Hampi was once the imperial capital of the 14th century empire, Vijayanagar. Today, one can find its ruins spread over an area of 26km². However, the place is so stunning that it takes one back to the rich and vibrant history of those times. Hampi gives a chance to get a glimpse of those times with its captivating historical places.
These historical places in Hampi make it a must- visit for history buffs and avid photographers. Temples and palace structures, ruins of medieval bazaars and towns and other important enclosures are some of the top historical places and undoubtably some of the top things to do in Hampi.
Discover the top attractions with our Hampi sightseeing guide – perfect for history buffs and adventurers!
Here are the best historical places in Hampi you cannot miss.
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Virupaksha Temple
Probably one of the most known historical places in Hampi is Virupaksha Temple. It is known for the statue of Nandi with three heads. The temple is built in a way that its main entrance faces east and homes to two courtyards. For the best experience, visit in February at the time of the annual festival.
Timings: 9 am – 1 pm; 5 pm – 9 pm
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Vijaya Vittala Temple
An example of true architectural brilliance, Vijaya Vittala is one of the top ancient temples in Hampi that lures tourists to its remarkable Dravidian style and South Indian style architecture. Stone Chariot, Maha Mantapa, and musical pillars are the main attractions of this temple.
Timings: 8.30 am – 6 pm
Explore the fascinating Heritage museum in Hampi and uncover ancient stories and artifacts!
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Queen’s Bath
Queen’s Bath boasts one of the best architectural works you will ever see. Located close to the Royal Enclosure, it is among the best historical places in Hampi to visit. It was built around 500 years ago still remains intact in its construction.
Timings: 8.30 am – 6 pm
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Elephant Stables
These stables were once used for the parking of royal elephants. It is a long building with 11 chambers, some of which are interconnected. There are five domes on either side of the central hall, which exhibits the Islamic style of architecture.
Timings: 8.30 am – 5.30 pm
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Monolithic Bull
Monolithic Bull or Nandi is an extensive piece of ancient architecture housed in a two-storey pavilion. This giant structure is a mythological vehicle of Lord Shiva and is located just opposite the renowned Virupaksha Temple.
Timings: Open all day
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Lotus Mahal
Displaying an explicit architectural design, Lotus Mahal is one of the best places to visit in Hampi. The central dome of this mahal is shaped like a bud of the lotus and the balcony and passages like petals. Also, the roof exemplifies a multi-layered design built in Indo architectural style.
Timings: 8 am – 6 pm
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Yantrodhraka Hanuman Temple
Located just 2 km away from Virupaksha Temple, this temple houses idol of Lord Hanuman indulge in a state of deep meditation. Yantrodharaka Hanuman Temple is a part of a cave that erects at the peak of the hill from where the Tungabhadra River flows.
Timings: Open all day
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Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is among the most important historical places in Hampi and houses Hampi’s most religious statue. The figure of Lord Narasimha sitting on a coil of the snake with seven heads in a yoga position. It also has an image of Goddess Lakshmi on his lap.
Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
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Achyutraya Temple
Situated between the Matanga Hills and Gandhamadana, Achyutraya Temple houses an idol of Lord Tiruvengalanatha. Architecture buffs will love the exquisitely carved and ornamental towers, pillars, and walls of the temple.
Timings: 5.30 am – 1 pm; 5.30 pm – 9 pm
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Hazara Rama Temple
This stunning temple in Hampi is a must-visit historical place. It is dedicated to Lord Rama and the alls of this beautiful temple displays the entire Ramayana. The relics of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna are present here. Also, do not forget to miss the fragments illuminating a Dasara celebration.
Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
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Palace of Vira Harihara
This palace which was once a gigantic structure is now a ruin. Its foundation base layouts now remain within the fortified area of the Royal Enclosure. The base of this prehistoric regal structure conjures the grandeur and royal lifestyle of the Vijayanagar kings.
Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
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Mahanavami Dibba
Built during the Vijayanagara Empire, Mahavanami Dibba symbolizes the victory of the empire over Udayagiri. The stone base was the place where the king of the empire used to celebrate the festival of Dussehra. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this histrorical place is must visit on a trip to Hampi.
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
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Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex
Hemakuta Hill Temple is one of the top historical sites in Hampi. It is a cluster of ancient temples and is dotted with various temples. You can visit from sunrise to sunset and explore this temple complex. As per the mythology, Lord Shiva performed penance on the Hemakuta Hill before he got married to Parvati.
Timings: Sunrise to Sunset
Wondering when to visit Hampi? Here’s everything you need to know for perfect weather and sightseeing!
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Old Palace (Gagan Mahal)
Old Palace or Gagan Mahal is a small and yellow-colored building with windows encircled all over by four beautiful towers. Dating back to the 16th century, Old Palace is one of the historical places in Hampi that should be on your itinerary. It is currently under ruins and still is amongst the worthiest places in Hampi.
Timings: 24 hours open
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Zanana Enclosure
Zanana Enclosure replicates an extensive compound with tall walls. Lotus Mahal is located within this place and houses three watchtowers each standing at the eastern, south-eastern, and northern ends of this majestic structure.
Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
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Badavilinga Temple
A beautiful temple and one of the top historical monuments in Hampi, Badavilinga Temple is a must-visit temple in Karnataka. Located close to the Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, this houses a Linga carved out of a black stone. It is about 3 meters high and dates back to the era of the Vijayanagara Empire.
Timings: 5 am – 9 pm
