Popularly known as Vijayanagra or “The City of Victory”, Hampi is an ancient Indian village located in the state of Karnataka. Some people also call it “The Lost City” or “The City of Ruins” since it narrates the story to a violent past. The city was once the capital of the Vijayanagra Empire which ruled most of southern India from the 14th to 16th century and was defeated by a coalition of Muslim Kingdoms who ransacked the city which later on came to be declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and archaeological significance.
Some say that Hampi is none other than the sacred land of Kishkindha, which was the mythical monkey kingdom where Lord Hanuman leapt mountains to help Lord Ram. Hampi is a land whose air “hums with the echoes” of mysteries, a land where myth and reality blur.
In order to visit Hampi and uncover its realm of secrets, you must either take a flight or train to the nearest airport i.e. Hubli airport. The flight ticket prices may range from around 5,500 to almost 11,000. The distance from Hubli to Hampi can be covered by either a car or bus.
It might be the city of ruins but you would be shocked to know how many choices of accommodation Hampi has to offer its tourists. If you do not want to compromise on comfort, then hotels like Evolve Back can be a great choice. Hotels like Hampi International with rooms available for an average price of around 2,500 per night would also be an excellent choice given the proximity to nearby locations.
If you’re a “bhakt” of Lord Shiva then the Virupaksha Temple is a place you must visit. It is situated on the southern side of river Tungabhadra. An interesting side is the elephant called Lakshmi, living in the temple, who blesses the devotees when they make an offering.
While you're at the temple, you cannot miss visiting the Hampi Bazaar and sunrise from the Hemakunta Hill. Other popular touristic spots are the Vittala Temple, Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Royal Enclosure, Hazara Rama Temple, Queen’s Bath, Matanga Hill, Achyutaraya Temple beyond the Hampi stone chariot. If you have an extra day to spare then Anegundi is just a ferry away. Also known as the Hippie Island, it has the Anjaneya Hill which is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman.
Leaving this place will not only leave you with memories but also a part of India's essence that stays with you; it resonates with your heart like the faint sound of temple bells. Hampi has a tale to tell with every rock and a hidden truth, within each ruin; its sunsets hold a charm that captivates you and draws you back repeatedly to unveil its boundless enigmas.
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