Exploring Hampi: A 3-Day Itinerary

Friday, October 27th, 2023

Start your Hampi adventure by immersing yourself in the rich history of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, visit the Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest functioning temples in India. Marvel at its intricate carvings and sculptures. Afterward, head to the Vittala Temple complex, known for its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars. Spend the afternoon exploring the Royal Enclosure, where you can discover the Queen's Bath, Lotus Mahal, and the impressive Elephant Stables. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along the Tungabhadra River and witness a breathtaking sunset.

• Virupaksha Temple: Entrance fee: INR 50 (~$0.70), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Vittala Temple: Entrance fee: INR 40 (~$0.55), Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Royal Enclosure: Entrance fee: INR 10 (~$0.14), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Tungabhadra River: Free, Time spent: Evening

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Mango Tree Restaurant, a quaint spot offering delicious South Indian breakfast options such as idli, vada, and masala dosa. A meal here costs around INR 150 per person.
• If you're looking for a lunch spot, head to Laughing Buddha Café, an eclectic eatery serving a variety of cuisines including Indian, Tibetan, and Continental. Enjoy their hearty thali or momos while overlooking the Hampi bazaar. Expect to spend around INR 300 per person for a meal.
• For dinner, indulge in a memorable dining experience at Krishna Palace Restaurant, known for its traditional Indian dishes and cozy ambiance. Savor their specialties like butter chicken and paneer tikka. The average cost for a meal here is approximately INR 500 per person.

Saturday, October 28th, 2023

Embark on a magical Hampi journey on this day. Start your morning by exploring the architectural marvel that is the Hampi Bazaar. Indulge in some traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery. After breakfast, visit the awe-inspiring Hazara Rama Temple, famous for its exquisite bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Continue your exploration at the Zenana Enclosure, where you'll find the graceful Queen's Palace and the Lotus Mahal. In the afternoon, take a short drive to the enchanting Anjaneya Hill to climb the steps and enjoy panoramic views of Hampi. As the day ends, catch a sunset atop Matanga Hill, known for its breathtaking vistas.

• Hampi Bazaar: Free, Time spent: Morning
• Hazara Rama Temple: Entrance fee: INR 25 (~$0.35), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Zenana Enclosure: Entrance fee: INR 10 (~$0.14), Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Anjaneya Hill: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Matanga Hill: Free, Time spent: Evening

Sunday, October 29th, 2023

On the final day of your Hampi exploration, dive deep into history and natural beauty. Start your morning by visiting the magnificent Achyutaraya Temple, known for its intricate carvings. Afterward, continue to the Badavi Linga and nearby Lakshmi Narasimha statue, which showcase the craftsmanship of the Vijayanagara Empire. In the afternoon, make your way to the Hampi Archaeological Museum, where you can learn more about the history and artifacts of Hampi. Conclude your Hampi journey with a serene boat ride across the Tungabhadra River, surrounded by stunning rock formations and lush landscapes.

• Achyutaraya Temple: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Badavi Linga: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes - 1 hour
• Lakshmi Narasimha: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes - 1 hour
• Hampi Archaeological Museum: Entrance fee: INR 5 (~$0.07), Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Tungabhadra River Boat Ride: Price varies, Time spent: Afternoon

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Hampi, don't miss the chance to visit the peaceful Sanapur Lake. Located a short distance from Hampi, this hidden gem offers a tranquil setting, perfect for picnicking or simply enjoying the serenity of nature. Alternatively, make your way to the Monkey Temple (Anjeyanadri Hill) for a unique experience of feeding and observing playful monkeys amidst stunning landscapes. These off-the-beaten-path attractions are loved by locals and provide a different perspective on the beauty of Hampi.