Hampi is a highly popular location for back packers and tourists, with plenty to see and do. I suggest taking a good few days to see and enjoy it properly.
There is something Hampi has to offer to everyone; history, excellent cuisine, scenery, affordable accommodation and vibrant stalls.
Hampi is split into two sides, one being more religious with temples and ruins, with the other offering more restaurants and guest houses (it will be here you can enjoy a beer or two, whilst listening to travellers tales over a curry and a Kingfisher.) To go to and from, there is a small boat, which does trips for a very small fee by the river. Ask for the last times of pick up, to avoid being stranded in the wrong place.
If you go to the river early enough you can witness, Lakshmi the elephant being washed. Lakshmi is to symbolise the mythical Hindu God, Ganesh. However after Laksmi's morning bath, she is taken to one of the main temples and sadly chained up for the day.
Hampi boasts many magnificent temples, to explore and get lost in. A fun way of exploring many of the ancient ruins is by hiring a bicycle for the day. It is highly recommended you take a bottle of water with you, as it is incredibly hot and sometimes a tough ride up hill.
If sight seeing is not your thing, then take a walk to the sunset point. Get swept away by the breath taking views, which go on for miles. An easy walk, albeit be prepared to climb up some steep rocks and boulders, in some form of sensible shoes. Ask a local or a traveller if you are unsure on where to go, however it is easy to follow the crowd here. This is a hot spot for back packers and travellers and most commonly people take instruments, which adds to the glowing atmosphere.
Another fantastic view point is the Monkey Temple, which is a big must see attraction. It is easy to get to and a great bum workout. There are roughly 100 steps up a steep incline, so be warned. It is definitely worth it when you get to the top and the temple is said to be the birth place of Hanuman. Of course given its name, look out for the monkeys. There are lots of money's everywhere in Hampi though and be careful, as they can be vicious or steel your things.
If sports or canyoning is your cup of tea, hire a moped or motorbike to the jumping spot. I apologise I do not know the correct name of the location, this is just what it was known as. Ask a local for directions. It is a popular place amongst many locals and travellers, who enjoy jumping into the lake. Please take care when doing so, as rumour and signs pointed out there was a crocodile in there. If canyon jumping is not up your street, you can still enjoy the gorgeous scenery.
Away from the religious side, across the river is the bustling side of Hampi. There are copious amounts of restaurants to sample, offering fine, traditional cuisine, with a cold Kingfisher to polish off your busy day. There are also, vibrant, colourful stalls selling sheets, clothing and fake branded sunglasses (which last two minutes).
Hampi is a very easy place to travel around, with bicycles, mopeds and motorbikes for hire. A lot of the location can also be explored on foot.
You can enjoy the delights of Hampi for days, I would definitely recommend a trip there! The scenery is stunning, the locals are interesting and friendly. The food is the best I have ever tasted and truly a magical kingdom that is out of this world!
Chlobo's Closet misses you Hampi! You can also read one of our fashion pieces published last year when we stayed here, featuring a gold braided necklace, worn as a head piece.
Love Chlobo's Closet
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