Hampi, located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in central Karnataka, was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in 1300 AD. You will find monuments, temples, works of art, and structures built during this era.
The name Hampi is derived from the word Pampa, which according to Hindu mythology is another name of Goddess Parvati. In the 15th century, Hampi, also known as Virupakshapattana, Kishkindha Kshetra, was the richest city in the world. Many scientists, artists, and traders from all over the world settled in Hampi. The Vitthal Temple is one of the most impressive structures. The main attraction is the musical pillars known as the SaReGaMaPa pillars. The musical notes can be clearly heard if you knock on them: there are 56 such pillars. Hampi also has a Lotus Palace known as Kamal Mahal. It is famous for its architecture and design. The queens of the Vijayanagara Empire resided here. This palace is built in the shape of a lotus and rests on 24 pillars. The Lotus Palace is one of the few buildings in Hampi.
In 1565, after the Battle of Talikota, the Muslim sultanates in alliance defeated and beheaded King Aliya Rama Raya of the Vijayanagara Empire. Later the conquerors plundered and burned Hampi for six months and then abandoned it – only a few monuments still remain at Hampi. Built between the 7th and 20th centuries, the Virupaksha Temple is a monument to the historical and architectural splendor of Hampi.
Best Time To Visit HAMPI – The best time to visit Hampi is the winter season from October to February. The weather is moderately cool except in extreme evenings, but is generally ideal for exploring the World Heritage Site. Some of the most important festivals including the Vijaya Utsav (Hampi Festival) are celebrated in November.
