Temples on Hemakuta Hill, Hampi, Karnataka, India

© Images of india/Alam

Hemakuta Hill, Hampi, India

Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka, India. The group of monuments—ancient temples, majestic palaces and intricate ruins—are left from the once-capital city of the Vijayanagara Empire, which ruled this area from the 14th to the 16th centuries. During the reign of King Krishnadevaraya, from 1509 to 1529, the city underwent significant expansion and was filled with art and architecture, attracting visitors and traders from all over the world. However, Hampi lost its Midas touch in 1565 when it faced defeat in the Battle of Talikota.

Today, Hampi is home to approximately 1,000 ancient monuments, and it has been popularised again by modern backpackers, giving the lost city a new life. One of the most visited parts is Hemakuta Hill, which has numerous well-preserved temples and shrines. While exploring the hill, visitors can stop by to offer prayers at the Virupaksha Temple, a pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva.