Hampi is a backpacker’s paradise and an open-air museum with over 100 locations to explore.
Hampi may be known as the city of ruins, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. In fact, it’s quite the opposite! This place was once the second-largest city in the world, and you can still see the remains of the Vijayanagar Empire scattered throughout the area. The best part? The terrain around Hampi is just as mysterious as the ruins themselves, with boulders of different sizes that you can climb for a stunning view of the city and its geography.
While you’re in Hampi, make sure to visit the famous Virupaksha and Vitthala temples, but don’t forget to take a walk (or cycle) through the city to discover lesser-known but equally fascinating temples, palaces, and other buildings.
One thing that makes Hampi so unique is its vibrant culture, which has been preserved and restored by UNESCO. From theatrics and music to dance and traditional music gatherings, the town has a rich and vibrant culture that remains unaffected by westernization in the modern-day. And let’s not forget about the food – the local cuisine is a must-try!
If you’re planning a trip to Hampi, we suggest spending at least two days there. On day one, visit the Virupaksha Temple and spend some time near the Tungabhadra River in the evening. On day two, rent a cycle or moped and explore the city on your own at your own pace. And if you have an extra day, spend more time at each of the heritage sites. Who knows, you may even discover some ancient secrets hidden among the ruins!