Now that travel restrictions are slowly easing in locations around the world, it’s time to reignite one’s wanderlust by identifying potential destinations worth visiting.
A Unesco world heritage site, Hampi features the ruins of the once-prosperous Vijayanagara Empire invaded and destroyed by Mughals. Even if history isn’t your thing, this Indian city is still noteworthy for its gorgeous landscapes and architecture.
Hampi is located on the banks of Tungabhadra river. On one side is a temple, while on the other side lies Hippie Island, so named due to its former vibe when multiple shacks would provide backpackers with views of the river and camping grounds by the riverbank.
Do not expect luxury accommodation at Hampi unless you are willing to fork out a pretty penny; the more affordable options are homestays. Vegetarian food is widely available here, especially on the temple side.
You can get to Hampi by public bus or auto-rickshaw from the neighbouring city of Hospet. Once in Hampi, rent a scooter or book another auto-rickshaw to check out the sights.
Virupaksha temple draws many visitors – worshippers and tourists alike. Cameras are not allowed inside but you can snap away as much as you like outside. From here, explore the Hemakuta Hill and surrounding temple ruins.
The Badavilinga, Narasimha and Kadalekalu Ganesha temples are all worth a visit. And at Virupaksha temple, chill and have lunch at the Mango Tree restaurant.
In the evening, check out Hampi Bazaar or the Nandi monolithic stone walk. Enjoy beautiful sunset views from Matanga Hill or the Hemakuta Hills.
Exploring Hippie Island
Hampi Island was once a bustling tourist destination with active businesses such as scooter rentals and restaurants. Sadly, these have been shut down since last year due to legal issues, but there are still many natural and historical reasons to pay the island a visit.
Climb 600 steps to visit the Anjaneya Hill temple, also known as Monkey Temple, believed to have been the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. After which, stop by the paddy fields to get Instagram-worthy photos.
If you visit closer to the evening, Sunset Point offers panoramic views of these paddy fields, as well as the Virupaksha temple and the setting sun behind the distant hills.
Other attractions include Sanapur Lake, upon which you can sail in a coracle – small, rounded lightweight boats.
Cliff-diving is another popular activity around the lake, while boulder and cliffside climbing are also enjoyed by the more adventurous tourists to the island.
Round off your visit to Hampi by taking a trip to other hotspots such as the Queen’s bath, the ruins of an ornate, historic bathing chamber used by a king and his wife; the Lotus, Hazara Rama and Vijaya Vitthala temples; the Stone Chariot, a shrine dedicated to Lord Garuda; and the elephant stables, once used to provide shelter for the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Amit and Anindita are Indian Travel bloggers who blog at Travel Like We Do. They talk about affordable travel in India and abroad.