Hampi is located beside the Tungabhadra River at the heart of Karnataka and is about 50 kms from Bellary and 13 km from Hospet. The capital of famous Hindu kingdom of Vijaynagar Empire during 14th century to middle of 16th century, Hampi is regarded as one of the important historical cities of India. Famous as the magnificent city of ruins, probably this is the only ruined city of any significance to be seen in India. Declared as a World Heritage Center, Hampi is the most beautiful and wonderful of all the ruins in India.

Hampi is famous for its ruins belonging to the erstwhile medieval Hindu kingdom of Vijaynagar and it is declared a World Heritage site. The temples of Hampi, its monolithic sculptures and monuments, attract the traveler because of their excellent workmanship. The Hindu style of architecture found at Hampi reflects the splendor of the Vijaynagar Empire. The rugged landscape adds to the historic ambience of this site.

The main attraction in these ruins is the famous Virupaksha temple dedicated to Shiva also known as Virupaksha or Pampapathi. The columns are carved with figures of animals. This temple is functional even today and the street leading to the temple is used to organize chariot ceremonies held every year in February.

This image of Lakshmi-Narasimha, popularly called Ugranarasimha, meaning Narasimha of terrifying countenance, is hewn out of a rock in-situ. According to an inscription found here, it was executed in 1528 A.D. during the rule of Krishnadevaraya. Originally, the icon bore a smaller image of Lakshmi sitting on his lap.

Krishnadevaraya built this temple in 1513 A.D. to commemorate his victory over Prataparudra Gajapati, the ruler of Orissa. During the battle he seized an image of child Krishna and brought it to Vijayanagara as war trophy. He then built this temple to consecrate the image.

Located in the royal center of the town. Hazara Rama Temple, ornate with intricate carvings depicts scenes from the Ramayana. The walls of the temple are carved both on the exterior and the interior with stories from the epics, dancers and troops. On the walls of the sanctum are two rare depictions of Vishnu as the Buddha. Other important tourist attractions are Tungabhadra Dam, Mahanavami Dibba or the royal seat, a platform used by the kings to view the Dassehra festivities. The Lotus Mahal, a graceful two-storey palace is a photographer's delight and is an attractive synthesis of Hindu and Islamic architecture.