Overview
Hampi was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th to 16th centuries. Its temples, palaces, bazaars and water tanks are spread across a striking landscape of granite boulders along the Tungabhadra River. The Group of Monuments at Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The site covers a large area; many visitors explore by bicycle, scooter or auto-rickshaw.
Best time to visit
October to February is the most comfortable; March to May is very hot. The landscape is greenest just after the monsoon.
Highlights
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1
Virupaksha Temple
A living temple with a tall gateway tower at the end of Hampi Bazaar.
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2
Vittala Temple
Known for its stone chariot and carved musical pillars.
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3
Royal Enclosure
Palace platforms, the stepped tank and the Lotus Mahal.
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4
Matanga Hill
A popular viewpoint at sunrise.
Getting there
The nearest railway station is Hosapete (Hospet), about 13 km away. Flights land at Hubballi, Bengaluru or the small Vijayanagar (Toranagallu) airport; overnight trains and buses run from Bengaluru.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, ticket rules and any visitor limits change, so check the official information before you go.
- Time needed
- Two to three days.
Official information: UNESCO: Group of Monuments at Hampi. Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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