If you’re planning to visit a tourist destination in South India that takes you on a captivating journey through its rich history, spirituality, art, and natural beauty, then you should look nowhere else than Hampi. Book a Hampi local sightseeing tour package with us to explore this amazing destination. It is a kind of place that offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and scenic landscapes, making it a popular hotspot that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
Here you can step back into the time of the bygone era through numerous architectural marvels, palaces, and ruins. Or stroll around the religious attractions to enjoy a serene and peaceful retreat from the maddening crowd. Or admire the lush greenery, scenic vistas, and boulder-strewn hills to experience the best of Mother Nature. Or soak in the local culture by interacting with locals that offer a glimpse into the everyday life of Hampi.
Not to forget that this city is famous for its plethora of outdoor activities as well. Depending on your interest, you can indulge in trekking, rock climbing, or cycling. Camping is also available for all who are looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience with their Hampi local sightseeing tour packages. What’s more? The top 5 places to visit in Hampi are as follows:
1. Vittala Temple
Out of many temples in Hampi, Vittala Temple is one such pilgrimage site that stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is a masterpiece of Vijayanagara architecture, characterized by its intricate carvings, majestic structures, and attention to detail.
As you enter the temple premises, you are greeted by a sprawling courtyard surrounded by various structures, each with its unique significance. The courtyard features the iconic Stone Chariot, which serves as the prime attraction of this site. It resembles a chariot drawn by mythical creatures, and its wheels, pillars, and ornate decorations showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the artisans of that era.
Adjacent to the Stone Chariot is the main shrine, housing the idol of Lord Vittala. One can also find enchanting musical pillars with Ranga Mantapa and a separate shrine dedicated to Garuda within the complex.
Today, the Vittala Temple attracts tourists, historians, and pilgrims from across the globe. A visit to the Vittala Temple in Hampi is a journey through time, transporting you to an era of opulence, devotion, and artistic excellence.
2. Hanuman Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Hanuman Tempe is a famous Hindu temple that holds significant religious importance and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists throughout the year. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman, as mentioned in the Ramayana, an ancient Hindu epic.
One of the distinctive features of the Hanuman Temple is the presence of a huge statue of Lord Hanuman situated right outside the temple complex. This statue, known as the "Veera Hanuman," is about 22 feet tall and is made of a single granite stone. It is supposed to be one of the tallest statues of Lord Hanuman in India.
Devotees to the Hanuman Temple often engage in various religious activities such as prayers, chanting of hymns, and circumambulation of the temple. The temple atmosphere is filled with spiritual energy and devotion. Please dress modestly whenever you pay heed to this temple as it is important to maintain decorum and respect its sanctity.
3. Matanga Hill
The Matanga Hill is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hampi after Virupaksha Temple that provides a perfect escapade to people looking to spend some time in serenity. It is known for its historical significance and breathtaking views that impresses people from far and wide.
To reach the top of Matanga Hill, visitors have to climb a series of steps that wind their way up the hillside. It is a moderate hike, and the ascent can take around 20-30 minutes, depending on one's fitness level. Along the way, you'll come across some small shrines and temples that add to the charm of the climb.
Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the entire Hampi landscape. From this vantage point, you can see the iconic landmarks of Hampi, such as the Achyutaraya Temple, the Hampi Bazaar, and the Tungabhadra River snaking through the ruins.
The best time to visit Matanga Hill is during sunrise or sunset when the light casts a magical glow on the surroundings. It is advisable to carry water and wear comfortable footwear during the hike, as it can get quite hot and the terrain can be uneven in some places.
4. Daroji Bear Sanctuary
Sprawling across 5.58 square km of area, the Daroji Bear Sanctuary was created to provide a safe habitat for the sloth bears and to prevent conflicts between bears and humans in the surrounding areas. It also aims to promote awareness and education about the conservation of sloth bears and their natural habitat.
Visitors to the Daroji Bear Sanctuary can observe the bears in their natural habitat from designated watchtowers. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late evening when the bears are more active. It's important to note that the sanctuary is regulated, and you are required to follow the guidelines and regulations set by the authorities to ensure the safety of both the visitors and the bears.
If you plan to visit the Daroji Bear Sanctuary, it is advisable to check the current regulations and guidelines, as they may change from time to time. Additionally, it's always a good idea to respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance to ensure their well-being and your own safety.
Shopping
Your Hampi tour won’t be complete without strolling around its local markets. Start your shopping with the Hampi Bazaar. Lying close to the Virupaksha Temple, the Hampi Bazaar is lined with shops selling a variety of items. You can find handicrafts, traditional clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and musical instruments under one roof.
Head to the Mango Tree Shop if you’re interested in traditional Indian garments like sarees, salwar kameez, and kurtas. While Hampi Handicrafts offers a wide range of handicrafts made by local artisans, the Sanapur Mallige is known for its banana fiber products like bags, wallets, home décor, and other accessories. Make sure to bargain as it is a common practice here.
Always remember to have cash in hand as many small shops and vendors might not accept credit or debit cards. Also, it's advisable to be cautious while purchasing antiques, as there are restrictions on the export of such items.
How to Reach Hampi?
There are several ways to get down to Hampi. Depending on your mood, you can choose to travel via your favorite mode of transportation. Among them, the most convenient way for people from Bangalore, Goa, and Hubli is via roadways. The state government runs several buses for the ease of people on an everyday basis. You can either opt to sit in a private or a tourist bus or simply self-drive to make the most of your road trip.
Another option is to catch a direct train to Hospet Junction, which is well-served by several trains from the metro railheads of the country. Outside the railway station, you can book a cab with an experienced chauffeur from the list of top car rental companies in Hampi to enjoy traveling within the city in your utmost comfort.
Lastly, the facility of traveling by air is also available. However, it would be worth noting that Hampi doesn’t have an airport. That means that you need to fly to the nearest airport, which is the Hubli Airport located around 166 km away. One can also board a flight to the Belgaum Airport to cover the maximum distance in minimum time. The choice is yours!
