Hampi - the capital of the erstwhile Vijaynagar (The City of Victory) Empire - is often called a perfect weekend escape in Karnataka. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination Hampi in its sunshine days was a magnificent city with countless temples and palaces. The city was robbed of all its grandeur in later half of the 16th century, when it was attacked by the Mughals.
Today, more than 600 years later the ruins of Hampi still attract thousands of travellers, who make a beeline to Hampi just to be transported into the bygone era. Hampi was constructed by Harihara and Bukka, two brothers from the Sangama family in 1336 AD. It is said that such were the riches of Hampi that it took hundreds of elephants and more than six months to carry the loot out of Hampi!
No wonder Hampi was noted for exotic palaces, lovely temples, formidable forts, lively markets, and stables of royal elephants. It was a hub of many monuments, many of which are now in ruins. But these ruins are what draw many a travellers to Hampi. In Hampi at every turn there is a surprise. Every monument hides more than what they reveal. Hampi is a backpackers’ paradise and the pilgrims’ delight. A perfect place for the one interested in history, heritage, art, rock climbing, hill climbing, and adventure, Hampi is one of the historical gems of Karnataka.
How to Reach Humpi?
Reaching Hampi is not a problem at all with the convenience of a huge variety of conveyance options. With transportation access in and around the town of Hampi being run very smoothly you can anticipate a smooth itinerary in Hampi.
By Air: Bellary is the nearest domestic airport, which is about 60 km away. Bangalore is the nearest International Airport, which is 350 km away.
By Rail: Nearest railhead is Hospet, which is nearly 13 km from Hampi. Hospet is well connected to Bangalore, Hyderabad and other major cities in Karnataka and neighbouring states.
By Road: Hampi is well connected by KSRTC bus services with all nearby cities. Daily KSRTC super deluxe night bus from Bangalore to Hampi. There are many private buses operating from Gokarna and many places in Goa have bus service to Hampi.
Best Time to Go: The monsoon (July-September) and winter (November-February). Catch the 3-day Hampi Festival in November.
Activities
Rock Climbing
If you want to experience adventure in Karnataka, Rock Climbing in Hampi is the sport for you. This area is a rock climber's haven, being encompassed by boulders and rocky hills all around. You can set up camp in the many designated areas within Hampi and climb your way up to catch the vast expanse of the mystical ruins below. Hampi is considered the bouldering capital of India. The extensive rock-hewn landscape and enchanting temple-ruins background provides for a unique climbing experience. Climbers have been visiting this place since 1980s.
Souvenir Shopping
In the Hampi Bazaar, near the Virupaksha temple, are rows of shops displaying merchandise you can pick up. The Lambani nomads are famous for their embroidered textiles and jewellery. Other things to shop for are shawls, bags, skirts, etc.
Things to Carry
The things to carry are nothing exclusive to the place as there are no drastic climate changes. However as a checklist keep with you a Camera, Sunscreen, some warm clothes, mosquito repellent, money for food, drinks and entrance fees.
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