Hampi
Set among a vast landscape of granite boulders on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Hampi is one of India’s most extraordinary historic sites and a highlight of any journey through Karnataka.
Hampi
Once the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi was among the largest and wealthiest cities in the world in the 15th and 16th centuries, with bustling bazaars, grand royal palaces and magnificent temples. Following its defeat at the Battle of Talikota in 1565 the city was abandoned, leaving behind the remains of more than 1,600 monuments, which together are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The ruins spread across a surreal landscape of giant boulders, banana plantations and rice paddies, threaded by the Tungabhadra River. Highlights include the Vijaya Vitthala Temple with its famous stone chariot and musical pillars, the still-active Virupaksha Temple, and the royal enclosure with the Lotus Mahal, Queen’s Bath and Elephant Stables.
Around six and a half hours’ drive north of Bangalore, Hampi deserves at least two or three days to explore properly. It combines well with the Hoysala temples of Belur and Halebid and the coffee hills of Chikmagalur further south.
+ Read More
-
ATOL Protected
-
24/7 Guidance & Support
-
20+ Years of Experience
-
We take care of the leg work
-
We find you the best deal
A print anthology of safari and wilderness travel with over 220 pages of travel inspiration.
Best Time To Visit Hampi
The best time to visit Hampi is from October to February, when days are warm and dry and mornings are pleasantly cool for exploring the ruins on foot. From March temperatures climb steadily, and by April and May the heat regularly exceeds 40°C, making sightseeing hard work in the middle of the day.
The monsoon arrives in June and lasts until around September. Rainfall here is lighter than on the coast, and the landscape turns a vivid green, but the humidity and occasional heavy showers can make some trails slippery.
Whenever you visit, the early mornings and late afternoons are the most rewarding times to be out. The light on the boulders is at its most beautiful then, and the temples are at their quietest.
Best Time To Visit Hampi
Talk to our Experts
They’ll be happy to let you in on their travel secrets, and help you plan a tailor-made trip that’s truly unforgettable.
Hampi (FAQS) NEED TO KNOW
How many days do you need in Hampi?
We recommend at least two full days in Hampi, ideally with three nights. That gives you time to explore the main temple trails at a gentle pace, avoiding the midday heat, and to enjoy experiences such as a coracle ride on the Tungabhadra or a balloon flight over the ruins. Hampi sits well within a longer journey through Southern India.
Follow the link below to find out what else we offer in India: https://www.naturalhighsafaris.com/india/
Do I need any vaccinations to visit Hampi?
There are no compulsory vaccinations for travel to India from the UK, but several are usually recommended, so speak to your GP or a travel clinic at least six to eight weeks before you travel. It’s also wise to pack insect repellent and cover up in the evenings to protect against mosquito bites. For up to date advice please follow the link below:
https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries/india#Vaccine_Recommendations
From our Travel Guides
Meet Our Travel Experts
It takes genuine local knowledge to craft trips that go beyond the ordinary. The Natural High team have unrivalled experience and will take your ideas and turn them into your trip of a lifetime.
Into The Wild Brochure
Need some more inspiration? Request a copy of Into The Wild, our comprehensive anthology of safaris and wilderness travel.
A print anthology of safari and wilderness travel with over 220 pages of travel inspiration.