we were greeted by a colorful bazaar and the beautiful tower of Virupaksha temple. On reaching Hampi, make sure to get a map of the place , also if required check with any of the local shop keepers on the best order in which you can see the numerous monuments in the place. Though most of Hampi can be covered on foot, you have options of renting bicycles / scooters . Since we had our car with us, getting around the place was a lot more easier.

                                                               Vittal temple, Hampi

                                                               Watch tower, Hampi

                                                          Pattabhirama Temple, Hampi

                                                         Virupaksha Temple, Hampi                                                            

                                                               Hemakuta Hills, Hampi

Vittal temple, Hampi

Krishna temple, Hampi

                                                           Vittal temple, Hampi

While in Hampi, make sure that u visit every monument, because each has its own beauty and historic importance. Also, visit the mango tree restaurant which is near the Virupaksha temple. There are various sign boards that will show you the way to the restaurant. The restaurant is on the banks of the Tungabadra and serves great food, allowing us to relax and enjoy the place. 


There are small mountains and hills to trek and the views form each of these places are beautiful. 

Since most of Hampi is rocky and the sun glares down quiet stiffly, make sure that you carry enough water, sunscreen, hats and anything that can protect you from the sun. 

You will need at least 2 - 3 days to enjoy the beauty of Hampi in its entirety. Be prepared  to be marveled at the beautiful structures. Don't be surprised if you feel like a royal when near these beautiful monuments!