Hampi

Another trip with F5escapes.com to Hampi. Its a 2 day trip. We stayed in Whiskers resort which was very relaxing and full of nature. 

Hampi is an ancient village in the south Indian state of Karnataka. Its the city of ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire. On the south bank of the River Tungabhadra is the 7th-century Hindu Virupaksha Temple, near the revived Hampi Bazaar. A carved stone chariot stands in front of the huge Vittala Temple site. he temples of Hampi, its monolithic sculptures and monuments, attract the traveler because of their excellent workmanship. Hampi was served as capital city of Vijayanagara Empire more over 200 years (around 1336 AD to 1565 AD). Vijayanagara Rulers decorated and designed this city with lots of lovely temples, palaces, market streets and monuments which made this location one of the famous ancient metropolises in India.

How was Hampi destroyed?

This was the iconic Battle of Talikota (a small town in Karnataka now), in which the Sultanates defeated Vijayanagar and killed Aliya Rama Raya. They then plundered and destroyed Hampi to the ruined state in which it lies to this day.

The famous huge Stone Chariot that stands magnificent in front of the Vittala Temple Site, the 14ft high statue of Lord Ganesha known as Kadalekalu Ganesha are some of the must-visit places in and around Hampi.

The beauty of this place is the more you go around, the more it brings adventures, knowledge and takes you through an unplanned historical tour that is most definitely worth it. Hampi is the perfect combination of a backpacker’s paradise, surrounded by the three hills Anjaneya, Malyavanta and Matanga hills, and a calm pilgrim location.

You could also set aside some time to visit the archaeological museum which was established by the Archaeological Survey of India. The museum is home to many antiques, great sculptures and the proof to the history of this tourist attraction. Situated approximately 60kms away from Ballari district, every inch of this place has stories of its rich cultural heritage back in the ancient days. Now that Hampi has developed so much better than earlier, accommodation and travel to the location are not going to be an issue for you.

Vijaya Vittala Temple:

This 15th-century structure temple is considered to be one of the largest historical structures in Hampi which is dedicated to Lord Vittala- an incarnation of Lord Vishnu- and is a must-visit amongst all Hampi tourist places.

The famous Stone Chariot, the huge pillars in the temple halls and intricate sculptures are the true embodiments of the fascinating architecture of the centuries-old Vijaya Vittala Temple.

One can take a battery car, if you want to save time. 

Virupaksha Temple:

Believed to be the oldest functioning temple in India, Sri Virupaksha Temple is a 7th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Virupaksha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is also considered as one of the most significant religious places to visit in Hampi and attracts a huge number of pilgrims from all over India.

The temple is seen to have many inscriptions of Lord Shiva. The temple was initially a shrine which was later extended into a huge complex during the Vijayanagara rule.The temple has one big holy place for worship, a hall supported by pillars and 3 antechambers and of all the entrances in the temple, the eastern gateway is highest one. The temple is surrounded by many mandaps around it, making the temple look more beautiful in all its cultural glory.

Hanuman Temple:

Hanuman Temple is another famous religious site located on the top of the Anjaneya Hill which is considered as the birthplace of Lord Hanuman. About 4 km from Hampi village, one has to cross a river using a small boat with paddles and then climb up the stairs of about 593 to reach the Temple. We couldnt go to the Hanuman temple as we dint have enough time. 

Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex:

This is one of the most famous and prominent temples in Hampi that is surrounded by a number of beautiful Hindu Temples and archways, pathways that are broken and built with strong, protective walls. The temple is also the perfect place to witness the sunrise and sunset. According to Hindu Mythology, it is believed that this is where Lord Shiva burnt the God of Lust-Kama with his third eye-fire.

Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple:

Located on the south side of the Hemakuta Hill, the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple derives its name from the resemblance between Ganesha’s belly and a mustard seed which is locally known as Sasivekalu. The statue of Lord Ganesha, which is 2.4 meters is seen to have a snake carved around the stomach of Lord Ganesha. The history of the magnificent pavilion that surrounds the statue of Ganesha dates back to 1506 A.D. Given its significance and being near the Hemakuta Temple, this temple is another must visit tourist attraction.

Lakshmi Narasimha Statue:

The Lakshmi Narasimha statue, otherwise known as the statue of Ugra Narasimha was built in the year 1528 A.D. This is known to be the largest monolith statue in the whole of Hampi. The statue of Lord Narasimha- an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and a half man, half lion- depicts the deity sitting in a cross-legged position in its fierce form.

Queen’s Bath:

The Queen’s bath was considered a large open bathing area like a pool, for all the royals, that is, the Kings back then and their wives and is one of the architectures that will get you awe-struck.

The Huge courtyard in the front with a dome-shaped roof, balconies with small windows, and a rectangular pool made of bricks in the middle with open blue sky greet you at the Queen’s Bath in Hampi.

Lotus Mahal
The one structure that needs a special mention inside the Zenana Enclosure is the Lotus Mahal. Or rather this is the highlight in Zenana Enclosure.

The style of it is a pleasant departure from the typical architecture you see in Hampi. The exact function of this is not surely known. Located inside the Zenana enclosure, most probably this was a socializing area for the women folks in the royal family.

Also known as Chitrangani Mahal and Kamal Mahal, this falls under the secular or nonreligious categories of structures in Hampi. It’s peculiar to note that this is one of the beautiful structures that were left undamaged during the siege of the city. However there are some signs of mutilations on a few sculptures placed on the outer surface.

Unlike the other major structures in Hampi, this is made out of lime mortar and brick made composition.

The shape of the structure is what brought it the name. The archways and the balcony with the domed construction resemble a half opened lotus bud. Also is the lotus bud shape carved on to the center dome.

Basically this is a two storied structure with an open base floor the sidewalls are having tall arched windows. The upper floors have balconies with arched windows. Hook like structures are made on to the wall close to the windows to hang curtain. The arches of the ground floor are recessed and ornate. The decorations and architecture is a curious mix of Hindu and Islamic styles. Lotus Mahal's Islamic style arches and the Hindu style multiplayer roof and base structure are often quoted for the ingenuity of the Vijayanagara artisans.

Elephant Stables
One among the few least destroyed structures in Hampi, Elephant Stable is a major tourist attraction. This long building with a row of domed chambers was used to ‘park’ the royal elephants. There are 11 domed tall chambers; some of them are inter- connected. The center one is specially decorated and big. Probably the musicians and the associated band troupes had been using this during ceremonies involving elephant processions.

The whole building looks symmetric with respect to this central hall. The tower of the central hall resembles (though mostly destroyed) more like that of temples. However the five pairs of domes on either side are of Islamic in style. They are better preserved and of alternating patterns.

Metal hooks (used to tie the elephants) on the inside roof can be seen. At the rear of each hall are small manhole type openings for the mahouts to enter the elephant compartments. You reach here through the Zenana Enclosure. From here you proceed to the Guard’s Quarters and then may be to the Ranga Temple located a bit south of it all.

Royal Enclosure Hampi

The Royal Enclosure in Hampi is one of the interesting ruins of Hampi. The huge fortified area was once the centre of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Royal Enclosure, as the name indicates, was the place where the King of Vijayanagara Empire lived and ruled from. This area was secured by double walls. It had three entrances, two on the northern side and one on the western side.

The Royal Enclosure is spread over 59,000 square metres. It is believed that the complex once housed as many as 43 buildings, all for the use of the royal family. Now, the area has only ruins of several palace bases, water tanks, temple, ornate platform, aqueducts and canals, exquisitely carved doorways and many other structures.

The Royal Enclosure comprised of some of the most wonderful edifices of the Vijayanagara era. Like the other structures of that period, these constructions show abundant use of stones and artwork on them. The enclosure was one of those areas in Hampi that have witnessed the maximum destruction. Some of the palaces and other structures have just their remnants remaining in the form of their bases, while the whole structures have been ravaged by man and nature. Even then, the ruins within the enclosure succeed to provide glimpses of the splendor of the royal life of the Vijayanagara dynasty.

Few remarkable structures within the Royal Enclosure are:

The Mahanavami Dibba is one of the most noteworthy structures found among the ruins in Hampi. It is a pyramidal platform that was vital to the Dasara celebrations observed during the Vijayanagara Empire. The main attraction of the high platform is its decorative carvings of elephants, horses, soldiers and stately processions.

The King’s Audience Hall is a huge structure that was used for hearings by the King. The hall comprises the remnants of 100 pillar-sockets and therefore, is also known as the 100 Pillared Hall.

The Stepped Tank is an elaborate tank which was used for ceremonial purposes of the royal household. The decorative structure has an area of 22 square meters and a depth of 7 meters. It is a 5 tiered tank and each tier comprises of a few steps. The tank now stores rainwater. And moreover is it detachable.

The Underground Chamber is one of the most interesting structures that exist in the Royal Enclosure. It is believed to be a secret chamber where the king held important meetings and discussions with his trusted aides.

The Hazara Rama Temple is the only temple that is situated within the Royal Enclosure. The main attraction of the temple is the multitude of bas-relics decorating the walls of the temple. These bas-relics portray the story of Ramayana. The relics also portray processions of soldiers, elephants, horses, attendants, and dancing women taking part in the Dasara festival rally during that period.

The Aqueducts in Hampi are an intriguing network of waterways that provided water to all corners of the town, including the Royal Enclosure.

The Public Bath is an enormous pool. It is connected to the main aqueduct that runs through the Royal Enclosure. The watercourse used to provide the pool with fresh water during the days of the Vijayanagara Empire. It is believed that the pool was open for use by the common people as well as for organizing water sports.

The Royal Enclosure in Hampi has suffered the maximum damage. The open air museum that is scattered with relics from history. The Archaeological Survey of India has renovated some buildings but even in its ruined form it is one of the most interesting spots to visit in Hampi.

Finally, a big thanks to our guide Mr Banu Prakash who elaborately explained about the place to us.

Coracle boat rides:

Hampi among others is famous for its Coracle boat rides and it might be tricky to decide for yourself where and how to go about it.

Here are the three main places in Hampi where you can get yourself a Coracle and a ride of a lifetime very easily.

1. Tungabhadra River boating area : Alongside the Virupaksha temple is the glorious river where locals and tourists crowd for its significance.

2. Sanapur Lake : One of the tourists spot is the huge lake with blistering blue green water with boulders bounding it is the Sanapur lake. Most of the days, it's sunny but not unpleasant.

3. Sanapur Waterfalls: Not very far from Sanapur lake is this tiny waterfalls, which is very famous for cliff jumping. Hand in hand, locals run Coracle rides amidst the falls and the stream of water.

Hampi’s connection with the epic Ramayana:

A very popular folklore associates the landscape in Hampi with the Hindu epic Ramayana (see Ramayana in Hampi). The monkey kingdom, Kishkinda, is portrayed as the region around Hampi. Anjaneya Hill, located across the river Tungabhadra, is believed to be the birth place of Hanuman.

Rama and Lakshmana , reaches Hampi in search of his lost wife Sita. Hanuman, the general of the monkey king Sugreeva mistook them for spies from the rebel kin of Sugreeva. On hearing their story Hanuman brings them to Sugreeva. He eventually takes them to a cave and shown them a set of jewels. Rama recognizes them as that of his wife Sita. Sugreeva explains them that Sita dropped them at this site when the demon king Ravana (of Lanka) abducted her on his flying chariot.

Later Rama kills Vali, the rebellious brother of Sugreeva, and installs Sugreeva as the undisputed king of the monkey kingdom.

Hanuman offers for help to fly to Lanka. He returns with the news that Sita was indeed in the custody of Ravana. Hanuman offers Rama the help of his monkey army to make a bridge across and attack Lanka. Rain plays the spoil spot and the plan gets postponed till the rains are over. Rama and Lakshmana takes refuge during the rainy season at a nearby Malyavanta Hill. The epic goes on till saving Sita from Lanka and further.

What signify are the locations narrated in the epic. The place is treated sacred since it born the footprint of Rama, one of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Hanuman , who is a loyal follower of Rama is iconic of devotion and valor. Probably Hampi has much more icons of Hanuman than any other gods. Rishimukha Hills where Hanuman met Rama & Lakshmana is a hermitage. The cave where Sugreeva supposedly hide the fallen jewels is on the way to Vittala temple via the riverside ruins.

Matunga Hill , name after the sage Matunga ( who cursed Vali with death on stepping to this spot) is the highest spot in Hampi. The hilltop temple dedicated to Rama on the Malyavanta hill is an important pilgrimage and tourist location. A heap of ash hill at a village near the Vittala temple is believed to be that of pyre of Vali.

Temples are generously carved with mythical themes. May be because it was ( ... and still is! ) the monkey’s kingdom, the images of monkeys are splendidly carved on the walls and pillars of the temples of Hampi.

As a tourist to this place all these places are located in a circuit that forms a typical itinerary.

Anegudi:

Chintamani Temple is Lord Shiva Temple situated in Anegudi, Hampi. This temple is famous for it houses the spot from where Ram had aimed and shot his arrow to kill Baali during his fight with Sugreev. This is a really old temple and you will have the same feelings seeing the old temple structures. Temple is situated on the bank of Tungabhadara River and you can climb down to reach the river. There are stones lined up on the stone where you can sit and enjoy the river views. Temple Complex also houses the cave where Ram and Sugreev had discussed their strategy on how Baali can be killed. It is right next to the spot from where Ram shot arrow to kill Baali. You can walk up small stairs to reach this calm and cold stone cave.

Banana Fiber Cottage Industry:

The quaint little hamlet of Anegundi located on the northern bank of the Tungabadra River is said to be the site of Kishkindha where Lord Hanuman was born. Walking inside the small lanes brings me to a board that reads ‘Banana Fiber Cottage Industry’. Intrigued I make my way inside and am pleasantly surprised to see the place abuzz with activity. Also, there are only women – all local who are busy working with a brown fiber weaving it deftly to create a range of products. I soon learn that what they are working on is the locally available banana – plantations that you see in abundance in the vicinity. And yes, I was quite surprised that the raw material is banana.

Banana stems that used to be discarded as waste earlier is used to create the fiber that is finally converted into home accessories and decor products. Interestingly the banana plant is known for being one where each and every part is used. Today this has got the attention of designers and interns from leading design colleges are also seen here trying to learn the craft. Firstly the banana stem and leaves are separated into individual units and are dried for about 20 days in the sun. This is then split vertically to extract the thin fibers that are joined together to make a thread. This thread is then used to weave ethnic and ethical design accessories.

The banana fibers are weaved into colourful clothing, ornamental boxes, baskets, hats, key chains, mobile pouches, bags, coasters and even jewellery. All dyes used are chemical free too. Nothing is wasted here and that is what makes this initiative sustainable end to end. As for the women who work here it is not just a way to be financially independent but also a sense of community bonding.

Bird watching:

Hampi is a safe haven for many resident and migratory bird species. An ideal geographical location with a favourable climatic condition for nesting, breeding and raising the chicks. The Tungabhadra Riverside, the Kamalasagar Lake, the Sanapur Lake, the canal sides, the University Lake and the Daroji Bear Sanctuary are some of the favourite spots for bird watching.

Our trip turned out to a bird watching trip. We came to see many known and unknown species. At the end I have to mention about a humble person – Mr. Pompayya Malemath, who was there with us, esp to spot the owls. He has a thorough knowledge of about the terrain and wildlife. His skill of spotting birds is amazing. Birding with him was sheer joy.

Lunch at local home:
Ms Meenakshi was very humble, caring host who prepared local dishes for lunch at her home in Anegudi. If anyone wants to book a lunch, you can reach her on her mobile +919481471933.

Thus, ends the Hampi trip with lots of memories. Just make sure that it will be very hot in day time. Hence, carry proper clothings, sunglasses etc.