SKILL INDIA

The Virupaksha and Vitthala temples are the most famous and do-not-miss monuments, but take a walk (or cycle) through the city for hours, and you’ll be happy to see a lot of less popular temples/palaces and other buildings which are equally as fascinating. Most of the ruins are located in the northern part of the city, just south of Tungabhadra river, and the rest of them are scattered all across the city. The first settlements in Hampi date back to 1 CE. The Emperor Ashoka’s Rock Edicts indicate that the region was once under Mauryan influence. A terracotta sealing and a Brahmi inscription have been recovered from the excavation site. Both belong to the 2nd century CE. The historically and architecturally dominated site has also been besieged by the Deccan Muslim
Sultanate. The Vijayanagara Empire had a heavy flow of trade with Hampi being the main centre. Due to this many Hindu and Muslim rulers were attracted towards the small town. Different rules and different empires have resulted in the vibrant culture of people of Hampi. The ancient town has its fame for its archaeological importance. The ruins, concert halls, bazaars, and boulders speak of the greatness of Vijayanagara Empire. Pilgrims delight and backpackers holidaying spot is rich in culture which remains unaffected by westernization in the modern-day. The culture has been restored and preserved by UNESCO as the small town has been declared as the world heritage site. The culture is a clear reflection of people’s beliefs and lifestyle. Theatrics, music, and dance are all the integrated parts of Hampi culture. The town has preserved concert halls where the traditional music gatherings have left their imprints. The culture of Hampi, rich and vibrant is tied to its roots. The architecture in Hampi speaks of the
traits of both Hindu and Muslim architecture. Temples like Krishna Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, and Pattabhirama temple are flanked with Hindu, Muslim and Jain architecture. Religion: Hinduism in Hampi richly followed within 2 sets, first being the Saivites and the second being the Vaishnavites. The former group worships Lord Shiva, the destroyer and the latter group worships Lord Vishnu, the preserver. The minds of people are even enriched with the teachings of Jainism. The remaining lot shows faith in Islam as Hampi once was even ruled by Muslim emperors. Temples like Krishna Temple, Hazara Rama Temple, and Pattabhirama temple are flanked with Hindu, Muslim and Jain architecture. Religion: Hinduism in Hampi richly followed within 2 sets, first being the Saivites and the second being the Vaishnavites. The former group worships Lord Shiva, the destroyer and the latter group worships Lord Vishnu, the preserver. The minds of people are even enriched with the teachings of Jainism. The remaining lot shows faith in Islam as Hampi once was even ruled by Muslim emperors. Kannada is the official language of Hampi. The locals understand Hindi and a few common English words. Communication should not be a big problem as there are foreigners who have settled in Hampi after falling in love with the place. Basic knowledge of Hindi words will help you to make others understand your needs.Hampi Bazaar or Virupaksha Bazaar Hampi Bazaar is in front of the Virupaksha Temple. The bazaar during the ancient times was a thriving marketplace. The old pavilions on either side of the market still exist. It was once the centre for flourished trade. Even though the market now has lost its lustre it is famous among the tourists visiting the town. Today, it stands as an image of glorious past and encroaches with small shops and restaurants. In the bygone era, precious items such as jewellery, precious stones, and silk clothes. Today, Hampi Bazaar offers the tourists with artefacts, handicrafts, embroidered shawls, stone figurines, traditional costumes, antique coins and colourful bags. One can enjoy lovely morning strolls before the hustle-bustle of the evening market. One should buy stuff with Lambani prints as it is the speciality of the place. The Bazaar turns into a vivacious place during Hampi Utsav. It is a center of all festive happenings. There is a huge inflow of tourists during the season of festivities. The flea market in Hampi is a great opportunity for travellers to grab junk jewellery, cotton clothes, and leather books.