Hampi is a village in Indian southern state of Karnataka. It was earlier the place of capital of once magnificent Empire of Vijayanagara. At present the place, where the ruins of this empire are found, is a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO. The village is situated on the bank of the river Tungabhadra. Agriculture is the main source of income for the people of the village. Kannada is the native language of Hampi. It is known for its ancient monuments and ruins of once magnificent empire of Vijayanagara and therefore attracts many tourist other parts of the country.
How to reach: You can visit this village by buses run by state government and other private vehicles like cars luxury buses etc. These transports are available from Hospet, Bangalore, Mysore and other cities and town of the state. You can also reach by train to Hospet which is just 13 km away from the Hampi village. Hospet is railway junction and therefore linked by many trains to many other cities of the state and the country as well. Nearest airport for Hampi is located at Hubli which is about 143km away. The airport is well connected by many flights to Mumbai, Bangalore and other major cities of India.
Places of interest: Apart from the UNESCO World heritage Site located at Hampi, it offers its tourists many other places worth visiting in and around it. Being rich in history Hampi attracts many tourists from far and wide. If you visit this village Reach you will find distinct contrast it presents with other parts of the country. Must visit places in and around Hampi are Hampi Bazaar, Virupaksha Temple, Monolith Bull, Hemakuta Hill Temple, Vithala Temple, Big Shivlinga, Mahanavami Dibba, royal enclosures etc. Stone Chariot, a famous chariot is situated near the Vithala temple. Zanana Enclosure is another must visit place. It houses famous the lotus Mahal (palace). Matanga Hill is another place of interest you can visit. The hill offers its tourist beautiful sights of Sun set. If you are on the visit to Hampi take some time out and visit Tungabhadra Dam which is just 16km away from Hampi. Doroji sanctuary is another place to spend some time. It is located just 16km from Hampi and famous for inhabiting bears.
Other detail: Beautifully carved stones are available here to buy. Those are made by local artists and are available at very reasonable price. Hampi Bazaar offers some places where one can have joy of tasting various cuisines. Those are mainly made by the family members. Hampi Utsava (festival) is organized every year in the month of November. The festival is a must see event as all the ancient monuments and ruins are illuminated with light. Many cultural programs like dance, music etc are organized during this festival.
