HAMPI – The great heritage site

Hampi was once a majestic capital of the leading Vijayanagara Empire, which was constructed by Harihara and Ukka in 1336 AD. Hampi is currently known as the city of ruins, remarked for many holy temples, as it is also considered a sacred place for Hindus, because it is Pampakshethra - home of Pampa, the daughter of Lord Brahma who wedded to Lord Shiva. It is one of the key historical places of the down south, full of ancient and big forts, huge pavilions, markets and stables for the royal elephants of the empire to witness. Hampi is a remarkable example of a place reaching the peak of grandeur, which is vacillating to a turn down of sheer ignorance mingled with non maintenance.

Hampi is identified as World Heritage Site as per UNESCO and The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been putting utter determined plans to renovate the ancient formations in Hampi, which represent the true domicile of architecture and rich culture, accompanied with primeval temples and monuments. It is therefore blossoming ecstasy for the tourists to visit Hampi, which is bordered by the river Tungabhadra in north and by rugged rocky granite stones surrounding the other three sides.

During primitive era, Hampi was regarded as the robust commercial point, which was involved in the trade of gems and horses. The unusual saying about Hampi is that during ancient time diamonds were sold on the streets, but currently the city of ruins, Hampi relies upon agriculture and mining for its economical enhancement. Tourism is another source of boosting the economy of Hampi, being given the status of world heritage site by UNESCO.

Hampi celebrates many cultural and religious festivals. Out of these the most divine and attractive is the Hampi festival - Vijaya Utsav, which magnetizes many tourists to come here and enjoy the fun filled traditional feast, which generally lasts for 3 days in the month of November and has various attractions, like puppetry shows, music and dance, tagged by fireworks and a special ritual followed to end the festival. The best season to visit the place is in the month of September to February. The regional language spoken here is Kannada. To get away from the hustle bustle of cities and enjoy the majestic heritage filled with ancient monuments, many tourists visit the heritage site of Hampi.