About this tour

In two days, you can explore the main attractions of Hampi and Anegundi, doing justice to the storied history of Vijayanagara, as well as the beautiful landscapes and waterways of Hampi. We suggest a car tour covering the following, and we can also modify the itinerary per your preferences.

Day 1

Visit the Virupaksha Precinct, home to the patron deity of Vijayanagara - Virupaksha. The kings built a grand temple to him that attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. Also see the striking monolithic granite carvings of the gods Narasimha and Ganesha. The master artisans of Vijayanagara carved these imposing figures from Hampi’s huge granite boulders.

In the afternoon, enjoy a coracle ride and visit the expansive Vitthala temple. Begin with a short (optional) hike to the gorgeous Achyutaraya Temple and walk through a ruined medieval bazaar to the riverside Kodanda Rama Temple. Ride your coracle boat down the river, with optional stops to explore small outcrops with interesting carvings. See Purandara Dasa Mandapam, dedicated to the father of Carnatic music.

Day 2

Visit the peaceful village of Anegundi, the old capital of Vijayanagara before Hampi. The kings’ descendants still live here in Anegundi, in modern homes. See Anegundi’s highlights like the restored Gagan Mahal pavilion, the riverside Chintamani temple, and the Ranganathaswamy temple. Spend a relaxing hour or two at a local non-profit, learning to make your own banana fibre handicrafts. Enjoy a homemade traditional meal at a local village home.

In the afternoon, Hampi’s royal enclave, where the monarchs, soldiers and courtiers lived. See beautiful ruins including the Elephant Stables, Lotus Mahal, Queens’s bath, Hazara Rama temple and the royal water tank. Visit the Archaeological Museum at Kamalapur which material culture from Vijayanagara, and has a miniature model of Hampi’s terrain and monuments. Optional sunset view at Malyavantha Rama Temple.

Timing and Duration

Two full days, approximately 6-8 hours each day, including drive time.

Costs

INR 19500 using a small car (can take 2 adults + guide + driver)

INR 23800 using a Toyota Innova car (can take 4 adults + guide + driver)

INR 31000 using a Tempo Traveller/SML small coach (can take 8 adults + guide + driver)

Prior reservation is mandatory. Payment online prior to the tour. Email deepa@magictoursofindia.com or WhatsApp wa.me/+919867707414

Inclusions

Transport (AC vehicle and driver with cell phone), personalized tour, knowledgeable guide, bottled water, all taxes.

Exclusions

Entrances, camera fees, tips, meals, refreshments.

Tour Notes

There is a good deal of walking within the monuments, so please ensure you wear comfortable shoes and are adequately hydrated. You will need sun protection as many areas of the monuments are open-air.

Hampi has several active temples such as the Virupaksha Temple, the Kodanda Rama Temple, and numerous other smaller ones. We advise dressing modestly when you enter these temples.