Hampi Bazaar is an ancient market that stretches for 700m in length. It is a perfect place to start your day as it has several attractions. Here, you will find shops selling souvenirs and items, and street vendors selling delicious traditional Indian foods. This place has an old-world charm and is a great place to experience the culture-heavy atmosphere.
Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Hampi. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has several exclusive features, such as the hall of 1,000 pillars, a carved tower rising 50 meters, and beautiful intricate carvings on its walls. This temple is still in use after over 700 years since it was built and provides a captivating insight into medieval South Indian temple architecture.
Matanga Hill is the highest peak in Hampi, and it provides a panoramic view of the entire monument complex. It takes a 30-minute climb to reach the top, but it is worth the effort. You can view the lush green valley and the Tungabhadra river flowing beside it. The best time to visit Matanga Hill is early in the morning to view the sunrise with its glowing light over the monument.
Vithala Temple is a grand temple that reflects the engineering marvel of the Vijayanagara Empire. It has stunning architecture, which is demonstrated by the iconic Stone Chariot and Musical Pillars. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a must-see attraction in Hampi.
Hampi Archaeological Museum is a repository of Hampi's rich cultural heritage. It has four galleries, with artifacts covering the period from the early historic period to the late medieval period. The exhibits include sculptures, historical remains, inscriptions, relief panels, and coins from different periods. The museum provides comprehensive insights into the history of Hampi and the Vijaynagara Empire's reign.
Lotus Palace is a unique attraction in Hampi that is named after the Lotus flower. The palace used to be the place of Queen's residences and has remarkable architecture with a beautiful geometric pattern. The palace is adorned with graceful arches and lotus bud shaped dome, and it is believed that the palace also served as an audience hall.
If you have more time, you may visit the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Elephant Stables, Hazara Rama Temple. You may also explore the Hampi Water Channels and the Queen's Bath. If you have less time, you can skip the Lotus Palace. Also, it is essential to wear comfortable shoes as all these attractions require a lot of walking. Don't forget to carry the water bottles and sunscreen due to Hampi's hot weather.