Highlights of Hampi

	Virupaksha Temple: The Virupaksha temple is the sacred and the only living monument of Hampi. This temple is situated on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra, immediately to the north of the Hemakuta hill. The temple, originally a small shrine, was expanded into a vast complex of present dimensions in the first half of 16th Century. The entire temple complex is within a long rectangular enclosure divided into two large courts with imposing towered (gopura) gateways. The sanctum houses Shiva Linga known as Virupaksha - the tutelary deity of the Vijayanagara kings. However the most outstanding is the ceiling paintings of Vijayanagara in the Ranga mantapa.
	Vittala Temple: The Vijaya Vittala Temple is Hampi's crowning glory with a magnificent stone chariot standing in the temple courtyard. The impressive Rang Mantapa exquisitely carved with '56 musical pillars' that resound musical chimes when struck within the complex is of ingenious architectural conception. The intricate carvings of ornate architectural details are superb and just few meters away from the Temple complex there exists the 'King's Balance' all in stone. Here the Kings' were weighed against gold, coins or grain which was thereafter distributed amongst the poor and this particular religious perform was known 'Tula Bhaara' observed by the people of all classes and status.
	Achyutaraya Temple: A short climb over the foot of Matanga hillock, behind the Monolithic bull, using the medieval path way one can reach the famous Achyularayapete (bazaar of Achyutaraya temple) also known as 'Soole Bazaar' and the magnificent Acyutaraya (Thiruvengalanatha) temple built by Hiriya Tirumalaraya Wodeya a Maha mandaleswara serving under Achyuta Deva raya in 1534 AD. The temple facing north within double enclosure wall is known for its large dimensions and spacious courtyard fronted by a wide and long bazaar.