Hampi is famous worldwide for its historical ruins and rich heritage, with its temples that stand as the primary attraction alongside the banks of river Tungabhadra. It has also earned the prestigious status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as a former capital for the Vijayanagara Empire. As one of the largest post-Mughal era empires, Hampi offers visitors an opportunity to marvel at the diversity of temple complexes. Let us take a look at various historic temples that are housed in this city. 

Achyutraya Temple 

Also known as the Tiruvengalanatha Temple, the Achyutraya temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it features a modern architectural style that is different from other temples in Hampi. The walls, pillars and monolith blocks are skillfully crafted that depict various mythological legends.  

Badavilinga  

Translating to Big Shivalinga, the Badavilinga is carved out of a single boulder, standing 3 meters tall amidst water and serves as a prominent attraction in Hampi. This temple is a revered symbol of Lord Shiva and is situated near the Lakshmi Narasimha temple. 

Virupaksha Temple  

The Virupaksha temple, also known as the Pampapathi temple, is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Virupaksha form and dates back to the 7th century. From being just a small shrine, it now stands as the most famous temple in Hampi, which is adorned with stone inscriptions that date back centuries and showcase the rich heritage of the area. 

Vithala Temple 

The Vithala Temple dates back to the 16th century and is regarded as the most impressive structure in Hampi. This table stands as a magnificent example of the rich architecture of the century. The most iconic feature of this temple is the stone chariot that is located within the temple premises. The features of the temple complex include the elaborately carved walls and pillars that depict various gods and their forms. 

Kadalekalu Ganesh Temple  

 The Kadalekalu Ganesh temple is situated on Hemakuta Hill and houses a colossal 15-foot monolithic idol of Lord Ganesha which is believed to be one of the largest idols in the world. The traditional stone architecture and detailed carving contribute to its beauty. The belly of Lord Ganesha is sculpted to resemble Bengal gram.  

Hanuman Temple 

Embedded on the top of Anjaneya hill, the Hanuman Temple dates back 500 years is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers mesmerizing views of the surroundings. Shree Vyasaraja, the Rajaguru of the Vijayanagara Kingdom, installed the deity’s idol. 

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple  

Narsimha translates to half man- half lion who was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The Lakshmi Narasimha temple features the largest idol of Narasimha with the deity seated on a SheshNaag who is known as the seven-headed snake. The idol of Goddess Lakshmi adds to the sanctity of the temple. 

Hazara Ram Temple  

The Hazara Ram Temple was the place of worship for the Royals and is located at the heart of the Royal Center. This temple depicts the rich heritage of Hampi as it is decorated with intricate carvings on its walls and pillars. This temple holds immense historical significance that dates back to the 15th century, despite being smaller in size as compared to other temples. 

Hemakuta Hill Temple Complex  

The Hemakuta Hill Temple complex is a place that is well protected by a fort and provides a serene and captivating atmosphere for worship and self-awareness. This complex houses numerous temples that are all dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

Sasivekalu Ganesh Temple  

The Sasivekalu Ganesha Temple exhibits a monumental monolithic idol of Lord Ganesha that stands over 8 feet tall. The temple depicts the legend of Ganesha tying a snake around his belly to prevent it from bursting after eating excess food and was created in honour of King Nasimha II.  

Sri Krishna Temple  

Sri Krishna Temple stands as an example of the unique architectural style of King Krishnadevaraya. This temple is famous for its complex carving of Lord Krishna and the Indian mythology. This temple idolizes the child version of lord Krishna known as Bala Krishna, and is one of the favourite destinations for Krishna devotees and architecture enthusiasts.  

Ganagitti Temple   

The Ganagitti Temple is among Hampi’s notable Jain temples and was constructed by Iruguppa Dandanayaka during the reign of Vijayanagara King Harihara II in 1386 AD. Despite being a small shrine, this temple draws a considerable number of tourists and attention owing to its historical significance. 

Kodanda Rama Temple 

The Kodanda Rama Temple is dedicated to Lord Ram and holds immense historical as well as religious significance as this is known to be the site where Lord Ram slew Vali, as depicted in the epic of Ramayana. The temple stands as a declaration of Hampi’s cultural heritage and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Pattabhirama Temple   

The Pattabhirama temple is dedicated to Lord Ram and though lesser known, it rivals the elegance of the Vittala Temple. The beautiful garden and expansive temple marriage hall add to its beauty and make it a noteworthy destination for visitors. 

Prasanna Virupaksha Temple  

The PrasannaVirupaksha temple is addicted to Lord PrasannaVirupaksha who is known as the incarnation of Lord Shiva and dates back to the 14th century AD. Like many other temples, this temple is also famous for its Vijayanagar-style architecture and simplicity, and it occasionally floods during the monsoon season due to its underground structure. 

Saraswati Temple   

Saraswati Temple, as the name suggests, is dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, and features complex carvings and terracotta stucco figures ornamenting its pillars. This temple was constructed in the 13th century. On the opposite side of the temple lies a rock that bears a beautifully carved view of the Goddess. 

Varaha Temple 

The Varaha temple is dedicated to Varaha, one of Vishnu’s 10 avatars, and it features a rectangular compound that beautifies the intricate carvings of boars on its walls. The walls depict rich history, and it is a witness to the architectural efficiency of the Vijayanagara dynasty.  

Chandikesvara Temple   

The Chandikesvara temple honours Lord Vishnu and consists of striking carvings that depict Hindu mythology themes and stands as one of the iconic temples in Hampi. The temple is a prominent attraction for tourists as it is located on the main road. 

Chandramouliswara Temple 

The Chandramouliswara temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on an island on the northern bank of the Tungabhadra River. The detailed carvings of the temple have passed the test of time, and this makes it a hidden gem that is worth exploring.