Discover Incredible Places in Hampi
Explore our handpicked collection of breathtaking destinations across India
Mahaanavami Dibba
The Mahanavami Dibba, also known as the "Great Platform," is a massive stone platform located within the Royal Enclosure of Hampi, India. This impressive structure served as a ceremonial platform during the Vijayanagara Empire, used for important religious festivals, royal gatherings, and military parades. The platform is adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, courtly life, and processions of animals. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding ruins and landscapes.
Lotus Mahal
The Lotus Mahal, also known as Kamal Mahal or Chitrangini Mahal, is a stunning architectural marvel in Hampi. Its unique design blends Hindu and Islamic styles, creating a visually captivating structure. The palace gets its name from its lotus-like dome. It served as a recreational pavilion for the royal ladies of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Lotus Mahal stands out with its gracefully arched windows and balconies. The building's airy design provides natural ventilation, making it a cool and pleasant retreat. Surrounded by a well-maintained garden, the Lotus Mahal offers a tranquil escape from the heat and crowds. It is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Hampi, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Vijayanagara royalty.
Shri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
The Shri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, also known as the Ugra Narasimha statue, is a colossal monolithic statue of Lord Narasimha, the fourth avatar of Vishnu, seated on the coils of Adisesha, the sacred serpent. Lakshmi, his consort, was originally seated on his lap, but the statue was damaged. This is one of the largest and most impressive statues in Hampi, showcasing the Vijayanagara style of architecture. The sheer scale and intricate details of the statue are awe-inspiring. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu mythology, art, and history. The surrounding area offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for contemplation and photography.
Kadalekalu Ganesha
The Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple is an architectural marvel located in the historical ruins of Hampi, India. This temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is renowned for its colossal monolithic statue of the deity, carved out of a single massive boulder. The statue, measuring over 8 feet in height, depicts Lord Ganesha in a seated posture with his characteristic potbelly and trunk. The temple's unique name, 'Kadalekalu,' translates to 'gram seed' in the local language, referring to the shape of the statue's belly. Visitors are captivated by the intricate carvings and the sheer grandeur of the statue, making it a must-visit destination in Hampi.
Shri Krishna Temple
The Krishna Temple in Hampi, India, is a captivating structure renowned for its intricate carvings and impressive scale. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, it showcases the Vijayanagara architectural prowess with its massive pillars, ornate gopuram (tower), and sprawling courtyards. The temple's highlight is its exquisite carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, including the epic Mahabharata.
Hazara Raama Temple
The Hazara Rama Temple is known for its exquisite bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. These intricate carvings cover the temple walls, narrating the story of Lord Rama. The temple, relatively small in size, is a marvel of Vijayanagara artistry, showcasing their attention to detail and mastery over stone carving. The open-mantapa (hall) pillars feature dancing figures and musicians, adding to the temple's visual appeal. Unlike other temples in Hampi, this was likely used exclusively by the royal family, evident in its location within the royal enclosure.
Shree Vijaya Vitthala Temple
The Vijaya Vittala Temple is an architectural marvel located in Hampi, India, known for its exquisite craftsmanship and intricate carvings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Vittala, a manifestation of Krishna. Its most striking feature is the Stone Chariot, a monolithic structure depicting the chariot of Vittala, with elaborately carved wheels that actually rotate. The temple complex also houses the famous musical pillars, known for producing musical notes when struck gently.
Royal Palace
The Royal Enclosure in Hampi, India, is a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and other structures that once served as the heart of the Vijayanagara Empire. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the grandeur and opulence of the Vijayanagara dynasty. Explore the majestic Mahanavami Dibba, the stepped platform used for royal ceremonies, and marvel at the intricate carvings of the Hazara Rama Temple. The Queen's Bath, with its stunning Indo-Islamic architecture, and the Lotus Mahal, a beautiful example of secular Vijayanagara architecture, are not to be missed.
Lakshmana Teertha
The Lakshmana Temple in Hampi, India, is a stunning example of Vijayanagara architecture. Built in the 15th century, it's dedicated to Lord Vishnu (in his incarnation as Lakshmana) and showcases intricate carvings, towering pillars, and a peaceful ambiance. The temple complex is vast, with multiple shrines, stepped tanks, and impressive gateways. The level of detail in the sculptures, depicting stories from Hindu epics, is awe-inspiring. It's a must-visit for history buffs, art lovers, and anyone seeking a glimpse into India's glorious past.