Hampi - ಹಂಪೆ

As the capital of the Hindu kingdom of Vijayanagara, which reached its zenith under the rule of Krishnadeva Raya between 1509 and 1529, Hampi was a beautiful city in its prime.The ruins of Krishnadeva Raya's capital lie beside the Tungabhadra River at the heart of Karnataka, 13 km from Hospet. Hampi in Karnataka was the site for the capital of the mighty Vijaynagar empire. With its stunning landscape, this small town is a treasure house for those with a sense of history and makes for a fascinating destination."If dreams were made out of stone, it would be Hampi"

Saint Vidyaranya established the seat of Vijayanagara Empire in 1336 A.D, with the help of his devotee disciples Hakka and Bukka. The empire later became famous for its support towards renovation/reconstruction of temples through out India. It also became renowned for re-establishment of Indian culture, its support for music, art and literature. With the prime purpose of caring for the people and their welfare, this empire stretched physically covering Karnataka, Andhra and Maharashtra and became a by-word for golden rule.

Hampi, the seat of the famed Vijayanagara empire was the capital of the largest empire in post-mogul India, covering several states. The empire reigned supreme under Krishnadevaraya, the Emperor. The Vijayanagara empire stretched over at least three states - Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh. The destruction of Vijayanagar by marauding Moghul invaders was sudden, shocking and absolute. They reduced the city to ruins amid scenes of savage massacre and horrors beggaring description.

Although in ruins today, this capital city once boasted riches known far beyond the shores of India. The ruins of Hampi lie scattered in about 26 sq. km area, amidst giant boulders and vegetation. Protected by the tempestuous river Tungabhadra in the north and rocky granite ridges on the other three sides, the ruins silently narrate the story of grandeur and fabulous wealth. The splendid remains of palaces and gateways of the broken city tells a tale of men of infinite talent and power of creativity together with his capacity for senseless destruction. Hampi has been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Hospet is the main town providing the gateway for Hampi.