Top 11 Famous Temples in Hampi to Visit
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Karnataka, Hampi stands as a testament to India's glorious past and spiritual heritage. Renowned for its majestic temples and archaeological wonders, Hampi attracts pilgrims and travellers from across the globe.
Explore the famous temples in Hampi, each offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry and architectural brilliance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
List of Temples in Hampi
The given below is the list of the famous temples in Hampi city, and all of them are easily accessible via Hospet Railway Station, Vidyanagar Airport, and Hampi Bus Station:
11 Best Temples to Visit in Hampi
Discover the epitome of architectural splendour and spiritual sanctity with the curated list of the 11 best temples to visit in Hampi:
1. Virupaksha Temple | Vijayanagara
The Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara Empire. Its towering gopuram and intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
- Best Time to Visit: December to February.
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Hampi Bazaar, Lotus Mahal, Matanga Hill.
2. Vijaya Vittala Temple | Nimbapura
The Vijaya Vittala Temple is renowned for its iconic stone chariot and musical pillars that produce melodic sounds when tapped gently. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a masterpiece of Vijayanagara architecture.
- Best Time to Visit: January to February.
- Temple Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: King's Balance, Coracle Ride, Matanga Hill.
3. Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple | Nimbapura
Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, the Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is believed that worshipping here brings prosperity and removes obstacles.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Anjaneya Hill, Kodandarama Temple, Pampa Sarovar.
4. Achyutaraya Temple | Nimbapura
The Achyutaraya Temple, dedicated to Lord Tiruvengalanatha (a form of Vishnu), showcases stunning carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February.
- Temple Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Sule Bazaar, Courtesan's Street, Courtesan's Bazaar.
5. Lakshmi Narasimha Temple | Krishnapura
The Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The imposing monolithic idol of Narasimha sitting on the coil of a giant seven-headed snake is a sight to behold.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Hemakuta Hill, Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple, Virupaksha Temple.
6. Krishna Temple | Krishnapura
The Krishna Temple, also known as Balakrishna Temple, is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It features a beautifully carved sanctum and a stepped tank. The temple architecture reflects the rich heritage of the Vijayanagara style.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Vittala Temple Complex, Achyutaraya Temple, King's Balance.
7. Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple | Krishnapura
The Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple houses a monolithic statue of Lord Ganesha carved out of a single rock. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and attracts devotees seeking blessings.
- Best Time to Visit: October to February.
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Krishna Temple, Hemakuta Hill, Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple.
8. Hemakuta Hill Temple | Hemakuta Hill
Hemakuta Hill is adorned with numerous temples and shrines dedicated to various deities. The hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Hampi landscape and is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Virupaksha Temple, Matanga Hill, Achyutaraya Temple.
9. Hazara Rama Temple | Kamalapur
The Hazara Rama Temple, meaning "temple of a thousand Ramas," is famous for its intricately carved panels depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the temple showcases exquisite craftsmanship and architectural brilliance.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Lotus Mahal, Matanga Hill, Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple.
10. Pattabhirama Temple | Kamalapur
The Pattabhirama Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings. The temple complex includes a large courtyard, pillared halls, and a sanctum adorned with sculptures.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM - Monday to Saturday.
- Nearby Places: Elephant Stables, Queen’s Bathhouse, Virupaksha Temple.
11. Virabhadra Temple | Matanga Hilltop
Perched atop Matanga Hill, the Virabhadra Temple offers mesmerising views of the Hampi ruins. Dedicated to Lord Virabhadra, an avatar of Lord Shiva, the temple is revered for its spiritual significance and serene ambience.
- Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.
- Temple Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Coracle Ride, Matanga Hill, Chakra Tirtha.
Hampi’s temples are not just a place of worship but a living testament to the rich history and cultural legacy of Hampi. From the awe-inspiring Virupaksha Temple to the serene Hemakuta Hill Temple, Hampi's temples offer a spiritual sanctuary amidst the ancient ruins and majestic landscapes.
FAQs about Temples in Hampi, India
What are the mysterious temples in Hampi?
Some of the most mysterious temples in Hampi include the Hazara Rama Temple, believed to have a thousand carvings depicting various stories, and the Virupaksha Temple, where a sanctum dedicated to Pampa Devi is said to hold mystical powers.
Which temple in Hampi has 56 musical pillars?
The temple in Hampi, renowned for its 56 musical pillars, is the Vittala Temple. These pillars are famous for producing musical sounds when struck.
Who built the Krishna temple in Hampi?
King Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire constructed the Krishna Temple in Hampi during the 16th century.
Why is Hampi called Lost City?
Hampi earned the moniker "Lost City" due to its historical significance and the subsequent decline from its heyday as a vibrant capital of the Vijayanagara Empire to its current state of ruins.
Which God is Virupaksha?
Virupaksha is an incarnation of Lord Shiva, worshipped as the presiding deity of the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi.
What are the three most famous temples of Hampi?
The three most famous temples of Hampi are the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva; the Vittala Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu; and the Hazara Rama Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama.
Is it worth going to Hampi?
Yes, visiting Hampi is definitely worth it. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes.
How to reach Hampi by flight?
You can reach Hampi by flying to either the Vidyanagar Airport (40 km) or the Bellary Airport (60 km).
How old are the temples in Hampi?
The temples in Hampi date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, making them around 600 to 700 years old.
Which architecture is found in Hampi Temples?
The temples in Hampi exhibit the remarkable Vijayanagara architecture characterised by intricate carvings, towering gopurams (entrance towers), and pillared halls.
Is Hampi the birthplace of Hanuman?
Yes, Hampi is considered the birthplace of Hanuman. According to Hindu mythology, Hanuman is believed to have been born on Anjanadri Hill, also known as Anjaneya Hill, located in Hampi, Karnataka.