The magnificent city of ruins, Hampi is not far from Bangalore. A World Heritage Centre, Hampi is the most beautiful and evocative of all the ruins in Karnataka, This erstwhile capital of the Vijayanagar Empire boasts of some exquisite examples of temple architecture of that period. The Vit+ala Temple, here is noted for its sculpted stone chariot and carved pillars that produce musical notes when struck. The Virupaksha Temple rises majestically and is the only temple at Hampi that is still used for worship. The Hazararama Temple, ornate with intricate carvings depict scenes from the Ramayana.

Access :
Air: Nearest Airport - Bellary (74 km). Other convenient airports are at Belgaum (190 km) and Bangalore (350 km).
Rail: Hospet, the nearest railhead (13, km), is linked by rail to Bangalore, Bijapur, Hubli and Gunfakal.
Road: 350 kms from Bangalore.

• Aihole, Pattadakkal & Badami: These three temple towns close to each other (within a 13 km radius), represent Chalukyan architecture at its best.
  
   

  • Aihole : has over a hundred temples scattered around the village, the oldest being Lad Khan Temple, going back to the 5th century.
     

  • Pattadakkal : a World Heritage Centre, has 10 major temples - the biggest temple being dedicated to Virupaksha.
     

  • Badami : the capital of the early Chalukyas, has beautiful rock-cut cave temples, gateways. forts, inscriptions and sculptures.

  Access :
  Rail: Nearest railway station is Badami.
  Road: Connected by road to Bangalore (485 km), Hubli (150 km), and Hospet (122 km),