HAMPI IN 3 DAYS
A slow walk through the old Vijayanagara capital, with one sunrise, one sunset, and enough time to not rush the big temples.
BEST TIME
Days are walkable and the light on the stone is softer. From March, the heat on bare rock gets hard by late morning.
HOW TO REACH
Trains stop at Hosapete. The nearest useful airports are in Hubballi and at Jindal Vidyanagar, followed by a road transfer.
VIRUPAKSHA
It is the living centre of Hampi Bazaar. Go early, then walk the nearby hills before the mid-day sun sits on the stones.
VITTALA
The Vittala complex is a short ride away and has a separate ticket. A guide helps here, because a lot of the detail is easy to miss.
SUNSET
Hemakuta is easier. Matanga is steeper and wider in the view. Start down before it is fully dark, because the path is uneven.
THE RIVER
A coracle ride is optional. The far side, toward Anegundi, is quieter if you want a village lunch and fewer monument queues.
FOOD
Simple South Indian meals are easy to find in the village. Carry a bottle in the ruins; shade is patchy.
BUDGET
For one person over 3 days, mid-range, covering a stay, scooter or auto hire, monument tickets and food. Your train or flight is extra.
TIPS
Distances between clusters add up. Keep a hat, and check closing days for the museum and the Vittala complex before you lock your plan.