Legends of Hampi

Just like humans even civilizations are mortal, they are born, achieve their peak, decline, and then die. The only effort we, as humans can take, is not to let these civilizations die from the memory of the human race.
Hampi was the capital of the mighty Vijayanagar Empire for almost 200 years. This capital city was built on the banks of the Tungabadra river and was one of the biggest and most prosperous cities in the world during that period. At the peak of its glory, various kings built beautiful temples, massive palaces, and huge market areas. It was this mighty empire that saved most of South India from the rampage and plunder of Muslim sultanas for 200 years.
Like most of the barbaric destructions done in the north of India, it was the Islamic invasions that left this city in shambles, The empire was the center of hatred and Jealousy of 5 sultanas who together planned and plundered it. 

Robert Sewell, in his book The Forgotten Empire, concludes thus – “With fire and sword, with crowbars and axes, they carried on day after day their work of destruction. Never perhaps in the history of the world has such havoc been wrought, and wrought so suddenly, on so splendid a city; teeming with a wealthy and industrious population in the full plenitude of prosperity one day, and on the next seized, pillaged, and reduced to ruins, amid scenes of savage massacre and horrors beggaring description.”
Hampi is a perfect example of our glorious past and is definitely one of the biggest open-air museums. 

Virupaksha Temple & Market Complex

Beautiful and vibrant paintings made of natural colors on the ceiling and walls of the temple.

Vittala temple and market  complex

Hazara Rama Temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Ram, It has many carvings depicting many events from Ramayan. 

Badavi Linga Temple

Hemakuta Hills Temple

Laxmi Narasimha Temple

Kadalekalu Ganesh Temple

Under Water Shiva Temple

This temple built in the 16th century was buried for four hundred years, The temple is located below ground level.

1001 Shivalings 101 Shivalings

Mahanavami Dibba & Stepwells

Hanuman Temple

Lotus Mahal

Elephant Stable

Tungabhadra River

Laxmi Temple by river Tungabadhra River

Carvings of Vishnu Avatar

Tips

1. Wear comfortable shoes so that you can cover the main sections and around on foot, you can even book an auto-rickshaw for a few hours or hire a cycle.
2. Climate is hot during the day so carry a cap, umbrella, sunscreen, and whatever works for you.
3. Take it slow, a 3-day trip would be perfect, you can spend 2 days exploring the ruins and one day exploring another side of the Tungabhadra river.
4. You can even extend this trip and explore Badami caves which are around 150kms from Hampi.
5. This place is a unique amalgam of new and old, on one side of the river are these 400-500 years old ruins and another side has a hippie vibe and amazing cafes.