About

Consecrated in AD 1534, this temple is an example of Vijayanagara style temple architecture in its most advanced form than any other temples in Hampi. This was one of the last grandiose temple projects executed in the capital, before the fall of the empire.  The temple is dedicated to Lord Tiruvengalanatha form of Vishnu, it was constructed by a high officer in King Achyuta Raya's court and hence his name for the temple. The temple complex and the market which is in ruins sits in a semi made valley by the two hills the Gandhamadana and Matanga Hills. The two main ways to reach the temple are, one from the Kodanda Rama Temple or Kings Palace path which enters the Courtesans street and leads to the main tower of the Achyuta Raya Temple. Another route to the temple is to climb the steps near the Nandi (Bull) at the east of Hampi Bazaar, this is the easier and faster way to the temple. 

Achyutaraya temple can be reached either from Kodanda Rama Temple through the Bazaar wrongly called “Soolai Bazaar” or from the Virupaksha Bazaar by climbing the steps next to the monolithic Nandi at the end of the bazaar. Achyutaraya Temple is a large complex built by an officer of the King Achyutaraya, Salakaraju Tirumaladeva. This temple is better known as Achyutaraya temple, in whose period it was built rather than the name of the deity “Tiruvengalanatha” or Lord Venkateshwara.

Unlike the other temple complexes, this temple complex has two enclosures, each marked by an entrance gopura. The main temple is situated within the second enclosure. Opposite to the temple is the shrine for Garuda, the celestial bird and the vehicle of Vishnu. To the southwest of the temple is a shrine for Devi. Running around the inner courtyard is the pillared cloister. The Kalyana Mantapa is located in the northwestern corner of the outer enclosure. Like all major temple complexes, this temple complex was also provided with a Kalyana Mantapa where the annual marriage ceremony of the deity was conducted. The slender pillars of this Mantapa bear dexterously carved bas relief including a few erotic. The basement of the Kalyana Mantapa is richly decorated with the relief of elephants.

Tips

• The location of the temple is secluded and off the more traveled path, so although it is one of the most beautiful temples in Hampi, the temple is much less crowded as compared to many other tourist attractions in Hampi.
• It can be a hot walk down the path to this temple, but if you have nothing to do for the day, it is a beautiful place to sit around.
• Achyutaraya Temple is located at the base on Mathanga hill & can be accessed through the staircase near Monolithic Bull.
  
• No ATM, restrooms, snacks and drinking water available near to Achyutaraya Temple so make sure you are carrying a water bottle and snacks if you need.

Timings