Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage, Hampi in Karnataka is counted among the most exclusive historical tourist destinations in South India. Hampi is a world-renowned place. Hampi is a huge temple located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in the state of Karnataka, India. The temples here are believed to have their architecture influenced by the Vijayanagara style of the south.

This ancient magnificent city now survives only in ruins. From the view of the ruins here, it seems natural that once upon a time there was a flourishing civilization in Hampi. There are more than five hundred monuments between the valleys and dunes. There are many buildings which include temples, palaces, cellars, water-ruins, old markets, royal pavilions, platforms, treasuries, etc.

 According to historians, Hampi was once called Kishkindha, in fact, from the 13th to 16th century the city prospered as the capital of the Vijayanagara kings. Hampi is an open museum for both tourists and pilgrims. Every turn of Hampi is amazing. Every monument holds a secret than it reveals.

Hampi is called a city of temples. Let’s know about some temples and sites that are worth visiting while Hampi and also included in the UNESCO world heritage site.

Virupaksha Temple

This temple of Hampi is dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, who is another form of Lord Shiva. Virupaksha Temple is a sacred place situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River at Hampi in the state of Karnataka. Built during the seventh century, this temple was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its history and beautiful architecture. The temple has beautiful sculptures of many deities which reflect mythological stories related to them.

VITTHAL TEMPLE or VITHALA TEMPLE

The Vitthal temple is one of the most influential temples in Hampi. The Vitthal temple was built during the 16th century. In fact, this temple presents its rich architecture beautifully. Hampi has a famous stone chariot which is considered an iconic symbol of Hampi’s architecture. This temple has a large courtyard which is located in the center. It signifies the majesty of Vijayanagar and the glory of Kalavabhava.

HAMPI CHARIOT

The main attraction of the Vithala temple is its pillared walls and stone chariots. These pillars have a unique feature that can’t be found anywhere else. They are known as musical pillars because the music comes out of them when patted with love. The stone chariot is a wonderful piece of architecture. The temple has been carved in stone, which is in the shape of a chariot.

LAKSHMI NARASIMHA TEMPLE

Hampi Lakshmi Narasimha Temple or Ugra Narasimha Temple is made of large rock which is the tallest statue of Hampi. It is about 6.7 meters high.

SHIV LINGA: Bada Shivlinga

As the name indicates, Bada, the shiv linga stands at a height of 3m. This Shivlinga has been carved out from a single stone and one of the most attractive sites to visit during the Hampi tour.

The other places that are popular and worth demanding a visit are lotus palace, monkey temple, Hippie Island, Elephant stable, and many more archaeological sites are there.

To explore the world heritage site and ancient ruins of Hampi, winters from (October to February) is the best time to visit Hampi. Visiting during this time can lead a traveller to see the events of Hampi that including Vijaya Utsav, the largest celebration happening in Hampi.