Hampi Bazaar Street Entry Fee
- No Entry Fee
Hampi Bazaar Street Phone
N/A
Rating: 
| 4/5 stars
Based on total 40 reviews
Hampi Bazaar Street Address: Nimbapura, Hampi, Karnataka, 583239, India
Hampi Bazaar Street (also known as Virupaksha Bazaar) is a unique historical attraction in Hampi. It’s an ancient street that stretches over a kilometre, which has been a major landmark of Hampi since the Vijayanagara era.
The street is lined with ruins of pavilions, which were once part of a bustling market. A part of the street still functions as a market, and it’s one of the top shopping places here. You can pick up souvenirs and memorabilia to remember your trip to Hampi.
Apart from being a marketplace, Hampi Bazaar Street is also the venue for Hampi Utsav, a cultural festival that attracts a lot of tourists.
Where is Hampi Bazaar Street?
Hampi Bazaar Street is a long marketplace stretch that unfolds in front of Virupaksha Temple and ends at the foothills of Matanga Hill. It’s a well-known marketplace with a series of ruined pavilions on both sides of the road. Even though the place has lost much of its sheen, it’s still a popular tourist destination.
History of Hampi Bazaar Street
Hampi Bazaar Street was once part of a booming market that also housed wealthy merchants. When Vijayanagara kings ruled the region, the market had shops that sold jewellery, precious stones, silk clothes, and other luxury items. It’s said that domesticated animals like cows and horses were also traded here.
The market was considered one of the first open malls in our country. Despite Hampi Bazaar’s demolition by the Mughals, the street functions as a vibrant marketplace that locals rely on. It has many items to offer tourists. It’s also recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Things to do in Hampi Bazaar
1. Checking out historic pavilions – The street was once a marketplace and residence of affluent merchants. Both sides of the street were adorned with single and two-storey pavilions, only parts of which remain today. Walk along the street and admire those pavilions that were filled with luxury items during the Vijayanagara rule.
There is also an imposing Nandi bull structure known as Yeduru Basavana. Adjacent to it is a three-storey pavilion with a gallery of old images, offering a glimpse into the past of Hampi.
2. Shopping for local handicrafts – Hampi Bazaar is the most convenient place to buy local items. The shops and stalls here sell embroidered shawls and textiles, traditional costumes, antique coins and other local handicrafts. You can also purchase handmade wall décor, ethnic bags or traditional jewellery sets as souvenirs. Another unique thing to buy while shopping at Hampi Bazaar Street is the replica of Hampi ruins.
3. Experiencing Hampi Utsav – Hampi Bazaar Street is also the centre of attention during Hampi Utsav, an annual festival held in November. Feel free to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the festival, when the street turns into a lively hub of activity. During those few days, the place is blazing with tourists who come to see the cultural and religious activities in Hampi. The annual chariot festival of Virupaksha Temple in February is another sparkling festival celebrated here.
4. Trekking to Matanga Hill – When exploring Hampi Bazaar, you should also fit the nearby Matanga Hill into your itinerary. The hilltop offers beautiful views of the entire town and its ruins. If trekking isn’t your favourite, you can take a leisurely morning stroll or a bicycle ride along Hampi Bazaar before the shops open up for daily business.
5. Exploring nearby attractions – Many tourist destinations are near Hampi Bazaar market. Virupaksha Temple is, of course, one of them. Somewhat close to the temple, you might spot the wooden temple car that devotees pull along the street during the annual chariot festival. A few other attractions nearby are Achyutaraya Temple and Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple. They are accessible via a short trek across Matanga Hill.
Image Gallery of Hampi Bazaar Street
Hampi Bazaar Timings and Entry Fees
Hampi Bazaar Street is open every day from 6 AM to 11 PM. Plan your visit in the evening, when the market is buzzing with souvenir shops and food stalls. The best time to visit Hampi Bazaar is during winter, between November and February. The weather is pleasant on these days, and many of the festivals and cultural events in Hampi are celebrated during this period.
Entry to Hampi Bazaar Street is free for everyone.
How to reach Hampi Bazaar Street?
Hampi Bazaar Street is right in the heart of town. It’s only a few hundred metres from Hampi bus stop. Hospet Junction (13 km away) is the nearest railway station, and Jindal Vijaynagar Airport (35 km away) is the nearest airport. The closest international airport, however, is 360 km away, in Bengaluru.
Now, here’s how to reach the market –
By bike – Bikes and scooters are easily available for rent in Hampi Bazaar. You can take one to explore the street and nearby tourist places.
By auto/e-rickshaw – Auto-rickshaws are another common means of travelling in Hampi. You can hire them anywhere to visit the market and other tourist places.
By cab/taxi – The most convenient and hassle-free option to visit Hampi Bazaar Street and other popular tourist destinations is to get a taxi or full-day cab. You can book them from the top car rental companies in Hampi. With a dedicated vehicle at your disposal, you can explore the surrounding areas and immerse yourself fully in the historical wonders of the region.
Hampi offers an unforgettable journey for every kind of traveller. Booking a Hampi tour package with Hampi Tourism promises an enriching experience filled with historical marvels and cultural wonders. Please fill the Contact Us form today to tailor your perfect itinerary and ensure a memorable exploration of this captivating destination.
