Hampi, located in Karnataka, India, was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire from 1336 to 1565, a period marked by cultural and architectural excellence. The city was home to magnificent marketplaces, palaces, and temples. After the empire’s defeat in 1565, Hampi faced destruction, leading to its abandonment. Rediscovered in the 19th century, the ruins were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Today, Hampi’s iconic structures, including the Virupaksha and Vittala Temples, stand as a testament to the empire’s grandeur, attracting tourists and historians alike.

Things to do in Hampi

1. Virupaksha Temple:
   – History Unveiled: The Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, traces its origins back to the 7th century. Over time, it evolved from a modest shrine to the grand complex we see today, reflecting the enduring spiritual legacy of the Vijayanagara rulers. Intricate carvings and inscriptions narrate the temple’s journey through centuries.
   
   
2. Vijaya Vittala Temple:
   – Ancient Echoes: Built in the 15th century, the Vijaya Vittala Temple stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Vijayanagara Empire. The iconic Stone Chariot and the musical pillars within the Ranga Mantapa speak volumes about the empire’s commitment to art, culture, and religious celebrations.
   
   
3. Hemakuta Hill Temples:
   – Spiritual Ascent: Hemakuta Hill, adorned with over fifty small temples dating back to the 9th century, served as a sacred pilgrimage site. The hill’s spiritual significance is deeply intertwined with the religious practices of the Vijayanagara dynasty, providing a serene backdrop to their daily lives.
   
   
4. Achyutaraya Temple:
   – Royal Resilience: King Achyutaraya’s dedication to Lord Tiruvengalanatha is immortalized in the Achyutaraya Temple, constructed in the 16th century. The temple’s architecture and inscriptions recount the king’s commitment to the divine and the enduring impact of his patronage on the religious landscape.
   
   
5. Royal Enclosure:
   – Regal Remnants: The Royal Enclosure, sprawling across acres of land, served as the political and ceremonial heart of Vijayanagara. The grand platform, the underground chamber, and various structures within the enclosure stand as silent witnesses to the empire’s administrative prowess and regal ceremonies during the 14th to 16th centuries.