Virupaksha Temple Hampi Entry Fee
- No Entry Fee
- 25 for Special Darshan
- 50 for Still Camera
Virupaksha Temple Hampi Phone
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| 4/5 stars
Based on total 33 reviews
Virupaksha Temple Hampi Address: Hampi, Karnataka, 583239, India
Hampi Tour Packages
Virupaksha Temple Hampi Timings
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday | 6:00 am – 1:00 pm 5:00 am – 9:00 pm |
| Tuesday | 6:00 am – 1:00 pm 5:00 am – 9:00 pm |
| Wedesday | 6:00 am – 1:00 pm 5:00 am – 9:00 pm |
| Thursday | 6:00 am – 1:00 pm 5:00 am – 9:00 pm |
| Friday | 6:00 am – 1:00 pm 5:00 am – 9:00 pm |
| Saturday | 6:00 am – 1:00 pm 5:00 am – 9:00 pm |
| Sunday | 6:00 am – 1:00 pm 5:00 am – 9:00 pm |
Virupaksha Temple (or Prasanna Virupaksha Temple), believed to have been built in the 7th century, is one of the oldest temples in the region. Although the temple complex has many shrines, the main sanctum is dedicated to Virupaksha Swamy, another name for Lord Shiva. It contains the idol of Lord Virupaksha in the form of Shivalinga.
Originally a small, humble shrine, this Virupaksha Swamy temple was expanded to the current sprawling complex during the Vijayanagara rule. The gopuram of the temple is almost 50m high, dominating Hampi’s skyline.
Virupaksha Temple is a distinct landmark in Hampi. It’s the main centre of worship in Hampi. And it’s said to have been continuously functioning, i.e., prayers and rituals have been carried on throughout its history.
One of the famous tourist attractions of Hampi, the temple also attracts history buffs and architecture lovers. Beautiful stone inscriptions all through the complex provide plenty of information about Hampi Virupaksha Temple.
Where is Virupaksha Temple in Hampi?
Hampi Virupaksha Eshwara Temple is on the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River, close to Hampi Bazaar. It’s one of the historical monuments that’s designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beautiful architecture of the temple makes it a must-visit place during your Hampi trip.
Image Gallery of Virupaksha Temple Hampi
Legend of Prasanna Virupaksha Temple
Among the most popular legends regarding the origins of the Virupaksha Temple of Hampi is related to the marriage of Lord Virupaksha (or Shiva) and Goddess Pampa (or Parvati).
It’s said that Goddess Pampa had a strong desire to marry Lord Shiva. She sat in penance for years on the hills nearby. Eventually, Lord Shiva realized her dedication and married her. And Hampi Virupaksha Temple was established at the location where they married. It’s also known as Pampapati Temple, as Virupaksha is the consort of Pampa.
The ornate mandapam in the temple is considered auspicious for marriage ceremonies. It’s believed that marrying here attracts the blessings of Goddess Pampa and Lord Shiva.
History of Virupaksha Temple Hampi
This Virupaksha-Pampa sanctuary is said to have existed as a shrine since the 7th century. It was a small shrine that was turned into a temple by the Chalukya and Hoysala kings. Later, it grew into a large complex during the Vijayanagara rule.
The first step towards the expansion of Hampi Virupaksha Temple is said to have been taken by Lakkana Dandesha, a chieftain under King Deva Raya II. During the Vijayanagara rule, the temple was decorated with beautiful artwork. The path leading to it was also beautified.
Although invaders destroyed many magnificent structures of Hampi later, Virupaksha Temple continued to function. Renovations were carried out in the 19th century to restore some parts.
Architecture of Virupaksha Temple
Virupaksha Temple at Hampi is built in the Dravidian style of architecture. It has tall towers (or gopurams), popular in South Indian temples, that act as gateways to the inner sanctum.
The main gopuram is 50 metres tall, and it has nine storeys. Its outer face is adorned with beautiful sculptures of Hindu idols. It leads to the outer courtyard of the temple complex, which contains several small sanctums of Hindu deities. The courtyard also houses the 100-pillared hall. Apart from that, a part of the floor has the remains of an old water channel system.
The smaller gopuram takes you to the inner courtyard and the main sanctum. It has the idol of Lord Virupaksha in the form of Shivalinga. Surrounding the sanctum are the sub-shrines of Virupaksha’s consorts, Goddess Pampa and Bhuvaneswari, among other deities.
A standout construction in the courtyard is Ranga Mandapa, built in front of the sanctum. It has exquisite carvings of mythical creatures and scenes from Hindu epics.
Things to do at Hampi Virupaksha Temple
1. Appreciating the architecture – More than its religious importance, Prasanna Virupaksha Temple in Hampi is known for its artistic value. The temple has evolved from a humble shrine to a sprawling complex over centuries. You should check out the marvellous towering gopuram and the grandeur of the pillared halls, built in the Dravidian style architecture. The intricate carvings on the shrines, flag posts, lamp posts and other monuments are worth admiring.
2. Visiting the main shrine – Virupaksha Temple has a vast complex spread across two courtyards. The sanctum is in the inner courtyard. The shrine, flanked by two guardian deities and surrounded by a corridor, houses the idol of Lord Virupaksha as a Shivalinga. It features an intricate ceiling decorated with a lotus motif. Another interesting thing is the Virupaksha Temple inverted shadow. This mysterious effect can be seen from a little room close to the temple shrine. After taking blessings from the lord, visit the shrines dedicated to his consorts and other deities.
3. Exploring other monuments – The temple complex has several significant monuments apart from the main shrine. Among the most notable structures is the Ranga Mandapa. It’s a hall in the inner courtyard in front of the main shrine. There are many murals and structures displaying the Vijayanagara art form. The 100-pillared hall, an old kitchen and a triple-headed Nandi bull statue are other Virupaksha Temple sculptures worth exploring. You should also visit the elephant that lives here and get yourself a smooch on head (treated as a blessing).
4. Participating in the festivals – Hampi Virupaksha Temple hosts several vibrant festivals throughout the year. Among them, the chariot festival in February is worth experiencing. It’s a lively festival in which an idol of Lord Virupaksha is paraded through the streets on a beautifully decorated wooden chariot. Other popular festivals are the Phalapuja festival to celebrate the marriage of Virupaksha and Pampa and Maha Shivaratri prayers to worship Lord Shiva.
5. Check out surrounding areas – Apart from the main temple complex, there are many other places to explore inside Virupaksha Temple. Manamantha Tank, the sacred pond of the temple is one of them. You can also go for a leisurely stroll along River Tungabhadra, enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. Then, near the entrance of the temple, you’ll find a souvenir stall with a good collection of books about Virupaksha Temple and Hampi.
Hampi Virupaksha Temple Timings and Entry Fees
Virupaksha Temple open timings are from 6 AM to 1 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM. It’s open every day, throughout the year.
Entry to Virupaksha Temple is free for everyone. However, for a special darshan, where you can be closer to the idol of Lord Virupaksha, a ticket of ₹25 is available. Photography and videography are also charged.
Best time to visit Virupaksha Temple
Although Hampi Virupaksha Temple is open throughout the year, the best time to visit it is during the winter season. On the winter days, between November and February, the weather is the most pleasant to explore Hampi and other popular temples near Virupaksha Temple. Also, some of the most celebrated festivals here fall in the winter months.
Time to explore Virupaksha Temple Hampi
If you’re exploring Virupaksha Temple casually, it takes an average of 2 hours to check out each attraction. You can also hire a guide at the entrance to learn more about the temple’s history and visit all the places quickly.
Things to keep in mind when visiting Virupaksha Temple
- It’s recommended to dress modestly.
- Leave your footwear at the shoe counter near the entrance.
- Photography inside the main sanctums isn’t allowed.
- Beware of monkeys in the temple complex.
- Avoid interrupting family celebrations.
How to reach Virupaksha Temple in Hampi?
Sree Virupaksha Temple is close to Hampi Bazaar, only a few hundred metres away from Hampi bus stop. The nearest railway station is Hospet Junction (14 km away), and the nearest airport is Jindal Vijaynagar Airport (37 km away). The nearest international airport, though, is in Bengaluru (around 350 km away).
And here are the different ways to reach Virupaksha Temple Hampi Karnataka –
By bike – Bikes and scooters are available for rent in Hampi. You can take one for the day to enjoy visiting Virupaksha Temple and other places in Hampi.
By auto/e-rickshaw – You can also get auto-rickshaws for Hampi sightseeing. They’re easily available all over the town and can take you to the temple.
By cab/taxi – Hiring a cab/taxi is the most convenient way to explore Hampi Virupaksha Temple and other tourist places nearby. You can book them from the top car rental companies in Hampi easily.
FAQs about Virupaksha Temple
Hampi is a destination visited by history buffs and architecture lovers all around the world. To make the most of your Hampi tour, book a Hampi tour package with Hampi Tourism and explore its amazing attractions. To know more about our offerings, please fill the Contact Us form.
