Ramnath Kamat

Hampi was the capital city of the Vijaynagara empire, one of the largest and richest city during its prime. It is said that during the golden age of Vijaynagar empire, diamonds and pearls were freely traded on the streets of Hampi.

Today Hampi is a spreads over several kms with the ruins of its gorgeous temples and boulders. Ever since the hippies found this most laid-back place ever, it has been flocked. Today there exists an island called Virupapura gadde also known as the Hippie Island with tens of home stays and huts.

How to reach Hampi -

Bus - You can take a night bus to Hosapete from Bangalore.
Train - Hosapete also has a train station with direct trains from Bangalore

Hosapete to Hampi(12km) - You can hop onto govt buses which run frequently or hire an auto

Where to stay - 

If you want to stay in a decent hotel(3stars and up), Hosapete is your bet.
If you are okay with homestays, Hampi is the place you should look out for and I recommend this option.

Stays near Hampi -

To stay in Virupapura gadde, you need to cross the Tungabhadra river in a small diesel boat. This diesel boat service starts in the morning and closes by evening 6.  There are lots of small shacks and homestays available on the otherside.

On this side of the river, you also have some small homestays. But I would recommend to stay in the Hippie Island. It has a feeling of its own.

What to do -

Virupaksha temple - 

The central attraction of Hampi is the Virupaksha temple. The temple is dedicated to lord Shiva and fully intact among its surroundings.

The Stone Chariot and the Vithhala temple -

The Vithhala temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is an architectural masterpiece. The temple was built in 15th century and house the most famous Stone chariot which was carved in a single stone.

The remains of giant Bukka's aquadect -

Hanuman temple - 

Sunset at Virupaksha temple - 

Cliff diving -