Hampi is a beautiful town located in the Ballari District of the Indian state of Karnataka, about 350km from Bangalore. The serene town of Hampi is a popular hangout among tourists for its numerous temples and ruins left by the ancient Vijayanagara Empire. While the main attraction of Hampi is Hindu temples, the other popular attractions of the peaceful town are the nearby Hippie Island, Hampi Bazaar for buying local souvenirs, and bear watching at the Daroji Bear Sanctuary. Here’s our take on the bucket list of the best things to do in Hampi.
Hampi History
The History of Hampi speaks about the glorious and rich heritage of the Vijayanagara Empire that lasted from 1336 to 1646. Famed for UNESCO World Heritage temples, a holiday in Hampi can help you step back in time and learn about the rich Hampi history. Defeated by the Deccan Sultanates in the historic battle of Talikota on 26th January 1565, the Vijayanagara Empire was the last Hindu Kingdom of South India.
Is one day enough for Hampi?
A tour of Hampi can be completed comfortably in one or two days; one day for touring the temple ruins in the town side of Hampi and another day for exploring the Hippie Island near Hampi. The easiest way to reach Hampi in Karnataka is taking a flight to Bangalore and then driving down from Bangalore to Hampi in a private car, about 350 km apart in distance. Have your cheap flights to Bengaluru booked with Indian Eagle today for huge savings.
Take a Tour of the Temple Ruins
Hampi is famed for its archeological importance of housing ancient temple ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire. Touring the ancient temples of Hampi must be on top of your list. Most of the temple ruins are located in the famous Hampi Bazaar and were built during the 15th century. The must-visit temples in Hampi are Vitthala Temple, Virupaksha Temple, Raghunatha Temple, Balakrishna Temple, and the most popular Monkey Temple. Don’t miss out on watching the beautiful sunsets in Hampi from the Monkey Temple.
Go on a boat ride to Hippie Island
The nearby Hippie Island is a paradise for nature lovers with picturesque views of the surrounding sceneries. While in Hampi, get on the popular signature style boat or coracle (a round-shaped boat made of cane) to get ferried to Hippie Island. The island is known for its exotic boarding and lodging options and is perfect for photography.
Do shopping at Hampi Market Hampi
How can we not have shopping included in the list of things to do in Hampi? Shopping at Hampi Bazaar is one of the best things to do in Hampi and one cannot afford to give it a miss. Walk along the Hampi Bazaar to buy rare local souvenirs from Hampi like stone artifacts, banana fiber crafts, and Lambadi crafts for treasure unforgettable moments of Hampi.
Go Bear Watching at Daroji Bear Sanctuary
Hampi is home to the famous Indian sloth bear. Bear watching at Daroji Bear Sanctuary is unmissable during a tour of Hampi. The best way to explore these wildlife creatures is by taking safari rides inside the sanctuary. Taking photographs of the sloth bears is permitted and is one of the best things for treasuring unforgettable moments of your wildlife experience at the bear sanctuary.
Explore the town side of Hampi on a bicycle
The best way to explore Hampi is touring on a bicycle. You will find several cycle renting agencies within the little town of Hampi for hiring bicycles. All you need to do is bargain and find a good deal for your bicycle tour of Hampi. Going on a bicycle to tour Hampi is one of the things to do in Hampi to explore the ancient royal residences, temple ruins, and the beautiful countryside of Hampi town.
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