Start your day by visiting the Virupaksha Temple, an ancient temple that has been in existence since the 7th century. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple has stunning architecture that includes beautifully carved pillars, intricate motifs, and towering gateways. It's believed to be one of the oldest functioning temples in India.
After visiting the temple, explore the lively Hampi Bazaar. This vibrant market area offers many shopping options, including handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. You can also taste some of the local snacks like mirchi bhaji and masala dosa. The bazaar is a great place to witness the daily life of Hampi locals.
The Royal Enclosure is a magnificent set of buildings and structures that were once the center of state affairs during the era of the Vijayanagara Empire. The architecture and design of the Enclosure are exquisite and offer great insight into the grandeur of the bygone era. Visit the Mahanavami Dibba, the audience hall, and the underground chamber for a stunning experience.
The Hazara Rama Temple is a 15th-century Temple built by the kings of the Vijayanagara Empire. The temple is known for its intricate and well-preserved carvings that depict scenes from the Ramayana. The temple has a large courtyard and provides stunning views of the surrounding hills.
If you're up for it, take a short climb to the top of the Matanga Hill, which is the highest point in Hampi. From the top, you can witness the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, the Tungabhadra River, the Achyuta Raya Temple, and the Virupaksha Temple.
End your day by enjoying the captivating beauty of the Sanapur Lake. This serene and scenic lake offers an ideal place to relax and unwind. You can enjoy the peace and quiet while watching the sun go down. You can also go swimming or boating in the lake.
If you have more time, you can visit the Lotus Mahal, Vithala Temple Complex, and the Elephant Stables. The Lotus Mahal is an architectural wonder that contains some of the most beautiful carvings in Hampi. The Vithala Temple Complex is a marvel of ancient engineering with stunning musical pillars. The Elephant Stables are the remains of a popular stable that housed the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Dynasty.
If you have less time, you can skip the Sanapur Lake visit and instead visit the Hemakuta Hill and the Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple. You can also try a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra River. The Hemakuta Hill is a beautiful hill that provides great views of the surrounding landscape and is a short hike. The Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple is famous for its giant Ganesha statue and intricate carvings.