Overview
Hampi, a small village located in the state of Karnataka, India, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place where history, religion, and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience. In this complete travel guide, we will take you through all the important information you need to know to plan your trip to Hampi tour from bangalore ..
Getting There
The nearest airport to Hampi is the Jindal Vijaynagar Airport, which is about 40 km away. However, the most convenient way to get to Hampi is by road. The nearest major city is Hospet, which is well-connected by road to all major cities in India. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Hospet to Hampi. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hampi is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are moderate. The monsoon season, from June to September, can make sightseeing difficult due to heavy rainfall, and the summer months, from April to May, can be scorching.
Things to See and Do
Hampi is famous for its ancient ruins, temples, and beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the top attractions that you must visit when in Hampi.
- Virupaksha Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most important religious sites in Hampi. It is believed to have been built in the 7th century and has a 160-foot-tall gopuram (tower) that is visible from afar.
- Vittala Temple: This temple is famous for its stone chariot, which is one of the most recognizable symbols of Hampi. The temple is also known for its musical pillars, which produce different sounds when tapped.
- Hampi Bazaar: This is a street that was once a bustling marketplace during the Vijayanagara Empire. Today, it is a great place to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Anegundi: This is a village located across the Tungabhadra River from Hampi. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman and has several temples and ruins that are worth visiting.
- Matanga Hill: This hill offers a panoramic view of Hampi and is a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset. The climb to the top can be challenging, but the view is well worth it.
Accommodation
Hampi has several accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The most well-liked places to stay in Hampi are Virupapur Gaddi and Hampi Bazaar.. Some of the popular hotels in Hampi include:
- The Gateway Hotel: This is a luxury hotel located near the Virupaksha Temple. It has 46 rooms and offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center.
- Kishkinda Heritage Resort: This is a mid-range resort located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. It has 27 rooms and offers facilities such as a swimming pool, restaurant, and outdoor activities.
- Mowgli Guest House: This is a budget guesthouse located in Hampi Bazaar. It has basic rooms and offers a rooftop restaurant with a view of the Virupaksha Temple.
Food
Hampi offers a range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. The most popular cuisine in Hampi is South Indian, but you can also find North Indian, Chinese, and Continental food. In Hampi, some of the well-known eateries are::
- Mango Tree: This is a popular restaurant located in Hampi Bazaar. It offers a range of South Indian dishes and is known for its thali, which is a platter of rice, lentils, vegetables, and curries.
- Laughing Buddha: This is a rooftop restaurant located in Hampi Bazaar. It serves a range of international cuisines and is popular for its wood-fired pizzas and burgers.
- Gopi Guest House: This is a budget guesthouse in Hampi Bazaar that also has a restaurant. It serves South Indian and North Indian food and is known for its breakfast dishes.
Tips for Travelers
- Dress appropriately when visiting temples and religious sites. Wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is advised.
- Carry a sunscreen lotion, hat, and sunglasses as the sun can be quite harsh, especially during the summer months.
- Be careful while walking on the rocks and uneven terrain in Hampi as it can be slippery.
- Bargain while shopping in Hampi Bazaar as the prices can be inflated for tourists.
- Try to visit Hampi during the weekdays to avoid the crowds that throng the place on weekends.
Conclusion
Hampi is a unique destination that offers a glimpse into India’s rich history and culture. It is a location that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. We hope that this travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Hampi. So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to explore the ancient ruins, temples, and beautiful landscapes of Hampi.
