Situated along the banks of Tungabhadra River approximately 13 km from Hospet and 350 kilometers north of Bangalore, the village of Hampi in North Karnataka covering more than 25 square kilometers, holds tremendous historical significance. Research about Hampi says that the erstwhile major trading center bears historical legacy in forms of giant temples, palaces, market streets, and forts and several other ancient monuments.
Fast Facts
Area |
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26 sq km |
Altitude |
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1,547 metres above sea level |
Languages |
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Kannada and English |
Best time to visit |
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October to March |
STD Code |
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08394 |
History:
The history about Hampi will tell you that it once matched the glory and grandeur of erstwhile Rome. Witnesses to this fact are its forts, palaces, temples, sculptures, baths, irrigation canals, bazaar ruins that talk of a civilization belonging to the medieval era. The first settlement in Hampi began as early as 1st century AD. A number of Buddhist sites belonging to that era can be found around the site of Hampi, the capital of the mighty Vijayanagar Empire.
Discovered by two brothers, Harihar and Bukka in 1336, Vijaynagar once stood as one of the largest Hindu empires in India. It reached its peak during the reign of Emperor Krishnadevaraya (1509-1529) who was the greatest ruler of the time and controlled almost all of peninsular India south of Tungabhadra River. It was famously visited by travelers and writers like Abdur Razak, Nicolo Conti, and Domingo Paes.
Seven concentric lines of fortifications guarded the city from any foreign assault. The Vijaynagar Empire developed, with the flourish of both cotton and spice trade through the routes of southern India. Hampi has been referred to by medieval historians as an important center of trade. Sadly enough, however, the death of Krishnadevaraya led to the downfall of the empire in 1565 in the hands of the combined armies of the five Muslim kingdoms-Bidar, Ahmednagar, Bijapur, Golconda and Berar.
Best Season, Climate and Clothing:
Scorching summers (April-June), and cool winters (October-February) primarily characterize climate of Hampi. The south-western monsoons hit the land from June to August. The best time to visit Hampi is between the months of October and March.
How to Reach Hampi:
By Air:
The nearest airstrip is located at Tornagallu in Sandur Taluk which is 32 kms away from Hospet. Other convenient airports are at Belgaum and Bangalore.
By Rail:
Hospet is the nearest railhead, 13 kms away. Hospet is connected by rail to Bangalore, Bijapur, Hubli and Guntakal.
By Road:
Situated at 350 kms from Bangalore, Hampi is well connected by regular KSRTC bus services from Hospet.
Tourist Attractions in Hampi:
The various tourist interests in Hampi are as follows:
Virupaksha Temple
The temple of Malyavanta Raghunathaswamy
Vithala Temple Complex
House of Victory
Hazara Ramaswami Temple
The King�s Balance
Lotus Mahal
The Elephant Stables
Mahanavami Dibba
Daroji Bear Sanctuary
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