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Like a phoenix rising from its ashes, the quaint town of Hampi sprung from the sprawling remains of the 14th century Vijayanagar imperial capital, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Archaeologists and landscape photographers swarm at the daunting ruins as well as their bizarre rock formations found outside the buildings.
Located at the heart of India, the town proper is somewhat nondescript with its collection of rice paddies, streets hemmed with low houses and palm trees, and locals selling souvenirs in decorated handcarts. What sets it apart from other settlements is the abrupt sight of crumbling architecture adorned with faint bas-relief images of icon gods and nagas (snakes). A common means of transport is the rickshaw, though it is more advisable to rent motorbikes instead to have more freedom in roaming around Hampi.
Tourists usually kick-start their trip with the overlooking Hematuka Hill, which has a fair collection of Jain temple remains and offers a great view of town. Sticking out from the monotonous low-rise buildings is the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to the Hindu destruction-god Shiva. Just outside is the famed Hampi Bazaar, a long stretch of olden architecture which was once the site of a thriving market street where rich merchants and noblemen lived. At the east end of the ancient souk is the monolith Nandi (Bull) Statue. Several photographs of the 19th century Hampi are displayed in the two-storey gallery nearby. The west side of the Hampi Bazaar offers a good choice in lodging, but one shouldn't expect anything too fancy.
Hampi Traveler Advice
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