Hampi Backpacking Trip – Explore India’s Largest Open Heritage Site
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway from Mumbai or Pune? Discover the timeless beauty of Hampi, one of India’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Known for its ancient ruins, boulder-strewn landscapes, and rich history, Hampi offers a unique blend of heritage exploration and adventure trekking.
With Trek India, you don’t just visit Hampi — you experience it. Spend your days exploring the grand remains of the Vijayanagara Empire, including temples, forts, and intricate stone structures, all set along the serene banks of the Tungabhadra River.
For adventure lovers, the experience gets even better — trek up scenic viewpoints like Matanga Hill (Matangaparvat) to witness breathtaking sunrise or sunset views over the entire city.
🌄 Sanapur Lake – Hidden Gem of Hampi
One of the most peaceful and scenic spots near Hampi, Sanapur Lake is a must-visit for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike.
- Short uphill walk to reach stunning viewpoints
- Crystal-clear waters surrounded by rocky landscapes
- Ideal for cliff jumping and relaxation
- Enjoy a traditional coracle ride across the lake
Whether you’re looking for adventure or a quiet escape, Sanapur Lake offers the perfect balance of both — making it a highlight of any Hampi backpacking trip.
🏛️ Vittala Temple – Architectural Marvel of Vijayanagara Empire
The Vittala Temple is one of the most famous landmarks in Hampi and a masterpiece of Vijayanagara architecture.
- Built during the reign of Krishnadevaraya (16th century)
- Known for its intricate carvings and iconic stone chariot
- Considered one of the finest examples of ancient Indian temple architecture
Though never fully completed, the temple stands as a symbol of artistic excellence and is a must-visit during your Hampi heritage tour.
🛕 Virupaksha Temple – Sacred & Historic Landmark
The Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the oldest functioning temples in India.
- Dates back to the 7th century AD
- Located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River
- Features beautifully carved walls depicting mythological stories
- Important pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees
This temple remains the spiritual heart of Hampi and a key attraction for both travelers and devotees.
🌸 Lotus Mahal – Fusion of Indo-Islamic Architecture
The elegant Lotus Mahal is one of Hampi’s most visually stunning structures.
- Unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles
- Designed with arches and symmetrical patterns resembling a lotus flower
- Two-story structure with open pavilions and balconies
It stands as a fine example of the architectural brilliance of the Vijayanagara era.
🚀 Why Choose Hampi Trip with Trek India?
- Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Perfect mix of history, culture, and adventure
- Trek to scenic viewpoints like Matanga Hill
- Experience Sanapur Lake activities & coracle rides
- Ideal for weekend trips, backpacking, and group travel
✨ The Experience
A Hampi trip with Trek India is more than just sightseeing — it’s about discovering ancient history, soaking in surreal landscapes, and creating unforgettable memories with like-minded travelers.
🌄 Things to Do in Hampi – Must-Visit Places & Experiences
Planning a Hampi trip? Here are the top things to do in Hampi that perfectly combine history, adventure, and scenic beauty — making it one of the best weekend getaways and backpacking destinations in India.
🌅 Watch Sunset from Anjaneya Hill
Experience one of the most magical sunsets in Hampi from Anjaneya Hill.
Witness the sun dipping behind massive boulders while enjoying panoramic views of the Virupaksha Temple, the flowing Tungabhadra River, and lush green paddy fields. A perfect spot for photography lovers and sunset chasers.
🏛️ Visit Vittala Temple & the Famous Stone Chariot
One of the most iconic places to visit in Hampi, the Vittala Temple is home to the legendary Stone Chariot — famously featured on the ₹50 note.
Stunning example of Vijayanagara architecture
Intricate carvings on granite structures
A must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts
🛍️ Explore Hampi Bazaar & Local Markets
Shopping in Hampi is a unique experience. Visit the vibrant Hampi flea market to explore:
Handmade souvenirs
Local handicrafts
Bohemian jewelry & clothing
Perfect for those looking to take a piece of Hampi back home.
💧 Relax at Pushkarini (Temple Tank)
Take a peaceful break at the ancient Pushkarini (temple tank) near the Krishna Temple.
Symmetrical stepwell architecture
Ideal for relaxation and photography
A serene spot amidst historical surroundings
🌄 Enjoy Views from Hemakuta Hill
For stunning panoramic views, head to Hemakuta Hill — one of the best viewpoints in Hampi.
Overlooks Virupaksha Temple
Ideal for sunrise and sunset views
Peaceful and less crowded
🐂 Visit the Monolithic Nandi
Don’t miss the massive monolithic Nandi statue, carved out of a single stone.
Important religious and cultural landmark
Popular among photographers and history lovers
🚀 Why Hampi is a Must-Visit Destination
UNESCO World Heritage Site
One of the best backpacking destinations in India
Perfect mix of history, culture, and adventure
Ideal for weekend trips from Mumbai & Pune
⚠️ Booking & Important Information
Secure your seat by paying a token amount of ₹2000
Remaining balance to be paid 7 days before the trip
Prices for Mumbai/Pune travel tickets may increase closer to the departure date, depending on availability
Additional charges (approx. ₹1500) may apply in case of fare hikes
What is included in the tour
What is included in the tour
- Round-trip transportation in non-AC sleeper or seater (tempo traveller) buses from Mumbai/Pune/Bangalore, as per your booking preference
- Transportation from Hospet to Hampi and back
- 2 days sightseeing tour covering key attractions
- Accommodation
- Entry charges to the monuments
- Bonfire (if available)
- 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches
- Coracle ride
- Cliff jumping charges
- Auto sightseeing charges for day 2
- Bike rental (with 1 litre of petrol)
- All internal transfers
- Fun games
- Trek India expertise
- Guide charges
What is NOT included in the tour
What is NOT included in the tour
- Anything not mentioned above
- Dinner
- Food during bus travel
- Any personal medical/emergency/evacuation charges etc
What makes this tour special
- Visit and explore numerous Ancient Heritages
- Coracle Boat Ride in the Tungabhadra River
- Hippies markets and sink into laid back culture
- Café hopping and explore Tibetan food joints
- Huge stone boulders over hillocks
- Sunset from Mantanga Hill
- Sunrise from Hemkunta Hills
- Local transport journey. Yayyy!!!
Gears
- A rucksack bag and a day pack
Clothes
- One cotton long sleeves and 2 short sleeve t-shirt
- At least 2 long pants (trek pants and cargo pants are favourable)
- 4 sets of undergarments
- 2 pair of socks
- A small towel
Footwear
- Above-the-ankle waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good grip
- Flip flops/sandals
Medication
- Glucose powder
- Medicines for headaches, diarrhoea, motion sickness
- Dettol
- Bandages
- Cotton
Personal Accessories
- Toothpaste, toothbrush
- Paper soap, or sanitizer
- Sunscreen minimum of spf40 , lip balm, cold creams
- Body spray
- LED torch light
RULES AND REGULATIONS:
- The bus timings may vary during departure and arrival in Hampi from Pune,Mumbai and Bangalore based on the traffic and road conditions
- Since this is a time bound trip we will try covering maximum of important ruins and temples in Hampi
- Kindly do not carry trolley bags or sling bags with you keep it simple with a single rucksack
- There will be no refund provided incase of any on time unavoidable emergency or calamity
- Bus tickets once done cannot be cancelled at any cost
- Drinking smoking in the bus and in the sacred temple areas is strictly prohibited
- Bhatakna reserves the rights to cancel the trip if the minimum batch size does not suffice.
- Trip Leaders will only accompany you if there are people more than the minimum batch size otherwise, the trip will be handled virtually
No Refund shall be made with respect to the initial booking amount for any cancellations. However,
- If cancellations are made 30 days before the start date of the trip, 50% of the total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- If cancellations are made within 0-30 days before the start date of the trip, 100% of the total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
- In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain activities may be canceled and in such cases, our service partner will try his best to provide an alternate feasible activity.
- For all the above choices, you can transfer your tickets to your friends. We would be more than happy to have them on board and you could save your hard-earned money.
