See Hampi in a Day
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Column detail at Achyutraya temple |
The good news is you can visit the city in one day and not loose out on its heritage and charm. With all our heritage visits crammed into two day weekends in a month we didn't have much time. Do I feel we should have spent more time in Hampi? Yes, but I still feel we saw Hampi no matter how small a part.
This is a quick guide for a day trip to the lost city.
Getting Around
The best way from Hospet to Hampi is by bus. For Rs 40 you will be dropped at Hampi bus stand. Depending on your physical conditions and desire you now have four options.![]() |
Bus back to Hospet |
Walk
It is actually possible to see the entire city on foot but not in one day unless you are hell bent on it. Do remember it is spread over 25 Km or so.Autorickshaw
If you want to take this option it is better you crack the deal at Hospet. regular charges were around 300-400 for two people.Cycle
You can rent a cycle for around 50 a day. Though it can be tiring as the monuments are connected by hilly roads with a lot of climb.Our Bike |
Bike
You can rent a bike for 400/- a day with a litre of gas which was definitely enough for us to visit corners of the city. I do think that we got a higher price as we did not haggle. If you want to crack your own deal take the right before the temple as you come in from the bus stand.Nearest gas station is at Kamalpur but you should not need it in case you are there just for a day.
Boat
This is a limited option though exciting. You can get on a motor boat or a small coracle boats. Price for a motor boast ride which takes you to some small temple and drops you to Vittala temple is 150 per person.Sleep
There are chances you might not need this. Even though we had just a day at Hampi our train left next morning to Goa. If you are taking a train, stay at Hospet. Options are available at 360/- for a double bed room with a clean bathroom. Luxury options are around 2000/- for a double room.![]() |
Virupaksha temple |
See
Almost everywhere you see in Hampi there is a glimpse of a mighty empire. As time is limited it is better to limit the sites you visit.Virupaksha Temple
It is just next to the bus stand and most often than not this is where most people start their trip.Monolithic statues
There are many monolithic statues all around Hampi. These are the ones you should not missNandi
At the other end of the bazaar street. keep driving straight away from Virupaksha temple.Ganesha
There are two statues of ganesha. As you climb up the hill from Hampi to visit the palace complex they will be on your right.Narasimha
A god who was half lion and half human sits proud once you take a small detour on your way to palace complex from Hampi town. There is a board directing you towards the statue.Badavilinga
Chariot Wheels @ Vittala temple |
Vittala Temple
Probably the most ornate and lavish of all Hampi temples. It is a long walk to the temple I could not locate a motor-able road. Though the walk in itself is beautiful. I am told there is a bus from Kamalapura to Vittala temple.Achutraya temple and Courtesan Street
These will fall on your path when you set out to visit Vittala Temple. Another temple which will fall on your path is Varaha temple.Krishna Temple
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Market at Krishna Temple |
Palace and Queen's Complex
A bit outside the main city are these two complex. Keep an eye as it is easy to miss the direction sign. You might want to see the elephant stables and palace pedestals which once had beautiful palaces over them.Step well
From Aqueduct to Stepwell |
Queen's bath
Fascinated by the queens who had an entire complex for themselves? Visit their bath, though it looks plain it used to be quite detailed from inside before people took their pens to the walls. Still it is a beautiful building and worth a visit.Eat
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Local Breakfast |
You might come across Mango Tree a lot in your research. it is no more there, i.e. not under a mango tree. The owner is running it in a small place which gives you the luxury to stretch your legs on a mattress. If you
visit Mango tree do have the buttermilk.
If local food is your style come back to Hospet where you will get good local food for quite less. Hospet has a street food area which comes alive in the evening. Ask around for Gandhi chowk and you will soon find the small park where local vendors serve delicious street food. Do know your own limits as to what your body can digest.
Don't miss
Underground temple
Underground Temple |
Faluda at the Hospet street food chowk is really good. and after a long day of travel it is be a welcome treat.
Safety and Health
Take precautions as you would take anywhere. Dressing conservatively is better especially if you are out for a walk during evening or night time. Pharmacy is easily available in both Hampi town and Hospet.In case you face a puncture, haul your vehicle to the main road and call the guy you booked it from. You will probably not receive any tools along with your bike.
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