We all know that Hampi is a magnificent place for exploring. Every tourist who comes here should visit the important sites, mainly the ruins in Hampi. The place has the most amazing sites to see.
But, apart from sightseeing, what else can be done? How can you truly make the most of your trip and enjoy the place? Well, to know more follow this article, we have put together all the fun and cool ways in which you can enjoy a holiday in Hampi. Here is our guide to the best things to do in Hampi while on a holiday in the city.
Things to Do in Hampi
1. Take A Coracle Across The Riverside
A good way to enjoy in Hampi is by taking a riverside ride on a boat. These round cane boats are called Coracles and they have been an important means of transportation in Hampi since the 15th century. A new experience, you can get to the other side of Hampi, where you can just relax for a day.
2. Go On A Cycling Tour
If you don’t like walking, you can rent a cycle and take the trails to most of the ruins in Hampi. Cycles are available for rent on a day-to-day basis. You will have to pay a fee, negotiate with the cycle rental company before you hire a cycle.
Some operators organize cycle trails in Hampi, it is the best way to explore the city as you not only get to know about the best places in Hampi, but you can also enjoy some physical activity as you cycle your way through scenic spots.
3. Stay On A Rice Field
A good way to enjoy a break after touring Hampi is staying at one of the many cottages that overlook rice fields. Most of these cottages offer good rooms that have all the basic facilities.
Watching the sunset from these cottages is a magical experience. It is best to only spend a day here as there is not much you can do apart from watching the sunset and walking through the fields.
4. Bouldering
Adventure sports is something to enjoy in Hampi. In the city of Hampi, there are many huge boulders where the adventure sport known as bouldering is conducted.
Those who are experienced often visit the place and do a bit of bouldering. Those who are less experienced can book a class to learn how to enjoy the sport in Hampi.
5. Bear Watching
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, head to the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary to do a bit of bear watching. You can book a safari at the sanctuary and learn a little bit about the species via a guided tour.
Photography is allowed here but you are advised to keep distance from the bears. There are special zones inside the sanctuary with watch towers from where you can see bears, too.
6. Visit Temples
A must-do activity in Hampi is visiting the temples. Most were built during the 15th century and now lie in ruins. The Vittala Temple is the best one to see. You can also visit the stunning Krishna Temple in Hampi. The Hampi Bazaar too has some nice old temples to see.
7. Visit the Royal Enclosure
The Royal Enclosure has many sites to see. This is one of the few places in Hampi that has royal and military structures. At this site you can also see citadels of the Vijayanagara capital. The Queen’s Bath and the Lotus Mahal are two important places to see at the Royal Enclosure.
8. Shop at the Hampi Bazaar
The Hampi Bazaar is a nice place to buy spices and souvenirs. The place has rich heritage and today you can see numerous shops inside the old structures. Most of the products are reasonably priced, so you would not want to bargain.
9. Watch Sunset from Monkey Temple
Although you can watch the sunset from almost anywhere in Hampi, the Monkey Temple is the best spot. The temple is located on the Anjayena Hill, so you can get stunning views of the sun from a height. Add in a bit of sightseeing with your visit here and you are sure to have a good time.
Although there are many other things to do in Hampi, you will best enjoy the city by doing these 9 things we have mentioned above. Some are not what most tourists do, which makes them offbeat and fun. Of these, must-dos are the cycle tour, a visit to the temples and a boat ride across the river.