UNESCO World Heritage ruins of the Vijayanagara empire capital, with the Virupaksha and Vittala temples.
Hampi is an overnight destination rather than a day trip from Bengaluru, and honesty demands that it be listed as such. The ruins spread across a boulder-strewn landscape on the Tungabhadra river, with the Virupaksha temple, Vittala complex with its stone chariot, Lotus Mahal and royal enclosure. Bicycle and coracle rides are common. At least two nights are best, with travel by overnight train or bus.
| Distance | About 340 km north-west of Bengaluru |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 6-8 hours by road; overnight train or bus is the usual approach |
| Getting there | Mode: Overnight train or bus; Detail: Overnight trains and sleeper coaches from Bengaluru to Hosapete, then a 13 km road transfer |
| Cost | Foreign nationals pay about ₹600 (approx $6.25 USD) for the Vittala Temple ticket; Indian nationals pay far less; verify |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Hampi, Hosapete taluk, Vijayanagara district, Karnataka 583239, India |
How to get there
- Train: overnight services from KSR Bengaluru City or Yesvantpur to Hosapete Junction, ₹400-1,500 (approx $4.17-16 USD)
- Bus: KSRTC and private sleeper coaches from Majestic to Hosapete, ₹600-1,500 (approx $6.25-16 USD)
- Air: flights to Vidyanagar (Toranagallu) airfield in Ballari are limited; check schedules
- Car with driver: about ₹9,000-14,000 (approx $94-146 USD) for a two-day return; this is not a same-day trip
Location
Hampi, Hosapete taluk, Vijayanagara district, Karnataka 583239, India
15.3350, 76.4600 View on map
Highlights
- Vittala temple and stone chariot
- Virupaksha temple
- Sunrise at Matanga Hill
- Coracle rides on the Tungabhadra
Tips for visiting
- Plan two nights or more
- Summer heat is severe; go early in the day
- Book overnight trains on IRCTC early
- Modest dress at temples
When to visit
October to February.
Frequently asked questions
Can Hampi be a day trip from Bengaluru?
No; it is about 340 km away and needs an overnight trip.
Which station serves Hampi?
Hosapete Junction, about 13 km away.