By Amanpreet Singh
Hey, Cloggers! We traded the green hills for a landscape that looks like it was dropped from a sci-fi movie set. Our destination: Hampi, the magnificent ruined capital of the Vijayanagara Empire in Karnataka. This UNESCO site is defined by colossal, precariously balanced boulders, ancient temples, and a surreal, spiritual atmosphere. This was our most archaeological and visually epic adventure, filled with lovely sunrises and pure fun with friends: Rahul, Simran, Vikram, and myself.
Chapter 1: Biking Through the Ruins (The Epic Start)
Hampi is massive, and the best way to explore its sprawling ruins is by bicycle or scooter. Our Epic start was renting bikes and setting off early to cover the most famous spots, following the banks of the Tungabhadra River.
The sheer scale of the ruins—the royal enclosure, the Queen’s Bath, and the massive stone structures—is humbling. We spent the morning navigating the paths between rice paddies and banana groves, constantly stopping to clamber up giant granite boulders for better views.
The fun with friends involved a constant, friendly race to the top of the nearest boulder hill and trying to recreate historical poses near the ruins. We felt like explorers in a forgotten civilization, charting our own course through history. It was physical, exhilarating, and completely immersive.
Chapter 2: The Sunrise and the Temple
The most iconic temple in Hampi is the magnificent Virupaksha Temple, which remains an active place of worship. We visited this towering structure, marveling at its massive gopuram (gateway) and the beautiful, continuous energy of devotion inside.
However, the most Beautiful Moment was the sunrise, viewed from Matanga Hill. Waking up before dawn and scrambling up the rocky path was totally worth it. From the summit, we watched the sun slowly illuminate the entire ruined city—the massive, silhouetted temples, the river snaking through the plains, and the endless sea of golden boulders.
The Lovely feeling of peace as the first rays of light hit the horizon was profound. It felt like we were watching the lost city wake up after centuries of sleep.
Chapter 3: Coracles, Cafes, and Culture
To truly experience the Hampi vibe, you have to cross the Tungabhadra River in a coracle—the small, round, woven basket boats. This wobbly, slightly terrifying ride to the other side (called Anegundi) was pure fun with friends, especially when the boatman spun the boat!
The “other side” of Hampi offers a different, more laid-back traveler culture with charming cafes nestled amongst the banana groves. We spent our last evening enjoying a relaxed dinner under the stars, trading stories of our near-tumbles off the boulders and our favorite historical carvings. Hampi is a place that challenges your sense of scale, rewards your effort with breathtaking views, and leaves you truly connected to a magnificent, ancient past.
What’s the most surreal landscape you’ve ever explored? Tell me your story below!
Stay ancient, Amanpreet Singh clogtheblog.com
