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Hampi—a landscape of boulders, rich history, ruined temples and palaces, intricate architecture, green paddy fields, and mischievous monkeys!
A friend had once teasingly suggested that I should travel to the south of India with a South Indian. These words lingered in my mind until I made a solo trip to Karnataka. Being a North Indian, I was eager to explore and understand the historical and cultural diversity of this region, starting with Hampi. Being a history buff, I was very excited to see Hampi—a dreamy world of rocks and ruins, with many of its marvels recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A historical delight, the town has over 500 archaeological monuments. These include street markets, temples, treasury buildings, and other historical remains of the Vijayanagar Empire. With over 100 locations to explore, the city is a haven for backpackers. Let me tell you about the major highlights of my Hampi odyssey.
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To experience exceptional architecture and unmatched craftsmanship, my first stop was the famous Vijaya Vittala Temple in Hampi. Built in Dravidian style architecture, it has traits typical of South Indian temple architecture. Wandering amidst monuments that were built between 1336 CE and 1570 CE made me feel like I was in a different era. Located near the banks of the Tungabhadra River, this iconic temple is popular for its spectacular stone chariot, which appears on our INR 50 currency notes. Other attractions of the temple include Maha Mantapa, Ranga Mantapa, etc. Please note that the entry to the temple closes 30 minutes before sunset.
Situated on the southern banks of the Tungabhadra River, the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi is a 7th century Shiva temple, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It stands as one of the prime examples of intricate architecture, attracting visitors with its historical significance. Inside the temple, you can marvel at the statue of Nandi with three heads. Unlike many ancient temples, the Virupaksha temple is still operational for worship, drawing devotees daily. For an unforgettable experience, plan your visit in February when the temple comes alive in celebration of its annual festival.
Located just 2 km from Virupaksha Temple, the Yantrodharaka Hanuman temple in Hampi is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Hanuman. The moment I walked in, I could see the deity depicted in a state of deep meditation. Five minutes away from this location is another temple dedicated to Lord Srinivasa. In case you feel peckish, there are many stalls near the location selling mangoes, biscuits, and cucumbers. The best time to visit the temple is from October to March.
This particular monument resembles the shape of a lotus flower. The central dome mirrors the bud of a lotus flower, and the balcony and passages look like the petals. I was blown away by the multi-layered design and the 24 pillars that support the arched windows. This place is certainly a must-visit for architecture and history buffs alike.
Owing to its vibrant culture, Hippie Island is a must-visit when you are in Hampi. Located across the Tungabhadra River, the tiny island of Virapapur Gadde offers a laid-back ambience and cozy lodges, making it an irresistible spot for backpackers. I loved relaxing at the cafes and shacks here. My favourite was the Laughing Buddha Café, where I gorged on scrumptious food and soaked in the splendid views of rice paddies. I was also lucky enough to witness a sunset jam session that created a fun, party-like atmosphere.
Hampi is not just for history lovers, it is a great destination for nature lovers too. Seeking a change of scenery from the ruins, I visited Sanapur Lake. Surrounded by stunning boulder hills, this hidden gem around Hampi offered a serene escape, free from the bustling tourist crowds. This lake is quite deep—a paradise for swimmers and cliff divers. If you are interested, there are also coracle rides available here. Please note: Given its remote location, it is advisable not to venture to Sanapur on your own. Although there are warnings of crocodiles in the water, local boatmen often claim it's just a story to discourage mischievous locals. It's challenging to determine the truth behind it.
Calling all shopaholics! Hampi Bazaar, also known as Virupaksha Bazaar, is a delightful kilometer-long market with pavilions on both sides of the road. At the east end of the street, you'll find a grand Nandi bull statue, while nearby pavilions showcase photographs of Hampi dating back to medieval times. The market opens at 6 am and operates until 11 pm, and offers a variety of items.
I was in Hampi for three days and I found it quite safe for solo female travellers. I would leave my hotel at 9 am and return by 8 pm, and never faced any issues. Based on my own experience, I can say that you can surely visit this fabulous gem in Karnataka by yourself. Happy travelling!
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