From temples to history and adventure to wildlife, Hampi offers something for everyone. Whether it's your first time to Hampi or you have been here once or twice but on a tight schedule, we've picked out a chilled-out, adventure-filled itinerary that goes beyond the UNESCO World Heritage sites that Hampi is mostly known for. In no particular order, here are the best things to do in Hampi beyond the temples.
8 Things To Do In Hampi Beyond The UNESCO World Heritage Sites
How To Get To Hampi
Hampi is about 345 kilometres or a 6-hour drive from Bangalore. If you are looking for a train, then the best option is to take the Hampi Express, which leaves Yesvantpur Junction Railway Station every night at 10 PM and reaches Hospet at 7 AM the next day. From Hospet, you can always book an auto or a cab, and last we checked, after haggling, the price was around INR 400 for an auto. It's about half an hour. You can also rent scooters, cycles, and bikes as well as autos to move around Hampi.
Cross The River On A Coracle
If you’re up for a lazy float down the Tungabhadra River, then you cannot miss this one. There are three spots where you can get onto the coracle and bob across the river. One is right near the Virupaksha temple, which is the shortest crossing to the fun tourist side. It’s also the wildest one when it’s monsoon, as it has the most rapids. Another place to hop onto the coracle is beside the ruins on the riverside, near the Kodandarama temple. This one is the least pleasant as it’s near the bathing ghat. But if you want the real deal, head to the Vittala Temple and the ferry point about two kilometres from there. This route takes you to Anegundi for all the temple and fort ruins.
Chill At The Mango Tree
It’s quite a popular spot, so if you go during peak time, be prepared to wait. A shack-like eatery right in the middle of town by the Virupaksha Temple, you can really unwind here on mattresses on the floor, cane deck chairs, and just the stone slabs, if you fancy. During the day, we suggest you stay inside and load up on vegetarian thalis, paneer pakodas, and lemonade. In the evening, head out through the narrow lanes, shop, or go to the sunset point and catch the sunset over the ruins. It’s absolute bliss. You won’t even miss alcohol and meat, which aren’t served there.
Bouldering In Hampi
If you’ve never been bouldering before, this is the perfect place to start. It’s a real heaven for bouldering and rock climbing, especially during the cooler winters. While most of the sites are apt for this activity, check out the Hemakuta or Matanga hill for the best experience. Or, head to the monoliths, boulders, and cliff edges across the entire ancient city, and hop onto the rocks at your own risk. But make sure they are bolt-protected. The granite surfaces are great for even beginners as it has a good grip, so try it out. You’ll be addicted soon!
Watch The Sunset From Monkey Hill
The alleged birthplace of Hanuman, sunrises and sunsets are best viewed from the top of Monkey Hill. If you’re up for the adventure, hike up the hill and count the 600 steps to the top. Or jump onto a moped or bus, which takes only about 15 minutes. The hike should get you to the peak in 50 minutes. Once up there, you can marvel at a few temples or do freestyle yoga as many folks do.
Spot Sloth Bears
OK, we cheated a little bit with this one as the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary is 15 kilometres away, but hey, that’s just a mini drive away, right? Thanks to the rough terrain and warm weather, the sloth bears hide out in the numerous caves dotting the place. But during the day, you can see them lurking around shrubs, lazing under trees and just wandering about the entire space. If you’re lucky, then you’ll also spot leopards, jackals, wild boar and mongooses are rather common.
Load Up On Unlimited Thaalis In A Banana Plantation
Located in Kamalapur, The Green Restaurant is the ideal destination for fuelling up, whether you've got a fully packed day or you just want to laze. With the option of unlimited thalis, you can enjoy it from the comfy, large stone benches under fruit trees. The cafe is in the middle of a banana plantation, so all your meals will come on the leaf, and with a super-sweet banana from the plantation itself. Oh, and don't miss out on their banoffee pie!
Relax At Laughing Buddha Restaurant
If you haven't heard of Laughing Buddha, you need to hit the spot on your next visit to Hampi. They have now shifted base from Hippie Island to Sanapur, not too far away from Hampi, but the boho hipster vibe is still intact. Here, you will find bamboo roofs and the walls are flanked with artwork, lending a hipster psychedelic vibe. Their seating is the best, with mattresses and pillows for a literal laid-back experience. on the pricier side, they have Continental and Indian cuisines on offer and alcohol is available too. Make a call before you head there. We highly recommend hitting the place up at night, for that's when the overhead lamps work their magic.
