PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST & TOUR ROUTE, KARNATAKA - PAGE 4

Hampi - A World Heritage site now amidst an awesome boulder strewn landscape along the banks of river Tungabhadra, Hampi was one of the glittering showpiece of India’s might in the 15th centuary. There were opulent palaces, marvellous temples, massive fortifications, baths, markets, auaducts, pavilions and stables for royal elephants. The city’s merchants traded in diamonds, fine silks, brocades, horses etc. It is the heritage city located at about 365 kms from Bangalore.

At Hampi the past comes alive. Magnificient ruins, whispering winds, traces and scents of the bygone era all linger fresh here. And they virtually transport one to a world of kings, battles and long forgotten marvels. This place may be called the world’s largest open-air museum. Most of the important structures and ruins are located in two areas, which are generally referred to as the Royal Centre and the Sacred Centre. The Royal Centre contains structures that seem to have been primarily for ceremonial use.

Hampi was once the capital city of the magnificient Vijayanagara Empire. Founded by Harihara and Bukka in 1336 it fell to the rulers of North India in 1565 after the battle of Talikota, and subsequently lapsed into decline and abandonment.

The once-proud city of victory is now a city of desolation. However, the ruins of these historical monuments have stood the ravages of man and time and still evoke memories of regal splendour.

How to go - The most convenient way to reach out to Hampi is from Bangalore which is well connected to different parts of the world through international and domestic Airlines.

Rail - Hampi Express (daily) leaves Bangalore everyday at 2215 hrs and arrives Hospet(the nearest railway station) at 0750 hrs. i.e about 8 hrs. overnight journey. From Hospet Hampi is at only 13-kms.

What to see - The following places are worth seeing in and around

Hampi - King’s Palace, Virupaksha Temple, Ganesha Images, Lakshminarasimha - the awesome 6.7m high monolith depicting the man-lion form of Lord Vishnu seated on a seven – hooded serpent, Badavilinga, Vijay Vithala Temple, Elephant Stables, Pushkarni, Lotus Mahal, Hazara Rama Temple, Mahanavami Dibba, Queen’s bath etc.

Where to stay - Hotel Pola Paradise is the best option. AveMaria India Travels have special tie-up for its guests with the hotel.