Hampi is an ancient city located in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. Hampi was once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled much of South India from the 14th to the 16th century.
The city is home to a number of impressive structures and monuments, including the Virupaksha Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that dates back to the 7th century. The temple features intricate carvings and sculptures that showcase the rich artistic traditions of the region. Other notable attractions in Hampi include the Vittala Temple, the Lotus Mahal, and the Elephant Stables.
One of the most popular stories about Hampi is the tale of Lord Virupaksha, who is considered to be the presiding deity of the city. According to legend, Lord Virupaksha was the consort of the goddess Pampa, who was worshiped in the nearby Tungabhadra River. One day, Lord Virupaksha decided to visit Pampa, but he was stopped by the river god, who told him that he could not cross the river without paying a toll.
Lord Virupaksha refused to pay the toll and instead used his powers to dry up the river. He then crossed over to the other side and reunited with Pampa. However, when the river god saw what had happened, he became angry and cursed Lord Virupaksha, saying that he would be worshiped only by those who had crossed the river.
As a result of the curse, Lord Virupaksha became the patron deity of Hampi, which was located on the other side of the river. The city grew in importance and became the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire, with Lord Virupaksha as its presiding deity. The temple dedicated to Lord Virupaksha still stands in Hampi today, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Another popular story associated with Hampi is the tale of the monkey kingdom of Kishkindha. According to legend, Kishkindha was ruled by the monkey king Sugriva, who was a close friend of Lord Rama. Sugriva and his army of monkeys helped Lord Rama defeat the demon king Ravana and rescue his wife Sita.
The monkey kingdom of Kishkindha is said to have been located in the hills around Hampi, and many of the ancient temples and ruins in the area are believed to be associated with the story of Sugriva and Lord Rama. The story of Kishkindha has become a popular legend in Hampi, and many visitors come to the city to explore its ancient temples and learn more about its rich history and mythology.
In addition to its stunning architecture, Hampi is also renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The city is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River and is surrounded by rugged hills and lush forests. Visitors can explore the area on foot, by bike, or on a coracle, a traditional round boat used for fishing and transportation.
Hampi is also famous for its vibrant cultural scene. The city hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Hampi Utsav, a three-day extravaganza that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the region through music, dance, and theater.
