6 Best Things To Do In Hampi

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Hampi, look no further. Here’s a complete guide to all the best places to visit in the little hippie town.

1. Explore The Temples

Hampi is a very religious old temple town, overlooked by the famous Virupaksha Temple.

As well as Virupaksha, there are many temples in the area, including Vittala Temple, well recognised around India for it’s iconic stone chariot!

Our favourite though was the Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple. Less of a temple and more of a statue, if you’re as big a fan as we are of the Hindu God then it’s an awesome sculpture to visit.

If you’re short on time, or prefer everything to be organised for you, there is a great Hampi 2-Day Sightseeing Tour from Goa.

The tour includes round-trip transfer from Goa in an air-conditioned car, plus accommodation in twin shared room including breakfast.

This option will allow you to explore the holy city by walking along the river, enjoying the local market, and spending a day visiting the various temple complexes in Hampi.

2. Cliff Jumping

One thing we’d been dying to do in India was find a decent reservoir to dive into!

After biking around 5km from town, we finally reached Sanapur Lake.

Known for it’s cliff jumping opportunities, and beautiful scenery, Sanapur Lake is another spot near the top of the things to do in Hampi list.

As soon as you reach the bridge there are some huge boulders to climb and get a great view of the lake from. Some of which you can actually cliff jump from.

We recommend taking a local guide with you if possible, as they will know the best (and safest) cliff jumping points in the area.

3. Shop Hampi Market

Once the sun has gone down, one of the best things to do in Hampi is to walk the market streets!

If you’re looking to buy something a little different on your travels, then Hampi is your place.

Known for being the laid back land of hippies, the market that runs through the town centre is only small but can be walked 10 times over.

We spent ages searching for that ‘standout’ item that nobody else would have in their backpacks.

4. Take a Taxi Boat Across The River

Maybe one evening, if you have time and you’re not too tired, we recommend hopping over the river for a quick sunset stroll.

The main town of Hampi and the northern section is separated by the Tungabhadra River.

If you search ‘Ferry Point’ on google maps you will find the river crossing, and can choose to either wade across to the other side in knee deep waters, or take a boat for 20 Rupees.

The boat ride literally takes 30 seconds, but allows access to a much quieter area of town.

Surrounded by rice fields in every direction, and with beautiful dirt roads to explore down, you can take in the views for hours.

There’s not a lot to do on the northern side. Although it’s definitely worth adding to your things to do in Hampi list to witness the incredible rice terraces.

5. Eat At The Mango Tree

After your days of exploring, if you’re looking for somewhere to enjoy dinner in Hampi, then we can highly recommend Mango Tree.

Everyone we spoke to seemed to point us in the same direction, and the Mango Tree Restaurant didn’t disappoint. 

It’s cheap, centrally located and tasted so fresh! Rated #1 on TripAdvisor for a reason it’s the perfect way to finish your things to do in Hampi list!

6. Rent Bicycles And Explore

The final thing on the list of best things to do in Hampi is grab bicycles and explore.

Everything in Hampi is within cycle distance, plus renting bikes will save you a lot of money on tuk tuks, and taking an easy ride around the ancient village of Hampi town is a great way to see it.

We spent a full day exploring Hampi and the surrouding areas on bicycle, and it was not only a great work out, but a great way to tour the town.

So if you’re up for a bit of exercise, then we definitely recommend exploring the town on pushbikes.

Some of the top spots to visit by bicycle are Hampi Archeological Ruins, Hampi Bazaar Street and Matanga Hill.

If you really fancy a mission, you can head out to Sanapur Lake, a 5km one way trip where you’ll likely be the only ones there.

Where To Stay In Hampi

Luxury

Heritage Resort Hampi

Featuring an outdoor swimming pool and a spa and wellness centre, Heritage Resort Hampi offers accommodation in Hampi.

Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Every room has a cable TV.

Enjoy a cup of coffee while looking out at the pool or garden.

The rooms have a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hair dryer. 

There is a 24-hour front desk at the property. Free private parking is available on site.

You can play table tennis and billiards at the resort. Services like laundry and dry cleaning are provided.

Mid-Budget

Vijayshree Resort & Heritage Village

Placed in the popular district of Goa-Bangalore, Vijayshree Resort & Heritage Village welcomes guests with well appointed rooms and a spacious outdoor swimming pool.

The Nirvana Spa, located at the pool side offers Ayurveda & Hamam spa inspired treatments to help guests relax, refresh and rejuvenate. 

Spread over lush greenies guests at Vijayshree can go swimming or enjoy a relaxing spa. The property also offers indoor games and meeting facilities.

A 24-hour front desk can assist with laundry services and room service. Airport shuttle services are also available at a surcharge.

Budget

Netra Guest House

Situated in Hampi, Netra Guest House features accommodation with free WiFi and a restaurant. 

There is a private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. 

A continental breakfast is available each morning at the bed and breakfast.

For more places to stay in Hampi, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com.

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