Hampi, the UNESCO capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, is a surreal landscape of ancient temples and giant boulders beside the Tungabhadra River. Explore by bicycle, climb Matanga Hill for sunrise, and relax in Virupapur Gaddi. October to February is best.
Good to know
- Rent a bicycle or scooter; distances between ruins are wide.
- Start at sunrise to avoid midday heat.
- Respect temple customs and cover knees and shoulders.
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Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Active 7th-century Shiva temple with a towering gopuram.
Small hilltop shrines with a wide view over the ruins.
Palace platforms, elephant stables and the Lotus Mahal.
Elegant royal bathing pavilion with arched corridors.
Iconic stone chariot and musical pillars at Hampi's most elaborate temple.
A short steep scramble that rewards with golden light across the valley.
Round basket boats used by locals to cross the river.
Quieter side of the river with crafts, temples and a hilltop shrine.
Sculptures and models of the Vijayanagara capital.
World-class granite bouldering for experienced climbers.
Relaxed thalis and wood-fired pizzas with a hippie vibe.
575 steps up to the birthplace of Hanuman, with views across the area.