Hampi: UNESCO World Heritage Site | SP Travel Consultants

Discover Hampi

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Breathtaking Ancient Ruins in Karnataka

The City of Ruins

Hampi, the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in east-central Karnataka. It was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the greatest Hindu kingdoms in India's history. The spectacular setting is dominated by rocky terrain, hills and valleys dotted with boulders of different sizes.

Our carefully crafted 6-day itinerary takes you through ancient temples, royal complexes, and stunning landscapes that tell the story of a magnificent civilization. Experience the architectural marvels, intricate carvings, and spiritual sanctuaries that have stood the test of time since the 14th century.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of this open-air museum where every stone has a story to tell. From the iconic Stone Chariot to the magnificent Virupaksha Temple, Hampi offers a journey back in time to an era of unparalleled architectural achievement and cultural splendor.

Rich Heritage of Hampi

Hampi served as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire from 1336 to 1646 CE. At its peak, Hampi was one of the richest and largest cities in the world, attracting traders from Persia and Portugal. The city's incredible wealth came from its thriving trade in cotton, spices, and precious gemstones.

The architectural legacy of Hampi represents a unique blend of various regional styles, including Dravidian, Indo-Islamic, and Deccan influences. The ruins spread over an area of more than 26 square kilometers (10 square miles), making it one of the largest archaeological sites in India.

In 1565, the city was attacked and destroyed by a coalition of Muslim sultanates, leading to its eventual abandonment. The site was forgotten for centuries until it was rediscovered by British archaeologists in the 19th century. Today, Hampi stands as a testament to the grandeur of medieval Indian architecture and engineering.

1336 CE

Foundation of the Vijayanagara Empire by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, with Hampi as its capital

14th-16th Century

Golden age of Hampi, with massive temple construction and development under various rulers

1565 CE

Battle of Talikota, leading to the fall of Vijayanagara Empire and the destruction of Hampi

19th Century

Rediscovery of Hampi by British archaeologists and initial documentation of the ruins

1986

Hampi recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding universal value

Highlights of Hampi

Virupaksha Temple

The iconic 7th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that remains an active place of worship to this day, featuring a 50-meter high gopuram (tower).

Stone Chariot

The magnificent stone chariot at Vittala Temple is an architectural marvel, representing the celestial chariot of Lord Indra, perfectly showcasing the craftsmanship of Vijayanagara artisans.

Musical Pillars

The extraordinary musical pillars at Vittala Temple that produce musical notes when tapped, demonstrating the advanced engineering and acoustic knowledge of ancient builders.

Lotus Mahal

A unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, featuring lotus-shaped arches and intricate carvings, once used as a royal recreational area.

Elephant Stables

An impressive structure with eleven domed chambers that once housed the royal elephants, showcasing a perfect blend of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Hemakuta Hill Temples

A cluster of early temples offering panoramic views of Hampi and spectacular sunset vistas, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

6-Day Hampi Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Sacred Hampi

Arrival: Check into your handpicked accommodation (luxury, boutique, or budget options available).

Morning: Visit the iconic Virupaksha Temple, the oldest and most sacred temple in Hampi, dating back to the 7th century.

Afternoon: Explore the historic Hampi Bazaar, once a thriving marketplace during the Vijayanagara Empire.

Evening: Witness a magical sunset from Hemakuta Hill with panoramic views of the temple complex and surrounding landscape.

Overnight: Stay at your selected hotel in Hampi with dinner.

Day 2: Royal Enclosures & Monuments

Morning: Marvel at the Vittala Temple complex and its famous Stone Chariot, an engineering masterpiece with musical pillars.

Mid-morning: Visit the Royal Enclosure, featuring the Queen's Bath, Mahanavami Dibba, and Underground Shiva Temple.

Afternoon: Explore the Hazara Rama Temple with its intricate bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Ramayana.

Evening: Experience the architectural marvel of Lotus Mahal, showcasing the Indo-Islamic blend of architecture.

Overnight: Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.

Day 3: Riverside Ruins & Water Experiences

Morning: Discover the Achyutaraya Temple and walk along the ancient Courtesan's Street.

Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional coracle boat ride on the Tungabhadra River for a unique perspective of the riverside ruins.

Evening: Visit the Sanapur Lake area, perfect for relaxation amidst nature.

Overnight: Hotel stay with dinner and cultural performance.

Day 4: Panoramic Vistas

Morning: Early morning hike up Matanga Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Hampi landscape.

Afternoon: Explore the Zanana Enclosure, home to the Elephant Stables and Watch Tower.

Evening: Visit the Stepped Tank, an ancient water structure showcasing advanced engineering.

Overnight: Leisure evening at your hotel with dinner.

Day 5: Mythological Anegundi

Morning: Cross the Tungabhadra river to explore Anegundi, believed to be the mythological kingdom of Kishkindha from Ramayana.

Afternoon: Visit Anjanadri Hill, the legendary birthplace of Lord Hanuman.

Evening: Explore Pampa Sarovar, a sacred lake of great religious significance.

Overnight: Hotel stay with farewell dinner.

Day 6: Hidden Gems & Departure

Morning: Visit less-explored sites like Chakratirtha and Kodandarama Temple.

Afternoon: Last-minute shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Evening: Depart from Hampi with unforgettable memories of this magnificent ancient city.

Luxury Accommodations

Heritage Luxury Resort

Experience royal living in our handpicked luxury resort with panoramic views of Hampi's boulder-strewn landscape.

From ₹15,000 per night

Infinity pool overlooking ancient ruins

Gourmet restaurant serving authentic Karnataka cuisine

Ayurvedic spa and wellness center

Exclusive heritage walks and cultural experiences

Riverside Boutique Resort

Nestled on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, this boutique property offers an intimate connection with nature and history.

From ₹9,500 per night

Private riverfront cottages

Farm-to-table dining experience

Outdoor yoga and meditation sessions

Guided coracle rides at sunrise and sunset

Heritage Haveli

A restored heritage property that combines traditional architecture with modern amenities for a comfortable stay.

From ₹7,500 per night

Courtyard rooms with traditional décor

Rooftop restaurant with monument views

Cultural performances in the central courtyard

Bicycle rentals for exploring nearby ruins

Glimpses of Hampi

Ancient temples of Hampi showcasing intricate Dravidian architecture

The iconic Stone Chariot at Vittala Temple

Breathtaking boulder-strewn landscape unique to Hampi

Architectural details showing the craftsmanship of Vijayanagara artists

Ancient ruins of the royal enclosure

Magical sunset over Hampi's ancient monuments

Tour Inclusions

Luxury Accommodation

5 nights in handpicked hotels with premium amenities and authentic heritage experience

Expert Guided Tours

Knowledgeable local guides bringing the history and stories of Hampi to life

Daily Meals

Breakfast included daily with select authentic Karnataka cuisine dinners

Transportation

Air-conditioned private vehicle throughout the journey

Special Experiences

Coracle boat ride, sunset viewings, and cultural performances

Entrance Fees

All monument and attraction entry fees included

Photography Assistance

Expert advice on best photography spots and timing for perfect shots

24/7 Support

Dedicated tour manager available throughout your journey

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

October to February: Ideal weather with cool temperatures (15-30°C)
March to May: Hot but less crowded
July to September: Occasional rain, lush green surroundings
Hampi Utsav (November): Special festival celebrating local culture

How to Reach

Nearest Airport: Ballari Airport (40 km) and Hubli Airport (167 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Hospet Junction (13 km)
By Road: Well-connected by highways from Bangalore (350 km), Goa (330 km), and Hyderabad (380 km)
We arrange comfortable transfers from all major transportation hubs

What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes for exploring ruins
Light cotton clothing (modest attire for temple visits)
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Camera with extra batteries
Light jacket for evening temperatures (during winter months)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hampi suitable for elderly travelers?

Yes, Hampi can be enjoyed by elderly travelers. We customize the itinerary based on mobility levels and provide comfortable transportation between sites. Many of the main attractions are accessible with minimal walking, and our guides ensure a comfortable pace. We also recommend visiting during the cooler months (October-February) for the most pleasant experience.

Can I extend my stay in Hampi or nearby destinations?

Absolutely! We can easily extend your Hampi itinerary or combine it with nearby destinations such as Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal (other architectural wonders about 140 km away), or even continue to Goa for a beach extension. Our travel consultants will work with you to create the perfect customized journey.

What is the local cuisine like?

Hampi and the surrounding Karnataka region offer delicious South Indian cuisine. Popular local dishes include Bisi Bele Bath (spiced rice with lentils), Jolada Rotti (sorghum flatbread), Korri Gassi (chicken curry), and various dosas. The area is also known for its fresh coconut-based dishes and coffee. Our tour includes opportunities to taste authentic local cuisine at carefully selected restaurants.

Is photography allowed at the monuments?

Photography is permitted at most monuments in Hampi for personal use. However, tripods and professional equipment may require special permission at certain sites. Some temples may restrict photography in their inner sanctums. Our guides will advise you about specific rules at each location and help you capture the best shots of this photogenic destination.

Can I customize this itinerary?

Yes, all our itineraries can be fully customized to match your interests, pace, and budget. Whether you want to focus more on photography, architecture, history, or spiritual aspects, or add special experiences like private meditation sessions at ancient temples, we can tailor every aspect of your journey. Just let us know your preferences when you contact us.

Ready to Explore the Magnificent Ruins of Hampi?

Contact our travel experts to customize this itinerary according to your preferences and schedule your unforgettable journey through one of India's most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites.