Virupaksha Temple is the 7th century Shiva temple in Hampi, Central Karnataka. Hampi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lord Virupaksha, also referred to as Pampapathi is the main deity in Virupaksha Temple. Virupaksha Temple complex also houses shrines of Bhuvaneshwari and Vidyaranya.
Architecture of the Viupaksha Temple
Virupaksha Temple complex is surrounded by three gopuras (towers). The main tower, on the east is an imposing structure, 9 stories, 50 meters tall, built in the fifteenth century. Eastern tower forms the main entrance to Virupaksha Temple. Eastern tower has extensive craftsmanship on each of its floors featuring hundreds of Hindu gods and goddesses. The inverted shadow of the main tower falls on a wall inside the temple. Your tour guide will help you see this spot.
How to reach Hampi
Hampi is 350 kms from Bengaluru and can be reached via road, rail or air. Vidyanagar airport is the closest airport (40 kms from Hampi) and has daily flights from Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Once in Hampi, Vijaya Vittala temple can be reached by hiring a taxi, renting a bike or bicycle. Electric carts are available at select attractions.
Hosapete is the nearest railway station (15 kms from Hampi). Several buses are available from Bengaluru to reach Hampi.
Places to stay near Hampi
Hampi and nearby Hosapete town have accommodation options suiting all budgets. KSTDC runs hotel premium Hotel Mayura Bhuvaneshwari in Hampi and budget hotel Mayura Vijayanagara near TB dam, Hosapete. Evolve Back Hampi and Hyatt Place are the most luxurious stays available at Hampi.