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Top Temple Guide to Hampi - India
Author: Anjali Indurkhya "Ghumakkadbandi"
Hampi is an ancient village in the south Indian state of Karnataka. It’s dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire on the south bank of the River Tungabhadra.
Hampi is surrounded by big heavy rocks that can be dis-balance at any time as it seems but they never will, endless fields of banana tress, perfect blend of nature and architecture.
Rocks and water surrounding parts of the Temple area at Hampi.
Guide to the Hampi Temple area of India
There are several ways to get to the Temples of Hampi. These are my tips and suggestions!
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How to reach :
By Air : Nearest airports are Hubli and Bangalore. After that you can take train or bus or taxi to Hampi directly.
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By Train: Nearest railway station is Hospete. After that taking a taxi is around 250–300 rs. to reach Hampi. Hampi is around 13km from Hospete. (I'm sharing one of the taxidriver's number here: Nagarjuna (9731970755) very helpful!)
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By Bus: Hampi is connected to all major stations like Pune, Banaglore, you will get directly bus to Hospete.
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Where to stay:
Hampi is partitioned by Tungabhadra River so you can stay on either side of the river. By crossing the river you will reach Hippie island (that's what people called it).
On Hippie Island there are many hotels and cafes. Also night life with late night party, booze and all available after 8 pm. You have nothing to do until then other than roaming in a Hampi Bazaar or spending some time in cafes like Mango Tree. We stayed in a hut provided by Mango Tree (1500 rs per night).
Taking a bike tour is a healthy, eco-friendly and great way to Explore the Temple area!
How to explore:
On bicycle: You can rent a bicycle in 150–200 rs for a day and can visit all the monuments as all the places are within 22 km.
On Moped: If you are planning for a moped, book in one day prior! They will provide you all fuel up as there are no petrol pumps. It will cost you around 400–500 rs per day.
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On Auto: Yes, you can hope in a auto too, no exertion, no tanning and yes no fun! It will cost you around 750 rs per day.
On Foot: Yes, you can even explore whole Hampi on your feet too, all places around Hampi Bazaar you can explore on your feet effortlessly but for some places you have to trek.
King's Balance Temple ruins of Hampi, India
There's so much to Explore around Hampi!
Don't forget to take a break to enjoy the moment and the fantastic Hampi sights!
Five more helpful tips from me!
1. Stay at Hippie Island if you are looking for nightlife with beer and non-veg. 3 days are enough to explore all main places.
2. Carry Cash! Hampi is not as much digitized and ATM is in Hospet, yes wi-fi works but still good to have cash.
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3. People are good so help each other, maintain peace, don’t write on any rocks and keep it clean. Help preserving this beautiful heritage village.
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4. Spend many days in Hampi! The Temple area has a total of 83 marked buildings and temples.
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5. Enjoy your stay! It's the best place for trekkers, travelers, photographers, writers, and artists!
Respect the heritage of Hampi Temple area! Be good. Be peaceful. Be happy!
Don't forget to eat local and be part of the Hampi hospitality together with locals!
Hope you enjoyed the Top Temple Guide!
Read the complete blog post and the extended version of The Temple Guide on my site Ghumakkadbandi and feel free to follow my travels on Instagram.