Hampi is a fine reminiscent of the glory of the 14th Century Vijayanagara empire of Karnataka. Situated in the East-Central Karnataka near Tungabhadra River , it is a World UNESCO Heritage Site. Being rich in archealogical treasures, Hampi is a rather popular tourist destination in India.

Located in a secluded area, the town of hampi is spread across 26 square kilometers and comprimises the remains of the royal residences, temples, towers, statues and roads of the empire that evolved during the popular reign of King Krishnadevaraya.

The Legend of Hampi

The town of Hampi has unmatched historical significance. Hampi also flaunts a certain mythological importance which is lesser known to the world. The place is also known as Pampa Kshetra since Pampa is an ancient name of the Tungabhadra River. Legend has it that Pampa was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. Impressed by her unshakable devotion, Shiva granted her a boon where she asked to be married to him. The Lord consented and the place came to be known as Pampa Kshetra; while Shiva got the name Pampapathi, Pampa's husband. It is believed that Hampi derived its name from Pampa.

Hampi's historical significance

The history of the town of Hampi can be traced back to the Neolithic Era. The findings of ceramic potteries confirmed this fact. Several folklore and stories are associated with the place. However, the town gained it's true glory under the rule of King Krishnadevaraya who bought about a striking makeover to the region from 1509 to 1529. During this period, the Vijayanagara Empire had taken over the entire South India and even the lands beyond. The place attracted traders from all across the globe and had become the secong largest city of the medieval era, only next to Beijing.This was the period of grandeur, when the city was practically embellished with grand buildings, temples, farms and markets. The ruins of Hampi regale us with the story of the once Golden era.

Interesting facts about Hampi

Now it's time to get back to the present and learn some more astounding facts about the place.

1. Temples that Creates Music : Yes,you have heard it right. There are a number of temples in Hampi but the one that really stands out is the Vittala Temple. It is an ancient architectural delight created from stone. The temple comprises of 56 pillars that actually produce music. When tapped delicately, these pillars give out a melodic sound.

2. Traces of Ramayana : Another temple in Hampi that is quite famous is the th Hazara Rama Temple. The reason for it's popularity is the presence of various fossils and historical objects that are believed to date back to the period of Rama and Krishna. The entire outer wall of the temple is carved and adorned with the tales of Ramayana.

3. Architectural Brilliance of the Ancient Times : Hampi is strewn with architectural brillianc, charmingly displayed by the architects of the Vijayanagara Empire. Most of the structures have been designed using granite stone which seemed to be abundant in the town. However, more interesting is the way artisans had cut the granite to convert them in to priceless pieces of art. Small holes were made on the surface of the rock. Into these holes, dried wooden pieces were inserted and then doused with water. As the wooden pices soak in the water, they would expand and the increasing pressure resulted in breaking up of the rock.

4. Abode to Sugreeva : Hampi is also known as Kishkinda Kshetra. It is believed that Sugreeva , the king of monkeys who assisted Lord Rama in finding and rescuing Sita,had his adobe in Hampi. According to the folklore, this is the location where Sita dropped her jewelry when she was abducted by Ravana.

5. Oneness of Nature and Science : Behing the sanctum of Virupaksha Temple in Hampi is a flight of stairs that lead the way to the rear exit. Just before this exit door is a dark chamber with walls having slits. When the rays of the sun pass through the slits and fall on the western wall you can see a inverted shadow of the main tower. People throng this place to get a glimpse of this optical illusion.

Reaching Hampi

Hampi is about 350 kilometers away from nearest international airport. Bellary is the closest domestic airport which is about 60 kms away from Hampi. You can easily take a cab or a bus to reach the site. Incase you are planning to travel by train, Hospet is the nearest station which is at a distance of 13 kilometers. The city is well connected with all the major Indian cities and towns. There are also a number of buses from the nearby cities to Hampi.

So, if Hampi has already mesmerized you, time to plan a trip to this place echoing the ancient glory of the vijayanagara Empire. The relics and the monuments are bound to touch your heart and take you down the memory lane of the golden era gone by.

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Source : Link and Amaravathi Times magazine (for which I am subscribed to)