The Achyuta Raya Temple is in Hampi. It was built in 1534 AD. It is one of Hampi’s major, splendid, and awe-inspiring temples, located between the Matanga hills and Gandhamadana. This magnificent temple depicts the Vijayanagara temple architecture style in its finest form. It was among the last dazzling temples built in the celebrated city of Hampi before the Vijayanagara Empire’s decline.
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Quick Facts About Achyuta Raya Temple, Hampi
- Timing: From 5:30 AM – 1:00 PM and from 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM on all days of the week
- Entry Fee: No entry fee required
- Photography: Allowed
- Visit Duration: About 2 hours
Unfortunately, this elegant and striking temple is in ruins due to attacks by the monarchs of the Bahamani kingdom. It has been greatly affected by the forces of nature over several centuries.
The temple is secluded and off the beaten path, so it is much less crowded than many other tourist attractions in Hampi. This is good news for people who like quiet tours, because its off-the-beaten-path location and hidden nature keep it less crowded. The best time to visit the temple is from November to February.
The main idol worshipped at the Achyuta Raya Temple is Lord Tiruvengalanatha, another form of Vishnu.
The towers, pillars, and walls have exquisite carvings and ornamentation. Major parts of the temple are damaged. Although it is in ruins, the temple does not fail in grandiosity, and its magnificence remains even today.
History of Achyuta Raya Temple, Hampi
The Achyuta Raya temple was built during the rule of Achyuta Deva Raya, an emperor of the Vijayanagara Empire. He came to power after his elder brother, Krishna Deva Raya, in 1529.
The stunning, heavenly temple is devoted to Lord Tiruvengalanatha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Thus, this temple was initially known as Tiruvengalanatha Temple. However, it was later named after the king under whose reign it was built. Hence, it became widely known as the Achyuta Raya temple.
Architecture of Achyuta Raya Temple
The temple’s principal shrine sits at the centre of a pair of rectangular concentric enclosures. There are pillared verandas on the interior flanks of the two courtyard walls. The outer walkways are decaying, collapsing, and disintegrating. The temple is distinctly visible from the top of the Matanga Hill. It is at the end of the abandoned Courtesan Street.
Upon entering the inner court, you can spot a chamber facing the porch leading to the central hall. A small shrine chamber once housed an image of Garuda.
The accessible hall features a few highly acclaimed sculpted pillars. The carvings are done on monolithic blocks of rock. The statues and sculptures on the pillars depict themes such as Lord Vishnu blessing an elephant, Lord Krishna playing his flute while calves watch with interest, and infant Krishna dancing with a snake and holding it by the tail.
The Mandapa is a marriage hall for the Gods and Goddesses’ yearly nuptials.
How to Reach Achyuta Raya Temple
The temple is situated between the Gandhamadana and Matanga hills. Two main routes lead to the temple. One route starts at Kodandarama Temple, passes through Courtesan Street, and leads to the temple’s main minarets.
The other route climbs the stairs near the Nandi, or Monolithic Bull, at the eastern corner of Hampi Bazaar. The second one is easier and more convenient.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jindal Vijaynagar Airport (VDY) at Toranagallu, about 35 km from Hampi, served by Alliance Air and Star Air with flights to Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Ballari’s own airport has no scheduled passenger flights. For wider connectivity, Hubballi Airport (about 165 km) and Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru (about 350 km) are the practical alternatives.
By Rail
Hampi has no railway station. The nearest station to Hampi is Hospet, about 13 km away. Tourists can hire a taxi from Hospet to Hampi. Bangalore to Hampi is 288 km.
By Road
Hampi has a good road network. Numerous buses connect Hampi to many major towns in Karnataka. Tourists can also hire private cars or cabs. Travellers can reach Hampi by bus. AC and Volvo buses are available.
