Hampi
Hampi also known as Humpi or Hampe is situated in Indian state of Karnataka. Hampi Karnataka is spread over 25 sq. kms. Hampi India is about 350 kms away from Bangalore, capital of Karnataka state. Hampi Karnataka India is significant in both-historic and religious perspective. Hampi India was the capital of the South India, under the last Hindu Kingdom of Vijayanagara during 14th to 16th century AD. The ancient city of Hampi is also called as Vijayanagara.
Hampi- A UNESCO World Heritage
The ruins of Hampi are giant Dravidian temples, palaces of Rajas, ramparts and plenty of monuments of ancient time. The remains of Hampi are huge historical, architectural and ethnic museum of the time. In 1986, the Hampi group of monuments is granted the prize of UNESCO world heritage.
The Monumets of Hampi
The massive rock sprinkled mountains and the river that divides the city of Hampi compose strange scenery of this ancient city. The place has many religious, architectural and natural places which make Hampi ideal tourist destination.
Vittala Temple of Hampi
The Vittala Temple of Hampi is situated northeast of Hampi. The Vittala temple Hampi is dedicated to Vittala (Vishnu). Vittala is one aspect of Lord Vishnu in which he is worshipped by Maratha community. A renowned rock chariot (Ratha) is situated in front of the Vittala temple. The chariot is carved of a single rock and also a place of worship.
The Musical Pillar of the Vittala Temple is great instance of artistic design. Each Musical Pillar that support the roof of Vittala temple represents one musical instrument. The festival of Purandaradasa is a annual festival of the temple.
Virupaksha Temple
This Virupaksha Temple is also known as Pampati temple. The Virupaksha complex is the center of the township of Hampi. The Virupaksha temple of Hampi is dedicated to Virupaksha, an aspect of Lord Shive and his companion Pampa. The temple of Virupaksha has two courts with doorway gopurams. The chief entrance gopuram faces east that extends for around 1 kilometers to colossal effigy of Nandi.
Other monuments of Hampi
Hemakuta Hill is located on south of Hampi. The hills has many temple. Some of them are not completed ever.
The ruins of Krishna Temple which collapsed amid its restoration work. It was built by Emperor Krishnadevaraya.
A rock cut idol of Narasimha Lakshmi Narasimha is situated in Hampi which collapsed. The remains of the idol is now in museum.
The natural cave of Sugriva, believed to be the home of Sugriva.
Kodandarama Temple is situated near Virupaksha temple. Statues of Rama Lakshmana and Sita is situated here.
The King's Balance also known as Tulapurushandana is situated near Vittala temple. It is famous as a symbol of charity. At this place king was weighted against his treasures and treasures was then distributed among Brahmins.
The Royal Centre contains the remains of kings' palaces, courts of Kings and ministers, and some temples.
The Ramachandra Temple of Hampi was especially used by royal family.
