Hampi is a historical heritage site located in the state of Karnataka, India. It is famous for many matters, firstly it once was the Kingdom of Vijayanagara Dynasty. Secondly, Hampi holds numerous temples and shrines including Virupaksha Temples, Lakshmi Narasimha Temple and Vithala Temples. Moreover Hampi contains a total 1,600 surviving ruins and architectural beauties, which represent richness and cultural values of the Capital city of Vijayanagara Dynasty. But today you can see only limited ancient idols and temples and the rest are demolished by the Muslim invaders. Hampi is also called “Halu Hampi”.
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Below 10 Things Help Us to Explain Why Hampi is So Popular?
1. UNESCO World Heritage Site
Undoubtedly, Hampi is recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its incredibly rich history, cultural significance, and architectural and engineering marvels. In 1986, a group of monuments at Hampi received this recognition which consist of more than 1500 ancient ruins, temples, statues, paintings and architectural beauties.
2. Ancient Kingdom
As we know Hampi was a great kingdom during the Vijayanagara Empire, not just the Kingdom, Hampi also served as the Capital city of the empire. During the 14th to 16th Century onward by the attack of Deccan sultans envisions this kingdom flourished. It was one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world during its prime.
3. Virupaksha Temple
It is 7th century Shiva Temple, Virupaksha Temple is one of the oldest and most iconic ancient landmarks in Hampi. Virupaksha means “Eyes Without Form”, temple features includes magnificent complex, 3 towers (one is raised upto 160 foot), gopuram, (entrance of the temple) and a tower. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features intricate carvings and a 160-foot-tall tower. There is a huge statue of the bull facing straight to the gopura.
4. Hampi Bazaar
Hampi Bazaar is a thriving market, where you buy souvenirs and ancient man-made traditional items. Spread more than 1 km, passing through the market series of old pavilions on both sides. The Bazaar is located near the Virupaksha Temple, open daily from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm. It is lined with shops selling a variety of goods, including handicrafts, and clothing. Today what we are seeing in Hampi Bazar is just a glimpse of the ancient past.
5. Stone Chariot
The most impressive thing in Hampi is the Stone Chariot. Primarily a shrine dedicated to Garuda, famous among other major stone chariots in India- Konark, Odisha and Mahabalipuram. The famous Stone Chariot is a stone sculpture situated just near to Vittala Temple complex. Chariot made according to Dravidian architecture style including sculptures of horses where elephants were seated. It is a prime symbol of the exceptional craftsmanship of the Vijayanagara Empire.
6. Monolithic Bull
Hampi is home to a single rock monolithic statue of Nandi (Statue of Baby Cow). This Monolithic Bull is often known as Yeduru Basavanna. Considered as the massive, sacred bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva. State housed in a twin storied pavilion elevated platform purely carved according to coarse style. This Statue of Nandi is made with single granite rock and is believed to be the largest monolithic Nandi in the world.
7. Hampi Festival
Hampi Utsav is an annual cultural festival hosted by the Hampi. It showcases the rich heritage of the region through various cultural events,classical music and dance performances, and a magnificent procession. Purandaradasa Aradhana, Virupaksha Temple Festivals, Phala Puja Festivals, Diwali and Shivaratri are other major festivals celebrating here.
8. The Queen’s Bath
The Queen’s Bath is a fascinating structure that served as a royal bathing complex during the Vijayanagara Empire. It is a colossal bath situated at the entrance of the Royal Enclosure in Hampi. It contains a big square-shaped pool surrounded by ornate arches and a balconied pavilion. Constructed by the Achyuta Raya according to Indo Islamic style as a private bathing chamber for King and Queens..
9. Matanga Hill
Matanga Hill is a stunning viewpoint in Hampi that offers panoramic views of the nearby landscape, including the Tungabhadra River, temple complexes, and the surrounding ancient ruins. Enjoy the aerial view of Hampi from Matanga Hill where Kodanda Rama Temple is located.
10. Hampi’s Water Management System
Not today even from the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi was known for its advanced water management and renowned irrigation system, with a series of canals, tanks, and aqueducts that supplied water to the city’s residents and the surrounding agricultural properties from Tungabhadra River.
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