Inscribed Vishnu Temple, Hampi
Inscribed Vishnu Temple in Hampi is a shrine known for its numerous inscriptions. The temple is situated behind the Vittala Temple and is in ruined state.
Hampi
Hampi — Karnataka’s City of Ruins
Hampi is where the Vijayanagara Empire left its capital written in stone. Spread across a boulder-strewn landscape on the banks of the Tungabhadra in Vijayanagara district, the site holds more than 1,600 surviving monuments — temples, royal enclosures, market streets, aqueducts and gateways — and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. In the 16th century this was one of the largest and richest cities in the world; today it is Karnataka’s most rewarding heritage destination, and one of the few where a 500-year-old temple is still in daily worship.
Hampi was part of Ballari district until November 2021, when the Karnataka government carved out a new Vijayanagara district — the state’s 31st — with Hosapete (Hospet) as its headquarters. Older guidebooks, maps and road signs still place Hampi in Ballari, so travellers will encounter both names.
This section of Karnataka.com brings together everything we’ve published on Hampi: temple-by-temple guides to Virupaksha, Vittala and the Yantrodharaka Hanuman shrine, the celebrated Stone Chariot, the Royal Enclosure, the ruins after dark, the annual Hampi Utsav, and where to stay — from backpacker guesthouses in Hampi Bazaar to luxury resorts across the river.
To learn more about Hampi, click here.
Planning a visit: October to February is the comfortable season, when Hampi Utsav is usually held. Hosapete (Hospet), about 13 km away, is the nearest railhead; Jindal Vijaynagar Airport at Toranagallu is the closest airport, with Hubballi and Bengaluru as bigger alternatives. Allow two full days — one for the sacred centre, one for the royal centre.
Chandramouliswara Temple, Hampi – An Ancient Shrine
Chandramouliswara Temple in Hampi is an ancient ruined temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located on Rishimukh Island. Learn more about temples in Hampi.
Granaries, Hampi – Remnants of Ancient Storages
Granaries in Hampi are large storage places that were used to store grains in the ancient times. The foundations of such granaries can be seen even today.
Elephant Stable, Hampi
Elephant Stable, Hampi is one of the least damaged structures. The domed structure was used to shelter royal elephants and is a major tourist attraction.
Akka Tangi Gudda, Hampi – A Wonder Formed by Rock
Akka Tangi Gudda or the Sister Stones in Hampi is a famous archway-like formation of two gigantic rocks. It is a renowned spot for photography by tourists.
King’s Audience Hall, Hampi – Saga of a Ruined Court
King’s Audience Hall, Hampi is a ruined structure that was the court of the Kings of Vijayanagara Empire. It is known as Durbar Hall and it had 100 pillars.
Vittala Temple, Hampi – An Architectural Wonder
Vittala Temple in Hampi is known for its splendid architecture. The temple complex has several attractions like the Stone Chariot and the musical pillars.
Kuduregombe Mantapa, Hampi – A Charming Monument
Kuduregombe Mantapa in Hampi is a structure with an old world charm. The architecture of the pillars gives it a unique look. It is a famous tourist spot.
Queen’s Bath, Hampi – An Ornate Structure
Queen’s Bath in Hampi is a lovely structure that has a large bath built in the centre. The colossal bath was used by the kings and queens of Vijayanagara.
Archaeological Museum Hampi, Kamalapura – A Treasure Trove of Relics and Artefacts
The Archaeological Museum at Kamalapura has a large collection of sculptures and artefacts from the ruins of Hampi. The museum was established in 1972.