HampiSights

Archaeological sights in Hampi

  1. Anegundi

    North of the river is the ruined fortified stronghold of Anegundi, an older structure than those at Hampi; within it you'll find a charming village. Free of the rampant commercialism that blights Hampi Bazaar, this is a wonderful place to stay thanks to a heritage-conservation project, the Kishkinda Trust. Much of the old defensive wall is intact and there are numerous small temples worth a visit.

    It takes less than an hour to walk to Anegundi from Hampi Bazaar. At the time of research a new bridge across the Tungabhadra River was nearing completion; until then coracle rides cost Rs 10. Alternatively there's a road to Anegundi from Hospet.

    reviewed

  2. Royal Centre

    This area of Hampi is quite different from the area around Hampi Bazaar, since most of the rounded boulders that once littered the site have been used to create beautiful stone walls. It's a 2km walk on a track from the Achyutaraya Temple, but most people get to it from the Hampi Bazaar-Kamalapuram road. Within various enclosures here are the rest of Hampi's major attractions, including the Zenana Enclosure and the Elephant Stables.

    This area is easily explored by bicycle since a decent dirt road runs through its heart.

    reviewed

  3. Hanuman Temple

    The whitewashed Hanuman Temple, accessible by a 570-step climb atop the Anjanadri Hill, has fine views of the rugged terrain around. Many believe this is the birthplace of Hanuman, the Hindu monkey god who was Rama’s devotee and helped him in his mission against Ravana. The hike up is pleasant, though you’ll be courted by impish monkeys, and within the temple you’ll find a horde of chillum-puffing resident sadhus!

    reviewed

  4. Elephant Stables

    The Elephant Stables is a grand building with domed chambers where the state elephants once resided. Your entry ticket to the Zenana Enclosure and the stables is also valid for same-day admission to the Vittala Temple.

    reviewed