Although Hampi is famous for its magnificent ruins sprawled across the city, Hampi has so much more to offer. From cycling to bouldering, Hampi is certainly a traveller's paradise. So here is a list of all the fun activities that can make your trip more special.
Walking amidst the ruins
A trip to Hampi is incomplete without exploring the ruins sprawled across the Tungabhadra River. The ruins are classified as religious and royal ones. Visit the famous Virupaksha temple to see the iconic Hampi chariot. Take a walk along the river banks to the see the submerged temples, bazaar ruins etc. Don't miss the magnificent Narasimha statue and the monolithic ganesha statues and the museums that help to understand the rich history behind the ruins.
Bask in the serenity through a coracle boat
One of the best ways to enjoy Hampi is through a boat ride, especially in the basket shaped boats called coracles. These boats have been in use since the 15th century. Be sure to try one of these rides to float down the Tungabhadra and visit the fabled land of Anegundi, from the epic Ramayana.
Try bouldering
If you have a passion for adventure then Hampi is your perfect destination. With picturesque boulders and the right terrain, Hampi has emerged as the country's hot spot for those who love the sport. There are many stores and travel operators who provide equipments needed. There are a few active temples which still attract devotees on these hills and caution needs to be exercised as some of them are in extremely dilapidated condition.
Watch one of the most breathtaking sunsets and sunrises
Give into the serenity of the nature that surrounds this magical land as you watch the sunrise or sunset atop of the boulders. Although the sunrise can be viewed from anywhere, one of the most popular destinations to make the most of it would be at The Monkey Temple, located on the Anjayena Hills. It certainly would be a delight to the eyes and the camera.
Explore at your own pace with bicycle rides
Hampi is not to be seen in a rush. So, take your time to explore the ruins in this sleepy village through a bicycle ride. Roam and explore the magic that is hidden here at your own pace. Various bicycle rental stores are located in the village. To add spark to the ride, take pit stops at the local cafes and markets, interact with the locals.
Give into the wild side
Nature enthusiasts can visit the nearby Daroji Bear Sanctuary to see sloth bears. It is quite offbeat and houses many bird species and an impressive variety of butterflies as well. You can either drive around the place or watch from towers with a pair of binoculars. This is a really good place to visit, especially with family as a picnic.
Relive the lives of the Vijayanagara royalty
Travel back in time by visiting the Royal Enclosures. Although most of them are in ruins the past still echoes through them. Visit the great platform, a unique monument that stands within the royal enclosure: it is also mentioned as the House of Victory where the king used to witness the celebrations. The most distinctive feature of it is the carving on it which gives us a glimpse of the day to day lives of the people of Hampi. Other noteworthy monuments include the Lotus Mahal with its breathtaking architecture and the queen’s bath and the Hazara Rama temple with carvings depicting the epic Ramayana.
Savour your taste buds with the Bellary biryani
Whether you are a foodie or not, the lip smacking Bellary biryani is sure to amaze your taste buds. It is a dish made from rice and seasoned with meat or lamb. To get the complete essence of it, pair it up with a cold glass of buttermilk.
