Exploring Hampi, Badami, and Dandeli: A 7-day Adventure

Thursday, November 16: Arrival in Hampi

Welcome to Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient ruins and majestic temples! Start your day by exploring the awe-inspiring Vijaya Vittala Temple, famous for its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars. In the afternoon, visit the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and marvel at its intricate carvings. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Tungabhadra River and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

  • Vijaya Vittala Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Virupaksha Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Tungabhadra River: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, November 17: Hampi Exploration

Spend your second day in Hampi discovering the ancient ruins and historical sites. Start your morning by hiking up to Matanga Hill for panoramic views of the Hampi landscape. In the afternoon, explore the Queen's Bath, an elegant bathing complex used by the royals. As the evening approaches, visit the Elephant Stables, which once housed the royal elephants and showcases the architectural grandeur of the past.

  • Matanga Hill: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Queen's Bath: Estimated cost - INR 10 ($0.14), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Elephant Stables: Estimated cost - INR 10 ($0.14), Time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 18: Badami Exploration

Today, embark on a journey to Badami, known for its rock-cut cave temples and ancient fort. Start your morning by exploring the magnificent Badami Cave Temples, carved out of sandstone cliffs. In the afternoon, visit the Badami Fort, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. As the evening sets in, take a stroll by the beautiful Agastya Lake and soak in the tranquility.

  • Badami Cave Temples: Estimated cost - INR 25 ($0.35), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Badami Fort: Estimated cost - INR 10 ($0.14), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Agastya Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, November 19: Excursion to Pattadakal and Aihole

On this day, take an excursion to Pattadakal and Aihole, two remarkable temple complexes near Badami. In the morning, explore the UNESCO-listed Pattadakal, known for its exquisite architecture and temple clusters. In the afternoon, visit Aihole, often referred to as the "Cradle of Indian Architecture," and discover its ancient temples and rock-cut caves. Return to Badami in the evening.

  • Pattadakal: Estimated cost - INR 10 ($0.14), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Aihole: Estimated cost - INR 10 ($0.14), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, November 20: Journey to Dandeli

Leave Badami and travel to Dandeli, a scenic destination known for its wildlife, adventure activities, and lush forests. In the morning, embark on a thrilling jungle safari in Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot various animal species. In the afternoon, indulge in river rafting on the Kali River for an adrenaline-pumping experience. As the evening approaches, spend some time exploring the serene Supa Dam.

  • Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 400 ($5.59), Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • River Rafting on Kali River: Estimated cost - INR 1,200 ($16.77), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Supa Dam: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, November 21: Dandeli Nature Exploration

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Dandeli on this day. Start your morning with a visit to Syntheri Rocks, impressive rock formations amidst dense forests. In the afternoon, enjoy a serene boating experience in the Kavala Caves, a naturally formed cave system. As the evening sets in, relax and rejuvenate in the soothing waters of Kali River.

  • Syntheri Rocks: Estimated cost - INR 20 ($0.28), Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Kavala Caves: Estimated cost - INR 20 ($0.28), Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kali River: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, November 22: Departure

On your last day, bid farewell to Dandeli and depart for your next destination. If time permits, you can visit the Ulavi Channabasappa Temple, a revered shrine surrounded by thick forests, before leaving.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Hampi, don't miss the lesser-known Anjaneya Hill, which offers breathtaking views and houses the Anjaneya Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. In Badami, make sure to visit the Bhuthanatha Group of Temples, located by the Agastya Lake, for a tranquil and mesmerizing experience. Locals in Dandeli love to spend time at the Shiroli Peak, the highest point in the region, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats.

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