Centuries-old ruins tell an epic tale of Hampi’s rich heritage, alluring architectural achievements, and fascinating history that you can uncover through the town’s fine offerings. And for your backpacking pleasures, Hampi is adorned with a brown & rocky landscape, pockets of lush greenery, and a couple of blue water bodies. The heritage walkways along the gurgling Tungabhadra River take you through a time tunnel to the regal past of an ancient kingdom. At the same time, riding a ferry or coracle across the river introduces you to a slow-paced, traditional, and lazed-out side of the town. This is where most travellers spend their days chilling in a quiet cafe, letting loose their creativity, or sometimes doing nothing at all. Or if you want to try your hands at something adventurous, bouldering is a great choice, as the town is filled with spherical rocks of all sizes.

Places to visit

Vittala Temple: Ever noticed a chariot on a 50 rupees note? It is a stone chariot from the 500-year-old temple’s courtyard. And you know what? If you tap the pillars, you can make music. It’s the magic of famous ‘musical’ pillars that are known to replicate 81 different Indian instruments. 

Virupaksha Temple: Set amidst the frenzy bazaar, Virupaksha Temple is one of the city’s oldest structures. Here’s a fun fact, this 7th-century temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Sule Bazaar: A track leading over the rocks takes you to Sule Bazaar, one of ancient Hampi’s commerce hubs. Around 1 km long stone colonnade, here, is very well preserved for everyone’s travel benefits.

Queen’s Bath: South of the Royal Centre, there are many elaborate waterworks, one of them is Queen’s Bath. It might look plain on the outside, but it features impressive Indo-Islamic architecture from within.

Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary: Bring binoculars on your trip to Hampi because here you can see sloth bears for real. 21 km from the town, Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary hosts a large population of sloths, where spotting them is quite easy. 

Must-visit restaurants in Hampi

Mango Tree: Run by three generations of a local family, Mango Tree is probably the most famous restaurant in Hampi. This efficiently managed eatery serves delicious Indian food on a banana leaf. Try a thali if you must. 

Timings: 8 am - 9:30 pm

Gouthami: With cushion seatings and aesthetic wall hangings, this place is a visual and culinary treat. Indian, Israeli, and Western foods are available, along with Turkish coffee and cardamom tea. 

Timings: Open 24 hours

Gopi Roof Restaurant: Indian, Chinese, and even Mexican food is quite popular in this rooftop cafe. Grab a cold glass of lassi or a hot cup of masala chai while they prepare your meal.

Timings: 7 am - 10 pm

Moonlight: If you’re in the mood for soft pancakes with a steaming cup of espresso, head to Moonlight. This family-run restaurant serves good breakfast and curries right behind Virupaksha Temple. 

Timings: 7 am - 10 pm

Laughing Buddha: Like a soothing river view while munching on your delicious meal? Laughing Buddha can help you with just that. The menu includes curries, burgers, and pizzas. Carry cash, as they don’t accept cards or UPI. 

Timings: 9 am - 10 pm

Goan Corner: Right inside Zostel Hampi (Gangavathi)’s campus, the Goan Corner is wonderful place to chill, try tasty treats, and pet furry friends. With a rang of cuisines and snacks, this place will take good care of your taste buds. Try blue cheese salad and Bhagsu cake when you’re here.