Our recent family trip to Hampi was nothing short of extraordinary. Steeped in history, Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with ancient ruins, stunning temples, and unique cultural experiences. As we wandered through the timeless beauty of the place, we discovered countless things to do in Hampi that made our visit unforgettable. From exploring majestic temples to indulging in local delights, here’s a detailed look at our incredible adventure.
1. Exploring the Hampi Ruins
Our journey through Hampi began with the ruins, which immediately transported us back to the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire. These sprawling ruins cover miles of land and include temples, markets, and royal complexes. We spent hours wandering through these ancient structures, marveling at the detailed stone carvings and imagining what life must have been like during the empire’s golden age. The architectural beauty and historic significance of the Hampi ruins are something everyone should experience.
2. The Iconic Stone Chariot
No visit to Hampi is complete without seeing the iconic Stone Chariot at the Vittala Temple complex. This marvel of craftsmanship is one of the most recognized symbols of Hampi. The chariot, carved out of stone, looks incredibly life-like, as if it could roll away at any moment. We spent time admiring its intricate design and capturing pictures of this unique piece of history. If you’re looking for one of the most essential things to do in Hampi, visiting the Stone Chariot should be at the top of your list.
3. Visiting the Narsimha Temple
Next, we visited the Narsimha Temple, home to a massive statue of Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The sheer size of the statue, carved from a single piece of stone, was breathtaking. Even though parts of it have been damaged over the years, the statue still exudes a powerful presence. Standing in front of this monolithic figure, we felt a deep connection to Hampi’s spiritual and cultural roots.
4. A Peaceful Stop at the Raghunath Temple
The Raghunath Temple offered us a serene break from our day of exploring. Dedicated to Lord Rama, this quiet temple provided a calming atmosphere where we could pause and reflect. The simplicity and tranquility of the temple made it one of our favorite spots in Hampi. It’s a hidden gem that adds to the diverse things to do in Hampi, especially for those seeking moments of peace.
5. The Grandeur of Virupaksha Temple
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest and still-functioning temples in India. The temple’s towering gopuram (entrance tower) greeted us from afar, beckoning us to explore its intricate halls and shrines. Inside, we were lucky enough to feed the temple elephant, Lakshmi, which was an incredibly heartwarming experience. The temple’s vibrant spiritual energy and rich history made it a must-visit during our stay.
6. A Fun Stop at the Zoo
While Hampi is best known for its history and temples, we were pleasantly surprised by the small but delightful zoo. It provided a fun change of pace, especially for our child, who loved seeing the various animals up close. From monkeys to peacocks, the zoo offered a nice mix of wildlife that entertained us for the afternoon.
7. Tasting Gadbad Ice Cream
Our trip wouldn’t have been complete without indulging in some local treats, and for us, that meant trying the famous Gadbad ice cream. This colorful, layered dessert filled with fruits, nuts, and jelly was the perfect way to cool down after a long day of exploring. It’s a local favorite that I highly recommend to anyone visiting Hampi.
Our family trip to Hampi was an incredible journey through history, spirituality, and local culture. From exploring the ancient Hampi ruins to feeding an elephant at Virupaksha Temple and savoring Gadbad ice cream, we found no shortage of things to do in Hampi. This enchanting destination left us with memories that will last a lifetime, and we can’t wait to return for more adventures.
This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2024
