Hampi India
We split up our Goa´n beach days with a trip to Hampi. The best way to travel from Goa to Hampi is by train. We didn’t book tickets ahead of time, so unfortunately, they were sold out. We made it there by car instead. A 7-hour eventful drive.
Hampi was the capital of the Hindu Vijayanagar Empire for over 200 years (around 1336 AD to 1565 AD). The empire covered all of southern India to the Tungabhadra river. The city was an important center of trade. It was an impressive city with beautiful palaces, temples, statues and market streets. After the death of the empire’s greatest king, Kishnadevaraya, the kingdom fell to the combined armies of the neighboring Muslim rulers of the Deccan. The city was plundered and abandoned and now lies in ruins. The area was then later called “the kingdom of monkeys” and the Hindu God Hanuman was born in the area. It is today on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. The landscape around Hampi is very special with rocks and boulders surrounding the Tungabhadra river.
The sunset at Hemakuta Hill Hampi.
Saasivekaalu Ganesha.
Virupaksha Temple. The home of Lakshmi, the holy elephant.
The sunset at Matanga Hill. It was a pretty steep hike to reach the top. We didn’t make it all the way, but we got a good view of Virupaksha Temple anyway.
There are many beautiful rice fields surrounding Hampi. Also, many banana and sugar plantations.
Lakshmi´s morning bath in the Tungabhadra river.
Hazara Rama Temple.
Our favorite restaurant ended up being the Mango Tree. The original restaurant was located by the river, but unfortunately it was burned down. Just in time for our visit, they reopened the restaurant in a different location. Great food and atmosphere.
We stayed at the Heritage Resort Hampi, which is located a bit outside Hampi. They have a nice pool area and garden.
Malyavanta Raghunatha Temple.
Baba Café in Anjanadri Hill Hanumanahalli. Beautifully located restaurant with traditional food and a cute cat.
Chintamani Temple in Anegundi.
Hanuman Temple. 570 steps to get there. A stunning view. Friendly people.
Hampi is such a beautiful area. We lost count of all the impressive temples and ruins. We met many friendly people and ate a lot of delicious food. We are happy not to have encountered any tigers or bears. We feel humbled and blessed.
Our travel journal 