Hampi Virupaksha Temple History

The Temple Tower is a nine-storeyed construction with 165 ft in height and 20 ft in width. This Gopuram was renovated in 1510 AD. As per the folklore, Rama worshipped Goddess Pampavathi and Lord Virupaksha during Vanavasasm. Rama and Lakshmana stayed here for a while after making Sugreeva as the King. This is the place where Hanuman informed Rama after discovering Sita Devi in Lanka. Hence the name Kishkinda Kanda. This temple was built by Lakkana Dandesha, a chieftain in Vijayanagara Empire during 1336 – 1570 A.D. Hampi stretches over an area of 26 Sq.Km.

The Sanctum Sanctorum is square and enshrines a Siva Linga, which is being worshipped since the 7th Century A.D without any break till today. The Lord Virupaksha was the tutelary deity of the Vijayanagara kings. The Mukhamantapa or Ranagamantapa was built in 1510 A.D by the king Krishnadevaraya, to commemorate his coronation in 1509 A.D. Monolithic Nandi statue is located right opposite to the temple

An inverted image of Big Gopuram is visible during early hours from Sunrise to 9:00 am ( around). The annual festival will be celebrated in the month of Nov for 3 days. The wooden chariot is pulled across the streets during the festival days.

Hampi Virupaksha temple is one of the monuments designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Entrance Fees: Rs.2 per person.

How to reach Hampi Virupaksha Temple?

By Air

1. The nearest airport is at Goa which is 309 Km away. Bengaluru airport is 354 km away.

By Train

1. The nearest railway station is at Hospet which is 13 Km away.

By Road

1. The direct bus is available from Hospet, Bellary and Bengaluru to Hampi.

Hampi Virupaksha Temple

Reference Link: Temple History

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