Things to Know
Continent
asia
Country
India
State
KARNATAKA
Latitude
15.3350
Longitude
76.4600
Area
4,187.24 ha
Population
2,777
Timezone
GMT + 05:30
Best time to Visit
Oct - Feb
Currency
INR
Voltage
220V/240V,
Plug Type
C,D,M
Languages
Kannada
Date Format
DD-MM-YYYY
Driving Side
LEFT HAND DRIVE
Calling Code
08394
About
Hampi is an ancient village located amidst the ruins of the erstwhile Vijayanagar dynasty and now a district. Situated in the northern region of Karnataka in Hospet, on the banks of Tungabhadra river, Hampi is a UNESCO world heritage site. (As, of 2018, there are 37 UNESCO World Heritage Site in India. Which gives us the 6th large number of World Heritage Site across the world. Read here: The Criteria for Selection as UNESCO World Heritage Site Read here: UNESCO World Heritage Site List) It was the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire and houses the ruins of palaces, temples and the royal buildings of Vijayanagar Emperors. It bears testimony to the grandeur and wealth of the Vijayanagar Empire. Hampi is one of the major historical sites of the state and country. Hampi has a history dating back to thousands of years enriching the lives and culture of the state and country. Bound by River Tungabhadra on one side and hills on the other, Hampi is one of the most iconic tourist attractions of Karnataka. Hampi is the most Google-searched tourist place in Karnataka. Considering the stories left by Persian and European travelers of that time, Hampi was the most prosperous, wealthy, and the grand city in India. Interestingly, by 1500 CE, Vijayanagara-Hampi was the world’s second-largest medieval-era city after Beijing. Without a second thought, it was India’s richest.
About
Hampi is an ancient village located amidst the ruins of the erstwhile Vijayanagar dynasty and now a district. Situated in the northern region of Karnataka in Hospet, on the banks of Tungabhadra river, Hampi is a UNESCO world heritage site. (As, of 2018, there are 37 UNESCO World Heritage Site in India. Which gives us the 6th large number of World Heritage Site across the world. Read here: The Criteria for Selection as UNESCO World Heritage Site Read here: UNESCO World Heritage Site List) It was the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire and houses the ruins of palaces, temples and the royal buildings of Vijayanagar Emperors. It bears testimony to the grandeur and wealth of the Vijayanagar Empire. Hampi is one of the major historical sites of the state and country. Hampi has a history dating back to thousands of years enriching the lives and culture of the state and country. Bound by River Tungabhadra on one side and hills on the other, Hampi is one of the most iconic tourist attractions of Karnataka. Hampi is the most Google-searched tourist place in Karnataka. Considering the stories left by Persian and European travelers of that time, Hampi was the most prosperous, wealthy, and the grand city in India. Interestingly, by 1500 CE, Vijayanagara-Hampi was the world’s second-largest medieval-era city after Beijing. Without a second thought, it was India’s richest.
Hampi was the core of the Vijayanagar Dynasty and held great importance in matters of the state. The empire gave Hampi few of the most stunning architectural delights that have since stood the test of time. The intricacies in design and their unique construction are reasons to visit Hampi. With the advent of the Vijayanagar Empire, Hampi has been ruled and conquered by many other dynasties such as Sangama dynasty, Saluva dynasty, Tuluva dynasty, Aravidu dynasty, etc. have left indelible marks in shaping the history of Hampi. Hampi is blessed with few of the most beautiful monuments in India. The ruins located in Hampi have been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Hampi has given India some of the most beautiful temples and ancient monuments such as Hemakuta group of Temples, Preksha temple and groups, Anegondi, Anjeyanadri Hills, Aqueducts and canals, caves of Badami, Krishna Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Chandramauleshwar temple, Tungabhadra River, Vittala Temple complex, Hazara Rama Temple, Elephant Stables, Zenana enclosure, etc. are few of the most memorable sites of Hampi. Besides these, there are innumerable other temples and ancient historical monuments, the ruins of various sites that have great reverence amongst the people of Hampi!
The beautiful of Hampi and the cultural significance of the village is worth visiting at least once! Enjoy a beautiful time reminiscing the rich history of India, found in the ruins of this magnificent village‐ Hampi!
Facts of Hampi
- The name Hampi was derived from the word ‘Pampa,’ which is the old name of Tungabhadra river, on whose Southern banks the city is built.
- According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama and his brother had visited this region, while looking for Sita. They visited this region to seek help from Vali and Sugreeva, who ruled the region.
- It is believed that the monkey king, Sugreeva lived here. And it’s the spot where Sita dropped her jewels as a mark when Ravana abducted her. A rock here has the design that the local people believe is similar to that of Sita’s saree.
- One of the most attractive structures in Hampi is the Vittala Temple. This ancient temple is known for its splendid architecture. However, the temple is also known for another special quality. It has 56 musical pillars. These pillars, when tapped gently, produce musical sounds. The most interesting fact is that the pillars are made from solid stone and are not hollow inside. The musical pillars of Vittala Temple are also known as SAREGAMA pillars.
History
Hampi, a village and a temple town in Karnataka is one of the most historically rich places. Hampi word in is another version of Hampe, a Kannada name. Hampi is also known as Pampa Kshetra, Kishkindha kshetra and even Bhaskara kshetra. These names were derived from the famous Tungabhadra River Pampa. According to mythology, it is said that Pampa was Brahma's daughter who was later married off to Shiva. It was here where the city was built. Listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Site as the Group of Monuments at Hampi, this city was also at one point one of the richest cities in the world when it was in its peak. Hampi is also known as Vijayanagara who used to rule the city. As you walk through the remains of Hampis magnificent forts, palaces and gateways, you will get a glimpse of the excellent architecture of those times. The monuments speak volumes about the history of Hampi that used to be a prosperous and rich kingdom in the 14th century which was eventually ruined owing to the attacks made by the Moghuls.
Hampi, a village and a temple town in Karnataka is one of the most historically rich places. Hampi word in is another version of Hampe, a Kannada name. Hampi is also known as Pampa Kshetra, Kishkindha kshetra and even Bhaskara kshetra. These names were derived from the famous Tungabhadra River Pampa. According to mythology, it is said that Pampa was Brahma's daughter who was later married off to Shiva. It was here where the city was built. Listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Site as the Group of Monuments at Hampi, this city was also at one point one of the richest cities in the world when it was in its peak. Hampi is also known as Vijayanagara who used to rule the city. As you walk through the remains of Hampis magnificent forts, palaces and gateways, you will get a glimpse of the excellent architecture of those times. The monuments speak volumes about the history of Hampi that used to be a prosperous and rich kingdom in the 14th century which was eventually ruined owing to the attacks made by the Moghuls.
The history of Hampi can be traced back to the 1st century A. D. when the first settlements in Hampi began. It is believed that the region was under the control of the chiefs of Kampili, now a small town neighboring Hampi. The district is also believed to have been a part of the Mauryan Empire under Ashoka, in the 3rd century A. D. Hampi is said to be the mythological kingdom of monkeys, Kishkinda, mentioned in the ancient Sanskrit epic, Ramayana. Hampi truly flourished during the reign of the Vijayanagara kings and became the capital of the empire, in the 15th century A. D. The most famous among the kings of Hampi was Krishna Devaraya. Due to its strategic location on the banks of the river Tungabhadra and surrounded by hills, Hampi was easily defendable. The city was once home to half a million people and was the second most populous city in the world, during the reign of the Vijayanagara kings. The bazaars were a bustling center of trade for precious stones and gold, with merchants from faraway lands making their way to this city. Its glory began to fade due to the constant attacks of the Deccan Muslim Confederacy, which ultimately seized control of Hampi and ransacked the city. Hampi fell into ruin and remained unknown until it was rediscovered by Colonel Colin Mackenzie, in 1800. It has now been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Getting There
Flight
Train
Bus
Roadways
Hospet is a small city of Karnataka served as a gateway to Hampi. It is located just 11 km away from Hampi. You can use any medium of transportation (air, road or train) to reach here. But finally, you have to go through Hospet Town. After reaching this town you will get regular basis bus services from this Town to Hampi. It takes around 20 - 30 minutes to reach Hampi from Hospet.
Hospet is a small city of Karnataka served as a gateway to Hampi. It is located just 11 km away from Hampi. You can use any medium of transportation (air, road or train) to reach here. But finally, you have to go through Hospet Town. After reaching this town you will get regular basis bus services from this Town to Hampi. It takes around 20 - 30 minutes to reach Hampi from Hospet.
Travel by Railways: Hospet Railway Station is the nearest from Hampi located about 12 km away. This station is directly connected to major cities of Karnataka include neighboring state Goa (Vasco Da Gama). Major cities which are directly connected to Hospet Station are Bangalore, Bijapur, Hubli, Guntakal, Kolkata, Goa, Hyderabad, etc. if you are a traveler from northern India then the best option is to reach Bangalore first.
Travel by Roadways: There is a bus terminal at Hospet Town ant it directly connected to Bangalore, Hyderabad, Goa, and Hubli by roadways. Bangalore is connected to Hospet by the NH-4 which extended up to Chitradurga, after that you have to drive through NH-169. Travelers who pass through the Hyderabad city have to follow this root, Hyderabad-Mahboobnagar-Raichu-Gangawat-Hampi. You will get local buses or private taxi/auto-rickshaw from Hospet to Hampi.
Travel by Airways: The airstrip of Tornagallu is the nearest to Hampi which is just 33 km away from Hospet. Bellary is the second nearest airport to Hampi located about 61 km away. Other closer airports of Hampi located little away from the city like Belgaum 191 km and Bangalore International Airport 351 km. Bellary and Tornagallu are domestic airports provided limited services, especially from the city Banglore and Goa. Bangalore International Airport would be suitable if you are a traveler from far away to the city.
Getting Around
Roadways
Car
Bike
Taxi
Bicycle
Walking
Hampi is a visual delight, especially due to its stark contrast from most other places. Rocks are all you see whichever direction you look at. There are three ways in which you can visit Hampi in one day But, if you love photography and if you are a big fan of ancient history, then Hampi is the place where you can spend at least three days to know more about this place. download Hampi offline Google map and explore everything yourself. You can buy a local map costing INR 15, and cover all the places on your own by foot or renting a motorcycle or car or bicycle. There's no public transport in Hampi.
Hampi is a visual delight, especially due to its stark contrast from most other places. Rocks are all you see whichever direction you look at. There are three ways in which you can visit Hampi in one day But, if you love photography and if you are a big fan of ancient history, then Hampi is the place where you can spend at least three days to know more about this place. download Hampi offline Google map and explore everything yourself. You can buy a local map costing INR 15, and cover all the places on your own by foot or renting a motorcycle or car or bicycle. There's no public transport in Hampi.
- By bicycle: If you’re a solo traveler, or if you’re going with a group of youngsters, then Bicycle is the best way to explore Hampi if you enjoy history, culture, and nature. It usually costs about INR 120-150/day. Helmet and lock are included in the price. Traffic is very light around Hampi, except on the road to Hosapete. Bicycle might sound an exotic option but you cannot take the cycle to several attractions due to the rocky terrain, so be mindful of that. the terrain is too uneven and the weather is not so favorable either.
- By Rickshaw (Tuktuk): These are a more convenient variant to see all the sights without struggle you can cover most of the places but that would be expensive as well. Since most of the ruined sites are situated far apart in miles and if you have the target of covering everything in a single day then either Auto or car will be the most suitable choice. You’ll come across rickshaw-wallahs speaking fluent English. An Auto-rickshaw will cost you around INR 1000 for the entire day. You MUST bargain for a fair price and make sure you and the rickshaw-wallah have both agreed to the list of places that the rickshaw-wallahs will take you to.
- By motorcycle: This is a cheaper option than the rickshaw and it gives you more freedom as you can cover more in one day without rushing it. a lot of companies offer registered 2-wheeler gearless and geared bike with a yellow colored registration number on a number plate. They usually charge INR 250 to 700 (without petrol) depends on the model you select. A liter of petrol will be sufficient for sight seeing around Hampi, but two liters would be handy if you have plans to go to Tungabadra Dam or Daroji bear sanctuary around 16km from Hampi. They usually charge INR 100 for a liter of petrol, which has to be paid additionally. Scooters and bikes are available on rent with regular number plates white background with black text, but they are not supposed to be driven in the Hampi area. make sure you are not renting regular white plated bikes or scooters always rent yellow board bikes or scooters.
- By car: The ruins of Hampi are located within a 30km² area but many of the famous places have serviceable roads leading up to them. But be ready for a bit of walking at most of the spots. if you are going to explore Hampi in the car then A good amount of walking is a must, as the ruins are scattered over a huge area. the best mode to commute and explore Hampi is By motorcycle.
- On foot: Put on your most comfy shoes and get lost among the ruins, bazaars, and the mesmerizing landscape of Hampi. Walking the ruins is possible, but expect to cover at least 7km just to see the major sites. The beautiful river section between Hampi Bazaar and Vittala Temple is a delight to stroll. Hampi is very hot! Dry, dry heat And the walk between some sites can be at least 5km. Exploring Hampi by Foot is not recommended it might be exhausting for you as the weather in Hampi is not so perfect to explore by foot.
- By Guided tour: Since Hampi is a historical place, hiring a tour guide does help a lot. There’s no point in staring at a temple if you don’t really know its significance or the history behind it. You can even visit the State Tourism Center inside the premises of Virupaksha Temple from where you can avail bicycle tours around the ruins accompanied by a guide. The guides will show you a booklet saying that the government approved rates are about Rs. 1300 for 4 hours (half-day trip) and Rs. 1800 for 8 hours (full-day trip). A better choice would be to approach the Tourist office at the Virupaksha temple and hire a guide from the office. local guides are also available but it's suggested to Hire certified Guide From state Govt. The certified tourist office guides have a fixed rate and will cover all the important places.
Rentals
Rent a Bike
Rent a Car
Rent a Bicycle
Hampi was the imperial capital of Vijayanagar, a 14th-century empire. Hampi is well worth the visit. The area is simply stunning and you will be in awe of the millions of boulders surrounding the area. Renting Bike/scooter or Car is the best way to explore Hampi but Most motorbike rental services are illicit when the motorbikes do not have yellow-black number plates tourists have been harassed by the district police for illegal bike riding and charged penalties. When in Hampi, make sure you only hire bikes with a yellow colored registration number on a number plate with a black background. never hire Bike with a white background with black text. in India white background and black text number plate vehicles are for not private use– they are not supposed to be used for commercial purposes like rental Service. International Driving Licenses (IDL) also known as International Drivers Permit (IDP) is mandatory for foreigners who want to hire or drive bike and car in India. this rule is not only applicable for Hampi, but this rule is also applicable across India.
Hampi was the imperial capital of Vijayanagar, a 14th-century empire. Hampi is well worth the visit. The area is simply stunning and you will be in awe of the millions of boulders surrounding the area. Renting Bike/scooter or Car is the best way to explore Hampi but Most motorbike rental services are illicit when the motorbikes do not have yellow-black number plates tourists have been harassed by the district police for illegal bike riding and charged penalties. When in Hampi, make sure you only hire bikes with a yellow colored registration number on a number plate with a black background. never hire Bike with a white background with black text. in India white background and black text number plate vehicles are for not private use– they are not supposed to be used for commercial purposes like rental Service. International Driving Licenses (IDL) also known as International Drivers Permit (IDP) is mandatory for foreigners who want to hire or drive bike and car in India. this rule is not only applicable for Hampi, but this rule is also applicable across India.
- Renting a self-driving car: Various Car Rentals are available in Hospet and Hampi. Most agencies allow online booking of the cars or even booking the car using the app downloaded on their mobile phones. They normally charge ₹1000 to ₹2,000 for a Full day (24Hrs) depends on the model of the car. make sure your original driving license ( international driving license for foreigners) you need to produce original license along with Passport (for foreigners) / Voters ID card or any original identity card while resting a car. before renting a car make sure you are renting a car with Fuel or without Fuel. some car renting companies charge fuel extra and some will include in the price. som car renting agencies will be given with a full tank and has to be returned with a full tank of fuel. It is very important to read the privacy policies and rules and regulation before renting a car as an unexpected situation can really make you worry a lot. Also, read the rules and regulations and payment modes so that does not get confusing on a later stage. last but not least It is very important to choose a company that is reliable.
- Renting Bike or Scooter: This is a cheaper option than the rickshaw and it gives you more freedom as you can cover more in one day without rushing it. a lot of companies offer registered 2-wheeler gearless and geared bike with a yellow colored registration number on a number plate. They usually charge INR 250 to 700 (without petrol) depends on the model you select. A liter of petrol will be sufficient for sight seeing around Hampi, but two liters would be handy if you have plans to go to Tungabadra Dam or Daroji bear sanctuary around 16km from Hampi. They usually charge INR 100 for a liter of petrol, which has to be paid additionally.
- Renting A Bicycle: If you’re a solo traveler, or if you’re going with a group of youngsters, then Bicycle is the best way to explore Hampi if you enjoy history, culture, and nature. It usually costs about INR 120-150 /day. Helmet and lock are included in the price. Most of the Bicycle rental shops are located around the Hampi Bazaar area, The bicycles available for rental in Hampi are generally gearless, so you may find the uphills a bit tiresome, if not impossible. Traffic is very light around Hampi, except on the road to Hosapete. Bicycle might sound an exotic option but you cannot take the cycle to several attractions due to the rocky terrain, so be mindful of that. the terrain is too uneven and the weather is not so favorable either. If you claim you are strong headed and brave-hearted, take a chance and see if you can enjoy Hampi on a bicycle. bicycle Rental shops in Hampi open typically by 8 am in the mornings, some early birds even by 7 am. You can leave back the rented bicycle by sunset; again some shops are open even till 9 pm. Check the vehicle condition and take a test ride before you actually start your rental. It will help you feel comfortable with the bike and the ride.
Things to Pack/Carry
Hampi is a great place to spend a few days wandering around and discovering the rich, vibrant history while also having a bit of your time. Hampi has a lot to offer – For travelers, backpackers, history buffs & worshippers. Whether you’re going solo or in a group. Thousands of tourists visit this destination to have an amazing time with their friends and family. However, the climate of this city is not always skin friendly and that’s why there are a few things that you must carry while packing. Below are some of the things to pack for your Goa trip.
Hampi is a great place to spend a few days wandering around and discovering the rich, vibrant history while also having a bit of your time. Hampi has a lot to offer – For travelers, backpackers, history buffs & worshippers. Whether you’re going solo or in a group. Thousands of tourists visit this destination to have an amazing time with their friends and family. However, the climate of this city is not always skin friendly and that’s why there are a few things that you must carry while packing. Below are some of the things to pack for your Goa trip.
- Sunscreen: When talking about Hampi, sunscreen is among the very basic essentials of the things that need to be carried while traveling. Sunscreen is the first and topmost thing you should pack.
- Flip Flops: Pack up your flip flops as they would be your best friends throughout the trip.
- TRAINERS: You're going to be walking around a city A LOT. Trainers will be your savior. Make sure that you break them in first if you buy a new pair of trainers for your trip. There's nothing worse than a blister when walking around a city.
- Security Belt with Hidden Pocket: This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off. This is hands down the best way to hide your cash.
- Cottonwear: To beat the heat in Hampi, it’s suggested to wear cotton clothes. Therefore, while packing, it’s important to ensure that you’re carrying enough pieces of clothing to stay comfortable throughout the vacation.
- Hat and sunglasses: carry a good quality pair that’ll give your eyes protection from UV rays. These accessories will not only make you look good but also protect your skin.
- Moisturizer and hair oil: when the beach water will make your skin and hair dry and rough and these will come handy carry the travel size of these.
- Insect repellent cream: Do not forget to carry an insect repellent cream. because you are going to be mostly outdoors after sunset. It is highly recommended to pack insect repellent for your Goa holiday.
- Camera and Camera accessories: To capture all special moments you need this bad boy and you'll regret it forever. Goa is a photography paradise don forget to catch the sunrise, the water is clearer in the mornings as well. If u don't have a camera can pack Mobile with a selfie stick.
- Adapters: Don’t forget the adapters If you do need them, save on the crazy airport prices by buying them ahead of your trip.
- Travel Water Bottle: Always travel with a water bottle – it’ll save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. Travel Water Bottle is lightweight and maintains the temperature of your beverage – so you can enjoy a cold Pepsi, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.
- First Aid: In case of any emergencies, you should always carry a first aid box. From hangover pills to headache medicines, it’s safe to carry medical aid when you’re traveling.
- MEDICINES: Any medication that you'll need during your travels is perhaps the most important item to pack here. For any prescribed medicines or a tablet, you take daily, set an alarm on your phone so that you remember to take it. It's so easy to forget when you're backpacking.
- Google map: All right you might say its there in your smartphone, but wait a minute. We recommend you to download the Map of the Hampi where you are going, it will work even in offline mode. It's very handy when there are no signals. - Trust us its a life saver.
- Copies of your Documents: Make copies of your passport, visas, and tickets before departing, make an electronic copy and a physical one. Provide an extra copy to your family member.
- BODY WASH, TOOTHBRUSH, TOOTHPASTE, Shampoo, and conditioner: Small, portable bottles are better for traveling and a lot lighter than the big plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles. It would be useful to fill up smaller sized bottles with your hair products if you find you're running out of space in your backpack.
- LIP BALM: SPF lip balm is also really important - your lips can be damaged by the sun just as your skin can. Keep them moisturized with a sun protection lip balm which you can buy from most pharmacies or cosmetics shops.
- HAIRBRUSH, COMB, HAIR GEL, SPRAY, DEODORANT: The essential hair products that will come in handy when getting ready for the hostel bar crawl.
- PHONE CHARGER/PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER: We all know the feeling when our phone runs out of battery on the road. So bring a portable phone charger.
- Don’t predict the weather: weather forecasts are either your holiday’s best friend or biggest foe. Come rain or shine, meteorologists will always give you the best idea of what weather to expect on your holiday. Check the day before you fly and pack accordingly, and save room for that trusty umbrella you hope you’ll never have to use.
- Towels: Towels! Yet another pesky space-filler you need to think long and hard about whether you actually need. Check ahead of time to see if your holiday accommodation will be providing them (they probably will) and pack accordingly.
- Microfibre Towel: It’s always worth packing a proper towel. Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
- Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizer: Not just in Goa, you need these hygienic products every time you’re packing for traveling somewhere. Apart from keeping you fresh, the wipes and sanitizer will keep you miles away from germs.
- Powerbank: Your checklist for Goa is incomplete without a power bank. Vacations become all the more exciting when you’re able to upload pictures to your social media channels. Therefore, don’t let the battery drain out and keep a power bank with you at all times.
- Backpack: Talking of the bags that you need to carry to a place like Goa, the large comfy totes or backpacks are the best bet. These bags can be of canvas or of any other light material which can be easily carried for the day out.
- Headtorch: Even if you only end up using it once, a decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must. Currently, I’m using the Petzl LED headlamp with a red light.
- Emergency contacts and important addresses
- Carry your own snacks: Once you are out for sightseeing, you will find very few places that offer decent food. Coconuts are, however, easily available in many places. You can carry some snacks of your choice to beat sudden hunger pangs.
Weather
Hampi offers something for everyone in each and every season. From sightseeing to indulging in activities, every vacationer has something in store to enjoy in Hampi, irrespective of the climate of Hampi at that time. In addition, some concerts have now been organized in the market area in front of the Virupaksha Temple. however, Hampi is mostly moderate and dry throughout the year. The weather remains moderately cool except for peak afternoons but mostly perfect for exploring the World Heritage Site. those planning a trip to Hampi should check the temperature at Hampi and pack accordingly and plan their sightseeing and activities schedule. the best time to explore Hampi is from October to February.
Hampi offers something for everyone in each and every season. From sightseeing to indulging in activities, every vacationer has something in store to enjoy in Hampi, irrespective of the climate of Hampi at that time. In addition, some concerts have now been organized in the market area in front of the Virupaksha Temple. however, Hampi is mostly moderate and dry throughout the year. The weather remains moderately cool except for peak afternoons but mostly perfect for exploring the World Heritage Site. those planning a trip to Hampi should check the temperature at Hampi and pack accordingly and plan their sightseeing and activities schedule. the best time to explore Hampi is from October to February.
- March to June are the summer months, with the temperature rising as high as 40 ⁰C. Not many people visit the city during this time. If you are planning to explore Hampi during this season wear protective loose cotton cloths & hat, sunglasses or scarf. Carry plenty of drinking water during the tour. Climate will be generally warm and dry.
- June to September The monsoon rains bring welcome relief to the region. Many of the attractions in Hampi will be closed in the rainy season, for safety concerns. Rains can put your local Hampi itinerary out of gear. Remember, most of the ruins you are going to cover on foot or by bicycle/moped. Even if you hire a cab, you will require a walk along with open areas.
- November to February The temperature starts lowering in October, during The winter period the climate will be very pleasant and cool. Since Hampi is best explored in winter don't miss out the Vijaya Utsav in the month of November. This is the largest festival at Hampi. Generally, they are scheduled for 3 days during the first week of November. The celebrations typically packed with shows of music, dance puppet shows fireworks and a pomp procession as the grand finale showcasing the cultural richness of the place. Of late items like rock climbing, water sports, and rural sports also has been included in the schedule. The programs are state-sponsored and the admission is free.
Must Try Food/Restaurants
The cuisine of Hampi and North Karnataka includes many vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisines. It is one of the oldest surviving cuisines and traces its origin to the Iron Age. As Hampi gets visitors from all parts of the world, all kinds of dishes are available in Hampi around the River Road or in Hippie Island. Choose the one which suits you the best. Do try the local North Karnataka dishes like
The cuisine of Hampi and North Karnataka includes many vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisines. It is one of the oldest surviving cuisines and traces its origin to the Iron Age. As Hampi gets visitors from all parts of the world, all kinds of dishes are available in Hampi around the River Road or in Hippie Island. Choose the one which suits you the best. Do try the local North Karnataka dishes like
- Jolad Rotti: prepared from jowar flour and last but not the least, you have ragi rotti which is prepared with ragi or finger millet flour.
- Chutney Pudi: As the name itself suggests, pudi which mean powder, we can guess it is a dry paste made out of the ingredients put in. There are many varieties of chutney pudi made in North Karnataka.
- Ennegayi: The highlight of this dish is brinjal, but has many other flavors which compliment together very well. This is a favorite among many people and is preferably eaten along with roti.
- Heerekaayi Palya: Ridge gourd or Heerekaayi in Karnataka, is one more healthy vegetable. Palya is prepared using ridge gourd; there are many known ways in which one can prepare this palya.
- Javalikaayi Palya: Javalikaayi is another healthy vegetable grown here. It is not liked by many but still is eaten by many people.
- Tatte Idli: The famous idli of Karnataka is taste idli or plate idli. It is flattened idli that is huge (as big as roti) and is super soft to eat. The idli is served with chutney and sambar.
- Ragi Malt: Ambali (Finger millet or Ragulu) malt is delicious and healthy rejuvenating Indian beverage popularly called as Ragi malt or ragi ganji.
Tips
- Hampi can be busy in the peak season. If you want to avoid the crowds you gotta face to heat and come in April and May. and it is advisable to avoid the rainy season.
- In one day, you can do ample sightseeing around Hampi to different ruins and locations around Hampi which still have the heritage sites. But, if you love photography and if you are a big fan of ancient history, then Hampi is the place where you can spend at least three days to know more about this place.
- In most parts of Hampi, your mobile may end up with no signals so do not rely on mobile connectivity, no network zone alert.
- A good amount of walking is a must, as the ruins are scattered over a huge area. Moped/bicycle hire is a good option to move around.
- There are no ATMs in Hampi, the nearest one is in Kamalapura or Anegundi which is 4 KM away from Hampi so plan your cash withdrawals accordingly. carry enough cash INR 2000is ideal cash.
- Hampi is home to many ancient temples, forts and other well-carved monuments. Remove shoes before entering a temple, There are places to deposit your shoes for just 2 INR.
- Although there are no official rules for the Hampi temples. But while on a visit to the temple which is a place of worship, you are advised to come decently dressed as a mark of respect. So please cover your shoulders and knees out of respect, this counts for men and women. men will be allowed to wear trousers, dhoti, kurta, shirts, and women may not be allowed to wear sleeveless clothes. Only full-length pants will be allowed. so consider this as a vital Hampi travel tip to not upset pilgrims. (Read here: What To Wear to a Hindu Temple)
- When you entered you walked left of the bull/garuda (clockwise) and when you exit you take the opposite side.
- When visiting the temples of Hampi you might be offered Flower, coconut or bananas. These are offerings and considered an honor. Eat it or pass it on, don’t throw it away.
- Though the open areas are hot, the inside of the temples, etc can be refreshingly cool. Take enough rest at one spot before heading to the next.
- Photography is not permitted inside the sanctum area.
- Carry proper sun guard creams and apply them to prevent yourself from sunburns.
- Cows are believed to be sacred and therefore try not to bring your leather backpack or anything else made from leather when you go sightseeing in Hampi.
- Bicycles are fun and smart way to explore the Hampi. If you are walkman/walk woman, go ahead! A large number of places can (only) be covered by just walking. Some times it’s great to walk a lot, sometimes it’s necessary as tracks are not motorable.
- At some locations, you may easily get lost. But you won't be lost for long. Anyway, be a bit careful about the direction sense, if you feel you are heading towards a less trodden or unusual path.
- There are a few Internet cafes in Hampi, Connections are usually slow but manageable for a couple of quick emails.
- There are around 15 foreign exchange counters at Hampi near Hampi Bazaar. All the counters are only in this area. All exchanges have Western Union Money Transfers and accept all Travellers' Cheques. US Dollars, GB Pounds and Euros are the most popular currencies for forex. Canara Bank, situated in the Hampi Bazaar does a lot of forex.
- Avoid camping in the designated heritage site areas, respect them.
- Meat and alcohol aren't available in Hampi town as it's a religious place. However, both are available across the river in Virupapur Gadde.
- Carry a water bottle and a hat or an umbrella. Wear (preferably) lose thin light colored cloths covering limbs.
- Visit asap if you are a beginner or a pro in photography to shoot those beautiful sceneries, monuments, and sculptures.
- Bullock Cart and horse carts are a common sight in and around Hampi. The horse carts in Hampi are decorated in vibrant colors. A ride in a horse cart or a bullock cart is a thrilling experience in itself which is quite different from the rides in other modern modes of transport. it's worth trying.
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