Hampi

An ancient city characterized by mythical legends, ageless temples and historic monuments and the previous capital of the mighty Vijaynagar Empire, Hampi is about 50 kms off Bellary. With an area extending from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal and from Deccan Plateau to the tip of Southern Peninsula, Hampi finds both empirical and epical references in history.

Arcaheological findings support the fact that Hampi was the capital of Kishkindha- the monkey kingdom of Ramayana fame. The city serves as a background of the Kishkindha Kanda episode of Valmiki Ramayana. Known to be the birth place of Lord Hanuman, Hampi is the place where he met Lord Rama. The historical battle between monkey king Bali and his brother Sugriva was also fought here.

Conventionally known as Pampa Kshetra, Hampi is a famous Hindu pilgrimage centre. The name Hampi is derived from the Kannada form of the word Pampa- an ancient name of the river Tungabhadra. Several names of the places mentioned in the great Hindu epic, Ramayana are still known as same at Hampi. The Matanga Hill where Sugriva took refuge, after a battle with his brother Bali is still a famous tourist site. Malyavanta Hill, the place where Lord Rama stayed during Hanumana's search for Sita is also a much revered shrine. A temple named the Raghunatha temple has also been erected here with a large image of Rama.

HAMPI is also known as the former capital of the famous Vijaynagara Empire. One of the largest empires of post-mogul India, it reached the pinnacle of glory during the rein of Krishnadevaraya who expanded it to Karnataka, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. The empire patronized a number of temples and got them reconstructed. Thus, reestablishment of Indian culture, music, art and literature are some of the mighty contributions of the empire. Hampi used to boast of unforeseen prosperity that is a by-word for golden rule. Magnificent remains of splendid palaces and getaways at the city still narrate a story of unfathomable grandeur.

A world heritage centre that Hampi is, the stone architecture of the city is an exceptional architectural wonder. Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple and Hazari Rama Temple along with King's Court and Queens' Bath represent the material prosperity of Vijaynagar rulers.

Hampi was also the largest trading center of the world in that era. Markets overcrowded with merchants from all over the world, used to practice barter. Not only spices, grains and cotton; but precious stones like Ruby ad diamonds were sold its streets. The currency was of gold and silver.

A large number of temples present in the city even today symbolize the religious inclination of the city. The city is also known for its exceptional talent. Quick witted poets like Tenali Rama and Purandhara Dasa belonged to Hampi only. Blooming at its best between October to March, Hampi observes some very special festivals during this period. Situated on the banks of river Tungabhadra, Hampi is around 353 kms from Bangalore, 254 km from Bijapur and 74 km from Bellary.