Hampi / Kishkindha – Rama Meets Hanuman

 

A beautiful historical village with a dramatic landscape, Hampi in Karnataka, can be mapped to Ramayana’s Kishkindha - the kingdom of the Vanara king Sugriva. The kingdom of Kishkindha is said to be a part of the Dandaka forest, which stretched from the Vindhiya mountain range down to the south of India.

Today Hampi is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of its most captivating features being its ruins, which are a result of years of volcanic activity and soil erosion.

Read More: Places to Visit in Hampi on Your Weekend Break

Places To Visit In Hampi

Hampi Ruins: Undoubtedly, one of Hampi's most popular attractions, the fascinating ruins and giant boulders spread across the landscape create a magnificent natural backdrop. It is no wonder that it is also known as The City Of Ruins. Some prominent buildings among the Hampi ruins include the Muslim Sunni Masjid, Lotus Mahal, Stepped Tank, Watch Tower and the Zanana Enclosure.

Hampi Temples: With about 2,000 temples across 26 square kilometres, Hampi has many notable Hindu temples such as the Badavai Linga, Achutaraya Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, Krishna Temple, Vittala Temple and the Chandramauleshwara Temple among others. The only active place of worship in the protected area now is the Virupaaksha Temple.

Hampi Utsav: If you’re a history enthusiast then look out for the Hampi Utsav, which is held annually between November 3rd to 5th. Travel back in time as the city comes alive with celebrations, classical music and dance performances, puppet shows and fireworks to invoke the glory of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Daroji Bear Sanctuary: The Sanctuary is home to 120 Indian Sloth Bears. Other than bears, you will also find Wild Boars, Hyenas, Leopards, Porcupines, many different species of birds and over 20 species of butterflies here.

Historical Buildings: The former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi is also home to many royal historical buildings such as the Zenana Enclosure, and the imposing Elephant Stables.

Coracle Boating: Another popular thing to do in Hampi remains the coracle boat ride. Coracles are bowl shaped boats and riding on one along the Tungabhadra River is an experience in itself. These boats take you to Anagundi which is believed to be the birthplace of Hanuman.

Read More: Come, Fall in Love with Incredible Hampi

Getting There

Located 330 kilometres from Goa, Hampi makes for a popular road trip, considering you only need a day to enjoy the sights of this beautiful little hamlet.

Rail: The closest railway station is the Hospet Junction, located at a distance of 13 kilometres. The station is well connected with trains from cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad and Goa.

Road: The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation runs regular bus services from Bangalore, Mysore and Gokarna to Hampi. If you wish to drive, Hampi is well connected by national highways to cities like Mumbai, Bangalore and Hyderabad.

Hotel: Some good hotels to stay in Hampi are Hotel Malligi, WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace, Hyatt Place Hampi​ and Heritage Resort Hampi.

Book Your Flight to Hubli (nearest airport to Hampi)

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