Ruins of Hampi

Just like humans even civilizations are mortal, they are born, achieve their peak, decline and then die.

The only effort we as humans can take is not to let these civilizations die from the memory of the human race.

Hampi was the capital of the mighty Vijayanagar Empire for almost 200 years. This capital city was built on the banks of the Tungabadra river and was one of the biggest and prosperous cities in the world during that period.

At the peak of its glory, various kings built beautiful temples, massive palaces, and huge market areas. 
It was this mighty empire that saved most of South India from the rampage and plunder of Muslim sultanas for 200 years.

Like most of the barbaric destructions done in north of India, it was the Islamic invasions that left this city in shambles, The empire was center of hatred and Jealousy of 5 sultanas who together planned and plundered it. 

Robert Sewell, in his book The Forgotten Empire, concludes thus – "With fire and sword, with crowbars and axes, they carried on day after day their work of destruction. Never perhaps in the history of the world has such havoc been wrought, and wrought so suddenly, on so splendid a city; teeming with a wealthy and industrious population in the full plenitude of prosperity one day, and on the next seized, pillaged, and reduced to ruins, amid scenes of savage massacre and horrors beggaring description."

Hampi is a perfect example of our glorious past and is definitely one of the biggest open-air museums. 

1) Virupaksha Temple & Market Complex

This temple is dedicated to lord shiva, It has an uninterrupted history since the 7th century and is one of the oldest functioning temples in India.

Ruins of Hampi market which was once a business center of many traders. 

Erotic carvings

Beautiful and such vibrant paintings made of natural colors on the ceiling and walls of the temple.

2) Vittala temple and market  complex

Built-in 15th century this temple is dedicated to Lord Vittala, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, This temple is known for its unique musical pillars, These SAREGA pillars produce musical notes when tapped gently. The cluster of musical pillars was carved out of single rock. These architectural marvel musical pillars have remained an unresolved mystery.

Iconic stone chariot is dedicated to Lord Garuda. It is one of the three famous stone chariots in India, the other two are in Konark and Mahabalipuram. 

temple complex

Stepwell outside the temple was used for various temple related rituals and is treated with respect even today.

3) Achyuta Raya Temple

 This temple was built in the 16th century.

4) Hazara Rama Temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Ram, It has many cavings depicting many events from Ramayan. 

5) Badavi Linga Temple

Largest monolithic Shiv Linga in Hampi, The sanctum is always filled with water. The Lingam has 3 eyes.

6) Hemakuta Hills Temple

Cluster of temples on a tiny hilltop in Hampi.

7) Laxmi Narasimha Temple

This is the largest status in Hampi and is dedicated to Lord Narasimha ( half-lion and half-human), which is one of the Vishnu Avatars.

8) Kadalekalu Ganesh Temple

Large statue of Ganesh carved out of a single monolithic rock.

9) Under Water Shiva Temple

 

This temple built in the 16th century was buried for four hundred years, The temple is located below ground level.

10) 1001 Shivalings

11) 101 Shivalings

12) Mahanavami Dibba & Stepwells

The beautiful stone platform was used by kings to witness various cultural events, the platform has staircases to reach the top which are beautifully decorated with amazing carvings depicting events from the daily life of King. 

Another stepwell, still in good condition.

13) Hanuman Temple

This Hanuman temple is built on top of Anjaneya hill.
14) Lotus Mahal

15) Elephant Stable

16) Tungabhadra River

17) Laxmi Temple by river Tungabadhra River

18) Carvings of Vishnu Avatar

Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes so that you can cover main sections and around on foot, you can even book an auto-rickshaw for few hours or hire a cycle.
• Climate is hot during the day so carry a cap, umbrella, sunscreen and whatever works for you.
• Take it slow, a 3-days trip would be perfect, you can spend 2 days exploring the ruins and one-day exploring another side of the Tungabhadra river.
• You can even extend this trip and explore Badami caves which are around 150kms from Hampi.
• This place is a unique amalgam of new and old, on one side of the river are these 400-500 years old ruins and another side has a hippie vibe and amazing cafes.