Hampi Guide

Hampi Temple Tours: Explore Ancient Vijayanagara Wonders

Discover the magnificent ruins and rich history of Hampi with expertly guided temple tours, bringing the former capital of the Vijayanagara Empire to life.

18+ tours
From $$20
3-4 hours

Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Karnataka, India, is a sprawling landscape of ancient ruins that whispers tales of a glorious past. Once the capital of the mighty Vijayanagara Empire, this historical marvel is dotted with hundreds of monuments, including temples, palaces, market streets, and royal enclosures, all set against a breathtaking backdrop of boulder-strewn hills and the Tungabhadra River. Exploring Hampi is akin to stepping back in time, and the best way to immerse yourself in its grandeur is through dedicated Hampi temple tours. These tours are curated to guide visitors through the most significant sites, revealing the architectural brilliance, religious significance, and historical narratives that shaped this once-thriving metropolis. You’ll encounter iconic structures like the Virupaksha Temple, still an active place of worship, and the stunning Vittala Temple, famous for its musical pillars and stone chariot. Expertly led by local guides, these excursions go beyond mere sightseeing, offering in-depth insights into the life, art, and culture of the Vijayanagara era. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply someone seeking to understand India's rich heritage, a Hampi temple tour promises a profound and enlightening experience.

Featured Hampi Temple Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for hampi temple tours in Hampi

Hampi Heritage Hues: Uncover the Majesty of Vijayanagara Empire
From $57
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Embark on a mesmerizing exploration of the Hampi Heritage Hues, commencing at 9:00 am with a hotel pick-up by your guide and driver. The journey unfolds at the Virupaksha Temple, a sacred marvel dating back to the 7th century, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Immerse yourself in the intricate carvings and towering gopuram. Next, venture to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Vithala Temple Complex, renowned for its stone chariot and musical pillars. After a delightful lunch, discover the tales within the Hazara Rama Temple's carvings and explore the Royal Enclosure, including the Lotus Mahal and Elephant Stables. Stroll through Hampi Bazaar before delving into the Riverside Ruins along the Tungabhadra River at 4:00 pm. Conclude your day atop Matanga Hill, enjoying a panoramic sunset view at 5:00 pm. The tour culminates at 6:00 pm as you return to your hotel, enriched with the majesty of the Vijayanagara Empire.

4.7(3)
6h
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1 day private tour of Hampi world heritage site in car with professional guide
From $125
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Hampi in 1 day takes you back to the 16th century when it was a thriving global city. A professional guide will bring alive this world heritage site and often considered the world’s largest open air museum. Some of the highlights include the magnificent Vittala temple and stone chariot, King’s Balance, Virupaksha temple, monolithic statues, Queen’s bath. Royal enclosure and Elephant stables.

4.8(33)
9h
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2 Days Hampi Heritage Tour with a local professionnal Guide
From $79.44
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi with a local guide as we explore highlights such as Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple, the Stone Chariot, Hemakuta Hill, the Royal Enclosure, and the Tungabhadra riverside. I help you understand the ruins, rocks, and temples you see through clear historical and architectural explanations, enriched with local myths, anecdotes, and a touch of humor. Tours are available in English, Kannada, Telugu, Hindi, and French, making the experience accessible and engaging for all. My aim is to make history come alive and ensure everyone leaves Hampi with stars in their eyes and a smile in their heart. For those who want more, we can explore hidden gems around Hampi—sunrise and sunset viewpoints, waterfalls, village walks, boat rides, yoga, picnics, and nature experiences. This tour is perfect for culture lovers, first-time visitors, families, solo travelers, and curious explorers, with flexible timings and itineraries tailored to your interests.

48h
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Heritage & Cultural Walk of Hampi (2 Hours Guided Walking Tour)
From $36.3
Free Cancellation

Explore Hampi on this amazing walking tour with our fun & entertaining storytellers, Hampi that predates the Vijayanagara Empire; it is mentioned in the Ramayana & the Puranas of Hinduism as Pampa Devi Tirtha Kshetra. Located on the banks of the mighty Tungabhadra river, Once the powerhouse of an ancient kingdom & an auspicious temple town. Now as well it continues as a religious centre, with Virupaksha Temple, an active Adi Shankara-linked monastery & various monuments belonging to the old city. We will cover some of the city highlights along with hidden places and forgotten nooks of the old city during the walk. 1. Explore Hampi beyond the typical tourist spots & enjoy the stories & tales about the city from your guide 2. See the city through the eyes of a local and discover the numerous mesmerizing places Hampi has to offer. 3. Capture the vibrant atmosphere of this colorful city on this memorable walking tour with an infotainment-style ensuring that you will not be bored.

2h
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Private Custom Tour: Hampi & Hospet Sightseeing with Guide
From $91.07
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Hampi and Hospet are small cities, which are of great importance and has historical and cultural significance. Hampi is an ancient village in the south Indian state of Karnataka. It’s dotted with numerous ruined temple complexes from the Vijayanagara Empire. After exploring Hapmi, travel to Hospet which is approximately half hour drive. You can visit the Tungabhadra Dam which is a multipurpose dams as it helps in generation of electricity, irrigation of land, prevention and control of floods etc. It has become a picnic or tourist spot over the years.

5.0(2)
8h
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Full Day Private Tour of Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal from Hampi
From $155
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Our destination will be the legendary cave temples built by the Chalukyas at Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal. Dating back to the 6th century, these are considered one of the best remnants of temple art in India. The Chalukyas patronized development of diverse cultural forms especially cave art and temple architecture. The architects developed 16 types of free-standing temples and 4 types of rock-cut shrines. The monuments of Badami, Aihole and Pattadakal transformed the Malaprabha river valley into a cradle of Temple Architecture. This tour is organized by Five Senses Tours, a private limited company recognized by the Ministry of Tourism and a member of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). The tour has been designed to support local livelihoods by way of employment of local guides, and supporting local businesses in line with the mission of the company to ensure travel dollars stay where they are spent.

5.0(9)
11h 30m
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World Heritage Hampi & Chitradurga in 2 days from Bangalore+Lunch
From $215.62
Free Cancellation

This two-day fully-loaded tour is planned from Bangalore to Hampi & back via Chitradurga Fort. Hampi is a compelling tourist destination that showcases extraordinary architecture of medieval India. Its landscape filled with rice fields, rivers, hills, boulders, temples, forts, watch towers, aquaducts, gateways, huge monoliths & other hundreds of ancient ruins spread over 26 sq km, is unparalleled in its composition. Its a World Heritage site maintained by UNESCO. Hampi, earlier known as Vijayanagara, was among the five richest capitals of the world in the 16th CE. All the highlights of Hampi—Vittala Temple, Virupaksha, Lakshmi Narasimha, Zenana, Mahanavami Dibba, Hazara Rama, Sasivekalu Ganesha, Hemakuta Hill, Queen’s Bath, etc. shall be covered. We shall also cover the extraordinary Chitradurga Fort too. If Hampi is on your bucket list, go for this tour! P.S (1)Plenty of walking on rocky terrain under Sun. (2)The order of visits & all schedules are as per the discretion of the guide.

4.8(4)
48h
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Highlights of Hampi (Guided Halfday Sightseeing Tour by Car from Hosapete)
From $75.66
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover all the beautiful and famous sites of Hampi and taste local delicacies on this fantastic 4-hour experience with a personal guide in an air-conditioned car. Highlights: Discover the marvelous buildings, colorful markets and ruins of Vijayanagar Empire pilled across the city. We have designed this beautiful garland of all the places in our Trails of Hampi tour, an unmatched heritage experience with awesome stories to understand a city's existence, culture and local trivia. 1. Visit scenic and beautiful hilltop monuments, ruins of temple, markets and listen to stories of the city's history, culture and life. 2. Explore the famous Virupaksha Temple, Vijaya Vittala Temple, Lotus Mahal, Hampi Bazaar, Queen's Bath, Matanga Hill, Riverside Ruins and many other tourists places. 3. Complete the tour with a big smile on your face and beautiful memories to cherish in your photos.

4h
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Goa to Hampi Extension Tour
From $433
👤Private Tour

Embark on a captivating extension from Goa to Hampi, unveiling the historical treasures along the way. Begin your journey with a visit to the ruined temples at Gadag and Lakkundi, including the Trikuteshwara Temple in Gadag and various temples in Lakkundi. The drive to Hampi takes you through a picturesque route, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Karnataka. Upon reaching Hampi, immerse yourself in a city tour, exploring the Royal Enclosures, Hazara Rama Temple, King's Balance, Mahanavami Dibba, Statue of Ugra Narasimha Temple, and the Virupaksha Temple. Discover the marvels of Vithala Temple Complex and Lotus Mahal before ending the day with a visit to the enchanting Vithala Temple. The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Goa, leaving you with memories of architectural wonders and cultural richness.

5.0(2)
72h
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Badami Trails (Guided Day Trip to Badami Cave Temples from Hampi)
From $138.03
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover all the beautiful and famous sites of Badami and taste local delicacies on this fantastic 8-hour experience with a personal guide in an air-conditioned car. Highlights: Discover the marvelous buildings, temples and ruins of Chalukya Empire pilled across the city. We have designed this beautiful garland of all the places in our Trails of Badami tour, an unmatched heritage experience with awesome stories to understand a city's existence, culture and local trivia. 1. Visit scenic and beautiful hilltop monuments, ruins of temple, markets and listen to stories of the city's history, culture and life. 2. Explore the famous Badami Cave Temples, Bhutanatha group of temples, Agasthya Lake, remains of a 6th-century Badami fort complex, Shri Banashankari Shakti Peetham and many other tourists places. 3. Complete the tour with a big smile on your face and beautiful memories to cherish in your photos.

3.7(3)
8h
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Hampi in a day! A day trip to World heritage site from Bangalore!
From $192.92
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This full day excursion is planned from Bangalore to Hampi and back in about 17 hours. A licensed guide shall showcase Hampi to you in a most professional manner. Hampi is a compelling tourist destination, a UNESCO World Heritage site, that showcases extraordinary architecture & engineering of medieval India. Its landscape, filled with sugarcane fields, rice fields, rivers, hills, boulders, temples, forts, watch towers, aqua ducts, gateways, huge monoliths, and other hundreds of ancient ruins spread over 26 sq km, is unparalleled in its composition. Hampi, earlier known as Vijayanagara, was among the five richest capitals of the world in the 16th CE. All the highlights of Hampi—Vittala Temple, Virupaksha, Lakshmi Narasimha, Badavi Linga, Zenana, Mahanavami Dibba, Hazara Ramaswami, Sasivekalu Ganesha, Hemakuta Hill, Queen’s Bath, etc.will be covered in about 6 hours of sightseeing. If you have only one day in Bangalore and if Hampi is on your bucket list, this is your tour!

5.0(2)
16h
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Hampi Magnificent Ruins From Goa
From $389
👤Private Tour

Hampi was the world's second largest medieval-era city after Beijing by the year of 1500 CE, and probably India's richest. Hampi is dotted by ruins of the empire which once was flourishing, temples and the mahals (palaces). Hampi lies on the banks of the Tungabhadra river and has good connectivity from Goa, Secundrabad, and Bangalor Hampi is located in the east-central part of the South Indian state of Karnataka. It was the centre of the Vijayanagara empire in the 14th century.

4.8(5)
48h
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Chitradurga Trails (Guided Day Trip to Chitradurga Fort from Hampi)
From $136.17
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover all the beautiful and famous sites of Badami and taste local delicacies on this fantastic 8-hour experience with a personal guide in an air-conditioned car. Highlights: Discover the marvelous buildings, temples and ruins of Chalukya Empire pilled across the city. We have designed this beautiful garland of all the places in our Trails of Badami tour, an unmatched heritage experience with awesome stories to understand a city's existence, culture and local trivia. 1. Visit scenic and beautiful hilltop monuments, ruins of temple, markets and listen to stories of the city's history, culture and life. 2. Explore the famous Badami Cave Temples, Bhutanatha group of temples, Agasthya Lake, remains of a 6th-century Badami fort complex, Shri Banashankari Shakti Peetham and many other tourists places. 3. Complete the tour with a big smile on your face and beautiful memories to cherish in your photos.

8h
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4 days tour from Bangalore to Hampi, Badami, Aihole & Pattadakal
From $656
👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Bewitching Ruins Trail is a 4 day guided experiential tour to Hampi, Badami, Pattadakal & Aihole. Key highlights include exploring the ruins of Vijayanagar empire at Hampi, magnificent temples of Hampi, remarkable sculptures,  village experience & cave paintings at Anegundi, riding a coracle on the Tungabhadra river and exploring the caves temples of Badami, Aihole & Pattadakal.

4.9(22)
96h
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Day Excursion To Hampi From Hospet
From $169
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Hampi was a prosperous town of the Vijayanagar Kingdom that flourished in South India from the 14th to the 17th century A.D. It is said that diamonds and precious stones were once sold on the streets of Hampi. Situated on the banks of the River Tungabhadra, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site today and is famous for its ancient temples, palaces, and the ruins of an entire city waiting to be explored. The undulating rocky terrain of Hampi is dotted with the remains of the ancient city interspersed with thousands of giant boulders that seem to defy gravity. Spend a day exploring this open air museum. Highlights • Musical columns of Virupaksha temple • Stone chariot of Vittala temple • Underground temple of Lord Shiva • Mustard Ganesh and Peanut Ganesh temples • The King’s balance

8h
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Ready to Explore Hampi?

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Why Choose Hampi Temple Tours in Hampi?

Uncover Hidden Stories

Guides share local legends and historical context not found in guidebooks, enriching your understanding of the ruins.

Efficient Exploration

Maximize your time by visiting the most important sites with a structured itinerary, avoiding the need for extensive personal planning.

Photographic Opportunities

Learn about the best angles and times for photography at iconic Hampi landmarks from knowledgeable guides.

Architectural Appreciation

Gain a deeper understanding of the Dravidian architectural styles and intricate carvings that define Hampi's temples.

Local Insights

Benefit from the on-the-ground knowledge of local guides who can navigate you through the vast site and its nuances.

Value for Money

Compare prices and inclusions from various operators to find a tour that fits your budget and interests.

Types of Hampi Temple Tours in Hampi

Full-Day Hampi Heritage Walks

These comprehensive tours cover the major temple complexes and ruins within the Hampi Bazaar area and beyond. Expect to cover significant ground on foot, often with a break for lunch.

Visit Virupaksha Temple, Vittala TempleExplore Royal EnclosuresIncludes local guideTypically 6-8 hoursFocus on history and architecture

Half-Day Hampi Temple Exploration

Perfect for those with limited time, these tours focus on the most iconic temples and structures, offering a good overview of Hampi's heritage.

Highlights key temples like Virupaksha and VittalaShorter duration (3-4 hours)Ideal for arrival or departure daysOften includes transport optionsFocus on major landmarks

Hampi Village and Riverside Tours

These tours often combine temple visits with exploration of the Hampi Bazaar area, the Tungabhadra River banks, and sometimes even cross the river to explore Anegundi and its surroundings.

Includes Hampi Bazaar and market streetMay involve a coracle boat rideVisits rural areas around HampiOffers cultural insightsCombination of history and local life

Hampi Photography Tours

Designed for photography enthusiasts, these tours focus on capturing the best light and angles of Hampi's ruins, often scheduled for sunrise or sunset.

Focus on sunrise/sunset lightGuides assist with best viewpointsCovers iconic photographic spotsSmaller group sizesLess emphasis on historical detail, more on visuals

What to Expect on Hampi Temple Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 3-4 hours for half-day excursions to 6-8 hours for full-day experiences. Some may be flexible depending on group interest.

Weather

Hampi experiences hot and dry weather for most of the year. Tours are usually conducted during cooler morning and afternoon hours, but expect high temperatures.

Group Size

Group sizes vary, from small private tours with a few people to larger groups of 10-20. Some tours may be customizable for private groups.

What's Included

Generally includes a knowledgeable local guide. Some tours may include entrance fees to specific monuments, bottled water, or transportation (e.g., auto-rickshaw) within Hampi. Always check the specific tour details.

Meeting Point

Most tours begin at a central location, often near the Virupaksha Temple or the main Hampi Bazaar. Specific meeting points will be provided upon booking.

Additional Costs

Expect to pay for entrance fees to certain ticketed monuments (if not included), meals, personal expenses, and tips for the guide and driver. Photography charges may apply at some sites.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Wear comfortable walking shoes; you'll be covering a lot of ground on uneven terrain.

2

Carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. The Hampi sun can be intense, especially during midday.

3

Start your tour early in the morning to avoid the peak heat and crowds.

4

Engage with your guide. Ask questions about the history, culture, and daily life in the region.

5

Respect local customs, especially when visiting active temples like Virupaksha. Dress modestly.

6

Consider visiting the less crowded sites beyond the main cluster for a more intimate experience.

7

If you're interested in photography, bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast landscapes and intricate details.

8

Hampi can be explored by bicycle or auto-rickshaw; some tours integrate these transport options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is the best time of year to visit Hampi for temple tours?

A: The cooler months, from October to March, offer the most comfortable weather for exploring Hampi's vast ruins. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, making walking tours more enjoyable.

Q:Do Hampi temple tours include entrance fees?

A: It varies by tour. Some comprehensive tours may include entrance fees to all major sites, while others might only cover the guide service. Always review the 'What's Included' section for each specific tour.

Q:How much walking is involved in a typical Hampi temple tour?

A: A significant amount of walking is expected, as the ruins are spread across a large area. Half-day tours cover key sites, while full-day tours involve more extensive exploration on foot. Comfortable footwear is essential.

Q:Can I book a private Hampi temple tour?

A: Yes, many operators offer private tours. These are ideal if you prefer a more personalized experience, want to set your own pace, or have specific interests you wish to focus on.

Q:What should I wear on a Hampi temple tour?

A: Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the warm climate. It's also advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting active temples, covering shoulders and knees.

Q:Are there tours that include transportation within Hampi?

A: Many tours integrate transportation such as auto-rickshaws or jeeps to cover longer distances between sites. Some might also include a coracle boat ride across the Tungabhadra River. Check the tour details for specifics.

Q:What if the weather is bad during my scheduled tour?

A: Most tour operators have cancellation or rescheduling policies in place for severe weather. It's best to check the specific terms and conditions when booking, or contact the operator directly if you have concerns.

Q:Are these tours suitable for families with children?

A: Many tours are suitable for families, but consider the duration and amount of walking. Shorter, half-day tours or private tours where you can adjust the pace might be best for younger children. Always check age recommendations.

Don't Miss the Perfect Hampi Experience

Book your hampi temple tours today - 18+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Hampi?

Explore ancient ruins and witness the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire's capital.

Discover the surreal boulder-strewn landscape that makes Hampi truly unique.

Experience authentic South Indian culture and warm hospitality in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of numerous temples and sacred sites.

Enjoy a laid-back vibe, perfect for slow travel and mindful exploration.

Uncover the magic of Hampi, a city frozen in time with breathtaking vistas.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Hampi experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasons. Summers are intensely hot, while the monsoon brings humidity and rain. Winters are pleasant and mild, making it the most comfortable time to explore.

Best Months

The best months to visit Hampi are from October to February, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities without the intense heat.

Peak Season

The peak season typically runs from November to February, coinciding with the most favorable weather. Expect larger crowds and slightly higher accommodation prices during this time.

Off Season

The off-season months are generally from March to May (summer) and June to September (monsoon). While summers are very hot, the monsoon season offers lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, potentially at lower prices.

Plan Your Hampi Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Hampi is an adventure in itself. Auto-rickshaws are readily available for longer distances between sites, offering a convenient way to cover ground. For a more immersive experience, renting a bicycle or scooter allows you to explore at your own pace, stopping wherever a unique vista or ruin catches your eye. Coracle boat rides across the Tungabhadra River offer a charming perspective and connect different parts of Hampi. Walking is also a great option for exploring clusters of ruins within the main Hampi Bazaar area. Expect to haggle prices for auto-rickshaws, especially during peak season.

Car Rental Deals in Hampi

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Where to Stay

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Best Hotel Deals in Hampi

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