Established on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, visiting Hampi is like walking into the ancient Vijayanagara Empire. The archaeological ruins and temple complexes in the town have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And uncovering the stories and secrets of these centuries-old stones is one of the best things to do in Hampi.
Hampi, however, isn’t all about historical lessons. It’s also an alluring arena for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. The grounds have massive boulders to scale and cliffs to jump into crystal-clear lakes. Cycling through the picturesque countryside is also a must-do activity in Hampi.
This list of things to do in Hampi, Karnataka, covers the preferences of different trips. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, or someone looking for an epic getaway, Hampi has plenty to cherish.
1. Explore the Hampi group of monuments
The Hampi group of monuments tells the story of an awe-inspiring journey of the Vijayanagara Empire. It’s a witness to the grandeur of the royals.
From the imposing Virupaksha Temple to the magnificent Vittala Temple, each monument has its own charm. As you wander through their empty halls and intricately carved corridors, you can’t help but marvel at the architectural finesse that has stood the test of time.
If you’re looking for important things to do in Hampi in one day, exploring these architectural marvels is a must-not-miss. Hire a bicycle and go on a ride, checking out every single nook and corner of Hampi spread across a vast rocky terrain.
2. Visit Monkey Temple atop Anjaneya Hill
Perched high above the ancient ruins, Monkey Temple is a religious place dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This Anjaneya Hill near Hampi is considered Hanuman’s birthplace. It also offers breathtaking views of Hampi’s rugged landscape.
To visit the shrine, you need to ascend a long flight of stairs. As you reach the summit, the temple emerges against the sky. Pay homage to Lord Hanuman and enjoy the views of Hampi.
As you climb your way up, the temperature comes down, and the tranquil beauty of nature envelops you. Along the way, you might also find mischievous monkeys embodying the playful spirit of Hanuman himself.
3. Check out the Hemakuta hill temples
Hemakuta Hill also houses a temple complex. It’s dotted with several mandapas, galleries and gateways of various sizes. Lying amidst a sea of boulders and verdant vegetation, these temples are among the oldest structures in Hampi.
As you ascend the slopes of the hill, each step brings you closer to history. The complex is a convergence of artistry and devotion with some of South India’s most exquisite architectural wonders. Although many are dedicated to Lord Shiva, they’re also referred to as Jain Temples.
Just like Anjaneya Hill, Hemakuta Hill offers panoramic views of the monuments in Hampi and the surrounding landscape. A visit to the hill promises an unforgettable journey through time.
4. Explore the riverside ruins of Hampi
The archaeological ruins of Hampi are also spread close to the banks of River Tungabhadra. Visiting these scattered remnants is a captivating exploration of once-thriving civilization.
The journey starts with the Kodandarama Temple. Then, the riverside area features a reclined sculpture of Lord Vishnu, small, submerged shrines, and a variety of artefacts carved on flat rocks and boulders.
Some of the most sought-after artefacts here are an array of 108 Shivalingas carved on a single flat rock surface. The place has a lingering charm of wonder and reverence. It offers a serene retreat for pilgrims and travellers alike.
5. Hut stay in Hippie Island
During your Hampi tour, you should also take a trip to Hippie Island across the river. It has a vibrant hippie culture, and it’s well-known for its laid-back ambiance.
Amidst the natural beauty of the verdant countryside, time slows down on the island, allowing you to reconnect with your inner self. You can stroll along the riverbank, go for a swim in the water, or sit around a bonfire under a star-studded sky, sharing stories and laughter.
It has many shacks and cafes, and living overnight in a rustic hut here is one of the most fun things to do in Hampi. Tucked away from the crowds, the cozy huts of the island offer solace and serenity. They provide an escape from the bustling Hampi town, literally.
6. Rock climbing on the island
The landscape of Hippie Island and surrounding Hampi is ideal for rock climbing. Magnificent ancient boulders dot the vastly spread landscape here. And the rugged terrain and towering boulders offer an adrenaline-fueled playground for climbers of all levels.
The unique terrain in the middle of nowhere makes rock climbing one of the magical things to do in Hampi Hippie Island. Climbing those boulders is sure to be a surreal experience. It’s an opportunity to embrace your inner adventurer and take on an exhilarating challenge.
The experience challenges both body and mind. It leaves you exhilarated, empowered and inspired by your own boundless powers.
7. Cliff jumping near Sanapur Lake
If you want to experience the adrenaline rush of cliff jumping, head over to Sanapur Lake. With its crystal-clear waters, the lake calls thrill-seekers to take the plunge into nature’s playground.
The cool breeze and panoramic views of Sanapur Lake below are thrilling enough for the adventure, providing an unforgettable cliff-jumping experience. Even though the cliffs aren’t high enough, they’re of decent height to take a chilling leap into the lake.
Apart from Sanapur Lake, Tungabhadra River has many cliff diving sites for adventure buffs visiting Hampi. You might come across signs warning you of crocodiles, but there have been little to no reports of them at the diving sites.
8. Trek to Matanga Hilltop
Matanga Hill is the highest point of Hampi, and a trek to the top of the hillock is a popular activity. You can get a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape from the hilltop.
The short trek to the top leads you to a small shrine called Veerabhadra Temple. Nearby, you also have a small cave, believed to be where King Sugriva (from the Hindu epic Ramayana) hid. The trek is an invitation to embark on an unforgettable adventure, one step at a time.
Although many trails are on the way down, the most popular is the one through Hampi Bazaar and Achyutaraya Temple. Another popular one ends at Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple. The hilltop is also a hotspot for photography enthusiasts.
9. Wander around the ruins at Anegundi
The enchanting village of Anegundi (earlier called Kishkindha) lies across the Tungabhadra River. It’s older than Hampi, and it’s often also considered the old Hampi. And it has a unique cultural and historical heritage that captivates tourists.
Walking through the ruins of Anegundi is like stepping back in time. It’s believed to have once been the kingdom of monkeys (ruled by King Sugriva), as mentioned in the Ramayana. This blend of mythology and archaeology makes Anegundi irresistible.
Whether you’re checking out the ancient Anegundi Fort or Onake Kindi cave paintings, you can’t help but marvel at the resilience of these centuries-old structures.
10. Experience the charm of Old Palace
Amidst the archaeological ruins of Anegundi lies the beautiful Old Palace (also called Gagan Palace). It’s a once-majestic, yellow-coloured building from the 16th century. And it transports you to an era of regal splendour of Vijayanagara.
The Old Palace used to be the residence of the Vijayanagara rulers. But today, it serves as a local administrative building of Hampi.
Even though much of the palace is in ruins, its imposing architecture and ornate design offer a glimpse into the artistic prowess of the artisans. It promises an immersive journey through time, leaving you enchanted by its enduring charm.
11. Admire the displays in the museum
Visiting the Archaeological Museum is another fun activity during Hampi’s local sightseeing. It’s a government museum that houses artefacts and remnants found during the excavation in Hampi. This treasure trove of exhibits offers a glimpse into the Vijayanagara Empire.
Coins, statues and metal plates are among the items kept here. The gallery is divided into four main sections, each dedicated to a different set of exhibits. Each display tells a unique story, shedding light on Hampi's cultural and artistic heritage.
Scaled models of Hampi are one of the most exquisite exhibits in the museum. Religious relics and sculptures of various Hindu deities can also be found here.
12. Shopping in the local market
Nestled amidst the ancient ruins, the narrow lanes of Hampi Bazaar also offer a plethora of unique treasures. The market captures the essence of Hampi’s culture well.
From embroidered shawls to fibre handicrafts, each item draws tourists to Hampi Bazaar. The street market is full of exquisite and authentic handicrafts at affordable prices. Stone artefacts, leather crafts and musical instruments are some of the must-buy items here.
Apart from souvenirs, the bustling local market also awaits you with a rich blend of aromas. Hampi Market has several places to fill yourself with your favourite Hampi delicacy. Exploring the local market is an experience to savour and cherish.
13. Enjoy a trip to Tungabhadra Dam
Tungabhadra Dam is a beautiful blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity. The greenery and serene waters create a natural setting in which you can enjoy your Hampi trip calmly. The journey to the dam, too, is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
The dam was built across the Tungabhadra River for irrigation and power generation. Today, it also offers a scenic retreat to travellers.
As you approach the dam, you can see the colossal structure spanning the river. It offers panoramic views of the surroundings. Nearby, you also have a garden to relax and enjoy your day. Make sure you watch the beautiful musical fountain in the evening.
14. Coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River
A coracle is a small, circular boat made of interwoven bamboo. And there are many coracle boating opportunities on the Tungabhadra River, on the way to the dam.
A traditional coracle ride on the river offers a unique perspective of the surroundings. As you make your way ahead, the sway of the coracle pulls you into a state of tranquil bliss. Villagers have used coracles for fishing and transportation since the era of the Vijayanagara Empires.
Whether you’re seeking solace amidst a natural landscape or craving a water adventure, the coracle ride is a must-try. It’s one of the offbeat things to do in Hampi that lingers in your mind for a long time.
15. Watch wildlife at Daroji Bear Sanctuary
As the name suggests, Daroji Bear Sanctuary provides home to sloth bears, one of India’s most elusive creatures. Nestled amidst the rocky outcrops and lush vegetation, it’s one of the few places in the country where you can observe Indian sloth bears in the wild.
Daroji is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. It has over 100 magnificent sloth bears kept in their natural habitat.
Apart from bears, the sanctuary also has other animals like tigers, leopards and mongooses. With luck, you may even encounter other inhabitants, such as jackals and leopards. A visit to Daroji Bear Sanctuary, thus, can turn into an unforgettable experience.
Even though the architectural ruins are among the best places to visit in Hampi, there are many other unique things to do in Hampi and around. From hill temples to riverside shrines, there are plenty of hidden places in Hampi to discover.
Hampi disappoints no one, whether seeking spiritual enlightenment or a calm vacation. From temple hopping amidst ruins to calm coracle rides, you have plenty of activities to try in Hampi. Even adventurous backpackers love the place.
Plan your visit during winter (November – February), when the weather is the most pleasant. You can take a bike and explore the top things to do in Hampi freely.
