Hampi
Karnataka Tourism

Hampi village's lush location in north Karnataka state, not far from Goa Beaches, India.

Hampi village is situated inside the extensive, monumental ruins of the capital city of the Vijayanagara empire which controlled much of southern India (the Deccan Plateau) from 1336 to 1646. This is a little-visited UNESCO World Heritage Site, a delightful change from most of the historical India tourism, a place where wandering in calm contemplation is actually possible (apart from affluent begging kids!).
Try that in Agra, Jaipur, or Varanasi!

Hampi does have two busy festival occasions when crowds will appear: every February there is a chariot (temple cars carrying idols of Hindu gods) festival and in December betrothal/marriage celebrations.

The Hampi region is unspoilt, rocky and attractive and ancient monuments are scattered around 30 sq kms so plan on a lot of walking if possible, and/or hire a rickshaw, car, motorcycle or bicycle (though the last is a very hot option).

A couple of sights are on the Anegondi side of the river that may require a coracle ferry crossing.

Some of Hampi's better-preserved buildings.

There is a variety of budget and middling accommodation and restaurants but alcohol is not sold as Hampi is a religious centre. More pictures of Hampi.

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