Wednesday, December 13: Exploring the Ancient Ruins
Start your Hampi adventure by exploring the magnificent ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin your morning with a visit to the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and witness its intricate carvings and towering gopuram. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Vijaya Vittala Temple, famous for its extraordinary stone chariot and musical pillars. As the evening approaches, head to the Hemakuta Hill to witness a breathtaking sunset over the ancient city.
Virupaksha Temple: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Vijaya Vittala Temple: Entry fee of INR 40 per person, 2-3 hours
Hemakuta Hill: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Mango Tree Restaurant, located near the Virupaksha Temple. Indulge in their scrumptious South Indian dishes like dosas and idlis. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to the famous Mango Tree Rooftop Restaurant, offering a stunning view of the Vijaya Vittala Temple. Enjoy their authentic Indian thali meals or try their wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Laughing Buddha Restaurant, nestled amidst the vibrant streets of Hampi. Delight in their fusion menu featuring Indian, Israeli, and Italian cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Thursday, December 14: Riverside Tranquility and Royal Splendor
In the morning, take a peaceful walk along the Tungabhadra River, enjoying the serene surroundings and picturesque views. Afterward, explore the grandeur of the Royal Enclosure, including the Lotus Mahal and the Queen's Bath. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Elephant Stables, an architectural marvel that once housed the royal elephants. As evening sets in, witness the beautiful sunset from the Matanga Hill viewpoint.
Tungabhadra River: Free, 1-2 hours
Royal Enclosure: Entry fee of INR 10 per person, 2-3 hours
Elephant Stables: Entry fee of INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours
Matanga Hill: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A must-visit for breakfast is Mango Tree Restaurant, located near the Tungabhadra River. Indulge in their delicious South Indian breakfast options such as idli and dosa. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Laughing Buddha Cafe, a cozy restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy their wide range of international and local dishes, including mouthwatering pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Mowgli Restaurant, known for its fusion of Indian and Continental cuisine. With a variety of options such as curries and grilled dishes, the average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, December 15: Temples and Boulders
Embark on a memorable journey to the Achyutaraya Temple in the morning. Marvel at the intricate carvings and unique architectural features of this remarkable temple. Afterward, venture to the picturesque Monkey Temple, also known as Hanuman Temple, nestled amidst breathtaking boulders. In the afternoon, explore the splendid ruins of the Hazara Rama Temple, featuring exquisite bas-reliefs depicting Ramayana. As the sun starts to set, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Tungabhadra River.
Achyutaraya Temple: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Monkey Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Hazara Rama Temple: Entry fee of INR 10 per person, 2-3 hours
Tungabhadra River Boat Ride: INR 200 per person, 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, take a stroll through the charming Hampi Bazaar and interact with locals while browsing through a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to savor the local cuisine at Mango Tree Restaurant, serving delicious South Indian dishes at affordable prices. Explore the lesser-known attractions like the Sasivekalu Ganesha statue, Kadalekalu Ganesha temple, and the underground Shiva temple, which are often less crowded but equally fascinating.
Check out KAYAK for the best hotel and flight prices for your Hampi getaway!