Hampi Important information

Hampi

Historic Hampi, set on the banks of river Tungbhadra is world renowned for the ruins of the glorious capital of the Vijayanagar empire. It was described by the Portuguese traveller Domingo Paes as "being as large as Rome" and the "best provided city in the world". The famous capital was founded by the two brothers Hukka (Harihara) and Bukka in 1336. It was ruled by 23 kings from four dynasties, over a period of 300 years. Under Krishnadevaraya and Achyutaraya,  Hampi attained glorious heights. In 1564, they were finally defeated by the Muslim rulers of North India in the disastrous Battle of Talikota. Subsequently, the flourishing capital witnessed mass-scale pillaging. The magnificent city finally lapsed into decline and abandonment. Its ruins still reflect the glory of the bygone era and features on the list of the World Heritage Sites of UNESCO. Today, the rums of Hampi are spread over an area of 27 sq. kms. and are a veritable open air museum.

Tourist Acctration in Hampi

• Vitthala Temple
• Lord Virupaksha Temple
• Lotus Mahal
• Ugra Narasimha
• Mahanavami Dibba or the 'House of Victory
• Queen's Bath

Vitthala Temple : This magnificent temple complex is undoubtedly the best example of Vijayanagar art and architecture. Its construction was started in 1513, by Krishnadevaraya, but was not completed even after the shifting of the capital to Penukonda in 1565. The impressive Kalyana Mantapa and the exquisitely carved stone chariot in the courtyard are the main attractions. The technical conception is so ingenious that the stone wheels of the chariot actually rotate. Equally impressive are the 56 musical pillars in the large Ranga Mantapa.

Lord Virupaksha Temple : The temple complex is dedicated to Virupaksha, an aspect of Lord Shiva and the guardian deity of the Vijayanagar kings. Its exquisitely carved 50 m. high gateway was renovated in 1510, by Krishnadeva Raya. Within the temple courtyard are many small shrines and pillared halls.

Lotus Mahal : This graceful structure built in the women's' enclosure resembles to the petals of a flower opening to the sun. Nearby are relics of a watch tower, which was once guarded by eunuchs. Royal ladies also watched the festivities fromhere. 

Ugra Narasimha : The 6.7 metres high splendid sculpture of Ugra Narasimha is seated under a canopy of seven hooded snake, carved out of a single stone. To the left of the statue is a huge linga (Badavi linga) set under running water.

Mahanavami Dibba or the 'House of Victory : It was built by Krishnadevaraya after His victorious expedition to Orissa. The spaces between the rows of the plinth- mouldings are ornately carved.

Queen's Bath : The square bath was surrounded by arched corridors, gallery verandahs and projecting Agreed balconies.  Lotus headed fountains once  Prouted perfumed water in a minor waterfall into the  Pool. Some other attractions are the Elephant Stables  and Hazara Rama Temple etc.

REACHING THERE

Airport : Dabolim (Goa) (300 kms.) & Bangalore (325 kms.).

Road: Connected by road.   

Railhead: Hospet(13 kms.).