Hampi is that fantasy town speaking for history, mythology, and architectural grandeur. Hampi is a UNESCO Heritage Site. Often, it gives them an insider view of the glorious past of the Vijayanagara Empire, which turns out to be their living museum. Magnificent ruins, capturing landscapes, and cultural significance make it the first preference of history enthusiasts, travellers, and photographers. Here is the complete guide that digs deep into Hampi's history, architecture, and spiritual importance, along with some tips for travelling.  Whether  this  is your first visit or your return visit to the ancient town, we would want to capture all of Hampi's timeless appeal.Hampi is of great spiritual and cultural importance. It boasts of the association with one of the epics of India, Ramayana. It is claimed that this mythological city, Kishkindha, was where Lord Rama had his rendezvous with the Hanuman prince of monkeys. The stories of the cities and the temples, as the visitors here, draw pilgrims and narrators. Hampi also celebrates fairs, among which Hampi Utsav is the principal celebration of cultural and traditional music, dance, and processions because it commemorates the town's historical heritage. History of Hampi: Hampi was of the early medieval period but gained fame in the 14th century as the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire. The Hampi was one of India's most developed and well-off empires due to its outstanding artistic, cultural, and architectural qualities. The great emperors of the empire took Hampi as the seat of Harihara  and  Bukka of the Sangama dynasty in the year 1336. Such a town, Hampi, reached the pinnacle of glory with visionaries like Krishnadevaraya. The attraction towards such a town where people work towards trade, religion, and art were the merchants and scholars of this world.Hampi was seriously defeated by the Battle of Talikota in 1565, which permitted the Deccan Sultanates to plunder and ruin Hampi. It has been kept a secret for ages, even from nature, that this world forgot it had a place. The Brits of the 19th century found it before this vast scale of art; even higher than all levels of excellence is architecture. Today, Hampi  is a part of UNESCO heritage sites known by every soul on this earth for its heritage values and significance in terms of architecture. The monuments are ever-rejuvenated so that they always stand as a testament to the genius and vision of their maker. Hampi ruins today witness its glorious past through about 4,100 hectares, accommodating more than 1,600 surviving monuments. The Top Attraction in Hampi: Hampi is one of the interesting accumulations of styles of Dravidian, Indo-Islamic, and Vijayanagara architecture and reflects the genius of their authors. The  following are some places to visit: Virupaksha Temple: One of Hampi's oldest and most prominent monuments is the Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Fabulously attired in the wonder of intricate carvings, gopurams touching the sky in many places, and quite the epitome of master sculptors, many look up to it as a prime pilgrimage or tourist destination and is said to have been in continuous operation since the time it was first built in the 7th century. Vijaya Vittala Temple: The crowd-puller attraction of the Vijaya Vittala Temple is the architectural wonder of the musical pillars and stone chariot. Stone chariot is the emblem of Karnataka Tourism that exemplifies the chiselling acumen of the sculptors of Vijayanagara. The sound produced by tapping on these musical pillars speaks about the brilliance of ancient Indian architecture. Hampi Bazaar: The bazaar Hampi Bazaar is located within walking distance of the Virupaksha Temple. The street lies on the flank of a few old pavilions, and  one gathers an idea of the thriving commerce once the speciality of this city. Lotus Mahal: One of the samples of Indo-Islamic architecture, the Lotus Mahal, has a magnificent two-storied structure with arched windows and minute carvings. This must have been one of the retreats for queens. Elephant Stables: These giant stables alongside Lotus Mahal were built for the royal elephants. Symmetry and a mix of Islamic and Indian themes are a treat to the eye. Achyutaraya Temple: One of the least visited temples is that of Achyutaraya. The Lord here is Tiruvengalanatha. He's an incarnation of Vishnu. Grand courts, beside tiny carvings that represent Indian epic scenes, can be found by the banks of the Tungabhadra River. Daroji Bear Sanctuary: Daroji Bear Sanctuary: 15 km from Hampi. This is the abode of a sloth bear. Along with such shy animals, it has many other wildlife, such as peacocks, leopards and hyenas. Great observation towers for wildlife enthusiasts. Anegundi Village: One can take fun drives short distances across the river known as Tungabhadra to one of the oldest inhabited places in India, Anegundi. The quiet town is termed the 'cradle of civilization', and, though it predates even Hampi, there are enough attractions to weighPampa Sarovar: The sacred lake is supposed to denote the place where Godwoman Pampa-which happens to be the wife of Lord Shiva located. Durga Temple: Silence on the hill with a view Chintamani Temple: Ramayana site where Rama supposedly met Sugriva. Monkey Temple (Hanuman Temple): Lord Hanuman's Temple on Anjanadri Hill. Well worth climbing 575 steps for, and the view of the temple and stillness around it makes it all worthwhile. Anegundi Gagan Mahal: This is a royal palace of Vijayanagara kings. It beautifully presents Indo-Islamic architecture through arched windows on the yellow and white façade . The leftovers beside the palace give an idea of the glory of old times Tungabhadra Dam. Tungabhadra Dam: This modern wonder is still one of the most desirable picnic spots, thanks to the beautiful gardens surrounding it and the breathtaking view  from the dams and the reservoirs. A deer park and a musical fountain near it are added to its charm. Hippie Island (Virupapur Gadde): Virupapur Gadde lies across the river Tungabhadra. A laid-back bohemian town is full of colourful cafes, quirky guesthouses, and an atmosphere of bohemianism ideal for relaxation, practising yoga and socializing with other travellers. Museum at Kamalapur: One of the best places to collect information on the history and heritage of Hampi is the Archaeological Museum at Kamalapur. It has an enormous collection of coins, sculptures, inscriptions, and tools, giving a profound insight into the Vijayanagara Empire. Badavilinga Temple: This temple has a massive black stone Shiva Linga. The sanctum is half in water, yet an aura makes this worship even an inquisitive look  fall upon it. Zanana Enclosure: As one of the queen's palaces, Zanana Enclosure is comprised of walled enclosures by names with fewer gateways. Features: The basement of the Queen's Palace is what remains of some once-upon-a-time beautiful palaces. Watchtowers: Constructed merely as an icon of safety, still, however, vastly  monumental  with a very excellent view of the complex surroundings. The Great Monumental Statue of Ugra Narasimha: This is Narasimha and the garb of one among the avatars of Lord Vishnu. The height is 6.7 meters tall. Even this ruined statue has a moving feel of the process of worship and devotion. It is the most significant sculpture Hampi has. Hazara Rama Temple: Dedicated to Lord Rama, those strange panes within the carvings define the episodes from Ramayana very well. Privately a shrine to the Vijayanagara kings, it lies inside the royal enclosure, summing history and art along walls and talking of an epic tale minute by minute. Royal Enclosure: The Royal Enclosure is an auxiliary part of the most critical constituents of the administrative and ceremonial roles of the Vijayanagara Empire. It covers over 59,000 square meters of area. It holds some of the most significant structures: Mahanavami Dibba: It was one place of massive glory where royal processions and celebrations were conducted. One could have a panoramic view of the surrounding places from the enclosure. Stepped Tank: It is a water reservoir. The design is beautiful, and it has brilliant engineering as well as beauty. Underground Chamber: Mystery is suspected to cover this place because it is believed that it was a secret house hence, Queen's Bath: This intricate building was one of the early queens' bathing places. The Queen's Bath, with a moat around it, contains arched passages, lotus-shaped fountains, and a sunken bath that used to be filled with scented water. This very architecture is immensely saturated with influences of Islam and India. Hemakuta Hill Temples: There are a few small temples and ancient ruins on Hemakuta Hill. The scenery here has fabulous views of Hampi. Legends say that this is where Lord Shiva performed his penance to win Parvati as a bride. Sunrises and sunsets on the hill are beautifully breathtaking, which explains why a photograph is a favourite and a resting place. Sasivekalu and Kadlekalu Ganesha: Two monolithic statues that reveal excellence in the art of Hampi are Sasivekalu Ganesha and Kadlekalu Ganesha. Sasivekalu Ganesha: This standing figure is about 2.4 meters in a half-lotus posture. Hence, he got the name mustard seed, as he looks like that. Kadlekalu Ganesha: The tallest Ganesha statue to be seen in Karnataka; one stands about 4.5 meters high, and this can be viewed in a sanctum sandwiched by a pillared mandapa. Riverside Ruins: Scattered ruins of yore are found on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. They are: Sahasra Linga: Flat rock in the bed of the river, inscribed with more than 1,000 Shiva Lingas Narasimha on the Rock Carvings Coracles on the ride: one ride on a circular coracle in traditional designs, so see the riverside at Hampi. Hampi Natural Wonders The rocky and richly textured landscapes offer a beautiful and scenic background of the charm of history. Natural attractions include: Matanga Hill: Matanga Hill is the favourite spot for sunrise and sunset, with an aerial view of Hampi ruins and the Tungabhadra River. Reaching the top is an adventure for the adventurers. Tungabhadra River: Tungabhadra River is Hampi's lifeline, flowing gently through the town. It has the facility for coracle rides with riverside temples or resting places at its banks. Anjanadri Hill: Looks born Lord Hanuman. This place is both sacred and trekking with great landscape viewscapes. Sanapur Lake: It is a few miles away from Hampi. It is a quiet and scenic destination ideal for picnics and swimming. It has a rocky landscape throughout it. UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Hampi:1. Sacred Area Hampi is a holy place that depicts religiosity at every step of time. It has always been the religious capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, a chain of temples and religious sites. Major attractions are: Virupaksha Temple: Virupaksha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is perhaps  the oldest functional temple in Hampi, dating back to the 7th century. The  tower gopuram and its pillared hall make it a show stopper of the entire site. Vittala Temple: The temple is peculiar for its beautiful Stone Chariot and musical pillars, which are the best expression of art and architecture in Vijayanagara. No other carvings can be more minute in description and beauty than those on these walls. Achyutaraya Temple: It is not so famous but very precious. It is dedicated to the Lord Tiruvengalanatha, an avatar of Vishnu. Very rich and broad courtyards. 2. Royal Enclosure This is the seat of authority and administration of the kings of Vijayanagara. Most of the marvellous construction that expresses the political and ceremonial grandeur of the empire lies here. The significant ones include the following: Mahanavami Dibba: It is made for ceremonial purposes and gives an excellent view on all sides. This one is embellished with sculptures of processions, animals, and dances. Tank Step: A reserve to purify water to some architectural wonder reflecting expert sophistication in the purification process. Underground Hall: A secret chamber for those mysterious conferences and war planning. 3. Lotus Mahal and Zanana Enclosure Lotus Mahal is one of the few architectural works from Indo-Islamic. It was a playing palace for the ladies of kings. 4. Mahallat al-Ifram This massive one was constructed on the back of kings' elephants. These stables are just fabulous in Indo-Islamic influence architecture. One is an arched room with supersymmetry. 5. Riverside Ruins Numerous ancient remains are lying on the sides of the Tungabhadra River. These are: Sahasra Linga: Shiva Lingas carved out in rock over 1,000 Monolithic Statues: Godhead sculptures of Lord Narasimha and Ganesha Purandaradasa Mandapa: Dedicated pavilion of the popular saint-poet Purandaradasa Best Time to Visit Hampi. Hampi can be visited during the winter season, from October to February. The climate will range between 15°C to 30°C. It would be easy to walk around the tourist places and historical ruins. It is ideal for trekking, photography, and visiting temples and monuments because the mornings and evenings are cooler. Hampi Utsav, which occurs mainly in November or January, is a wonderful cultural experience. Traditional music, dances, and processions surely raise a cheer for the great Vijayanagara Empire. The monsoon period, June to September, makes it look lush green with a weird atmosphere, but heavy showers and landslides might make it a rough journey to travel or explore the place. Summer, March to May, must be avoided as it reaches 40 degrees at times, which is unbearable for outdoor explorations. ConclusionFor those who want to make this experience even more special, consider booking your trip with escapes2explore. They offer organized treks that ensure a hassle-free and memorable adventure. Happy trekking!