This is the Best Hampi Itinerary for 2 Days (2025)

If you’re backpacking in India, the ancient city of Hampi should be high on your list. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Karnataka is one of India’s most iconic sites. It’s treasure trove of temples, statues and ruins tells the story of the Vijayanagara Empire. I spent two days visiting this impressive place, as part of my solo trip in Goa. Here’s the ultimate Hampi itinerary for 2 days.

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These are the best places to stay in Hampi

One of the most popular homestays in Hampi is Gopi Guest House, which has a rooftop restaurant overlooking the temples and the river. Alternatively, the excellent Ranjana Guesthouse has free WiFi and private parking. Mango Tree Homestay is another fabulous option, offering a homely and tranquil environment, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Hampi.

If you’re looking for more luxury, check out the wonderful Evolve Back Hampi. With a spa centre and hot tub, this resort’s design is inspired by the architectural splendour of the Vijayanagara Empire. It’s located 2.5 miles from the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Check out all the best accommodation options in Hampi here or explore the map below.

How to get around Hampi

On my two-day Hampi itinerary I tested out different ways to get around.

My first was a tour by rickshaw, then the next day I hired a bicycle to explore the city, which was great fun. Both options allow you to see all the sites in one day.

The photo below is the first view you get of Hampi from across the river where many of the guest houses are. A couple of guys with a boat carry people, as well as scooters and bikes, across the river so you can see the sites.

In summary:

• Boats: To cross the river, use the local ferry service, which is quick and affordable.

• Rickshaw Tours: A convenient way to visit all the major sites, with knowledgeable drivers who can guide you through the city’s history.

• Bicycle Rentals: Ideal for independent travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace.

Recommended Hampi itinerary for 2 days

With two days in Hampi, you can explore its rich history, marvel at its ancient architecture and soak in the serene landscapes. However, with so much to see and do, planning your time in Hampi is essential to make the most of your visit.

This 2-day Hampi itinerary is designed to help you explore the city’s highlights, including its magnificent temples and intriguing ruins among the impressive natural landscape.

Whether you’re drawn to history, architecture, or simply the serene beauty of the area, this itinerary covers all the must-visit spots and ensures you experience the magic of Hampi in 2 days.

From the iconic Virupaksha Temple to the peaceful views atop Anjanadri Hill, this guide will take you through the best that Hampi has to offer.

Let’s dive in!

Travelling from Bangalore? Check out this private 2-day guided tour of Hampi from Bangalore.

Day 1: Discover Hampi’s historical wonders

Morning: Virupaksha Temple

Begin your Hampi adventure at Virupaksha Temple, the city’s spiritual heart.

This ancient landmark is one of the first things you’ll see. It’s one of the most visible places to visit in Hampi as it’s a towering 50 metres tall.

Built in the 7th century during the Vijayanagara Empire, it towers over the river bank and is the city’s primary centre of pilgrimage for Hindus.

From here you’ll be able to find plenty of people offering rikshaw tours of Hampi’s ancient sites. Be sure to negotiate to get the best price.

Book a two-hour tour of all the sights in Hampi here.

Mid-Morning: Kadelakalu Ganesha

A short rickshaw ride brings you to Kadelakalu Ganesha.

It is an ornate structure housing an enormous statue of the multi-limbed, elephant-headed Lord Ganesha.

This Hindu god is revered as the remover of obstacles. He is also known as the patron of arts and sciences, the god of intellect and wisdom, and the Lord of new beginnings.

Late Morning: Lakshmi-Narasimha

Visit Lakshmi-Narasimha, a striking sculpture carved in 1528 from a single boulder of granite.

Standing at 6.7 metres tall, it is one of Hampi’s most important monuments.

According to Hindu mythology, Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, has the face of a lion and the body of a human.

Originally, a small figure of Goddess Lakshmi sat in Narasimha’s lap, but it was removed during vandalism in a 1565 raid that led to the fall of the Vijayanagara Empire.

My rickshaw driver explained the history of how this monument survived the empire’s fall, which really brought it to life for me.

Short lunch break

Pro tip: There aren’t any cafés in the area, so bring a sandwich or snack, as well as plenty of water, to keep you sustained during your tour.

Quick stop at the Sister Stones

The Sister Stones, also known as Akka Thangi Gudda, are located near the Royal Enclosure area in Hampi.

Legend has it, they were two women cast into stone when they badmouthed Hampi. For the record, I really liked the place.

Afternoon: The Royal Enclosure

The Royal Enclosure in Hampi is a sprawling complex that was once the heart of the Vijayanagara Empire. This grand area served as the royal administrative and ceremonial hub. Its palaces and pavilions highlight the empire’s architectural brilliance and historical significance.

Walking through the Royal Enclosure feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the opulent lives of Hampi’s rulers and the vibrant culture of their kingdom. With its intricate structures, expansive courtyards and fascinating ruins, this area is a must-visit for anyone exploring Hampi’s rich heritage.

Inside the Royal Enclosure

• Mahanavami Dibba: A grand stone platform used for royal ceremonies.
• The Lotus Mahal: A graceful pink-hued palace with intricate Indo-Islamic architecture.
• Elephant Stables: Marvel at this massive structure that once housed the royal elephants.

Mahanavami Dibba

I found this cute statue at the Mahanavami Dibba, or Great Platform, a beautiful stone platform in the Royal Enclosure of Hampi.

Built during the Vijayanagara Empire, it served as a stage for royal ceremonies and festivals, including the Navaratri celebrations.

Its sides are adorned with intricate carvings depicting hunting scenes, processions and court life, while at the top you have panoramic views of the surrounding ruins.

The Lotus Mahal

The pretty pink-hued Lotus Mahal is another one of the essential places to visit in Hampi. 

It is a beautifully designed palace within the Zenana Enclosure, a segregated area that was used by the royal women of the Vijayanagara Dynasty. It is one of the few structures that survived the 1565 attacks.

There is a small charge for foreign visitors but it’s well worth it.

The Elephant Stables

Nearby, just outside the same enclosure, are the Elephant stables, which used to house the royal elephants of the Vijayanagara Empire.

It’s incredible to imagine the elephants strolling in and out of this huge structure.

Like the Lotus Mahal, there is a small fee to access this area.

Late afternoon: Vitthala Temple and the Stone Chariot

End your day at the stunning Vitthala Temple, renowned for its intricate carvings and musical pillars. Don’t miss the Stone Chariot, an exquisite granite structure and one of India’s most famous architectural marvels.

Vitthala Temple

The Vitthala temple, in the north east of the city, is definitely one of the must-see places to visit in Hampi. The intricacy of its architecture and design is unparalleled.

The temple has a musical secret. If you strike the temple’s pillars with your fingers, they make a twinkly melodic sound, each with a different note. The large temple complex contains structures including the shrine of the Goddess (Devi shrine) and the famous Stone Chariot.

The Stone Chariot

The stone chariot here at the Vitthala temple is another shrine and one of three famous stone chariots in India. Originally, the wheels could turn.

Day 2: Explore Hampi’s scenic beauty and sunset bliss

Day two of your Hampi itinerary is an ideal time to revisit any of the ancient sites you may have missed or you can choose a different way to explore them.

I decided to hire a bike from my guest house and had a fantastic day cycling around the area.

Your Hampi day 2 itinerary will focus on the area’s natural beauty, enjoying active exploration balanced with moments of rest. It will end with a gorgeous sunset view that will leave you with a lasting memories.

Let’s explore what day 2 has in store.

Morning: Cycle through the ruins

Kick off your second day with a refreshing cycle ride through Hampi’s scenic landscapes. You’ll pedal past green rice paddies, boulder-strewn trails and traditional villages.

This ride will take you to lesser-explored areas, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the countryside. At one point, I had to stop because a herd of cows was blocking the road, which was sweet.

Along the way, you’ll discover smaller ruins and hidden gems, perfect for quiet reflection and stunning photographs.

Afternoon: Relax and unwind

Take a well-deserved break in one of Hampi’s charming cafes near the Virupaksha Temple or Hampi Bazaar area. Use this time to recharge, enjoy some local dishes and soak in the ambiance of the town.

Evening: Sunset at Anjanadri Hill Temple

On your second evening in Hampi, make sure you visit the Anjanadri Hill Temple, otherwise known as the monkey temple.

This hilltop temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a revered deity in Hindu mythology, who is depicted as a powerful monkey god.

Pro Tip: Begin your climb early to enjoy the peaceful surroundings before sunset and to secure a good viewing spot.

Don’t be tempted to feed the monkeys in this temple. Keep your electronics hidden because, despite their cute faces, they won’t be afraid to jump on you if they see something they want!

After climbing the 575 steps to the top of the hill, you can enjoy incredible views over the area. It’s a great place to go at sunset in Hampi, as you can see the boulders, fields and Tungabhadra River below.

The landscape is bathed in the beautiful evening light, for the perfect ending to your 2 day Hampi itinerary.

Where to eat in Hampi

From laid-back cafes to authentic local eateries, Hampi’s culinary scene has something for everyone.

Hampi offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets, from local South Indian flavors to international cuisine. These restaurants not only provide delicious meals but also reflect the area’s unique charm and hospitality.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, here are some of the best places to eat in Hampi:

1. Gopi Guesthouse Rooftop Restaurant

Located in the centre of Hampi, close to the Virupaksha Temple, this is a rooftop spot with panoramic views of the temples and the Tungabhadra River. This guesthouse restaurant is a traveller favorite thanks to its affordable meals with a view. Try its traditional South Indian dishes like dosa and idli.

2. Funky Monkey Restaurant

Another great venue in the centre of Hampi is Funky Monkey. Known for its laid-back vibe and wide-ranging menu, it’s a great spot to meet fellow travellers. Try their burgers, pancakes and special chai.

3. Mango Tree Restaurant

This well-loved restaurant is a 10-15 minute drive from the centre of Hampi, in Kamalapur. One of Hampi’s most popular restaurants, it’s a peaceful venue set in a gorgeous garden, perfect for unwinding after exploring the ruins. Check out their South Indian thali, banana pancakes or their refreshing lassis.

4. Suresh Restaurant

On the New Hampi Road, about 10-15 minutes’ drive from the centre of Hampi, this budget-friendly eatery serves a mix of Indian and Italian dishes. Taste their masala dosa, pizza or homemade pasta.

Pro Tip: Many restaurants in Hampi cater to both vegetarians and vegans. Be sure to ask for meal modifications if needed—most places are happy to accommodate dietary preferences.

Why visit Hampi?

I had never heard of Hampi before I visited Goa, but it has an impressive history and so much to see. I loved my trip here.

Known as the City of Victory, from the 14th century, Hampi was the capital of the medieval Vijayanagara Hindu empire. For over 200 years, this empire ruled over a large part of Southern India.

The landscape’s craggy hills, wide Tungabhandra river and massive boulders provided natural defences. Inside the city walls, a series of kings built ostentatious statues and temples to showcase their wealth and power.

In 1565, a combined might of armies finally defeated the city. They robbed and pillaged it, leaving it desolate. What remains is a host of ruins, displaying some of the finest examples of medieval Indian architecture.

It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Over 700,000 people visit Hampi every year to see its magnificent and unique statues and buildings.

How to Get to Hampi

Hampi is located in the state of Karnataka, India, however it’s slightly off the beaten path. I arrived via an overnight bus from Arambol in Goa, via the Mapusa bus stand. Here’s how to reach Hampi:

By air

The best way to get Hampi by air to is to catch a flight to Hubli. However, Hubli airport is around 160 km (100 miles) away. A direct taxi from Hubli to Hampi costs approximately ₹3,000–₹4,000 ($36–$48) and takes around 3 hours.

It’s more convenient to catch a train or bus to Hampi.

By train

The nearest railway station to Hampi is in Hosapete (Hospet Junction), about 13 km (8 miles) from Hampi. Hospet is well-connected to cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad and parts of Goa, via overnight or day trains. Some popular trains include the Hampi Express from Bangalore.

From Hospet, take a rickshaw or a local bus to Hampi, which takes about 30 minutes.

By bus

Hampi is well-connected by buses from various cities:

• From Bangalore: Overnight sleeper buses and day buses are available. The journey takes about 7–9 hours.
• From Goa: Overnight buses from cities like Panaji and Mapusa take approximately 7–8 hours.
• From Hyderabad: Buses take 9–10 hours to reach Hampi.

Bus operators include KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation) and private companies like VRL and SRS.

By road

Driving to Hampi is a scenic option. The roads from Bangalore and Goa are generally good, with the journey taking 6–8 hours. Shared options can help reduce costs while still being convenient.

Pro tips

1. Book early: During peak seasons (October–March), buses and trains fill up quickly, so book your tickets in advance.
2. Best option for international travellers: Fly into Bangalore and take a train or overnight bus to Hampi for a seamless journey.
3. Local transport: Once in Hampi, rickshaws, bicycles, or scooters are the best ways to get around and explore.

Hampi’s slightly remote location is part of its charm and the journey to get there adds to the adventure.

Final thoughts on a Hampi itinerary for 2 days

Even though I only spent a couple of days in Hampi, it was definitely a highlight of my month in Goa.

Afterwards, I took the bus via the Hospet bus stand and the Margao Bus Terminal to Palolem beach, where I continued my adventure. I discovered plenty of fun things to do in Palolem.

Exploring the ancient temples, ruins and statues, whether with a rickshaw guide or by bicycle, is so inspiring. Your 2 day Hampi itinerary is sure to leave you with a lifetime of memories.

Now, if you are a solo traveller, read my top tips for backpacking in Goa and all the best places to go.