Introduction: Hampi is a city in the northern part of Karnataka. It is a beautiful place with temples and ancient sculptures carved in form of gods, dancers, elephants and horse. Hampi was the capital of the mighty Vijayanagar Empire during the 14th century. The ruins of Hampi is widely spread to almost 26 sq km. It is a naturally well-protected place. It is guarded by the Tungabhadra River in the north, and the remaining three sides by the rocky granite ridges. Such a defensive terrain made it decisive for the Vijayanagar Empire to build Hampi as their capital.

History: The foundation of the city of Hampi is assumed to be in year 1336 by two brothers Harihara and Bukka, the officers of Hoysalas. Taking chance of the weakening position of the Hoysalas, the Sultans of Delhi set up an independent kingdom in the bank of the Tungabhadra River. The Vijayanagar Empire till the year of 1565 dominated the opponents when suddenly the commander Rama Raya was defeated with the successful traps of the Muslim invaders. Hence, the city of Hampi was plundered. The kingdom was ruled by the tyrant rule of the Mughals in 1689. The brutal defeat of Hampi is clearly evident from the remains recovered from the ruins.

Places of interest: Virupaksha Temple of the western ridge of Hampi is dedicated to Virupaksha, which is another form Lord Vishnu. Hemakuta Hill, which is in the south of Virupaksha, is a scattered place of Jain temples and the monolithic structure of Narasimha. Ugra Narasimha is a 6.7 meter tall statue which is a must see for every visitors. The statue of four-armed Narasimha is sitting upon a canopy of snakes. Hazara Rama Temple is a rectangular building at the center is as old as 15th centuries. It is the depiction of the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Queen's Bath is in the south of the Hazara Rama Temple. It looks plain externally and well ornate from interior.

Travel information: Hampi is in the south Indian state of Karnataka. Mementoes are the most buying materials of this city. Hospet is the nearest railway station to go for Hampi, which is 13 km from Hampi. Train services runs from cities of Bangalore and Hyderabad. One can go for Hampi from Hospet by local means of auto rickshaw, rented cycles or buses. It is also convenient to go directly by road. Goa is at a distance of 10 hrs travel and the bus services are regular from Bangalore and nearby cities. October to February is the best time to visit.