Hampi, a UNESCO world heritage site in Karnataka, India, is a mesmerising destination that transports visitors to a bygone era of grandeur and architectural marvels. Renowned for its ancient ruins, captivating landscapes, and cultural richness, Hampi is a haven for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and spiritual wanderers alike. Let us take a look at the places to see in Hampi, Karnataka, and how an Insta Personal Loan can help you finance your trip.
Top 10 places to visit in Hampi
Here is a list of 10 must-visit places in Hampi:
Vittala temple:
One of Hampi's crown jewels, the Vittala Temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. The iconic stone chariot, musical pillars, and intricate sculptures make it a must-visit. The temple complex, with its ornate halls and courtyards, provides a glimpse into the artistic prowess of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Located in the Hampi ruins complex, near the river |
Timing |
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
Accessibility and audience |
Accessible by road; ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts |
Places to stay |
Evolve Back Hampi, Kishkinda Heritage Resort |
Things to do |
Explore the stone chariot, enjoy the musical pillars, admire intricate sculptures |
Virupaksha temple:
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is the main centre of pilgrimage in Hampi and one of the oldest functioning temples in India. The towering gopuram, vibrant markets, and the sacred Tungabhadra river flowing nearby create a spiritual and cultural ambience.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Situated near the Hampi Bazaar, at the base of the Hemakuta Hill |
Timing |
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
Accessibility and audience |
Accessible by foot or vehicle; popular with pilgrims and cultural tourists |
Places to stay |
Clarks Inn Hampi, Royal Orchid Central Kireeti |
Things to do |
Participate in rituals, visit local markets, enjoy scenic views of Tungabhadra River |
Hemakuta hill:
Offering panoramic views of the ruins, Hemakuta Hill is a trekker's delight. The hill is dotted with ancient temples and monuments, making it an ideal spot to watch the sunrise or sunset, casting a magical glow over the surreal landscape.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Located near the Virupaksha Temple, south of Hampi Bazaar |
Timing |
Open all day |
Accessibility and audience |
Accessible via trekking; ideal for nature lovers and photographers |
Places to stay |
Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort, Shanthi Guest House |
Things to do |
Hike the hill, enjoy sunrise/sunset views, explore ancient temples |
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Elephant stables:
A testament to the royal heritage of Vijayanagara, the Elephant stables are an architectural marvel. These grandiose domed chambers once housed the royal elephants and showcase a fusion of indo-islamic style.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Located in the royal enclosure, close to the Zenana Enclosure |
Timing |
8:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
Accessibility and audience |
Accessible by road; perfect for history enthusiasts |
Places to stay |
Vijayshree Heritage Village, Archana Guest House |
Things to do |
Explore Indo-Islamic architecture, learn about royal history, take photos |
Matanga hill:
For a breathtaking sunrise or sunset experience, venture to Matanga Hill. The climb is rewarded with unparallelled vistas of the Hampi boulders, ancient structures, and the Tungabhadra River meandering through the landscape.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Located on the southeast side of Hampi, offering views of the entire city |
Timing |
Open all day |
Accessibility and audience |
Suitable for adventurers; accessible by hiking trails |
Places to stay |
Rockydwellings, Whispering Rocks |
Things to do |
Enjoy sunrise/sunset, hike to the summit, capture stunning views |
Achyutaraya temple:
Nestled between Gandhamadana and Matanga Hills, this temple is renowned for its massive courtyard and intricate carvings. The location, surrounded by natural beauty, adds to the allure of this historical gem.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Located between Gandhamadana and Matanga Hills |
Timing |
Open all day |
Accessibility and audience |
Accessible by foot or vehicle; ideal for history and architecture lovers |
Places to stay |
Hampi Boulders, Greenstone Resort |
Things to do |
Explore the courtyard, admire intricate carvings, enjoy the natural setting |
Queen's bath:
An exquisite example of Vijayanagara's royal opulence, the Queen's Bath is a large, ornamental structure surrounded by arched corridors and a beautiful lotus-shaped pool. The architecture reflects the luxurious lifestyle of the Vijayanagara rulers.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Located near the Zenana Enclosure, in the heart of Hampi |
Timing |
8:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
Accessibility and audience |
Accessible by road; perfect for architecture and history buffs |
Places to stay |
Heritage Resort Hampi, Padma Guest House |
Things to do |
Admire the lotus-shaped pool, explore the surrounding architecture, relax in the peaceful surroundings |
Sanapur Lake:
A picturesque lake surrounded by rocky hills, ideal for a relaxing boat ride or simply enjoying the serene ambiance amidst nature's beauty.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Located around 6 km from Hampi, near the village of Sanapur |
Timing |
Open all day |
Accessibility and audience |
Ideal for nature lovers; accessible by road and coracle boat rides |
Places to stay |
Lake View Cottage, Mango Tree Homestay |
Things to do |
Take a coracle ride, enjoy the tranquility, admire the rocky landscapes |
Lotus Palace:
A beautiful example of Indo-Islamic architecture, featuring delicate lotus-like carvings on its walls, showcasing the empire's artistic prowess.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Situated in the royal enclosure near the Zenana Enclosure |
Timing |
8:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
Accessibility and audience |
Perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts; accessible by road |
Places to stay |
Evolve Back Hampi, White Elephant Huts |
Things to do |
Explore Indo-Islamic architecture, appreciate the lotus-like carvings, take photographs |
Hampi Bazaar:
A bustling market street lined with shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts, offering a glimpse into the local culture.
Category |
Details |
Location |
Located at the foot of the Virupaksha Temple, in the heart of Hampi |
Timing |
Open all day |
Accessibility and audience |
Accessible by foot; ideal for shoppers and cultural explorers |
Places to stay |
Gopi Guesthouse, Mowgli Guest House |
Things to do |
Shop for souvenirs, experience local culture, sample street food |
The best time to visit Hampi
The best time to visit Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, India, is from October to February, during the winter months.
- Winter (Oct to Feb): The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal for exploring the ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.
- Summer (March to May): Avoid visiting during the summer as temperatures can soar above 40°C, making it uncomfortable for sightseeing.
- Monsoon (June to Sep): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans and make it difficult to explore the area.
Hampi trip cost
A trip to Hampi, India can be both budget-friendly and enjoyable. Here’s a rough breakdown of costs for a 2-day trip for one person:
- Transportation: Rs. 500-Rs. 1,500 (bus or train)
- Accommodation: Rs. 800-Rs. 2,000 per night (budget hotels or guesthouses)
- Food: Rs. 200-Rs. 500 per day (local eateries)
- Entry Fees: Rs. 50-Rs. 100 (for some temples and sites)
- Local Transport: Rs. 200-Rs. 500 (bike or auto-rickshaw rentals)
- Total Estimated Cost: Rs. 2,000-Rs. 5,600
Adjust based on your preferences for comfort and convenience. Exploring Hampi’s ruins and landscapes offers great value for the money.
How to plan a trip to Hampi
To plan a trip to Hampi, start by deciding the best time to visit (October to February). Research and book accommodations in advance, as Hampi is a popular tourist destination. Create a list of must-see attractions, including the Virupaksha Temple, Hampi Bazaar, and the Vijaya Vittala Temple. Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience. Plan your transportation, whether by bus, train, or car, and book tickets accordingly. Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather and walking shoes. Lastly, prepare a flexible itinerary to allow for spontaneous exploration and relaxation in this historical and picturesque town.
Is 2 days enough in Hampi
Two days in Hampi can give you a glimpse of its rich history and architectural wonders, but to truly immerse yourself in its beauty and explore its vast expanse, a longer stay is recommended. Here's a summary on the ideal duration for a trip to Hampi and factors to consider when planning your itinerary:
While two days in Hampi can cover the major attractions like Virupaksha Temple, Vitthala Temple, and the Royal Enclosure, a longer stay allows for a more leisurely exploration of the Hampi tourist spots. Hampi's vast landscape is dotted with numerous temples, ruins, and monuments, each with its own story and significance. Spending more time allows you to delve deeper into the history and culture of this ancient city.
How to finance a trip to Hampi with Insta Personal Loan
If you go over-budget or need funds for any urgent travel expenses such as a medical emergency, you can explore our Insta Personal Loan. With pre-approved offers, it is an excellent way to get funds within 30 minutes* to 4 hours.
To determine your EMIs, you can use the Insta Personal Loan EMI Calculator. Simply enter the loan amount, tenure, and interest rate, and the calculator will provide you with an estimate of your monthly EMIs. This will help you plan your finances better and ensure that your Hampi trip is smooth and stress-free.
Here are the features that make it the perfect choice for travel expenses:
- Check offer in 2 steps: Simply enter your mobile number and OTP to check the offer.
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Factors to consider
- Interest in history and architecture: If you're passionate about history and architecture, consider a longer stay to explore Hampi's numerous temples, monuments, and ruins in detail.
- Trekking and nature: Hampi offers opportunities for trekking and enjoying the natural beauty of its surroundings. A longer stay allows for more time to explore these aspects.
- Relaxation and slow travel: If you prefer a relaxed pace and want to soak in the ambiance of Hampi, consider extending your stay to enjoy the laid-back vibe of the city.
Hampi's unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination. Whether exploring the ancient ruins or basking in the serenity of its landscapes, every corner of Hampi tells a tale of a glorious past, inviting travellers to step back in time. Make your dream trip a reality with our instant travel loan.
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