Virupaksha Temple Hampi, Timings, History, Travel Guide and How to reach

Hampi Virupaksha Temple – Guide

The Virupaksha Temple is a sacred place and historical site located on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Hampi in the state of Karnataka. Due to the history and beautiful architecture of this temple, built during the seventh century, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walls of the temple also bear rich inscriptions dating back to the 7^th century which bear testimony to its rich heritage. This ancient temple dedicated to Virupaksha, one of the forms of Lord Shiva, is also known as “Prasanna Virupaksha Temple”.

History of this Temple

The history of Hampi Virupaksha Temple dates back to around the seventh century. According to the Archaeological Survey of India, the Virupaksha Temple was built in the name of Vikramaditya II’s queen, Lokamahadevi, to commemorate the king’s success in a battle over the Pallavas of Kanchi. The construction of the Virupaksha temple at that time began as a small temple and was later developed into a huge complex during the Vijayanagara rule.

The original art, craft and culture of the temple flourished during the fourteenth century during the reign of the dynasty. But these beautiful architecture and creations were crushed and destroyed by the Muslim invaders. But even after the destruction of Hampi in 1565, the devotional cult of Goddess Pampa and Virupaksha did not end and the temple worship continued as is done even today. Extensive renovations were made to the temple in the early 19^th century.

Best time to visit Hampi Virupaksha Temple

The main festival and ceremony celebrated in the Virupaksha temple is Chariot Festival, Virupaksha Chariot Festival and Shivratri

The Chariot Festival held in the months of March or April at Virupaksha Temple is the main festival and ceremony of Virupaksha Temple.

Virupaksha Chariot Festival In the month of December, the temple again celebrates the marriage of Virupaksha and Pampa, which is called ‘Phalpuja Utsav’.

Shivratri Festival is a famous festival organized in Virupaksha Temple which is celebrated with great enthusiasm as the birth anniversary of Lord Shiva.

Hampi Virupaksha Temple Timings

Hampi Virupaksha Temple opens from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the morning and from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM in the evening. Morning aarti is performed at 9:30 AM in the morning and evening aarti is performed at 8:00 PM in the evening.

Places to visit near this Temple

Vijaya Vitthala Temple

This temple is built during 16^th century. This temple is few kms away from kamakshi temple.

Elephant Stables

These elephanta stables are built during the Vijayanagara Empire as an enclosure for the royal elephants. This place is few kms away from this temple.

Matanga Hill

This hill is named after the saint matangmuni. This place is few kms away from this temple.

Lotus Mahal

The Lotus Mahal is a beautiful monument close to the Jena Enclosure and most of the structures in Hampi match its style.

Monolithic Bull

This is the hill which is in the shape of lord Shiva vehicle nandi. This place is few kms away from this temple.

Zenana Enclosure

The Zenana Enclosure at Hampi was primarily the women’s quarter. This place is few kms away from this temple.

Monkey temple

This monkey temple is 2 km away from this temple. This temple is dedicated to lord Hanuman.

Also Read: Badami Cave Temple Bagalkot, Timings, History, Travel Guide and How to reach

How to reach Hampi Virupaksha Temple

By Air- The nearest airport from Hampi Virupaksha Temple is Jindal Vijayanagar Airport Bellary Airport which is at a distance of 35 km away from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.

By Train- The nearest railway station from Hampi Virupaksha Temple is Hospet junction railway station which is at a distance of 13 km away from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.

By Road- Roads to this temple are well connected with the other cities of the country so you can easily reach this temple by using your own vehicle or by any public buses or taxi from any part of the country.

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