Travelling across the world, we always seek to explore places that will enchant us throughout our lives. Though one lifetime will not be enough to discover all the fascinating destinations, my duty is to bring you the most exciting places you can ever visit—or I can say, places that must be on your bucket list.
Today, in this blog, I will talk about one of the famous temples of Hampi: Virupaksha Temple. Its serenity, tranquillity, and architectural beauty will amaze you. The beauty of this temple is everlasting; it’s a quintessential testimony to current architecture..
The Virupaksha Temple located in Hampi venerates lord Shiva and stands as a testament to the historical and architectural grandeur of the region. Situated in the Vijayanagara district of Karnataka, Hampi is a temple town in South India, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning a distance of approximately 350 km from Bangalore, Hampi boasts the Virupaksha Temple, which was built with the assistance of Lakkana Dandesha, a commander serving under King Deva Raya II.
Location
The Virupaksha Temple is situated in the town of Hampi, in the Bellary district of Karnataka, India. It is one of the oldest functioning temples in the country, dating back to the 7th century.
Location
The history of the Virupaksha Temple in Hampi traces back continuously to around the 7th century, with the Virupaksha-Pampa sanctuary existing for an extensive period. Inscriptions linked to Lord Shiva can be dated back to the 9th and 10th centuries. Initially a modest structure, the temple complex was significantly expanded by the Vijayanagara emperors. Contributions to the temple’s development were also made by the Chalukyan and Hoysala emperors. The paintings adorning the temple ceilings originate from the 14th and 16th centuries. Extensive renovation and restoration efforts, including the repair of the north and east gopuras’ broken towers, were carried out around the turn of the 19th century.
Architecture
When discussing its architectural beauty, the Virupaksha Temple leaves one mesmerised, with its Islamic-inspired essence and triangular shape. What’s truly astonishing is that the entire temple was meticulously constructed using mathematical principles, showcasing repeated patterns reminiscent of fractals. The intricately carved gopurams and pillars add to its marvel. The temple’s artwork includes depictions of Kamdev shooting the arrow of lust at Lord Shiva and scenes of marriage, all beautifully portrayed. At the entrance stands a three-faced Nandi.
The architectural splendour of Hampi extends beyond the Virupaksha Temple, with three ante chambers, a pillared hall, and an open pillared hall within its sanctum. Delicately carved pillars adorn the temple complex, which also includes a pillared cloister, entrance gateways, courtyards, smaller shrines, and various other structures. The nine-tiered eastern gateway, standing at 50 metres tall, is meticulously proportioned and grants access to the outer court housing numerous smaller shrines. Its stone base supports a brick structure. The Kanakagiri gopuram to the north leads to a small enclosure with additional shrines and directs towards the Tungabhadra river.
Some special facts about the temple
The Virupaksha Temple stands out for its age, believed to have been built in the 7th century AD, rendering it one of India’s oldest active temples.
The Virupaksha Temple stands out for its age, believed to have been built in the 7th century AD, rendering it one of India’s oldest active temples.
Situated within the Hemakuta Hill complex, the temple offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, alongside several other ancient temples and monuments.
A remarkable architectural feature of the Virupaksha Temple is its musical pillars, which when struck, produce melodious notes, creating a captivating experience.
In Hindu mythology, it’s believed that Lord Rama and Sita resided near the Virupaksha Temple during their exile, endowing the temple with special significance in the Ramayana epic.
How to reach
Virupaksha temple can be reached easily by all the way. Visitors can take an auto/cab from Bellary to Hampi at the nearest International airport of Hambi in Bellary, which is 350 km away from the Virupaksha temple.
If you prefer the train, you can choose Hospet as the nearest railway station as it is just about 13 km away. The Hospet is connected to all the major cities like Bangalore, Bellary etc. so, it seems to be the best option. Visitors can take a cab from Hospet to Hampi.
Tourists can take a bus from places like Bangalore, Bellary, Hospet. Tourists can avail a cab as well.
Some special tips
Respect Dress Code: As it’s a religious site, dress modestly. Avoid shorts, tank tops, or revealing clothing. Wearing traditional Indian attire or clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended.
Timing
Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat. The temple opens at around 6:00 AM and closes around 8:00 PM, but specific timings might vary, so it’s good to check in advance.
phothography
Photography is allowed in most parts of the temple, but be respectful of worshippers and sacred areas. Avoid using flash or disturbing others while taking pictures.
Guide
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history, architecture, and significance of the temple. They can provide valuable insights and enhance your experience.
Guide
Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history, architecture, and significance of the temple. They can provide valuable insights and enhance your experience.
Offerings
You can participate in the temple rituals by offering prayers, flowers, or donations. It’s a meaningful way to experience the local culture and traditions.
Explore Surroundings: After visiting the temple, take time to explore the surrounding Hampi ruins, which are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Rent a bicycle or hire a guide to discover the fascinating history and architecture of this ancient city.
Final thought
The beauty possessed by this grand temple can’t be expressed in words. From the musical pillars to the gopuram, the list goes on. This adds tremendous charm to the temple. Most pilgrims rush to catch a glimpse of it. But it’s more than just a pilgrimage site. The Dravidian architecture with Islamic essence makes this temple one of the marvellous and secular sites of India that you must visit in your lifetime.
