Early departure to beat Hyderabad traffic and reach Anegundi/Hospet by afternoon; route follows NH44 then NH167/NH65 via Kurnool and Bellary — total driving ~6.5–8h depending on stops. This is the longest leg so start early for daylight arrival.
Stop for a hearty South-Indian breakfast on the way (idli, dosa, filter coffee) to fuel the drive; highway chains and dhabas typically open by 7:00–8:00. If you prefer, have breakfast in Hyderabad before departure.
Arrive at your guesthouse/hotel in Anegundi or Hospet. Anegundi homestays give rustic charm near Anjanadri; Hospet hotels provide more amenities if you prefer a comfortable stay.
Stroll Anegundi’s lanes, see ancient temples, and viewpoints across the Tungabhadra river; gentle walk to soak in village life and Hampi vistas. Many spots are open all day; wear comfortable shoes.
Drive/cross to a nearby hill for sunset views over the boulder-strewn Hampi landscape — Matanga Hill is famous for panoramic sunset and golden light on ruins. Hills are accessible sunrise–sunset (usually 6:00–18:00; confirm locally).
Enjoy local Karnataka and traveler-friendly dishes: try thalis, pancakes, or north/south Indian mains. Both eateries are popular with visitors and usually open for dinner; check current hours — many open until 9:30–10:00pm.
Climb the steps to Anjanadri Hill (believed birthplace of Lord Hanuman) for a quiet sunrise and panoramic views of the valley; temple and hill are usually open from early morning until sunset (roughly 6:00–18:00). Best early to avoid heat and crowds.
Relax with a relaxed breakfast (omelettes, pancakes, strong coffee) at the Anegundi cafe — popular with trekkers and easy to fit into a morning schedule. Typical opening around 8:00, but confirm seasonally.
Take a traditional coracle from Anegundi across the Tungabhadra to Hampi — short, scenic ride that links the two sides and adds local flavor; operators run boats roughly 8:00–17:00 depending on water levels and season.
Visit the active Virupaksha Temple (open typically 6:30–19:00) and walk the historic Hampi Bazaar streets to see living culture beside ruins; a must-see religious and cultural stop.
Sit down for a relaxed lunch with local thali options and traveler-friendly dishes; cafés near the bazaar serve fresh meals and cold drinks. Many open 11:00–16:00 for lunch service.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Vittala Temple complex with its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars; the complex is open during daytime (typically 7:00–17:00). Allow time for the nearby small museum and walking among ruins.
Wander around the riverbanks, ancient mandapas and boulder-strewn landscapes at a relaxed pace as late afternoon light softens the ruins. These open-air areas are accessible until sunset.
If you want a fuller menu and AC service, dine at a Hospet hotel like Hotel Malligi; otherwise return to Hampi/Anegundi cafes for a quieter dinner. Hotels usually serve until late evening, but check individual hours.
Choose a sunrise viewpoint like Matanga Hill for sweeping vistas or head to Sanapur Lake for a calm coracle/kayak ride (operators usually 7:00–17:00); both are excellent for morning light and photos.
Quick stop at Achyutaraya Temple and nearby ruins that are easy to cover in a short visit before you check out — these are open during daytime and close at sunset.
Begin the return drive on NH167/NH44 heading northeast to Hyderabad; with a couple of fast stops expect 6.5–8 hours depending on traffic and breaks. Plan for tolls and petrol stops.