Introduction:
Hampi, located in the Indian state of Karnataka, is a city steeped in rich history and culture. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled much of South India from the 14th to the 16th century. Today, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. In this blog post, we will uncover the hidden gems of Hampi and explore the top places to visit in this fascinating city.
Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the southern Indian state
of Karnataka. It was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled South India
from the 14th to the 16th century.
The history of Hampi dates back to the 3rd century BC, when it was a part of the Mauryan Empire. Later, it was ruled by several dynasties including the Satavahanas, Kadambas, Chalukyas, and Hoysalas.
In the 14th century, Hampi became the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, which was founded by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I. The empire was known for its military strength and architectural achievements. The rulers of the empire built numerous temples, palaces, and other structures, many of which can still be seen in Hampi today.
During the 16th century, the Vijayanagara Empire came under attack from the Deccan Sultanates, and in 1565, the Battle of Talikota was fought near Hampi. The Vijayanagara army was defeated, and the city was pillaged and destroyed. The empire never fully recovered from this defeat, and Hampi was abandoned and left in ruins.
In the centuries that followed, Hampi remained a site of pilgrimage and worship, and some of the temples and other structures were still used. In the 19th and 20th centuries, archaeological excavations and restoration work began, and Hampi was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1986. Today, it is one of the most important historical and cultural sites in India, attracting tourists and scholars from around the world.
Virupaksha Temple:
This is one of the most important and sacred temples in Hampi, dedicated
to Lord Shiva. It is a beautiful temple with intricate carvings and
architecture.
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| Virupaksha Temple |
The Hampi Bazaar is a bustling market area that dates
back to the Vijayanagara Empire. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs,
try local street food, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
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| Hampi Bazaar |
Matanga Hill:
Matanga Hill is located at the heart of Hampi
and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's a challenging
climb, but the stunning views from the top make it well worth the
effort.
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| Matanga Hill |
Vittala Temple:
The Vittala Temple is one of the most popular
and iconic temples in Hampi. It is known for its stunning architecture,
intricate carvings, and the famous musical pillars that produce different
musical notes when tapped.
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| Vittala Temple |
Lotus Mahal:
The Lotus Mahal is a beautiful palace with a
unique design that resembles a lotus flower. It was once the private palace
of the queen and is a must-visit for its beautiful architecture and stunning
design.
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| Lotus Mahal |
Elephant Stables:
The Elephant Stables were once used to house
the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire. The stables are a unique
example of the architectural brilliance of the empire and are a must-visit
for history buffs.
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| Elephant Stables |
Tungabhadra River:
The Tungabhadra River flows through Hampi and
offers a great way to explore the area and take in the scenic views. You can
take a coracle ride on the river or simply relax by the river and enjoy the
beautiful views.
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| Tungabhadra River |
Hazara Rama Temple:
The Hazara Rama Temple is known for its
intricate carvings that depict scenes from the Ramayana. It is a beautiful
temple with a rich history and is a must-visit for its stunning architecture
and beautiful carvings.
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| Hazara Rama Temple |
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