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Hampi

Once the capital of the mighty Vijayanagar Empire, a Hindu kingdom that controlled southern India for two centuries, Hampi today is a lovely, if little-known, destination. Labeled a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its intricate temples and shattered stone structures, Hampi's ruins stretch over 8 square miles (21 square kilometers). In recent years, however, the discovery of manganese ore, used in the production of steel and iron, has threatened Hampi and the nearby sites.

EXPERIENCES

Hampi Utsav

This colorful, entertaining festival is held during the first week of November. During this time there are various celebrations and the ruins around Hampi are dressed up in colorful lights.

Matanga Hill

Climb Mantanga Hill, the center of Hampi and its highest point, for a view over the ruins; look south toward the Elephant Stables, a well preserved series of 11 chambers where the Vijayanagar kings kept their prized pachyderms.

Pan Supaari Street

Take a walk down the street where diamonds and other precious gems were sold during ancient times. While the exact rationale for the street's name remains unclear, historians believe it may have been named for paan, or areca nut wrapped in betel leaf and sweeteners.

Rock Climbing

Organize your climbing gear and then head for the excellent rock climbing that Hampi has to offer. Enjoy the sun and the outdoors as you scale the boulders!

Temples and Ruins of Hampi

With your guide, spend an afternoon touring the remarkable ruins, including Virupaksha Temple, with its 16-story gopura, or entrance tower; the Narasimha Monolith, a 20-foot-tall, half-man, half-lion representation of Vishnu dating to 1528; and the astonishing Vitthala Temple, featuring hollow columns that produce various musical pitches when you rap on them.

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Wildlife Parks

BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK

SATPURA NATIONAL PARK

PREFERRED HOTEL

Evolve Back Hampi

Just as Hampi, 14th Century Vijayanagara Empire’s capital, was once described as “the best-provided city in the world,” the Evolve Back, Hampi resort can arguably be regarded as housing “the world’s best-pampered guests.” Surrounded by rugged forests and boulder-strewn plains, the resort’s glorious architectural and interior design are inspired by the royal flavor of that ancient city, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and readily accessible for guests of the Evolve Back. When not exploring the ruins on a guided walk, guests can take a dip in the infinity pool, lounge by the family pool, relax at the Ayurveda spa, or lose themselves in a book with a cup of famous Sidapur coffee in hand. Four types of accommodations boast balconies overlooking the natural splendor of the area, private pools, en-suite Jacuzzis, and grand bathrooms. Exploring the ancient civilization’s history and culture is not limited to the heritage site as the resort’s two restaurants offer dishes inspired by the empire’s cuisines. For visitors who want a more private experience, customized meals are served by personal butlers beside the hotel’s infinity pool or even their suite’s private pool.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Kishkinda Camp Hampi

The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC) brand that is known for perfectly balancing a nomadic lifestyle with ultra-luxury comforts lives up to its name at the TUTC Hampi. Equipped with all the accommodations expected of a top-tier hotel while also showcasing the natural wonders of Hampi all around, this tent hotel provides a spacious, opulent space to relax and unwind after a day of adventure and exploring. Whether guests decide to enjoy exciting excursions that teach them about the region’s history or participate in vibrant local festivals, the TUTC Hampi is certain to give guests the ultimate experience of the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Vijayanagara Empire, all from the comfort of the best camping experience ever conceived.

Hampi Boulders

A unique, creative resort set less than an hour from the ruins of Hampi, the Hampi Boulders resort overlooks the swift rivers of the Tungabhadra River. Each of the resort’s luxury cottages were designed and built to co-exist in harmony with the local environment; indeed, several were built to resemble local boulders, for which the area is famous. The onsite restaurant serves authentic Southern Indian food, complemented by a decent selection of wine and exotic cocktails. Amenities include a rock swimming pool and a clubhouse, which offers a variety of games from billiards to table tennis.

The Hyatt Place

Less than an hour’s drive from the UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Hampi, arguably the world’s largest outdoor museum, the Hyatt Place is set amidst the greenery of the nearby Vidyanagar Township. The Hyatt Place’s 155 rooms include a signature Hyatt Grand Bed, a media center, Wi-Fi, satellite television, a work desk, and a refrigerator; seven of the suites have their own private pool. The on-site restaurant serves Indian and western cuisine as well as a breakfast buffet, and a well-stocked bar that offers beer and wine from across the globe. Other facilities include a fitness center, a games room, an outdoor pool, a business center, and a coffee shop.

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