Temple

Virupaksha Temple

Hampi's oldest and only continuously worshipped temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Virupaksha.

Open

6:00 am – 6:00 pm

Entry

₹50 entry

Best time to go

Morning

Time to spend here

About 1 h 15 min

Crowds

Often crowded

Busiest at opening and during evening aarti; calmest around 2-4 PM.

Before you go

6 min walk in

440 m from where cars stop

Toilets 170 m away

Straight-line distance

Drinking water 390 m away

Straight-line distance

Listen to the story

About this place

The Virupaksha Temple has been an active place of worship since at least the 7th century, long predating the Vijayanagara Empire that later expanded it into a grand complex. Its 50-metre eastern gopuram rises over Hampi Bazaar, and in a small chamber behind the sanctum a pinhole-camera effect projects an inverted image of the tower onto the wall. Dedicated to Shiva as Virupaksha, consort of the local river goddess Pampa, it remains the spiritual heart of Hampi and still hosts daily rituals and an annual chariot festival.

Good to know

This is an active place of worship, not only an archaeological site. Dress respectfully, remove footwear where directed and do not interrupt rituals.
Photography may be restricted in inner shrine areas; check signs or ask temple staff before taking photos.
Vehicle access around Hampi Bazaar is controlled. Use the signed visitor parking area and expect a short walk to the eastern gateway.

How to get there

Parking: Hampi Bazaar vehicle area
440 m walk · about 6 min

Drive or take an auto to the Hampi Bazaar vehicle area
This is as far as a private vehicle can go.
Directions to the parking
Walk 440 m to Virupaksha Temple
About 6 min on foot, along the path drawn on the map.
Walking route from the parking
Arrive at Virupaksha Temple