Hampi Karnataka

Hampi is synonymous with ancient temples. In fact, it can be aptly called the temple village of Karnataka. Today the city may be in ruins, but its history is a testimony to its rich heritage. The numerous temples in the city clearly explain about its ageless beauty. It is located in north Karnataka. Originally Hampi was known as Pampa, the puranic name of the Tungabhadra river.Hampi was founded by the two local kings Hakka and Bukka in the 14th century. Later it became the capital of the famous Vijayanagara Empire.

Hampi is also mentioned in the great Hindu epic, Ramayana. Several legends are associated with the village. The Matanga Hill is the place where Sugriva took refuge after a battle with his brother Bali. Malyavanta Hill is the place, where lord Rama came in search of Hanumana. These hills are located in Hampi. Hampi is also known as the 'The City Of Ruins'. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is the blessed birth place of lord Hanuman. It is the land where he met lord Rama. In the city, a temple named Raghunatha is dedicated to lord Rama.

Attractions:

Hampi is blessed with numerous ancient temples built in very artistic style. These Hindu temples are still held in high esteem by Hindu devotees. Travellers from across the globe throng in here throughout the year. It boasts of around 500 monuments. These monuments include mesmerizing temples, palaces, remains of lakes and ponds, regal pavilions and much more. Some of the most important temples in Hampi are: Virupaksha temple, Monolithic Bull, Varah temple, Rangatha temple, Veerabhadra temple Krishna temple, Hemakuta temple, Chandikeswara temple, Vishnupada Shrine, Saraswati temple and Sugreeva's Cave.

How To Reach:

Air: The nearest airport is atTornagallu in Sandur. Other nearby airporta are at Bellary, Belgaum and Bangalore.

Rail: The nearest railway station is at Hospet which is connected to Hubli, Bijapur, Bangalore and Guntakal.

Road: Hampi is well connected to the major cities of South India by road. The main bus stop is located in Hampi bazaar area.

Shopping:

Hampi bazaar is lined with a few shops. Handlooms are its main shopping attractions. The famous shopping places in Hampi are Andhra Handloom House(Hospet), Karnataka Handloom (Station road) and Tamil Nadu Cooptex, Gandhi Chowk.

Cuisine:

Hampi offers vegetarian South Indian dishes. Equally famous are its pancakes, pasta and bread toast. Non vegetarian food and alcohol are not available here.

Accommodation: