Ten Most Beautiful Temples to Visit in Hampi

Hampi has loads of temples, with guesses ranging from about 500 to over 1,000. They come in all shapes and sizes, each with its own story and level of upkeep. Unless you’re living in Hampi for at least six months, you can’t possibly visit every single one. Most of Hampi temples are all about intricate details, mysterious sculptures and grandeur. But some are just a destroyed ruins. So honestly, visiting each of them isn’t worth

Having been to Hampi three times myself, and Ashrith five times, we’ve checked out about 20 temples during our trips. So, this Hampi temples list is our take on the most stunning temples, each with its own unique charm. I’ve sorted the list by location and image of each temples to make it easier for you to browse and pick what catches your eye while planning your Hampi adventure.

Index

• Check out our post “Complete Travel Guide to Plan Your Hampi Trip” to learn all the practical information, such as how to get around, where to stay, and when to visit Hampi in detail.
• To discover the coolest sunset points in Hampi, check out our post “Six Best Viewpoints in Hampi to Watch Sunset and Sunrise.”
• Want to see Hampi beyond temples? Have a look at our post “21 Unique Landmarks of Hampi to Explore“
• Want to know where to eat after watching stunning sunsets in Hampi? Read our post “Best restaurants and cafes in Hampi“
• Keen on exploring a village older than Hampi? – Read our post “Places to Visit in Anegundi on a day trip“

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1. Vijaya Vittala Temple

The heart of Hampi, my favourite spot in the whole town, is the amazing Vijaya Vittala Temple. It’s packed with stunning structures, great people-watching spots, and lush trees.

Legend has it that this temple was meant to be Lord Vishnu’s grand home in his Vittala form. However, finding it too extravagant, he decided to stick to his own humble abode instead. Lord isn’t wrong – Vijaya Vittala is the grandest of all Hampi temples. It isn’t just another temple, but a soothing spot, just to sit under its grand pavilions and watch the world (or crowd) pass by.

What is Vijaya Vittala Temple famous for?

Vijaya Vittala Temple is known for three main things –

• The stone Chariot
• Musical Pillar Hall.
• Bull and Elephant composite sculpture.

Besides those, there are other pavilions too. The Kalyana Mantapa in the southeast corner has impressively carved columns and a raised platform at the center. Sitting here and watching people pass between the columns decorated with “Yali” or “yeti” was my favorite pastime in Hampi.

On the northwestern side, there’s a Plumeria tree. During winter, it’s covered in plenty of white flowers. Thus it eventually becomes a favorite spot for visitors to snap photos. So, grab a seat on the steps of a Mantapa in the northeast corner (or the right side of the temple when you enter). You can easily spend at least an hour watching tourists go crazy about the Plumeria tree and the stone temple as a backdrop for their photos – it’s endless entertainment. Some even stood here, applied the make-up, adjusted their outfits after inspecting each picture taken!

What is special about Hampi Stone Chariot?

The stone chariot at Vijaya Vittala Temple isn’t just a sculpture, although it looks like one. It used to be shrine for Lord Vishnu’s vahana, Garuda. Originally, it had a Vimana above, but now it’s a ruin.

There’s something magical about it – you feel like you could pull it, just like in fairs. The wheels were designed to rotate (but not move), but after visitors spun them too much, they had to fill them with cement. I remember spinning them as a teenager. We even climbed the stone ladder to the shrine in 2014, but now there’s a wooden fence around the chariot – So nobody can touch it. Our buddy Sagar, who runs Padma Guesthouse in Hampi, says, “We Hampi folks have a belief that if the stone chariot of Vijaya Vittala moves, the world will end.” So let’s hope the chariot never gets rolling!

Musical Pillar hall

At Vijaya Vittala Temple, there’s a hall with 56 pillars. Each consists of thinner stone verticals that produce melody when tapped. So the 56 pillars are called “SAREGAMA” PILLARS.

The open-sided hall enhances acoustics allowing pleasant music. Despite its fame, there’s no crowd of tourists tapping the pillars now – Just like the chariot wheel, millions of tourists including me used to tap and listen to the music. But now, forget about touching the pillars; you can’t even step on the hall due to conservation and protection measures.

Why blame only visitors for damaging Musical pillars of Hampi? The looters of ancient times, the British, cut open two columns to check what produces the melody (though they never found out the reason).

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2. Sri Kotilinga Temple

As you walk from Vijaya Vittala to Achyutaraya temple, you’ll encounter several monuments. Past Seeta’s pond, a detour leads you to the banks of the Tungabhadra River, where hundreds of Shiv Lingas are carved on the floor─hence its name, Kotilingeshwara temple. Unlike other temples in Hampi, there is no tall Gopura nor exquisite sculptures or Yetis on the wall – Just a cluster of Shiva lingas on the rock by the serene water. Smaller temples dot the area, and regardless of the time of day, expect a bit of a crowd.

It’s a hot spot for Instagrammers in Hampi, but you can also just chill in one of the Mantapas or sit on a nearby boulder, watching people strike all sorts of poses in front of the Shiv lingas, which are worshipped daily.

Before you visit Sri Kotilinga Temple in Hampi Know this

• Timings : 6am to 7PM
• Spend 30min
• No entrance fees
• Accessible only by walk – No vehicles are allowed.
• Dress modestly, it is an active temple

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3. Narasimha Temple on Gandhamadana Hill

After Kotilingeshwara temple on the way to Achyutaraya temple, you’ll pass a tall Mantapa shading a stairway opposite Sugriva caves. In the horizon, the towering Vimana of Virupaksha Temple stands proudly above the coconut grove, a stunning sight that might have you gazing at it for ten minutes standing on the open boulder hill. But Hampi’s relentless heat makes you carve for shade. To enjoy this sight in peace and shade take the stairway to the Narasimha temple.

After climbing about 30 steps, you’ll find a pavilion with stone seating, perfect for a quick nap. Probably it is one of the least crowded temples of Hampi. When we went here, there was only a landscaper clearing grass inside beside us.

It’s an ideal spot to enjoy the Virupaksha Vimana view while sipping juice and munching on apples that you would have carried while hiking. Don’t forget to explore inside too. Stairs lead to higher pavilions offering panoramic views of Anjanadri Hill, Rishimukha Hill, and the shimmering river below.

Practical info to visit Narasimha Temple on Gandhamadana Hill

• Timings : 6am to 7PM
• No entrance fees
• Accessible only by walk – No vehicles are allowed.
• Inactive temple, no need to follow dress code.
• Part of Vijaya Vittala to Achyutaraya hiking trail

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4. Shri Achyuta Raya Swamy Temple

The next charming temple and one of the less-visited places in Hampi is the ruins of Achyutaraya Temple. At the end of Hampi bazar, Achyuta Raya Swamy temple sits quietly, kind of hidden between two rocky mountains.

One of the last creations of the Vijayanagara Empire (16th century), this vast temple has two courtyards. From the first courtyard, the array of beautifully carved columns and stone roofs is set against the backdrop of coconut farms, blending the finest Dravidian architecture now in absolute ruin with the beauty of nature.

Why I love Achyutaraya Temple is because of its secludedness. It doesn’t receive as many tourists as Vijaya Vittala does. So if you’re looking to spend an entire day away from the crowds in one of the ancient temples of Hampi, whether reading, painting, meditating, or simply sitting in peace, pick Achyuta Raya Swamy Temple.
Honestly in a way, Achyuta Raya Temple reminds me of Philae in Egypt – Both have similar vibe, but Achyutaraya is quieter..

Tips to visit Achyutaraya temple in Hampi

• Timings : 5.30AM to 7PM ( Varies with ongoing restoration work, especially in the afternoon)
• Spend 1hr or an entire day
• No entrance fees
• Accessible only by walk – You can either walk from Virupaksha via Hampi Bazar or from Vijaya vittala via Kodandarama temple
• Inactive temple, less crowded. No dress code needed
• End point of the hiking trail from Vijaya Vittala to Achyutaraya temple via lamp post street.

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• Check out our post “Complete Travel Guide to Plan Your Hampi Trip” to learn all the practical information, such as how to get around, where to stay, and when to visit Hampi in detail.
• To discover the coolest sunset points in Hampi, check out our post “Six Best Viewpoints in Hampi to Watch Sunset and Sunrise.”
• Want to see Hampi beyond temples? Have a look at our post “21 Unique Landmarks of Hampi to Explore“
• Want to know where to eat after watching stunning sunsets in Hampi? Read our post “Best restaurants and cafes in Hampi“
  

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5. Virupaksha Temple

Ancient town’s centre and top of most famous temples in Hampi the Virupaksha Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Call me cringe, but I associate this temple with one of the bad movies I loved as a kid, ‘Belli Kaalungura,’ which was filmed here.

Dating back to the 7th century AD, it’s one of India’s oldest active temples, uninterruptedly running. Besides the main structure, the temple complex has two courtyards, ornate pavilions, and a stable for temple elephants. So, the most common picture travellers take with an elephant blessing them is taken here.

Don’t miss the iconic 100-pillared hall, known as the “Kalyana Mantapa.” While sitors praise it for the architecture, i refer to it as the place where the very pretty actress Malashri danced in the iconic song “Kelisade Kallu kallinali”! Then there is a water tank called “Manmatha Kalyani” in the same compound. If the weather isn’t windy and cloudy, you can see the most beautiful reflection of the Virupaksha Temple Gopuram here. Expect crowds here throught out the day – it’s famous among both pilgrims and tourists alike. So, there’s hardly any time of day when you can avoid them.

What is the most fascinating part of Hampi Virupaksha temple

Before you visit Virupaksha temple know this

• Timings : 6AM-1PM, 5PM-9PM
• Spend 2hours
• Visit during daylight to witness inverted shadow phenomena.
• No entrance fees required.
• Park vehicles 400m before the temple near the bus stand and walk to the temple.
• Active temple with a dress code (below knee outfits, covering shoulders) enforced for entry.
• There are plenty of delicious restaurants near by. So visit during your lunch or breakfast time.

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6. Hampi Shri Krishna Swamy Temple

Hampi is a quirky kind of beautiful. Picture this: you’re cruising down a road flanked by banana plantations when suddenly, massive split boulders pop into view. Then, you roll through a 15th-century stone gateway and bam! There’s the Krishna Temple, chilling by the roadside like a casual pit stop on a highway for snacks.

This temple, built in the 15th century by Hampi’s famous ruler Krishnadevaraya to celebrate his victory over Orissa, is all about baby Krishna. It’s got that classic Hampi temple vibe─grand architecture and all─but what really stands out is its location. Perched up high, right by the road, it’s super easy to get to. And if you sneak a peek from the back, you’re treated to a killer view of Hampi’s rolling hills.

Before visiting Krishna temple know this

• Timings : 6am to 7PM
• Spend 45min
• No entrance fees
• Accessible by vehicle
• Active temple, follow dress code.
• Closer to Hemakuta sunset hill, so plan to visit Krishna temple on the day you are watching sunset at Hemakuta hill.

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7. Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

Casually cruising down Kamalapur-Hampi road, amidst banana and coconut farms, you’ll stumble upon an unexpected sight: a vast open ground. Amidst this serene setting, a towering figure grabs your attention. Standing at an impressive 6.7 meters tall, the statue boasts a lion-like head. Say hello to Lord Sri Lakshmi Narasimha, a deity honored with both reverence and a hint of trepidation in Hindu tradition.

Next to the Narasimha idol stands the Badavi Linga. While it’s quite popular among visitors, it may not boast the architectural grandeur of other temples in Hampi. Nevertheless, it holds significant religious importance. For non-believers, it’s a giant Shivalinga surrounded by ankle-high water inside a chamber.

Practical info about Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple

• Timings : 6am to 7PM
• Spend 30min
• No entrance fees
• Accessible by vehicle
• Inactive temple, no dress code needed
• Closer to Hemakuta sunset hill, so plan to visit Krishna temple on the day you are watching sunset at Hemakuta hill.

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8. Chandikeshwara temple

As you ride between Virupaksha temple & Kamalapur around a bend, you spot two temples: Veerabhadra and Chandikeshwara Temple.

Chandikeshwara Temple’s setup is like a little campus, with these fierce-looking Yali sculptures and fancy pillars welcoming you in─a classic Vijayanagara touch. It’s a spot where bikers and shepherds take a quick break. As you walk in take left, you hit the courtyard. The wonky pavilion columns and the slightly tilted Vimana gets you wondering if it is about to collapse. And tucked away in a corner is this unique goddess statue─just her head, looking fierce with all that turmeric and kumkum.

Surprisingly, even though it’s right by the road, the temple’s super chill. We figured we’d only hang out for a bit, but we ended up getting lost in its leaning towers and swaying columns, listening to the trees whisper.

• Timings : 6am to 7PM
• Temple is small, you can see everything in 15 min.
• No entrance fees
• Accessible by vehicle
• Active temple, follow dress code.
• Consider it as a pitstop any day any time when you ride between Kamalapur and Hampi

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9. Hazara Rama temple

For us movie buffs, visiting the location where Jackie Chan’s “The Myth” was filmed was a must during our latest Hampi trip. Although the movie itself was just okay, the scene where Jackie Chan battles an Indian swordsman at Hazara Rama Temple is absolutely stunning. What sets this temple apart is its beautiful compound wall adorned with bas-relief sculptures depicting scenes from the Ramayana.

Even if you’re not familiar with the Ramayana, the temple’s rich history and intricate artwork are sure to captivate you. Originally a private temple for the Royal family, Hazara Rama Temple gives a glimpse into Hampi’s royal past, with nearby ruins of palaces and noble houses.

Hazara Rama Temple isn’t one of the biggest temples of Hampi, but it’s got its own vibe with those unique black stone pillars and detailed sculptures. Just chilling on the grass nearby, taking in the artwork on the walls, makes for a pretty sweet Hampi experience.

Tips to visit Haza Rama temple in Hampi

• Timings: 6am to 7PM
• Spend 45min
• No entrance fees
• Accessible by only walking or cycling
• Inactive temple, no dress code to follow.
• Make it part of your day where you are walking from Queens bath in Royal palace to Zenana enclosure ( Elephant stable)

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10. Sri Vaishnava Temple

It’s still a mystery to me why sitting inside ancient ruins brings such joy. The Vaishnava Temple is definitely is one of the best places in Hampi for experiencing that in Hampi. On the way between the elephant stable and Shringarada hebbagilu, it’s got this half-standing Vimana, an open roof, and slanted pillars that give off this cool, eerie vibe.

The columns here are way more detailed than in other temple ruins. And since there’s no idol inside, you can wander into the Garbha Griha, where the ceiling’s been opened up. The sunlight streaming in from above, the nearby well, the repair scaffolding, and those makeshift stone columns holding up the roof all add to the weirdly unique vibe.

• Timings : 6am to 7PM
• Temple is small, you can see everything in 15 min.
• No entrance fees
• Accessible by only walking or cycling
• Inactive temple, no dress code to follow.
• One of the last spots at the end hiking trail from Queens bath to zenana enclosure

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Hampi temples that aren’t worth visiting

1. Underground Shiva Temple: The name suggests an underground structure, but it’s just like any other temple.
2. Badavi linga : A giant Shiva linga inside four walls with little water at the base , nothing else
3. Sri Chandrashekhara Gudi: This temple in Hampi is in decent condition, but it’s not unique compared to others.
4. Malayavanta Raghunatha Temple: Mythologically significant with fine architecture, but lacks uniqueness compared to other temples in Hampi.
5. Ganagitti Sri Jaina Basadi: Significant for Jains, but architecturally simpler compared to other temples in Hampi.

Which of these Hampi temples are your favourite? Let us know in the comment section below