Experience the unique blend of culture, traditions, and vibrant local life that Hampi offers with our all-inclusive Hampi tour packages. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that goes beyond the boundaries of time, connecting the past with the present in a seamless tapestry of experiences.
As the sun bathes the boulders and ruins in hues of gold, Hampi transforms into a magical realm. The play of light and shadows adds a timeless charm to every stone, making each moment a piece of living art. Whether you're sipping chai on the banks of the Tungabhadra River or strolling through the ruins at dusk, the golden hour in Hampi is an enchanting experience that transcends time.
Hampi's charm extends to its culinary offerings. The local eateries and street stalls serve a range of delectable South Indian, North Indian, and Karnataka cuisine. Don't miss the chance to savor regional specialties like bisi bele bath, masala dosa, and local sweets. The food in Hampi is not just sustenance; it's a journey through the region's rich culinary heritage.
For wellness seekers, the town boasts numerous yoga retreats and wellness centers where you can spend some time in tranquility to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Amidst the ancient ruins and natural beauty, these places work best to find inner peace through meditation, yoga, and holistic healing practices.
You can do all this and a lot more with our Hampi tour packages. We at Hampi Tourism, strive to offer the best holiday experience for tourists of all types. Our team of travel experts helps you select the right package based on your holiday style, preferences, and other needs. In case you didn’t like the pre-designed Hampi tour packages, you can request our professionals to add a personal touch to the shortlisted one. Along with this, we also assist you in curating an itinerary of your choice so that you can cover the top tourist attractions with ease.
At Hampi Tourism, we also have a list of top car rental companies in Hampi. Booking a cab from there will allow you to travel in your utmost comfort, without worrying about anything else. What else do you need? Please fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch with us.
History of Hampi
The history of Hampi is rich and fascinating, marked by the rise and fall of the Vijayanagara Empire. It dates back to the ancient times when it was known as Pampa Kshetra or Kishkindha Kshetra, associated with the Ramayana. According to Hindu mythology, Hampi is believed to be the place where Lord Rama and his loyal monkey God Hanuman first met.
The most significant chapter in Hampi's history unfolds during the Vijayanagara Empire. Founded in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, the Vijayanagara Empire reached its zenith under the rule of Emperor Krishnadevaraya in the 16th century.
Hampi became the imperial capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, flourishing as a center of culture, trade, and architecture. However, after the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi lost its political significance but retained its religious and cultural importance. Many of the temples continued to be places of worship, though on a more modest scale compared to their former glory.
Places to Visit in Hampi
Give a kick start to your Hampi tour with a visit to the Virupaksha Temple. It is a historic Hindu temple that features the presiding deity of Lord Shiva, which is worshipped here in the form of Virupaksha. Next is the Vijaya Vittala Temple, which is known for its impressive architecture, intricate carvings, and the famous stone chariot.
Lying at a distance of 10 km from there is the Hemakuta Hill Temple. The Hemakuta Hill Temple is a collection of small temples and shrines scattered across Hemakuta Hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. In case you’re a devotee of Lord Krishna, include the Krishna Temple in your itinerary list of must-visit sightseeing places in Hampi.
If interested and have time, you can also plan to explore the other pilgrimage sites. These are the Achyutaraya Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, Monkey Temple, and Lakshmi Narasimha Temple.
For nature admirers, the city boasts Matanga Hill where you can witness breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the ruins, boulders, and the Tungabhadra River. For architect buffs, there is a Lotus Mahal, Queen’s Bath, and Elephant Stables. Together, these architectural marvels provide a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of the Vijayanagara Empire, attracting visitors from around the world to explore their historical and cultural significance.
Don’t miss Hippie Island if you’re a beach lover. It is a great place for all those who are looking for tranquil surroundings, away from the more crowded and touristy areas of Hampi. The Hippie Island has become a hub for backpackers, yoga enthusiasts, and those who are in search of a more alternative and laid-back atmosphere.
While the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary serves as a one-stop destination for wildlife enthusiasts, the Archaeological Museum houses a diverse collection of various exhibits that take you back to the time of the bygone era. Please note that the entry fee to visit the Archaeological Museum is INR 5 per person for adults. It is free for children under 15.
Combine all this with an extensive shopping experience at Hampi Bazaar. The Hampi Bazaar is the main market area that is lined with a mix of modern shops and street vendors selling a variety of goods, including traditional handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. It's a great place to shop for mementos and experience local culture.
How to Reach Hampi?
By Airways: The nearest airport to Hampi is the Hubli Airport. You can also board a flight to Belgaum Airport or Kempegowda International Airport in case you don’t get a flight to Hubli Airport. Both airports are located at a distance of 270 km and 350 km respectively.
By Railways: Around 13 km away is the Hospet Junction, which is considered closest to Hampi. To be there at Hospet, you can catch a direct train from Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Goa to enjoy a hassle-free train journey. From there, you can look for local transportation to commute further to your desired destination.
By Roadways: Lastly, if you like road traveling, you can choose to enjoy a road journey in a private or a state-run bus. These buses operate from the nearby cities to Hampi on an everyday basis. If you prefer a more comfortable mode of transportation, you can hire a taxi or drive to Hampi from nearby cities. The road journey offers picturesque views of the Karnataka countryside.