While many travelers head to India for the deserts of Rajasthan or the Taj Mahal, Hampi remains an under-the-radar destination. But for those who make the journey, it often becomes a place that leaves a lasting impression. Once a prosperous capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, Hampi today is a hauntingly beautiful ruin—its fallen temples and ancient stones steeped in history and spirituality.
Top 9 Must-Do Experiences in Hampi
1. Visit the Temples
There are over a dozen noteworthy temples scattered across Hampi. For convenience, hire a tuk-tuk (auto rickshaw) and visit 3–4 key temples along with a lunch stop and a sunset viewpoint. Expect to pay 500–800 INR for a full-day tour.
- Virupaksha Temple: The oldest and still-active temple in Hampi, famous for its 11-tier tower and spiritual elephant, Lakshmi.
- Vittala Temple: Known for its intricate stone chariot and 56 musical pillars that emit sound when tapped.
- Achyutaraya Temple: One of the largest temple complexes, with impressive carvings and medieval ambiance.
- Stepped Tank: A geometric, tiered water reservoir of unknown original purpose, possibly used for rituals.
Other temples worth seeing: Badavilinga, Hanuman Temple, and more.
2. Sunset at Matanga Hill
The highest point in Hampi, Matanga Hill offers one of the best sunset views. Though the climb takes about 30 minutes over unmarked rocky paths, the panoramic scene at the top makes the effort worthwhile.
3. Relax on Hippie Island
Separated from the temple side by the Tungabhadra River, Hippie Island is the laid-back counterpart to Hampi’s historical ruins. Reachable by a short 5-minute boat ride (~50 INR), the island has basic bungalows and local cafes where you can unwind with a beer or coffee, enjoying scenic views of the surrounding fields and boulders.
4. Bike Around Anegundi Village
Rent a bicycle (~100 INR/day) or scooter to explore Anegundi, a charming village surrounded by rice paddies and boulders. Pass through alleyways and interact with locals, soak in peaceful rural life, or stop by lakes and handicraft shops selling banana fiber products.
5. Dine at Mango Tree and Laughing Buddha
Mango Tree: Located near Virupaksha Temple, this restaurant is known for its service, fresh juices, and delicious Egg Bhurji.
Laughing Buddha: On Hippie Island, it has a stunning river view though the food is average. A great spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
6. Watch the Sunset from Hippie Island Viewpoint
A local recommendation that’s worth the short 5-minute ride and 10-minute climb. At the top, enjoy sunset views over the Tungabhadra River and surrounding hills. Some hostels also organize drum circles and small evening gatherings here.
7. Cliff Jumping and Swimming at Hampi Lake
While warning signs about crocodiles exist, locals say they’ve never seen one. Visitors often jump from cliffs into the lake to cool off during hot afternoons. Check with locals for safe spots before swimming and always clean up after yourself.
8. Go Bouldering
Hampi’s rocky terrain is ideal for bouldering. Several agencies offer half-day or full-day climbing tours with equipment rental.
9. Enjoy Hippie Cafés
Don’t stick to just one café! Hampi is full of colorful, chill spots to explore. Beyond Mango Tree and Laughing Buddha, try Rasta Café or Golden Garden for a true hippie vibe.
Travel Tips for Hampi
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (April–July): Extremely hot and not ideal for travel.
- Monsoon (July–September): Cooler and greener, but slippery paths make hiking difficult.
- Winter (October–March): Pleasant weather and ideal for sightseeing, with festivals like Vijaya Utsav held during this season.
How to Get to Hampi
There are no direct flights to Hampi. Fly from Vietnam to Bengaluru via a major hub (Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, etc.). From Bengaluru, you can take a domestic flight to Hubli or Jindal Vijaynagar Airport, then transfer by bus or taxi. Budget travelers may prefer an overnight bus directly from Bengaluru to Hampi.
Suggested Itinerary
Four days is a perfect amount of time: two days exploring temples and two days relaxing on Hippie Island. This allows time to visit historical sites, enjoy nature, and absorb the unique atmosphere of Hampi.
Estimated Budget
Hampi is affordable. Accommodation is basic and reasonably priced, most attractions don’t require entry fees, and food is budget-friendly. Whether you’re a history buff, spiritual seeker, or chill traveler, Hampi is a hidden gem worth discovering.
And of course, Hampi is just one of many magical destinations in India. Don’t miss camel rides in Jaisalmer, the blue streets of Jodhpur, or the pink hues of Jaipur. India has so much more to offer.
