Monday, 1 April 2013

Hampi - A visual delight


Distance from Bangalore to Hampi – 365 km/ 6 hours 30 minutes (approx)

If you are looking for a slice of history, then Hampi, in Northern Karnataka, located in the ruins of Vijayanagara, the 15th century city, the seat of Vijayanagara Empire is an ideal place to polish up on your history lesson. Situated on the southern banks of the river Tungabhadra, Hampi is a prominent pitstop on any traveller's circuit, and is a World Heritage Site. All the more reasons for intrepid travellers to explore the remains of the palaces, the various religious and secular structures which include Hindu and Jaina temples and the audience hall of the king. Tourists visiting Hampi are mesmerized by its vast stretches of boulder-strewn hills, the arid landscape and the 500 ancient monuments dotting the city.

The temples in Hampi are famous for their architectural relevance, intricate carvings, large dimensions, magnificient pillars and stately pavilions. The temples are a great source of iconographic and traditional depictions, including subjects from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

From backpackers, avid travellers to culture vultures, Hampi has evolved as a major tourist destination for all. It is an ideal hotspot for family getaways and group holidays. There's lots in store for adventure travellers as well. Besides temple complexes, Hampi has few other sites worth a visit such as the Tungbhadra dam, 16 kms from Hampi towards Hospet. For avid trekkers, there is also a Daroji bear sanctuary, known for sloth bears is 16 kms from Hampi. Hampi is also a haven for rockclimbers who are often spotted scaling the tawny boulders.



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