Underground Shiva Temple / Prasanna Virupaksha Temple Hampi Entry Fee
- Entry is Free
Underground Shiva Temple / Prasanna Virupaksha Temple Hampi Phone
N/A
Rating: 
| 4/5 stars
Based on total 38 reviews
Underground Shiva Temple / Prasanna Virupaksha Temple Hampi Address: Near Noblemen's Quarters | Near Hampi Bus Stand, Hampi, Karnataka, 583239, India
Hampi Tour Packages
Underground Shiva Temple / Prasanna Virupaksha Temple Hampi Timings
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday | 6:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Tuesday | 6:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Wednesday | 6:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Thursday | 6:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Friday | 6:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Saturday | 6:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| Sunday | 6:00 am – 6:00 pm |
The Underground Shiva Temple (or Prasanna Virupaksha temple) is one of the oldest temples in Hampi. Built during the reign of the Vijayanagara kings, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its sanctum is a few meters below the ground level, and due to this unique architecture, much of it is submerged partly in water throughout the year.
The temple is located near Hampi's main road, close to the magnificent Royal Enclosure. It stands amidst a beautiful lawn covered in green. Its roof and part of the architecture can be seen at the ground level.
History of Prasanna Virupaksha Temple
The Prasanna Virupaksha Underground Shiva Temple is a 14th-century Hindu temple. It remained buried for over four hundred years before being discovered in the 1980s.
The inscriptions on the temple mention that Vijayanagara ruler Krishnadevaraya had donated extensively to it. Its proximity to the royal quarters suggests that it might have been used by the royal family for private ceremonies. However, Hampi Prasanna Virupaksha Temple is in a dilapidated condition today. The inner sanctum is also devoid of any idol.
Image Gallery of Underground Shiva Temple / Prasanna Virupaksha Temple Hampi
Architecture of Prasanna Virupaksha Temple
Prasanna Virupaksha Temple is a simple, beautiful structure constructed in the Vijayanagara style of architecture. It’s located inside a large courtyard enclosed by a wall. The main temple is built in a low-lying area, with its roof at par with the present ground level.
This Underground Shiva Temple has a flat-roofed main tower. Steps from this entrance tower lead to the main pillared hall of the temple. It has the temple garbhagriha (sanctum) along with the antarala space. The complex also has maha mantapa and ardha mantapa. The temple’s dhwaja stambha protrudes through the rooftop.
Most of the temple, including its sanctum, remains flooded around the year. Devotees consider this water sacred. It’s said that an inlet and outlet are connected to the Tungabhadra River, but there has been no conclusive proof.
Things to do at Underground Shiva Temple Hampi
1. Admiring the architecture – Prasanna Virupaksha Shiva Temple has spacious halls and massive stone pillars that attract many tourists and history enthusiasts. It’s simple and elegant, designed in the Vijayanagara style of architecture. But unlike many Hampi temples, this temple lacks intricate and charismatic carvings.
2. Visiting the inner sanctum – One of the most intriguing aspects of the temple is its inner sanctum. It remains flooded during monsoons, making it inaccessible. Bats are often found fluttering in this dark Hampi Underground Shiva Temple. Even on other days of the year, you need to wade through knee-deep water to reach this chamber.
3. Relaxing in the garden – After exploring the temple, you can unwind in the lush garden surrounding the site. The well-maintained lawn offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for families to sit, relax and soak in the temple’s tranquil atmosphere.
Hampi Prasanna Virupaksha Temple Timings and Entry Fees
Prasanna Virupaksha / Underground Shiva Temple Hampi is open from 6 AM to 6 PM every day. The best time to visit this temple complex is between October and March. You need 30-45 minutes to comfortably check it out.
No fee is needed for temple entry.
How to reach Underground Shiva / Prasanna Virupaksha Temple?
The Underground Shiva Temple is close to the Royal Enclosure. It’s only 2 km from the Hampi bus stand. The nearest railway station and airport are Hospet Junction (13 km away) and Jindal Vijaynagar Airport (33 km away), respectively. Bengaluru Airport (360 km away) offers better connectivity.
Here’s how to visit the Underground Shiva Temple Hampi –
By bike – Rental bikes and scooters are available in Hampi. Take one for a day and explore this temple and other tourist spots in Hampi.
By auto/e-rickshaw – Auto/e-rickshaws are also plenty in the town. Hire one to take you to this ancient Shiva temple.
By cab/taxi – A cab/taxi from the top car rental companies in Hampi is the best way to visit Prasanna Virupaksha Temple. It allows you to explore all tourist places comfortably.
Book a Hampi tour package from Hampi Tourism to experience the ancient charm and breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. With our expertly crafted packages, you can immerse yourself in the history, culture, and natural wonders of Hampi. For more details or to book your unforgettable journey, please fill the Contact Us today.
