Get ready to explore one of the real treasures of South India on a memorable train journey with Deccan Odyssey. Located in the Ballari district, Karnataka, Hampi remains one of the most prominent Hindu kingdoms in India’s history. This last capital of Vijayanagar has many attractive old temples and monuments to witness. The city is also introduced as the Group of Monuments at Hampi and now it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dating back to the early 16th century the ruins of Hampi are spread over an area of about 25 kilometers and have more than 500 monuments. Hampi was built during the era of Krishna Deva Raya, who was the emperor of Vijayanagar Empire and the third ruler of the Tuluva Dynasty. But there is a typical conviction that Hampi was built up by the Vijayanagara Empire. Although, the primary historical record of hamlet in Hampi goes back to the 1st Century. Also, the evidence shows that the district of Hampi was administered under the Ashokan Kingdom in the third century BC. The Jaw-dropping architectural marvels depict the rich history of the Vijayanagar Empire. The Tungabhadra River flows through Hampi, on the banks of which, it is said, the Goddess Hampi (Parvati, the consort of Shiva) attained Lord Shiva.
Hampi is an absolute delight to explore its splendid constructions of ancient monuments. According to statistics, Hampi is the most searched place on Google in Karnataka. It attracts millions of historians and other travelers around the globe to explore its virtue. It is renowned for its monolithic sculptures and monuments. Narasimha statue, Mustard Ganesh, Hazararama Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Lotus Mahal, Queen’s Bath, Hazara Rama Temple, Elephant Stables are some of the popular sites to explore. The lofty mountains and crawling river add more charm to this ancient city. As it houses many temples so it is also one of the major Hindu pilgrimage sites in northern Karnataka.
The Archaeological Museum in the town exhibits detailed history about the Vijaynagar empire. Apart from exploring its architectural marvel, Hampi is also renowned for the Purandara Festival, which is a tribute paid to the musical heritage of Hampi. The festival is celebrated between January to February in the Vittal temple it honors the ingenuity of Indian Classical music. This festival is celebrated as the birth anniversary of the medieval poet-composer, and the father of Carnatic Music Purandar. The other festival includes Hampi Utsav which is celebrated with great enthusiasm at Virupaksha Temple, well the exact dates of the festival are not fixed but it is celebrated in November. Events like parades, drama, music, and dance are organized during this event. The traditional craftsmen display leather puppets and vibrant handicrafts similar to what was made in the past.
Not only the sightseeing but adventures like rock climbing, coracle ride, and trekking at some of the popular treks such as Hemakuta Hill trek, the Matanga Hill trek, the Anjaneya Hill trek, and the Malyavanta Hill trek can also be enjoyed here. The city also has colorful bazaars offering great options to buy ultimate souvenirs. Hampi is an excellent place to know about the rich history of India, which is definitely worth a visit.
