The tourists in Hampi come to visit its popular ruins that belong to the medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagara in 1500 AD. After the defeat of Hampi, the sultans plundered the city and left it in ruins.
The mysterious ruins are fascinating to visit. At the same time, it makes it an interesting place to know about this place that was once the capital of the flourishing Vijayanagara Empire.
These ancient stories and the legacy of the medieval era come alive in the present, giving you a strong glimpse of its grand past that makes it a Unesco world heritage site.
While visiting Hampi, it is vital to include these 6 Best Places to Visit in Hampi-
1. Vijaya Vittala Temple
Among the long list of tourist attractions in Hampi, the most popular one is the Vijaya Vittala Temple which dates back to the 15th century. This structure is dedicated to lord Vitthal with captivating architecture like huge pillars, big halls, and intricate structures that make it a must-visit.
The temple is an ancient monument. It is located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. It is the biggest and most renowned structure in the town.
It is known for its popular Stone Chariot and Musical Pillars. It is one of the most commonly recognized tourist attractions in Hampi.
2. Queen’s Bath
The iconic and beautiful queen’s bath was built as a royal bathing place. It was exclusive for the king and his wives in the Vijayanagara Empire with a big courtyard, roof, balconies, and small windows.
It is said that it was built by Achyuta Raya. It was particularly for the women of the royal family of Vijayanagara. The bath was considered to be a place for royal pleasure and luxury.
3. Monkey Temple
The temple is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. So, this temple is an important religious place for the Hindus. You find the presence of multiple monkeys around the Temple with the best scenic views from the temple.
There is a popular legend related to the temple that Sri Vyasaraja used to paint the picture of Lord Hanuman every day on a rock.
He used to offer prayers and seek blessings from him. After this ritual, the picture used to disappear and went on happening for 12 days in a row.
4. Lotus Mahal
One of the best-preserved places in Hampi is the Lotus Mahal. It is known as one of the architectural landmarks in Hampi. It has a lotus-like structure that gives it this name.
The visitors to Hampi make it a point to visit this place. It is located within the Zenana Enclosure, which was allowed for the royal women of the Vijayanagara dynasty.
The mahal got its base from visitors in the 19th century. Instead of being a luxury and pleasure place, it was said to be used as a meeting place for the emperor and his closest advisors.
5. Matanga Hill
Matanga Hill is a holy place in Hampi. It has been mentioned in the epic of Ramayana. It is referred to as the base of Saint Matanga.
Also, it is a place where Sugriva got the magical protection of the sage Matanga. The latter had placed a curse of death on Vali on whether he dared enter the area of the Hill.
The place is known for its strong links with Mythology. Also, it is said that survival had hidden at this place with Lord Hanuman, to save himself from his brother, Bali.
6. Daroji Bear Sanctuary
Lastly, we come to the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary. Judging by its name, it is Asia’s first sloth bear sanctuary. The region is protected for the conservation of the endangered Indian sloth bear. It is situated close to Hampi which is just 15 km away from it.
Spread across an area of 82.7 square km it is a unique place. The sightings are usually organized in the evening time which suits the comfort of the bears.
Apart from sloth bears, it is a home for the Indian Leopard, Indian Fox, Indian Pangolin, Indian Boar, Mongoose, etc. Moreover, you will get to see reptiles like Indian Star tortoises and monitor lizards, and snakes.
Summing Up,
These places are some of the many gems of Hampi and visiting them will give you a memorable trip. Hampi has been long underestimated as a travel destination. But, Hampi has a lot to offer with its historic, cultural, and architectural heritage that makes it a must-visit destination.
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