The Splendour of Vijayanagara: Tour

TDAF Explorer brings the first ever curated Hampi Tour in August 2024. A 2D2N tour to the glorious capital of the Viajayanagara Empire. 

Itinerary:

Depart from Hyderabad on Friday evening - 20 September

Reach Hospet by 8 AM on Saturday 21 September

-breakfast

-check in to hotel.

Saturday:

Morning: Welcome to Vijayanagara

Begin your journey on the scenic slopes of Hemakuta Hill, offering a stunning panoramic view of the iconic Virupaksha Temple. We'll start by introducing the glorious Vijayanagara Empire and its rich history.

Afterward, descend to explore the Virupaksha Temple, one of the oldest and most significant temples in India. Admire the majestic dancing gopuram, and pause for photos of this architectural marvel. Inside, we'll delve into the intricate details of the temple's design—observe the inscriptions commemorating King Krishnadevaraya’s coronation and spot the royal emblem. You'll also witness the beautiful roof paintings and sculptures within the temple courtyard.

For those feeling energetic, we’ll take a brief stroll down to the riverside, where we’ll capture some scenic photos.

Break for Lunch

Saturday Afternoon: Exploring Urban Planning in Vijayanagara

Our afternoon begins with a visit to the Krishna Temple. Here, we’ll explore the temple's architecture and layout, including the bustling bazaar and the sacred pushkarni (temple tank). A closer look at the temple’s intricate sculptures will reveal the artistic genius of the Vijayanagara period.

Next, we head to the renowned Vittala Temple, where we’ll highlight key features like the famous stone chariot, the resonating musical pillars, and exquisite carvings that depict the era's craftsmanship.

We’ll end the day with a leisurely riverside walk along the ancient path. Along the way, you’ll see the King's Balance, the remnants of the ancient stone bridge, and the royal insignia at the Varaha Temple. Our walk will take us through the Virupaksha Bazaar, bringing us back to where we began, completing a full circle of Vijayanagara’s urban and spiritual heritage.

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Sunday Morning: Trade and Relations with Neighbors

Begin your day with an early morning riverside excursion. If we're lucky, we might catch a glimpse of the temple elephant enjoying its morning bath—a serene and unique experience.

From there, we’ll visit the impressive Lakshminarasimha Temple, where you can sip on refreshing sugarcane juice while taking in the temple’s massive statue of Narasimha. We’ll then head to the Hazararama Temple, renowned for its intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana.

Next, we’ll explore the grand Mahanavami Dibba Complex, a significant royal platform used during festivities. Marvel at the sculptures of royal processions, secret chambers, the meticulously designed stepped tank, and ancient aqueducts that speak to the sophistication of Vijayanagara’s engineering and architecture.

Break for Lunch

Sunday Afternoon: Vijayanagara – The Persianate Kingdom

In the afternoon, we’ll delve into the Persian influence on Vijayanagara's architecture and its relations with the Deccan Sultanates. This is also where Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah is believed to have gained inspiration for his famous "Flame."

We’ll start by visiting the Band Tower and the nearby mosque, exploring how Persian elements blended with local styles. Next, we’ll tour the Zenana Enclosure, a royal women’s quarters that offers insights into the empire’s domestic architecture.

From here, we’ll move to the graceful Lotus Mahal, known for its fusion of Indo-Islamic architectural styles, and then to the majestic Elephant Stables, which housed royal elephants.

We’ll conclude the day with a visit to the beautifully designed Octagonal Bath, a royal bathing complex that showcases the aesthetic and practical elements of Vijayanagara’s architectural ingenuity.

Included:

Shared accommodation in 3 star/ZOSTEL for 1N

Breakfast (Vegetarian)

Lunch

Transport to/fro (train) and within Hampi (Tempo/Autos)

Tour fee

Not Included:

Anything other than what is mentioned in ‘included’

For bookings and other details, contact Wahaj at 6304805157