Domed Gateway, Hampi – Grand Entryway of the Past
The Domed Gateway at Hampi is a unique structure that stands as a remembrance of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is one of the well preserved structures.
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.
Bhima’s Gate, Hampi – An Impressive Entry Way
Bhima’s Gate at Hampi is a massive gateway that was once a part of the strong defence system of the Vijayanagara Empire. The gate has several carvings on it.
Pattabhirama Temple, Hampi
Pattabhirama Temple in Hampi is known for its exceptional architecture. The temple has lovely pillars and a large hall. The temple is devoted to Lord Rama.
King’s Balance, Hampi – A Monument with an Interesting History
King’s Balance in Hampi, is a balance scale used in the 15th century by the Kings of Vijayanagara Empire. Read on to know more about King’s Balance, Hampi.
Top 15 Tourist Sites in Hampi
Hampi is one of the destinations that never stop to fascinate tourists. Read on to know more about local sightseeing in Hampi, hotels nearby & how to reach.
Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple, Hampi: A Unique Monument in Stone
Kadalekalu Ganesha is one of the largest statues in Hampi. The temple housing the huge statue has stone pillars with carved mythical characters and themes.
Hampi Bazaar – A Quaint Marketplace
Hampi Bazaar is a local market in Hampi that offers various attractive items and artefacts. The market becomes vibrant during the annual Hampi Utsav.
Hazara Rama Temple, Hampi: A story Carved in Stone
Hazara Rama Temple in Hampi is an important shrine. This small but beautiful temple is located at the centre of the royal area. The
Ancient Bridge, Hampi: The Missing Link to the Past
The Ancient Bridge at Hampi is a ruined structure today but still draws a lot of tourists. This 14th century bridge was used to connect Anegondi to Hampi.
