The Badavi Linga Temple is another one of the significant temples in Hampi. It is a marvelous structure dedicated to Hindu Lord Shiva. This brilliant site is home to one of the largest Shivlinga in the world. Reaching a height of 3 meters, the monolithic shiv linga is made of black stone and is half-submerged in water. Located in a closed chamber with no ceiling, the temple is a prominent place of worship for Shiva devotees. A popular tourist attraction, it stands completely in contrast with the otherwise destroyed landscape of Hampi. Enlightened with sunlight through the upper passage, the beauty of the linga mesmerizes everyone who sets their eyes upon it. A breathtaking three-eyed carving on its surface piques the interest of the onlookers. The name is derived from the word 'Badava' which means poor as it is believed to be created by a poor woman in the nearby village. It is also known as the Big Shivlinga. (Image Source: Metrosaga.com)
One of the most breathtaking structures among the ruins of Hampi, the Hazara Rama Temple truly captivates the onlookers. Located in the center of the village Hampi, it is an aesthetic treat to the eyes of the visitors and archaeological enthusiasts. It is dedicated to Hindu Lord Rama and is known to be the site of worship of royals. Minutely carved pillars and walls still stand perfectly depicting the life tales of Lord Rama. With an unparalleled set of architecture, the temple stands to date upholding its fine design and structure. A favorite spot of photographers, the Hazara Temple never lets down anyone who sets their eyes upon it.
Home to one of the largest statues in Hampi, the Laxmi Narasimha Temple is a noteworthy site in these world-famous ruins. It is dedicated to Narasimha, a half-man half-lion deity, who is one of the ten incarnations of Hindu God Vishnu. Locally known as Ugranarsimha which translates to fierce Narsimha, the carvings and designs truly bring out the intimidating aspects of the effigy. It consists of Narsimmha sitting on a coil of Seshanaga which is a seven-headed snake. Before the fall of Vijayanagara, the statue of his consort Lakshmi sitting on his lap was also a part of the sculpture but might have been demolished over the period of time. Truly an artistic marvel, the rest of the sculpture largely influences the onlookers.
Believed to be one of the oldest temples in Hampi, the Underground Shiva Temple, is one of the most mystical sites in the region. Standing amidst beautiful and lush lawns, this desolate structure is completely submerged in water. The main tower is visible at the entrance where as the inner chambers of the temple are under water. A water canal that goes through this region adds to the beauty of the landmark. It is only possible to check out the outer sanctum underneath the main tower while further excess is restricted. Less known and less crowded than other temples, it is still a worthy place to explore.
One of the most iconic landmarks of Hampi, the Vithala temple is the most popular landscape among the ruins. An ancient architectural marvel, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vithala, the local incarnation of Hindu Lord Vishnu among the cattle rearers community. The temple is home to the immensely famous Stone Chariot which has been mentioned in postal stamps, currency and ancient literature. A symbol of India culture and its diverse heritage, the Stone Chariot is the favorite photogenic location and draws tourists from all across the globe. Built-in the 15th century, this intricately and aesthetically carved structure leaves everyone awestruck.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Virupaksha temple also known as the Pampapathi temple is one of the significant sites in the Monuments of Hampi group. Built during the Vijayanagara empire by Deva Raya II, it was subsequently developed during the reigns of Chalukyan and Hoysala dynasties. The magnificent temple complex houses the intricately designed towers which are also known as Gopurams in Kannada. These towers boast carvings of small idols and sculptures portraying various Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The temple is dedicated Lord Virupaksha which is the local incarnation of Lord Shiva. Sitting on the banks of the Tungabhadra river, the site is a must-see for history lovers and archaeological enthusiasts. As compared to the other ruins and temples, Virupaksha Temple has stood the test of time and is still a prominent place of worship among the locals.
One of the most significant Sikh places of worship, Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib is one of the nine historical Gurdwaras in Delhi. It established in 1783 by Baghel Singh Dhaliwal to commemorate the martyrdom site of the ninth Sikh Guru, Guru Tegh Bahadur. After Aurangzeb executed Tez Bahadur due to his refusal to convert to Islam, it was stolen by one of the guru's disciples, Lakhi Shah Vanjara. To cremate his guru, Vanjara took the body of the guru to his house and burnt it to the ground. The exact spot of this cremation is where the Gurudwara stands. Prayers and devotional bhajans take place all day every day here. A huge kitchen prepares food for hundreds of devotees to serve during the Langar. The gurudwara complex also houses the trunk used to sever the head of the guru, the well used by guru for bathing, the prison, and kothawali where the guru was imprisoned. A sacred site symbolizes the solidarity of religion and faith.
This is a full-day exclusive tour offering you phenomenal glimpses of the City of Dreams - Mumbai. Facing the Arabian Sea, Mumbai offers countless opportunities to explore and thus we bring together all the best destinations to show every nook and corner of India's Financial Capital. A microcosm of all religions, communities, and ethnicities, this small island would seem to you like a country whose culture is a blend of almost everything. From historical monuments to modern-day engineering marvels, Mumbai is a place where even the sky is no limit as you find buildings everywhere. Diverse demographics and population have heavily influenced its cuisine as you get to savor its famous street food and delicacies found nowhere else. From Vadapav to Pav Bhaji, your tastebuds would thrive to try the list of cuisine which is endless. Also dubbed as the 'City that never sleeps', Mumbai is home to the Hindi film industry known as Bollywood. A significant place for the Indian Independence Movement, the history of Mumbai is witness to celebrations, tragedies, and major events. The ultimate center of major festivals of India, Mumbai vigourously celebrates festivals belonging to every religious sect especially the renowned Ganesh Chaturthi. A city that every Indian wish to visit once in a lifetime, would give you some of your most favorite memories.
Built within the regions of the Aravalli mountain range, the Galtaji Temple is an ancient Hindu pilgrimage in the state of Rajasthan. A 16th century structure, it was built by Diwan Rao Kriparam, a courtier of Maharaja Jai Singh II. Known for its secret tanks (kunds), pilgrims visit the place to take a holy dip as it is believed to be auspicious. The place is famous for number of monkeys occupying the temple hence is also called as Monkey Temple.
A part of one of the several temples built by the Birla family, the Birla Temple of Jaipur is an iconic structure adding to the exotic landmarks of Jaipur. Built in 1988, this temple is the center of religious and ethnic secularism. While the main shrine of Laxmi Narayan houses the central part of the temples, the other sides are lined with sculptures of Buddha, Zarathustra and Christ. Made entirely out of white marble, this magnificient landmark is a always full of visitors.
Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple is one of the most prominent temples amidst the ruins of Hampi. Dedicated to Hindu Elephant God, Lord Ganesha, the temple is a popular tourist attraction. It houses a majestic idol of the deity which is popularly believed to be one of the largest in the world. Towering about 15 feet high, it is a breathtaking monolithic sculpture. The name of the temple refers to the enormous belly of the idol, Kadalekalu. It roughly translates to Bengal gram in Kannada, as it resembles a similar shape.
Sasivekalu Ganesh Temple is another one of the popular temples among the ruins of Hampi. Similar to the Kadalekalu Ganesha Temple, this structure also houses an enormous idol of Hindu Lord Ganesha. A captivating sight for everyone, the sculpture towers in height of about 14 feet. Boasting an incredible design, the pillars of the temple display intricate designs showcasing ancient Hindu and mythological scriptures. The giant idol of Lord Ganesha is the prominent sight here with a snake tied to its belly. According to the legend, Lord Ganesha ate more than his usual capacity and so to prevent his belly from bursting, he tied a snake around his waist. A must-see spot for history buffs and devotees alike, this temple is more captivating than one can imagine. (Image Source: Mr.avinash.com)
