VIRUPAKSHA TEMPLE

The Virupaksha Temple is located in the heart of Hampi. The present structure dates back to the 15th century but the worship of Shiva began here long before the capital Vijayanagar was established. It seems that religious devotional activity began in the 7th century. What was a small shrine lost in the countryside became a huge temple comprising an open hall with pillars, a covered hall, three antechambers and a sanctuary. The main temple is surrounded by a cloister, courtyards, and other buildings.

Hemakuta Hill: overlooking the temple, this hill has many ruins of Jain temples, probably destroyed by the Muslims who brought down the Vijayanagar Empire. There is also an impressive statue of Narasimha of more than 6 meters high. Many people go to this hill to watch the sunset. From here you have beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and the erotic sculptures of the temple gopuram. Beware of the slinging monkeys, which are happy to pick up anything that is lying around: water bottle, sunglasses... be careful.

Hampi Bazaar : from the main gate of the Virupaksha temple, towards the east, you go up the old bazaar of Hampi which leads to a monolithic statue of Nandi (bull, vehicle of Shiva). You can climb to the top of Matanga Hill to see the ruins of Hampi at sunrise. It is a bit steep, but it is beautiful and much quieter than the sunset.