Located on the banks of the River Tungabhadra, Hampi is a small yet enchanting temple town bounded by the intriguing historical ruins of Vijayanagara city in the state of Karnataka. With a host of tourist places to see in Hampi, this dreamworld made of boulders, monoliths, and ruins of ancient edifices is a delight for tourists and thus is considered among best places to visit in Karnataka. The various engrossing places to visit in Hampi see a perennial influx of history-buffs, families, and photography enthusiasts. The status of the UNESCO World Heritage Site further accentuates the eminence of Hampi as one of the most popular historical and religious tourist places in India.
29 Best Places To Visit In Hampi
While visiting this heritage land, make sure to not miss out on these places and witness the architectural beauty of Hampi.
1. Vijaya Vittala Temple
Image Source Vijaya Vittala Temple is a 15th-century structure that is also considered the largest of all historical structures in Hampi. This humungous temple is dedicated to Lord Vittala- an incarnation of Lord Vishnu- and is a must-visit amongst all Hampi tourist places. The extraordinary stone chariot, arrays of huge pillars in the temple halls, and intricate sculptures are the true embodiments of the bewitching architecture of the centuries-old Vijaya Vittala Temple. Timings: 08:30 am to 5:30 pm (all days) Entry fee:
- INR 10 for Indian nationals and US $5 for foreign nationals
- Video camera fee- INR 25
- Still camera fee- Nil
Visit duration: Approximately 2 hours Tip: Visit as early as possible to avoid crowds and to witness the best views of the temple.
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2. Sri Virupaksha Temple
Image Source Believed to be the oldest functioning temple in India, Sri Virupaksha Temple is a 7th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is also considered one of the most significant religious places to visit in Hampi and attracts a huge number of pilgrims from all over India. The sprawling campus of the Virupaksha temple houses a huge courtyard, huge gateway towers, and other old-style structures that will leave you in an awe of its immense grandeur. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee:
- INR 5 for Indian nationals and US $5 for foreign nationals
- Video camera fee- INR 500
- Still camera fee- 50
- Local guide fee- INR 50
- Shoe safekeeping- INR 10
Visit duration: Approximately 1.5 hours Tip: Hire a guide to show you around the major attractions of this temple including the underwater Shiva Temple within the Sri Virupaksha Temple complex.
3. Hanuman Temple
Image Source Hanuman Temple is another famous religious site located on the top of the Anjaneya Hill which is considered as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. About 4 km from Hampi village, one has to cross a river using a small boat with paddles and then climb up the stairs to reach the Temple. The serene and picturesque ambience of this temple offers mesmerizing views of sunrise and sunset, making it one of the perfect places to see in Hampi and around. Timings: Open all days dawn till dusk Entry fee: None Visit duration: Approximately 30 – 45 minutes Tip: Beware of the monkeys in the temple premise and do not tease the animals.
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4. Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex
Image Source Hemakuta Hill is a wonderful place lined by a number of Hindu temples, ruins of fortified walls, and broken pathways. Mula Virupaksha Temple in Hemakuta Hill Temple complex is one of the most prominent places to visit in Hampi. Timings: Open all days from sunrise till sunset Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 3-4 hours Tip: Don’t miss the sunset view from Hemakuta Hill.
5. Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple
Image Source Located on the south side of Hemakuta Hill, the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple derives its name from the resemblance between Ganesha’s belly and mustard seed which is locally known as Sasivekalu. It houses a 2.4-meter statue of Ganesha spectacularly carved out of a boulder stone depicting a snake around Lord Ganesha’s stomach. The history of the magnificent pavilion that surrounds the statue of Ganesha dates back to 1506 A.D. making this temple a famous tourist attraction in Hampi. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 45 minutes Tip: Visit Kadalekalu Ganesha located on the northern slope of Hemakuta Hill.
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6. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
Image Source Within the ruins of Hampi, the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple- also known as the Statue of Ugra Narsimha- is the largest monolith statue in Hampi. This 6.7-meter high statue was built in 1528 A.D. which was vandalized in 1565 during a Mughal raid over the Vijayanagara Kingdom. The statue of Lord Narasimha- an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and a half-man, half-lion- depicts the deity sitting in a cross-legged position in its fierce form. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 1 hour Tip: Carry battery backup for your camera as the place is quite photogenic.
7. Queen’s Bath
Image Source Probably, a royal bathing complex for the erstwhile king and his wives, this majestic and enormous ancient building sets the clock back and is one of the major places to see in Hampi. The beauty of the ruins of Queen’s Bath gets to you the moment you lay your eyes on the unbelievable architectural style of this ancient royal pool. A huge courtyard in the front with a dome-shaped roof, balconies with small windows, and a rectangular pool made of bricks in the middle with open blue sky greet you at the Queen’s Bath in Hampi. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes Tips: Carry adequate cash with yourself. Purchase stone carvings and sculptures made by local artists here.
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8. Riverside Ruins
Image Source An array of 108 Shiva Lingas carved on the flat rocky surface and a finely rock-carved sculpture of Lord Vishnu in a reclining position make Riverside Ruins one of the most enticing places to visit in and around Hampi. A number of small shrines, statues, pavilions, and carved artefacts within this cluster of ruins make it a perfect place for photographers and historians. Exploring historical ruins is one of the best things to do in Hampi and while visiting this spot, you can surely treat the history buff in you. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: INR 30 Visit duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes Tip: Hire a local guide to help you explore the Riverside Ruins
9. Hampi Bazaar
Located in the foothill of Matanga Hill, Hampi Bazaar is one of the popular Hampi sightseeing places. It is an ancient street stretching over a kilometer and lined with ruins of pavilions. Hampi Bazaar once used to have bustling shops, restaurants, and residences on both sides of it. At one end of the Hampi Bazaar, you can find a huge Nandi bull with a photo gallery on the other side. The lavish pavilion in front of the Nandi bull statue plays host to the famous annual Hampi Bazaar. Shopping at local stores and eating at restaurants are the best things to do in Hampi at night.
Timings: 06:00 am to 11:00 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 1-2 hours Tip: Explore the tourist spots of Hampi Bazaar on a rented bicycle.
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10. Archaeological Museum
Image Source The Archaeological Museum in Hampi is one of the most noteworthy Hampi tourist places having four different art galleries that house a wide variety of artefacts. Ancient coins, statues, paintings, metal plates, armoury, and sculptures of various Hindu deities can be found here. All four sections of this museum are worth exploring and a treat for history buffs and kids. Timings: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (all days, except Friday) Entry fee: INR 5/per person (Free entry for children under the age of 15 years) Visit duration: Approximately 1.5- 2 hours Tip: Do not click pictures outside the museum as photography is allowed only in the open lawn outside the art galleries.
11. Matanga Hill
Image Source Matanga Hill offers panoramic views of the historical ruins of Hampi and its surroundings. After trekking up the hill for around 30 minutes, you will find Veerabhadra Temple sitting right at the top of Matanga Hill. This temple has a rooftop, which is unarguably the best place to witness sunrise and sunset over the lovely landscape of this historical Hampi town. Timings: Dawn to dusk (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 3 hours Tip: Carry a mini torch/flashlight as Matanga Hill and the paths leading up to the hilltop aren’t well lit.
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12. Daroji Bear Sanctuary
Image Source Daroji Bear Sanctuary is a protected forest area where you can witness lovely Indian Sloth bears strolling around or climbing up the trees or playing around with each other. Established in 1994, this sanctuary also houses leopards, hyenas, jackals, spotted deers and various other species of animals and plants making it one of the most favourable places to see in Hampi for nature and wildlife lovers. Timings: 06:00 am to 6:00 pm (all days) Entry fee:
- INR 50 per person for Indian national
- INR 300 per person for foreign national
- Parking fee-INR 500 per car
Visit duration: Approximately 3 hours Tips: Wear good sports/hiking shoes. Also, carry adequate drinking water with you. You can see bears marching down from nearby hillocks in the evening.
13. Tungabhadra Dam
Image Source Among famous attractions in Hampi and surrounding places to visit, the Tungabhadra Dam pure natural bliss. With lovely flamingos playing around the beautiful garden on one side of Tungabhadra Dam, it’s the best place to take out your camera for some great shots. Timings: 08:30 am to 6:30 pm (all days) Entry fee: Nil Visit duration: Approximately 1.5 – 2 hours Tip: Watch out for the beautiful music fountain that starts around 7:00 in the evening.
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14. Hippie Island
Hippie Island is one of the sightseeing places in Hampi, known for its astounding beauty. As the island is named after a vibrant culture, you can enjoy vacationing here in the lively ambiance of this island. Located across the Tungabhadra River, the initial name of the island was Virapapur Gadde.
Timings: Daily 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 4-5 hours Tip: Don’t miss mesmerizing views of sunsets along with the live jam sessions conducted on the beach
15. Gagan Mahal
Gagan Mahal is a magnificent architecture that dates back to the 16th century. However, the significant areas of this palace are currently ruined but the palace is worth visiting. You can also head to the nearby popular attractions including Sabari Caves, Nava Brindavana, Sarovar Laxmi Temple, Durga Temple, etc. Timings: 24 hours Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 1 hour Tip: The place is like a paradise for history lovers.
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16. Krishna Temple
Krishna Temple in Hampi is one of the most popular spots here and lure travellers from across the world with its exquisite carvings. The temple was built by Krishnadevaraya and exhibits his personal interest in art and culture. IF architecture intrigues you, make sure to visit here and get some striking clicks in your camera. Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 1-2 hours Tip: Photography is prohibited here, so click pictures from all the good angles17. Sanapur Lake
Sanapur Lake is located at a distance of merely 5 kilometers from Hippie Island and is surrounded by rocks and boulders. The lake was formed by an irrigation reservoir where you can relax and enjoy the cool breeze. You can also indulge in watersports activities here such as cliff jumping and boating. Timings: Open throughout the day Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 3-4 hours Tip: You can also swim here, so pack you bags accordingly25 Incredible Places To Visit In December Near Bangalore For A Refreshing Getaway
18. Hazara Rama Temple
Hazara Rama Temple is another beautiful attraction in Hampi that showcases the royal era. The temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and the walls here exhibit the significant chapters of Ramayana through photography. The magnificent infrastructure of this place has been enticing visitors for centuries. Timings: 6:00AM to 6:00PM Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 1-2 hours Tip: The temple is visited by thousands of pilgrims during Dussehra. 19. Elephant Stables
One of the most interesting places to explore in Hampi is the Elephant Stables. These are the enormous homes of the royal elephants. The elephant stables comprise 11 chambers and its enormous structure is a true surprise for visitors. Timings: 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Entry fee: INR 10 Visit duration: 1-2 hours Tip: Don’t try to tease those huge creatures.35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation!
20. Stepped Tank
Once considered to be a sacred tank, Stepped Tank in Hampi is another amazing place to explore in Hampi. Earlier, the place was a hub of pilgrims who used to take sacred baths here before visiting the prominent temples of the area. However, with the passage of time, the place turned into an eminent tourist spot! Timings: 24 hours Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 1-2 hours Tip: You can dive in water only before sunsets21. Monolithic Bull
Monolithic Bull or Nandi is located at the east end of the Hampi Bazaar and is frequently visited by travellers strolling in the streets of the bazaar. Monolithic Bull is an enormous piece of ancient architecture and attracts travellers from across the world with its rare features. Timings: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm Entry fee: None Visit duration: Maximum 1 hour Tip: The carving on the statue of known for its exquisite designHampi Ranked Second In New York Times ‘Places To See’, Making India Proud
22. Kamal Mahal
Kamal Mahal is also known as Lotus Mahal and is known for its beautiful architecture. The palace has been named after its lotus-shaped structure. The central dome is like the bud of lotus, whereas the balcony and passages depict the petal. The palace is surrounded by 24 pillars to provide support to this lotus-shaped palace. Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry fee: INR 10 Visit duration: 1-2 hours Tip: Try to visit the palace in the early hours if you are holidaying here during the summers. 23. Zanana Enclosure
Another surprise for history-lovers, Zanana Enclosure is believed to be the secluded area where the royal ladies of Vijayanagar Empire resided. The famous Lotus Mahal is located in the centre of this place. The place exhibits the life of royal ladies during the previous era and its beautiful architecture is designed in Indo-Islamic style. Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm Entry fee: INR 10 Visit duration: 1-2 hours Tip: Don’t forget to visit the treasury building hereHampi Utsav: 10 Reasons You Must Be A Part Of The Festivities
24. Kadalekalu Ganesh
Kadalekalu Ganesh is a crucial religious attraction in Hampi. Visitors will experience traditional stone architecture in this temple. There is a 15 ft long monolithic stone statue of Lord Ganesha which is believed as the largest in the world. Add this sacred spot to your list of places to visit in Hampi in one day to seek the blessings of the ‘Vighnaharta.’
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry Fee: NIL Visit Duration: 1-2 hours Tip or places to visit: Lotus palace, Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Bazaar, and Hippie island are a few attractions that tourists can plan to visit while on a trip to Kadalekalu Ganesh.
25. Tiruvengalanatha Temple
Image Credits: Ms Sarah Welch for Wikimedia Commons Also known as Achyuta Raya Temple, it is one of the popular and stunning places to visit in Hampi. This temple was built in 1534 AD and was named after the main deity who is a form of Lord Shiva. This temple was a few of those last temples built during the Vijayanagara Empire. Sitting between Gandhamadana and Matanga hills, the temple, however, lies majorly in ruins that were as a result of attacks on it by the Bahmani Kingdom. Timings: Daily 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Entry fee: None Visit duration: 1-2 hours Tip: Make sure you wear modest clothes that are not at all revealing as a token of respect to the religion.
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26. Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex
Image Credits: Dineshkannambadi for Wikimedia Commons Hemakunta Hill Temple Complex is home to many temples that are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the southern region of Hampi, these temples are amongst the most ancient ones that can still be visited in Hampi. This is what makes the complex amongst the top places to visit in Hampi. A lot of these temples were constructed between the 9th and 14th centuries, even before the famous Vijayanagara Empire that ruled Hampi. Timings: Daily 6:00 am to 6:30 pm Entry fee: NA Visit duration: 2-3 hours Tip: Do not forget to carry your cameras to capture the beauty of these places
27. Krishna Pushkarani
Image Source One of the most sacred places in Hampi, Krishna Pushkaranis takes you back to ancient times. This famous tourist spot allows one to get a glimpse of the architectural style of the Vijayanagara era. You will find many such Pushkarnis all around the city. Located near Krishna Bazaar, this remarkable water tank is one of the best places to visit in Hampi. Timings: Open throughout the day Entry fee: None Visit duration: Approximately 20-30 minutes Tip: While visiting here, don’t forget to explore nearby Krishna Bazaar
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28. Prasanna Virupaksha Temple
Image Source One of the most famous temples in Hampi, Prasanna Virupaksha Temple was built during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. The temple is dedicated to Prasanna Virupaksha, who was an avatar of Lord Shiva. Surrounded by lush greenery, this striking temple boasts an alluring architecture that intrigue visitors. Besides this, the central part of the shrine is always immersed in water that makes the temple all the more special. Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm Entry fee: None Visit duration: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour Tip: Spend some time on the lush green lawn of the temple
29. Laughing Buddha Cafe
Image Source Hampi boasts numerous cafes where vacationers can spend some cosy time and among the best ones is the Laughing Buddha Cafe. While offering spectacular views of the Tungabhadra River, this lively cafe serves some mouth-watering meals along with refreshing drinks. You can savour your meal while enjoying light music in the background. The cafe impresses visitors with its menu that includes a wide range of sizzlers, curries, and pizzas, and Israeli cuisine as well. Timings: 8:30 am to 10:00 pm Entry fee: NA Meal for two: INR 1,000 approximately Tip: To treat your tastebuds, try some Israeli delicacies
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Best Time To Visit Hampi
Hampi tourism is at its peak, from October to February, as the weather is pleasant and great for sightseeing.
The month of January/February also is an ideal time to visit Hampi, owing to the cultural extravaganza that takes place in Hampi Utsav.
How To Get Around In Hampi
One can hire a bicycle or a bike for a full day available for rent at State Tourism Centre in Hampi at a nominal charge of INR 50 and INR 200, approximately. Tourists can find accommodation facilities in the main market area of Hampi with basic facilities. However, finding hotels in Hospet- a small town just about 13 km from Hampi is the best practical option.Shopping In Rajkot: Top 9 Places For Those Who Love All Things Handicraft
How To Reach Hampi
By Air- Hubli Airport and Belgaum Airport are two major domestic airports located at distances of 144 km and 215 km from Hampi, respectively. Bangalore Airport is the nearest international airport which is about 350 km from Hampi. By Road- Hampi is among beloved weekend getaways from Bangalore and is well connected to Hospet, Hassan, Mysore and other nearby cities by road as buses ply regularly. Tourists travelling to Hampi by road can also avail taxis that are available from nearby towns and cities. By Train- Hospet Junction- the nearest railway station to Hampi, is about 13 km away.
The aforementioned places to visit in and around Hampi, give you every reason to skip mountains and beaches. Especially if you are an architecture and history buff, these places will surely intrigue you and allow you to have a memorable vacation. Plan your vacation to Hampi with TourTravelHotels and enjoy your enthralling vacation! For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Hampi
What is Hampi famous for?
If you are a history buff who likes to explore the heritage relics, then Hampi should definitely be on your list. The scenery of Hampi feels right out of a history book. It is a place for free souls and hippies. Enjoy the nature scenes of the place, camping under the stars, and take a boat ride on the river. Hampi can be so much fun for adults as well as for kids.
What is there do in Hampi?
There are so many things to do in Hampi. For starters, visit each and every temple and ruins Hampi is famous for. All those relics that you see on Indian rupee notes are from Hampi. The charming town is located by the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Taking a coracle ride on the river is a one-of-a-kind experience. You will feel free-spirited in Hampi. Such is the nature of this place. You should also attend the Hampi Utsav that is a celebration of colour and culture.
How do I cover Hampi in 2 days?
You can easily cover Hampi in 2 days. Just get a scooter or a bike on rent and roan around Hampi at your leisure. Start with Virupaksha Temple, Vijay Vittala Temple, and hill temple Complex on day 1, visit the Hampi bazaar to buy some souvenirs from your vacation. On day 2, you can cover Queen’s Bath, Hazara Rama Temple, Stepped Bank. If you have time, you may cover a few more attractions in Hampi before you leave.
How many days are sufficient for Hampi?
Two days are sufficient to visit this World Heritage Site. The place is full of historic monuments and to visit the places nearby two days are sufficient.
When is the best time to visit Hampi?
October to February is the best time to visit Hampi as the temperature is pleasant to explore the city. One can also visit during the monsoon season but should be careful as it gets quite slippery.
Is Hampi safe to travel alone?
Hampi is quite a safe place for solo travellers. As far as the safety of female solo travellers are concerned, one should be cautious in any part of the world.
Where should I stay in Hampi?
Some of the best Hampi hotels are Kishkinda Heritage Resort, Clarks Inn Hampi, Hotel Gowri and Thilak Home Stay to enjoy a luxurious stay.
What are the best places to visit in Hampi?
The best places to visit in Hampi include Hanuman Temple, Hampi Bazaar, Tungabhadra Dam, Stepped Tank, Kamal Mahal, Daroji Bear Sanctuary, and more.
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