Location - Karnataka
Best Time To Visit - September to February
Hampi is a village located in northern Karnataka. It is situated on the
southern banks of Tungabhadra river. The place was once a seat of the mighty
Vijainagar empire. Hampi is an excellent place, magnificent and un-exposed.
Traditionally known as Pampakshetra of Kishkindha. It is also famous as
'City of Ruins'. For many Indians the place is till not very much known, may
be because they are still lost admiring the beauty of Shimla and other
commercially well known as established Indian spots. There is greenery all
over.
The
Magic of Hampi
The 14th century ruins can be witnessed at Hampi. These ruins according to
a report by UNESCO, are said to be "among the most extraordinary
constructions of India". A true and pure form of classical Indian
architecture can be seen at Hampi. Palaces, temples, market places, watch
towers, stables, baths and monoliths lie scattered amidst enormous boulders,
which complement the rugged look and historic feel of the place. The place
is adorned by the smooth flow of Tungabhadra river. The whole place looks
absolutely mesmerising.
History of Hampi
The city was founded by brothers Harihara and Bukka in 1336. It was built
as the capital of the Vijaynagar empire. Hampi holds all the elements that
can make a place a perfect abode. Horses, elephants and dancing girls carved
in stone, musical pillars, cusped arches, a lotus shaped fountain, a stepped
water tank, an underground chamber and a massive chariot are some of its
elements that make Hampi what it is today.
Earlier Hampi had a population of over half a million, including luminaries
like Shri Purandhara Dasa and Tenali Rama. After the reign of Krishna Deva
Rai, it was attacked by the sultans of Bidar, Bijapur, Golconda, Ahmednagar
and Berar. However it was Battle of Talikota in 1565 that left Hampi in
ruins.
The ruins are spread in an area of 25 sq.km.
Feather to the Cap
The Group Of Monuments At Hampi were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
in the year 1986. It was also inscribed as a World Heritage Site in danger
in the year 1999. Jackie Chan's film "The Myth" was shot here in
2004-05.
