Mrunal Jadhav took off to the ancient village called Hampi ― a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Karnataka ― to catch her breath and lost herself in the beauty, history, and culture.
A few weeks ago, I embarked on a three-day-trip to Hampi with a high school friend through a private bus tour organized by a travel company. While I was initially unsure about traveling with strangers, I quickly realized how enjoyable it can be when like-minded people come together; not a single moment was dull throughout the trip.
Time traveller’s odyssey
There are few places in the world that transport you to another era far away from the grunge and the grind of chaotic urban living where you will voluntarily go offline. Hampi is one such place. Known as ‘Hampe’ by the locals, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a living testimony to the grandeur of the 15th-century Vijayanagara Empire.
Pacing yourself
Travelling to places like Hampi offers more than just a change of scenery. It provides a gateway to understanding the past, connecting with your present through the different cultures, and getting a perspective to the future. For me, coming from Pune’s crowded streets to Hampi’s mellow vibe was nothing short of an eye-opener. It reminded me of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the essence of life.
Hampi is a place where you will voluntarily go offline.
Frozen in time
Speaking of taking it easy, reminds me that despite the modern shift in technology and infrastructure, Hampi remains an eternal reminder of India’s historical wealth, often referred to as sone ki chidiya (Golden Bird). This ancient village in Karnataka isn’t just a destination, it is a walk through the corridors of time, a chance to connect with the roots of a civilization that was once the heart of a rich dynasty. Hampi is a reminder of India’s glorious past. If you ever want to lose yourself in beauty, history, and culture, Hampi awaits…
The first thing that strikes you about Hampi is its surreal natural beauty.
Surreal vista
The first thing that strikes you about Hampi is its dreamlike, natural beauty. Giant boulders, remnants of volcanic eruptions and tectonic shifts, are perched atop one another in precarious harmony, creating pyramid-like formations. These stones were the very foundation of the Vijayanagara Empire’s iconic structures. Each monument, each stone, whispers stories of a bygone era, offering visitors an immersive experience that feels like stepping into a dream.
Soaking in the sights and sounds
Another thing that struck me the most was the calmness of Hampi’s roads. Coming from Pune, where traffic chaos is the norm. Initially, seeing the empty streets in Hampi was incredibly disconcerting albeit restorative for a city slicker like me!
Language no barrier
Hampi’s charm lies not only in its stunning historical ruins but also in its people. The locals, whose mother tongue is Kannada, were warm and friendly. While most southerners are parochial when it comes to language, however, the good people of Hampi are conversant in Hindi apart from their local dialect ― making communication easy.
Get cosy
We stayed in a three-star hotel in Hospet, about 30 minutes from Hampi, where the hospitality was par excellence and made our stay incredibly relaxed.
Romancing the palate
The food we had on this trip was exceptional, full of haunting, flavours and heady aromas that I still find myself savouring even now that I am home. Not surprising, this! Considering Hampi offers a myriad fare that can seduce the tastebuds of its visitors. From traditional South Indian thalis to hearty North Indian meals, and even continental dishes served in quaint cafes, there’s something for everyone. Its many eateries have unique structures, enhancing the overall gastronomic experience!
Intrigued, the British dismantled one pillar of the Vittala temple to understand its secret the damaged pillar now resides in a British museum, a stark reminder of the colonial impact on Indian heritage.
Lyrical interlude
The region is dotted with rice paddies, coconut trees, and the serene Tungabhadra River. This river adds to Hampi’s charm, especially with its traditional coracle rides. These round, woven boats offer a unique way to traverse the water, providing a calming, picturesque experience. Adventure enthusiasts can also try cliff jumping here—an adrenaline-pumping highlight.
Vagaries of time
Hampi’s monuments are steeped in history. For instance, the Vittala Temple, is a masterpiece of architecture and acoustics. The temple’s iconic stone chariot, which graces India’s ₹50 note, is a fine example of craftsmanship, inspired by Odisha’s temple designs but dedicated to Lord Vittala. The temple’s musical pillars create enchanting sounds when tapped, a feature that intrigued the British so much that they dismantled one pillar to understand its secret. The damaged pillar now resides in a British museum, a stark reminder of the colonial impact on Indian heritage.
Standing tall through time
The Lotus Mahal, designed for queens to rest safely, is an architectural wonder with its delicate arches and domed structure. The Elephant Stables, with their grand design, showcase how even animals were treated with dignity in the Vijayanagara Empire. Hampi’s monuments also reflect resilience amidst the obvious destruction. Several structures bear scars of the Muslim invasions, yet the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands tall, unscathed. Adjacent to this temple is a hill offering an unforgettable sunset view—a must for any travel-weary soul.
Wheeler dealers, rejoice!
Obviously, tourism is the heart of Hampi’s economy, and the locals’ outgoingness and concern reflect their reliance on visitors. Of course, as we soaked in the sights and sounds, we also indulged in our fair share of retail therapy. The shopping experience, though limited, was simply delightful! Be sure to sharpen your haggling chops when you go bargain-hunting! Clever, cheerful, cheeky, the shopkeepers can smell a sale ― or a fellow haggler ― a mile away! They are great sports who will gleefully bargain till the cows come home. I am proud to report that I managed to crack some great deals without breaking my bank ― and earnt their respect in the bargain!
Captured for posterity
Our local guide played a big part in making the trip memorable. Not only did he share fascinating stories about the ruins, but he also helped us take beautiful photographs, ensuring we had memories to cherish.
As I file in this copy, I am reminded that travelling with strangers can lead to unforgettable experiences, and Hampi, with its rich history and welcoming people, will always hold a special place in my heart.
IN A BOX
| PRICE RANGEINR | BUDGETBus | MIDRANGETrain | HIGHENDFlight |
| TRAVEL | ₹500 to ₹1,000 | ₹300 to ₹3,000 | ₹2,500 to ₹7,000 |
| ACCOMODATION | ₹700 to ₹1500 | ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 | ₹6,000 to ₹12,000 |
| FOOD | ₹200 to ₹400 | ₹400 to ₹1,000 | ₹800 to ₹1,500 |
