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Exploring Hampi: The Backpacker's Paradise

A World Heritage Site of UNESCO, Hampi located on the banks of the Tungabhadra river, the Indian state of Karnataka is the ruins of the ancient city of Hampi. Once the world's second-most populous city, these ruins are a testimony to the then glory of the Vijayanagar empire. With huge stone statues, exquisite carvings, and ancient temples, Hampi is a magical world that is being discovered. The city was ruled by four dynasties - Sangma, Saluva, Tulu, and Aravidu dynasties. The kings of these dynasties made more than 500 monuments. Hampi was developed as a business center of spices, cotton, horses, and gemstones. Virupaksha temple is the most prominent ruin in Hampi. It is believed that Lord Shiva was married to Parvati in this temple. The day of Hampi ended when a joint army of Muslim states attacked the city in 1565 and after being robbed for six months, it was handed over to the fire. The New York Times had come with a list of just 52 places to go around the world in 2019. And, there is only one Indian city that not only makes a place in this list but also gets the second position.