Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its magnificent ruins from the Vijaynagara Empire. These ruins feature royal complexes, stunning Dravidian architecture, and boulder-strewn landscapes. It is surely the perfect city for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, backpackers, solo travelers, and photographers to explore. So, if you will be ticking off this city from your bucket list, here’s a first-timer’s Hampi travel guide for you.
Hampi Travel Guide For First-Timers
Things To Do In Hampi For Beginners
If you are travelling to Hampi for the first time, make sure you do not miss the iconic Stone Chariot at Vitthala Temple Complex. If you wish to witness an introduction to the 14th century history of Hampi, make sure you explore the Group of Monuments. This also includes early temples on Hemakuta Hill.
Do not miss the Virupaksha temple. You can also opt for a short trail hiking to Mathanga Hills to witness sunrise or sunset views. It is a very short hike of about 30 to 45 minutes, offering some gorgeous vistas over the Tungabhadra River and ruins.
If you wish for some adventure, you can also go for rock climbing or easy bouldering on the accessible boulders on Hemakuta Hill. You can go for a stroll through Hampi Bazaar for street shopping of souvenirs and hippie crafts.
Hampi Ruins Guide
The Virupaksha Temple is a must-visit as it is the only active temple with a stone chariot and a towering gopuram. The Hampi Bazar is also nearby. After the temple, you can visit the Vitthala temple Complex which is known for its musical pillars. It is also known for the iconic and beautiful Stone Chariot shrine.
Do not miss the Lotus Mahal and Elephant Stables, the Mahanavami platform for festivities, and the Indo-Islamic architecture. The Zenana Enclosure is also a must-visit with stepped tanks and watchtowers.
The Krishna Temple Complex is known for its stepped tank and ornate tower, while the Hazara Rama Temple is known for its Ramayana carvings.
Hampi Trekking or Hiking Guide
Hampi has many beginner-friendly treks and hikes that offer stunning views of the ancient monuments and Tungabhadra River. These short trail hikes are perfect for beginners as they take only 30 minutes to 90 minutes each. The only requirement is good shoes as the steps are uneven.
Hike the Matanga Hill to witness mesmerising sunrise views over the iconic Virupaksha Temple. This hike is just 30 minutes long via stone steps. You can also head to Anjaneya Hill for 60 minutes to 90-minute round trip to Lord Hanuman’s birthplace.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Hampi is from November to February, that is suring the winter season. At this time, the temperatures are cool and pleasant, generally between 16 degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius. It is the ideal time for exploring the ruins.
How To Reach Hampi
By Airport
- The nearest airport is Hubli Airport (HBX) and is located about 160 kms away from the city.
- Fly down to the HBX airport and take a cab to the city, which will take about 3 hours.
By Train
- The nearest railway station is Hospet Junction (HPT) and is just 13 kms away from the city.
- Alight at the Hospet Junction and you will find various options like local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws to go to Hampi.
- This will be a 30 to 45-minute ride from the railway station.
By Bus
- The main hub to reach Hampi by road is Hospet.
- There are many overnight buses from various cities like Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and other cities to reach Hospet.
- You can take local buses or autorickshaws to reach the main city from Hospet.
Hampi Budget Travel Tips
- Try to opt for friendly homestays, hostels, or guesthouses in the main Hampi Bazar area to save some money.
- The best and most affordable way to explore Hampi is by renting bicycles and not cars.
- Instead of hiring auto rickshaws for commute, you can also opt for scooters or mopeds at reasonable prices.
- You can save on your travel expenses by travelling to Hampi via train or bus instead of by air.
- Try to dine at the local shops, street food carts, or small guesthouses instead of high-end tourist spots.
- For better deals and cheap accommodation, visit Hampi during off season.
- Travel with your friends so that you can share the expenses, which will lower the individual costs as compared to solo trips.
- Use public transport services as much as possible to avoid additional transport expenses.
Summing Up
Hampi is one of the most beautiful and extremely unique cities in India. If you are interested in history, architecture, or adventure, this city is surely for you.
