faq.subtitle Hampi
October to February. Pleasant weather (16-33°C) ideal for exploring ruins. Avoid March-May (extreme heat up to 40°C) and June-September (monsoon season).
Minimum 3 days for main highlights. The site covers 42 sq km with 1600+ monuments. For a complete experience including bouldering and Hippie Island, 5-7 days is ideal.
Yes, generally safe. But: avoid isolated hilltops after sunset, never swim in the river (dangerous currents), beware of monkeys (they snatch belongings). Stay in groups when watching sunrise/sunset from viewpoints.
Most monuments are free. Combined ticket for Vittala Temple + Lotus Mahal + Elephant Stables: ₹40 (Indians/SAARC), ₹600 (other foreigners). Children under 15 free. Valid for one day.
Hampi: Basic guesthouses, backpacker vibe, close to ruins, but no alcohol and limited options. Hospet: Better hotels, banks, restaurants, but 13 km from ruins. Hippie Island: Relaxed bohemian atmosphere, ferry crossing required.
Most nationalities need a visa. E-visa available for 160+ countries - apply online, approval in 3-5 days. Valid for entry at 29 airports and 5 seaports.
Useful tips for visiting Hampi
Start your day early (6 AM) to avoid the heat. Take a break 11 AM-4 PM, then continue until sunset.
Sunrise from Matanga Hill is unmissable. Leave before dawn, bring a flashlight.
Show on mapCarry enough cash. No banks or ATMs in Hampi. Nearest ATM in Hospet (13 km).
Hampi is a dry zone - no alcohol officially sold. For beer, go to Hospet or Hippie Island.
Beware of monkeys! Keep bags closed, never carry visible food. They are aggressive and steal glasses and phones.
Avoid swimming in Tungabhadra River. Unpredictable strong currents and changing depths. Drowning incidents occur every year.
Rent a bicycle (₹100/day) or scooter (₹350/day) for sightseeing. Sites are spread over 42 sq km.
Wear comfortable non-slip shoes. Terrain is rocky and uneven with lots of climbing.
Hire an official guide from the tourism office. ₹500 for 4 hours, ₹800 for 8 hours. They know amazing stories.
Take a coracle ride on the river. Unique experience for ₹100-200. Best at sunset.
Average temperature by month
location.transport.subtitle
| location.transport.title | location.transport.price | location.transport.app | location.transport.note |
|---|---|---|---|
location.transport.bus | 20 ₹ ~0.22 $ | — | KSRTC buses from Hospet. 30 minutes. Cheap and regular. |
location.transport.taxi | 300 ₹ ~3.3 $ | Ola, Uber | Hospet to Hampi 300-350 rupees. Apps work only in Hospet. |
location.transport.bike | 100 ₹ ~1.1 $ | — | Daily rental 100-150 rupees. Best way to explore the ruins. |
location.transport.scooter | 350 ₹ ~3.8 $ | — | Daily rental 250-400 rupees. International driving license required. |
location.transport.train | 230 ₹ ~2.5 $ | IRCTC | Hospet station 13 km away. Night train from Bangalore 9 hours. |
location.transport.ferry | 30 ₹ ~0.33 $ | — | Ferry to Hippie Island 20-50 rupees. Operates sunrise to sunset. |
Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
Cash essential. ATMs only in Hospet. Bring enough cash.
Currency exchange in Hospet. No exchange services in Hampi village.
Tipping not expected. 10-20 rupees for guides is appreciated.
Attractions and points of interest