Is Virupaksha Temple part of the Hampi UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes, Virupaksha Temple is the most prominent monument within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Group of Monuments at Hampi, inscribed in 1986. Unlike most other structures in Hampi which are ruins, Virupaksha Temple has been continuously functioning as an active place of worship since the 7th century CE, making it one of the oldest functioning temples in India.

Can we see the temple elephant Lakshmi at Virupaksha Temple?

The temple elephant Lakshmi is usually present near the temple entrance in the morning hours. She blesses visitors by gently touching their heads with her trunk in exchange for a small offering (usually a banana, coconut, or a Rs 10 coin). However, her availability depends on her health and schedule, so sightings are not guaranteed on every visit.

How many days are needed to explore Hampi along with Virupaksha Temple?

A minimum of 2 full days is recommended to explore Hampi properly. Day 1 can cover the Sacred Center including Virupaksha Temple, Hemakuta Hill, Krishna Temple, and the riverside. Day 2 can cover the Royal Enclosure, Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Vittala Temple (with the iconic stone chariot), and Queen's Bath. Renting a bicycle or moped makes exploration easier.

Is Virupaksha Temple part of the Hampi UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes, Virupaksha Temple is the most prominent monument within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Group of Monuments at Hampi, inscribed in 1986. Unlike most other structures in Hampi which are ruins, Virupaksha Temple has been continuously functioning as an active place of worship since the 7th century CE, making it one of the oldest functioning temples in India.

Can we see the temple elephant Lakshmi at Virupaksha Temple?

The temple elephant Lakshmi is usually present near the temple entrance in the morning hours. She blesses visitors by gently touching their heads with her trunk in exchange for a small offering (usually a banana, coconut, or a Rs 10 coin). However, her availability depends on her health and schedule, so sightings are not guaranteed on every visit.

How many days are needed to explore Hampi along with Virupaksha Temple?

A minimum of 2 full days is recommended to explore Hampi properly. Day 1 can cover the Sacred Center including Virupaksha Temple, Hemakuta Hill, Krishna Temple, and the riverside. Day 2 can cover the Royal Enclosure, Lotus Mahal, Elephant Stables, Vittala Temple (with the iconic stone chariot), and Queen's Bath. Renting a bicycle or moped makes exploration easier.

Virupaksha Temple Hampi - UNESCO Heritage, Timings, Darshan Guide

Virupaksha Temple in Hampi is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Group of Monuments at Hampi, and is one of the oldest functioning temples in India with continuous worship since the 7th century CE. Dedicated to Lord Virupaksha (a form of Lord Shiva), the temple served as the primary center of worship for the mighty Vijayanagara Empire, whose capital was established here in the 14th century. The temple complex features a magnificent 50-meter tall eastern gopuram, a large courtyard, pillared halls with musical columns, and an ancient temple tank. The temple elephant Lakshmi is a beloved presence who blesses visitors at the entrance.

Darshan Timings

Opens at 06:00

morning06:00 – 12:30

evening16:00 – 21:00

specialMorning puja at 06:30 AM. Annual Chariot Festival (Rathotsava) during Virupaksha Car Festival in February. Pampa festival in November.

Darshan Guide

Enter Through the East Gopuram

Walk through the iconic 50-meter East Gopuram into the Hampi Bazaar street leading to the temple. Purchase offerings (flowers, coconut, bananas) from shops along the bazaar.

Receive Elephant Blessing

At the temple entrance, the temple elephant Lakshmi may be present. Offer a coin or banana and receive a gentle blessing (touch on the head) from her trunk.

Main Darshan

Proceed through the pillared hall (note the famous 'inverted shadow' pinhole image on the inner wall) to the sanctum for darshan of Lord Virupaksha (Shiva Linga).

Explore the Complex

Visit the Pampa Devi shrine, the temple tank (Manmatha Tank), and the pillared halls with musical columns. Walk to the riverside for views of the Tungabhadra.

Temple Rules & Guidelines

Visitor Tips

Dress modestly as this is an active place of worship as well as a heritage site. No shorts or sleeveless tops.
Photography is allowed in the outer areas of the temple but not inside the sanctum.
The temple elephant Lakshmi offers blessings in exchange for a small offering (banana or coin). Be respectful around the animal.
Do not climb on or damage any structures. This is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Please follow these guidelines to maintain the sanctity of the temple

How to Reach

By Bus

KSRTC buses run from Bangalore (350 km, 7-8 hours), Hubli (166 km), and Hospet (13 km). Hospet is the main bus hub.

By Air

Jindal Vijayanagara Airport (VDY) in Bellary is approximately 60 km away with limited domestic flights. Hubli Airport (HBX) is 160 km.

By Rail

Hospet Junction (13 km) is the nearest railway station with trains from Bangalore, Hubli, and Goa.

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws from Hospet to Hampi cost around Rs 150-200. Bicycles and mopeds can be rented in Hampi for exploring the ruins.

Temples & Travel

Services

Virupaksha Temple

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About Virupaksha Temple

Darshan Timings

Darshan Guide

Enter Through the East Gopuram

Receive Elephant Blessing

Main Darshan

Explore the Complex

Temple Rules & Guidelines

Visitor Tips

Location & Directions

How to Reach

Photo Gallery

About the Main God

Lord Shiva

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Group of Monuments at Hampi

Group of Monuments at Pattadakal

Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysala

Frequently Asked Questions

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